UAE’s first fully electric bus enters service in Abu Dhabi

The UAE’s first fully electric bus is in service in Abu Dhabi – and passengers can ride it free for the next few months.

The Eco-Bus, launched by Masdar, is serving a six-stop route between Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Masdar City.

The bus is part of the city’s Department of Transport’s fleet and has been extensively tested. Authorities hope it will help the emirate deliver on sustainability targets. It will be a free service until the end of March.

“The launch of the Eco-Bus is a milestone for the UAE in a number of ways,” said Yousef Baselaib, executive director for sustainable real estate at Masdar.

“Masdar City has been an incubator of sustainable mobility technologies. Now we are exporting solutions beyond the city limits with our partners for the benefit of the wider community.”

The bus has 30 seats and a range of 150km per battery charge. It also uses solar panels to help maintain its charge.

It is designed to withstand the UAE’s hot and humid climate, which poses challenges for electric vehicles.

Driven by a Siemens traction system, the bus is said to be highly efficient, quiet and virtually maintenance-free.

“This technology has been proved around the world and we’re pleased to be bringing it

Authorities hope it will help the emirate deliver on sustainability targets. It will be a free service until the end of March

to the UAE for local innovation in efficient, sustainable transportation,” said Uwe Troeger, senior executive vice president at Siemens Middle East.

“This project is a great combination of the right technology and the right partners, and supports the development of environmentally friendly transport infrastructure in the UAE.”