Kiwi company UBCO has secured a major deal with Australia Post to provide a new fleet of custom electric motorbikes.
The Tauranga-based business announced its expansion into the Australian market following an 18-month trial across multiple states.
Australia Post chief executive Paul Graham described the new partnership as a “pivotal moment for Australia Post” and its future sustainable operations model.
“This new fleet allows us to electrify a broader spectrum of routes, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and further advancing our sustainability goals,” he said.
“We are proud to integrate cutting-edge solutions that benefit our team members, our customers, and the environment.”
UBCO chief executive Oliver Hutaff expressed enthusiasm about the partnership.
“We’re excited to work with Australia Post as they roll out this new fleet,” he said.
“By partnering with Australia Post, we’ve developed a vehicle that meets the rigorous demands of high-use delivery while reducing environmental impact and operating costs.”
Hutaff added that 175 bikes will be used in a pilot program, which could potentially lead to a broader rollout for 10,000 posties across the country.
The bikes can reach speeds of up to 80km/h and produce no tailpipe emissions.
“We have steadily been trialling electric fleet solutions since our humble beginnings a decade ago on a New Zealand farm,” he said.
The Kiwi company is among several New Zealand businesses that have recently expanded into the Australian market.
In July, Christchurch-based EV charger manufacturer Evnex also shifted its focus to Australia due to declining EV sales in New Zealand.
Founder Ed Harvey stated that rising sales across the ditch would enable the company to raise capital more easily, particularly after the New Zealand government scrapped subsidies for electric vehicles.
UBCO also announced plans to begin trialling its electric motorbikes with New Zealand Post in Auckland, Wellington, Tauranga, and Christchurch, as well as with other international agencies.
