Malta Public Transport unveils first electric bus trial

Malta Public Transport has launched Malta’s first fully-electric bus in conjunction with Transport Malta and TAM-Europe. The Vero 9 model will go on a trial period to test the performance of the electric engine on Maltese roads.

The pilot project will assess the efficiency and adaptability of the vehicle in real-world local conditions, considering the unique road characteristics of Malta such as short distances between bus stops and hilly terrain. Malta Public Transport has said that it will work hand-in-hand with the manufacturers on the incremental development of the electric bus in order to meet the expected environmental standards and customer experience.

“Malta Public Transport is proud to be part of this clean public transport initiative as it continues to reduce emissions on our lovely island,” said MPT Chairman, Felipe Cosmen. He explained how the company is constantly on the lookout for novel solutions that offer convenient and reliable alternatives to private transportation.

“Sustainability is high on our agenda and we are committed to operating in an environmentally friendly manner,” Cosmen continued.

Joseph Bugeja, Transport Malta Chairman and CEO, welcomed the initiative and said: “The year-on-year increase in bus passengers shows the success of public transport, with a record-breaking number of over 58 million passengers in 2019.”