The electric bus has a seating capacity of 41 passengers. —Photo from the Quezon City government

MANILA, Philippines — In a significant step towards enhancing urban mobility while promoting environmental sustainability, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte officially rolled out its pilot test of six new electric buses as part of its free bus program.

Launched amid ongoing efforts to combat air pollution, the air-conditioned Electric Q City Bus is an innovative transport solution that is a vital part of the city’s agenda for climate action.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last month announced tariffs of 100 percent on Chinese EVs, accusing Beijing of “not playing by the same rules as other countries” in areas like environmental and labour standards.

Von der Leyen, who secured a second term as commission chief in July, is expected to unveil her proposed lineup following a Friday deadline for states to name their nominees.

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The initial fleet will operate along Q City Bus Route 1, connecting key areas from the Quezon City Hall to Cubao and back, providing residents with a cleaner and safer commuting option.

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Introducing these electric buses aligns with Belmonte’s commitment to improving urban transportation while prioritizing the environment.

READ: QC acquires electric buses for its free transportation services – Belmonte

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An electric bus at one of the 90 stops all over the city — starting from the Quezon City Hall and going back. —Photo from the Quezon City government

“We are determined to transition to an alternative energy source,”  Belmonte said in a statement on Friday. “The rollout of these electric buses reflects our dedication to implementing programs and policies that promote climate action and environmental sustainability,” she added.

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With a seating capacity of 41 passengers, the electric buses also offer facilities to accommodate a limited number of standing passengers, ensuring comfort during travel.

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The design includes lower floors for easy access, wheelchair ramps, handrails, and comprehensive safety provisions such as fire suppression systems and emergency equipment. Notably, each bus is equipped with closed-circuit television cameras and smart TV screens for both security and information dissemination purposes.

As part of the deployment strategy, traffic personnel from the Traffic and Transport Management Department have been mobilized to oversee operations, ensuring a seamless experience for passengers utilizing this new mode of transport.

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The procurement of these environmentally friendly buses began late last year, alongside a fleet of 90 conventional buses already functioning on various routes throughout Quezon City.

Moreover, this initiative complies with the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) law, which mandates that at least five percent of government-owned service vehicles should be electric. This electrification effort is a key component of the city’s enhanced local climate change action plan.

The electric bus has a lower floor, wheelchair ramps, and handrails. and fire safety provisions. —Photo from the Quezon City government

With the full implementation of the Electric Q City Bus, Quezon City aims to significantly reduce reliance on traditional internal combustion engines, thus helping to address the city’s longstanding issues with air quality.  The timing of the electric bus rollout coincides with heightened air pollution levels in Metro Manila, particularly around New Year’s festivities.

On January 3, when the buses first picked up passengers along Kalayaan Avenue to Cubao, the national capital experienced unhealthy levels of air quality — a pressing signal of the need for urgent action.

The initiative promotes access to clean public transport while setting a benchmark for other local governments to follow suit in pursuing electric vehicle solutions.

Furthermore, the city intends to expand its electric fleet in the future, emphasizing its commitment to transition towards a more sustainable urban transport infrastructure.

As a part of its strategic urban development plan, the QCity Bus operates on a total of eight routes connecting major areas across the city, making transportation more accessible for residents while addressing environmental concerns.

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This forward-thinking approach signifies a promising shift towards sustainablegenesis, eco-friendly urban living in the Philippines’ largest metropolitan area.

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