Abu Dhabi starts electric bus services for commuters

With the beginning of the Holy Month of Ramadan, the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), affiliated with the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has launched an electric bus service for public transportation on Zayed the First Street, which has witnessed increasing demand.

The new service relies on a fleet of modern electric buses, designed to provide a more comfortable and efficient transportation experience.

The fleet includes four different models of electric buses, including articulated buses consisting of two and three compartments, which allows for accommodating a larger number of passengers, reducing waiting time, and achieving smooth movement.

Three articulated electric buses have been operated on Zayed the First Street, each 30 metres long, with 44 seats, and a capacity of up to 200 passengers per bus.

In addition, an articulated electric 18-metre long bus has been operated, with 46 seats and a capacity of around 110 passengers.

The buses operate according to a regular schedule which meets the needs of passengers. Buses depart every 30 minutes during peak hours, while they depart every 60 minutes outside peak hours.

The route extends for 27 kilometres, starting from Al Reem Mall, passing through Zayed the First Street, and reaching Al Kasr Marina Mall, then returning to the starting point, with stops at 13 stations.

This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability in the transportation sector, ITC said, adding that electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy consumption, and improving air quality, in line with Abu Dhabi's Vision 2030, which aims to develop a modern and sustainable infrastructure that supports the green economy.

The ITC has affirmed that the service represents a first step towards the widespread use of electric transportation in various areas of the emirate, which enhances Abu Dhabi's position as a leading smart city in providing advanced transportation solutions which keep up with the latest global innovations.

The service has received widespread acceptance from residents and visitors since its launch, as they have praised the level of comfort and efficiency provided by electric vehicles, in addition to their role in facilitating transportation within the city, especially during the month of Ramadan, where the demand for public transportation services increases.

This step embodies Abu Dhabi's ambitious vision towards promoting sustainable transportation, through the adoption of advanced technological solutions which reduce environmental effect and improve the daily transportation experience for residents, making it a model to be emulated in sustainable smart cities.