The transport sector accounts for approximately 30% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Buenos Aires City. The replacement of conventional diesel buses with electric buses leads to reductions in the emission of other toxic gases. There are 9,700 buses circulating in the city, carrying an average of 4,500,000 passengers per day. Almost 100% of these buses use diesel fuel, which contributes not only to an increase in the production of greenhouse gases and other pollutants that affect air quality, but also to noise pollution.
To contribute to solving this problem, and as a result of a joint call with the National State in 2019, we carried out the first Alternative Fuel Bus Pilot test. For this project we had the financial support of the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF).
The objective of the program was to evaluate the technical, operational, economic and environmental feasibility of low-emission buses and to determine the scalability of the technologies. The tests were carried out with two electric buses (line 59), two CNG powered buses (line 50 and line 132) and two biofuel powered buses. In addition, we conducted a comparative economic analysis with diesel technology and developed different scenarios with the objective of studying the incorporation of more buses to the fleet. This pilot test closed the gap between clean technologies and the currently operating bus system.
Looking ahead to 2050, and in order to reach our target of 100% zero-emission buses, we intend to extend the pilot tests for the electrification of the buses, articulate the proposal with the National Government, design charging stations with electric power distribution companies, develop electric charging infrastructure in the stations, and draw up a roadmap of the lines to be electrified.
Did you know that there are 2 electric buses currently operating in the City and that 3 electric chargers have been installed in the terminals?
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