Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a trial run of two Volvo 7900 electric buses.
The buses are fitted with opportunity charging technology which means that they don’t have to return to the depot to recharge – a first for Dubai.
ABB Group has supplied all the standing electrical chargers for the trial.
RTA has also joined forces with Volvo Bus Company, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), and Meraas Real Estate for the pilot project.
Frank Muehlon, president of ABB’s E-mobility Division, said: “We have witnessed a great example of private-public partnerships at RTA electric Bus Project, where it brought together key stakeholders from the Transport, Utility and Automotive industries.”
Manish Sahi, vice president, Volvo Bus Corporation, added: “We are excited about the possibilities electric buses will open up for cities like Dubai. Without emissions and noise, you can even build bus stops indoors.
“Volvo Electric buses will enhance travelling experience not only for passengers but also drivers and other road users, making cities more attractive for their inhabitants.”
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, vice chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, managing director and CEO of DEWA, said: “Dubai’s Green Mobility Initiative 2030 aims to stimulate the use of sustainable transit means and align them with the strategic goals of the emirate in terms of sustainability, air quality and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
“The incentives package launched by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy of which DEWA is part has encouraged green mobility and increased the number of electric cars in Dubai.
“This particularly fits with the spread of green charging stations of DEWA, which now exceed 300 stations offering 530 charging points across Dubai.”
Dubai to host COP26
Last week, the Emirates was chosen to host Cop28, the UN global climate talks, in 2023.
Mariam Al Mheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said: “Hosting Cop28 is an opportunity to bring the world together to explore effective solutions to the most pressing challenges our planet faces.
“We are grateful to the nations that have supported our bid to host the crucial event. As the land of opportunities and collaborations, we look forward to bringing the world together to explore effective solutions to the most pressing challenges our planet faces.”
The UAE has pledged to hit net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The plan will see Dh600bn (c.£121,3bn) being invested in clean and renewable energy sources in the next three decades.
Main image credit: ABB Middle East
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