Auckland Transport (AT) has launched a trial of smart, solar powered benches at four busy city centre bus stops.
The ‘SmartBeam’ benches are 100% solar powered, seamlessly integrate into existing street furniture and offer both wireless, USB and USBC charging ports.
The benches also have LED lighting; which provides additional comfort and safety to those travelling at night.
Four locations were selected based on high passenger usage while also receiving enough direct sunlight to charge the benches solar panels. The stops chosen for the trial are:
- Bus stop 7036 – Fanshawe Street
- Bus stop 7034 – Corner of Fanshawe Street and Bradnor Lane
- Bus stop 7106 – Victoria Street West
- Bus stop 7152 – Symonds Street
The benches are capable of charging a variety of 5V devices such as phones, smart watches, cameras and earphones. While charging times will vary, the benches are capable of charging most mobile devices from 0% to 100% in 30 minutes (USB) or 1.5 hours (wireless).
Rachel Cara, AT’s Group Manager of Public Operations, says the new benches are designed to support customers in moments of need.
“Customers have told us they feel more vulnerable when travelling at night. These benches help instill confidence, providing an extra boost of battery to keep them connected with friends and whānau after a long day at university, work or a night out in town.
“As a parent, it gives me confidence and peace of mind to know that this technology exists and is accessible to young people travelling on public transport.”
SmartBeam benches do not connect to WiFi or collect personal data. AT will monitor usage patterns to help determine whether the technology should be rolled out more widely across the public transport network.
