Arrival of 250 New Buses as Part of a Contract for 735 Buses
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has announced the arrival of 250 new buses, marking the beginning of a significant contract that includes a total of 735 buses of various sizes. These buses are designed to meet the low-emission European standards known as “Euro 6,” reflecting Dubai’s commitment to improving air quality and the environment. Notably, this deal includes 40 electric buses, which are the latest in the country. The supply of the new buses is expected to be completed within the current year.
Details of the Electric Buses
Mattar Al Tayer, the Director General and Chairman of the RTA, inspected the electric bus of the “Zhongtong” model, which is the first of its kind to operate on urban routes in Dubai. The bus has an operational range of up to 280 kilometers on a single charge, making it ideal for daily trips without the need to return to charging stations. The bus features a sustainable design, equipped with a 434 kWh battery and a 360 kW charger.
Advanced Safety and Security Specifications
The new bus is 12 meters long and can accommodate over 70 passengers, equipped with 360-degree permanent camera systems. It has received international safety certifications that ensure its high safety standards. The bus underwent over three months of testing in Dubai, showing positive results in electric drive stability and energy efficiency. Additionally, the trials revealed a high satisfaction rate of 95% among drivers and passengers.
Future Strategies for Sustainable Transport
Al Tayer confirmed that the introduction of these buses into service aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to provide an integrated and sustainable public transport system. These initiatives aim to support the goals of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040 and enhance the quality of life in the city. A gradual increase in the number of electric buses is expected in the future, in line with national trends to reduce carbon footprints and achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
Specifications of the New Buses
The contract includes the purchase of 40 electric buses of the “Zhongtong” model, in addition to 549 other buses consisting of 400 “MAN” buses and 149 “Zhongtong” buses. All buses adhere to high safety and quality specifications and are powered by eco-friendly “Euro 6” engines. The contract also includes 76 double-decker buses of the “VOLVO” model and 70 articulated buses of the “Isuzu Anadolu” model, providing extensive coverage across the city.
With most buses equipped with advanced systems for monitoring driver behavior and automated passenger counting, the RTA aims to enhance safety and comfort standards. All buses will feature amenities such as comfortable seating, designated children’s seats, bike storage areas, and Wi-Fi services, improving the passenger experience. A national protocol for fuel consumption testing is also being implemented, marking a pioneering step in enhancing operational efficiency.
Thus, the arrival of 250 new buses as part of a contract for 735 buses represents a significant step for Dubai towards a more sustainable future in public transport, alongside further innovations aimed at improving the quality of life for both residents and visitors.