Moscow to procure more than 800 electric buses by the end of 2024

Moscow, Russia (Urban Transport News): In the pursuit of sustainable urban mobility, Moscow emerged as a trailblazer in 2023, setting a new record by launching an unprecedented number of electric buses. With over 1,400 electric buses traversing nearly 120 eco-friendly routes, Moscow solidified its position as a global leader in the development and utilization of electric public transportation. The year 2023 witnessed a monumental stride, with 39 new electric bus routes introduced, tripling the number from the previous year and marking a 1.5-fold increase compared to 2021. As these blue electric buses became an integral part of Moscow's identity, residents experienced over 6.8 million eco-friendly journeys throughout the year.

The exponential growth of electric buses in Moscow is not merely a numerical achievement but a strategic move to curtail the environmental impact of urban transport. By replacing conventional buses on 35 routes and operating in tandem with buses on four additional routes, these electric buses have played a pivotal role in offering passengers a more comfortable and modern travel experience. The positive shift is not only evident in the numbers but also in the tangible benefits witnessed by both the city and its residents.

Maksim Liksutov, the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport, reflects on the city's journey into the realm of electric buses, stating, "In 2018, on behalf of Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, we started to develop a fundamentally new type of transport — the electric bus. Today, it is difficult to imagine a city without them — blue electric buses have become one of the symbols of Moscow."

The commitment to eco-conscious transportation is further highlighted by Moscow's reliance on electric buses of Russian production, a fact emphasized by the largest contract in Europe for such vehicles. Liksutov asserts, "According to the largest contract in Europe, we receive electric buses only of Russian production."

December brought another milestone for Moscow as it announced the inauguration of the third high-tech electric bus depot in the east of the city. This strategic move not only expands the reach of electric bus routes but also ensures that residents in 20 districts experience the most modern, comfortable, and eco-friendly public transport.

Spanning an impressive 3 hectares, the new electric bus depot is slated to host up to 100 electric buses. The facility boasts 13 modern charging stations equipped with a dynamic power-sharing system, a feature crucial for sustaining the operation of electric buses. This development is anticipated to enhance the regularity and safety of daily trips while simultaneously reducing maintenance costs due to a decrease in zero mileage. Beyond the transport benefits, the depot is set to generate more than 500 jobs for local residents, fostering economic growth and creating a vibrant community hub.

Liksutov reiterates Moscow's dedication to electric transport, "The third Electric Bus House in the city, Saltykovka, is capable of servicing up to 100 Russian-made electric buses. At the beginning of 2024, it will ensure the operation of 12 routes. We will continue to develop urban electric transport, as instructed by the Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin."

As Moscow forges ahead with its commitment to sustainable urban transport, the city's record-breaking deployment of electric buses in 2023 stands as a testament to its dedication to environmental consciousness. The amalgamation of modernity, comfort, and ecological responsibility in the form of electric buses is transforming Moscow's public transportation landscape. The surge in electric bus routes, coupled with the strategic expansion of high-tech depots, reflects a holistic approach towards a green and efficient future. Moscow's journey into the era of electric mobility not only sets an example for other cities but also envisions a future where public transportation seamlessly integrates with environmental sustainability.