Plans to introduce electric buses

The City of Cape Town says it will soon advertise a tender for acqquisition of electric MyCiTi buses to reduce its impact on the environment.

In a statement issued last week, it said it “has a responsibility to lower carbon emissions and the impact of pollution on the urban environment.”

A tender for a fleet of 12-metre electric buses is due to be advertised by the first week of February, it said.

“The City is also considering electric double-decker buses for longer distance trips as they have more seating.

“The tender specifies that the electric buses should be able to travel at least 250km in traffic before the batteries need recharging.

The successful bidder, it said, would have to provide charging stations for the buses and training for bus drivers and mechanical engineers.

If all goes according to plan, Transport for Cape Town will be the first municipality in the country to benefit from the latest alternative fuel technology and we will be the first city in Africa to use electric buses for public transport.

“Apart from electric buses being eco-friendly with zero carbon emissions, if we use solar power charging stations, a green fleet holds numerous other advantages. The operational cost of electric buses is significantly lower – not only in terms of fuel, but also in relation to maintenance as there are fewer parts to service.

“Electric buses are easier to drive, the motors generate less heat than traditional diesel engines, there is less noise, and it is a smoother drive for passengers and bus drivers alike.

“Transport for Cape Town has researched and is exploring the most appropriate mechanism for the procurement of solar technology to offset the energy required for the electric bus fleet, thereby further reducing emissions,” the City said.

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