ROSIE Travel Group has set a new benchmark in sustainable travel with the delivery of Fiji’s first ever fleet of electric tourist coaches.
The $1.5million investment for the Rosie Travel Group is in alignment with the Government’s National Sustainable Tourism Framework as the company partners with the private sector and environmentally conscious travellers to respond to the climate change challenge.
Officiating at the launch in Denarau, Nadi today, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Viliame Gavoka said the Rosie Electric Vehicles (EV) have turned the Fijian sun into a limitless source of clean mobility, powering vehicles that carry guests across the country without a single drop of fossil fuel.
“Every kilometer travelled in these solar-powered coaches is a small act of restoration, breathing new life into our environment, our economy, and our shared future,” Mr Gavoka said.
“What Rosie Travel Group has achieved here is more than a technological breakthrough.
“It is a statement. It is a challenge to every tourism operator, every transport provider, and every stakeholder in our industry: that we can, and we must, do better.
“They have set a new benchmark, once again proving they are not only leaders in inbound tourism but pioneers in sustainable tourism for Fiji and the Pacific.”
Rosie Group General Manager Eroni Puamau stated “Fiji is our home”.
“As a Fijian family-owned business, protecting and nurturing our island environment is a priority,” Mr Puamau said.
“Our journey to electric vehicles began three years ago with extensive research and visits to electric vehicle manufacturers in China. After thorough evaluations, we selected Bonluck Bus & Coach Group (BLK), part of the giant conglomerate China Hi-Tech Group Corporation (CHTC), to manufacture and deliver our next-generation zero-emission electric coaches.
“The President series is one of the world’s most advanced all-new wide-body coach liners, providing a zero pollution, quiet and smooth ride for our customers along with touch-screen navigation control for our drivers.
“The coaches feature advanced battery-electric technology, fast charging with a 300-kilometer range, ample luggage space, and luxurious interiors designed to Australian standards”.
Rosie Travel Group Managing Director Tony Whitton reinforced the company’s commitment to sustainability.
“We provide transfer solutions to over 200,000 international visitors annually, contributing significantly to Fiji’s carbon footprint,” Mr Whitton said.
“We had to explore greener alternatives, and we believe China’s leadership in electric vehicle technology, coupled with Fiji’s vast solar energy reserves, is the key.
“By expanding our service offerings to our partners involved in large group movements such as conference and incentives, cruise ships and luxury private jets, means that our previous investment in fast-charging solar panels also allows these vehicles to also be powered using sunshine – which our tropical island has an abundance of.
“We know this will be a long journey, but we have made a start.”
