Cape Town’s public transport system is set for a significant transformation, with the introduction of electric MyCiTi buses expected to reshape how commuters travel across the city in the coming years.
The City of Cape Town has confirmed plans to introduce its first fleet of electric MyCiTi buses, marking a major step toward modernising public transport and reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
According to the rollout plan, the first electric bus is expected to arrive in August, with a total of 30 vehicles set to be introduced in phases between late this year and mid next year. The initiative forms part of the City’s broader strategy to transition toward cleaner and more sustainable transport solutions.
Before entering full service, the buses will undergo a year-long trial period on existing MyCiTi routes. This phase will allow officials to evaluate performance under real-world conditions, including varying passenger volumes, route demands and local weather conditions.
The City has partnered with the University of Cape Town to support the research component of the rollout. The collaboration will focus on key operational factors such as battery performance, charging cycles and long-term efficiency within Cape Town’s transport network.
Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Councillor Rob Quintas, said the introduction of electric buses comes at a critical time.
“The delivery of the electric bus fleet cannot be more timeous, given the volatility of energy markets and the broader economic environment,” Quintas said. “Apart from lowering carbon emissions, these buses could offer significant benefits in terms of maintenance and operational costs.”
International studies suggest that electric buses can reduce operating costs by as much as 70%, although the City has indicated that local data will be used to determine whether similar savings can be achieved in Cape Town.
If the pilot phase proves successful, the City plans to expand the electric fleet and roll out services across key corridors, including routes serving Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha, Wynberg, Claremont and the Cape Town central business district.
Officials say the long-term goal is to create a more efficient, reliable and environmentally sustainable public transport system that meets the needs of a growing urban population.
However, the success of the programme will depend on infrastructure readiness, funding and the ability to scale the system effectively over time.
Source: Cape {town} Etc – Staff Reporter
