MALTA
Malta Public Transport (MPT) has invested in its first new battery electric buses. Announced by Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Aaron Farrugia together with Malta Public Transport (MPT) Chairman Felipe Cosmen in April, the new electric buses will operate on public transport routes across the island following the €1m investment.
“Transport plays a vital role in our society and our economy; our quality of life depends on an efficient and accessible transport system. It also leaves a significant impact on our environment and, with an increasing demand for greener transport services, we need to ensure that our national transport system is well equipped to address these challenges. Our current bus fleet is mostly made up of the latest environmentally-friendly buses, but it is now time to shift to the next level to electrically powered buses. This investment is only the start of the decarbonisation plan and will be further complemented by the free public transport scheme which will be introduced on 1 October, when public transport will become free for all Tallinja cardholders. Taken together, these measures will ensure a better and cleaner future for us all,” Minister Farrugia said.
“MPT is proud to be part of the solution to reduce emissions on our islands through continued investment in clean public transport solutions,” said MPT Chairman Felipe Cosmen.
Since the start of its operations in 2015, Malta Public Transport has overhauled the existing fleet with more than 300 new buses fitted with Euro VI engines, making it among the youngest and cleanest public transport fleets in Europe.
“Public transport is an important player when fighting climate change. We are not only committed to operating in an environmentally-friendly manner, but also believe in leading by example, and this investment clearly demonstrates the fact that sustainability will always be high on our agenda,” Filipe continued.
CBW correspondent Geoff Girling was in Malta, and reports that the new MPT buses are badged as a King Long Amigo, though in its home market the model is an XMQ 6127J. Geoffrey also noted one of a number of government-owned Foton electric buses in use on Gozo, where they provide a park & ride service.
