Malta Public Transport invests €8 million in new buses to meet demand

Credit: Malta Public Transport

Malta Public Transport has announced a substantial investment of €8 million to acquire 30 new buses, aimed at enhancing the reliability and capacity of the country’s public transport network in response to a significant increase in demand. This investment will bolster the fleet to 500 units, further solidifying Malta’s commitment to providing accessible transport solutions.

The decision to expand the fleet follows a notable surge in passenger numbers, with a remarkable 19% rise recorded during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, totalling 17.2 million passengers. In addition, active Tallinja cardholders increased by 19%, reaching 224,000 individuals during this period, highlighting a growing reliance on public transport among residents.

Felipe Cosmen, Chairman of Malta Public Transport, emphasised the company’s commitment to meeting passenger expectations by addressing feedback for more spacious and reliable bus services, stating, “We have listened to our drivers and our passengers, who called for more space on the buses, and our investment in these 30 new buses underscores our commitment to fulfilling this promise.”

The new buses will be equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including USB chargers and free WiFi, to prioritise passenger comfort and convenience. They will also feature Euro 6 diesel technology, ensuring efficiency while aligning with immediate operational needs.

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Despite the investment in diesel buses, Malta Public Transport remains steadfast in its sustainability goals. Cosmen acknowledged the challenges of electric bus adoption, citing infrastructure and manufacturing complexities that result in longer implementation times. However, plans are underway to introduce 120 fully electric, zero-emission buses by the end of 2025, supported by European Resilience and Recovery Funds.

Furthermore, Malta Public Transport has also made enhancements to the Tallinja App, offering real-time bus tracking and service alerts, which have received positive feedback from users.

With collaborative efforts involving government agencies and transport authorities, Malta Public Transport is poised to shape a future where public transport is safe, reliable and environmentally sustainable. Through strategic investments and sustained focus on customer satisfaction, the company aims to provide an efficient transport solution that meets the evolving needs of the community.