Within the next year, eThekwini Municipality will introduce three electric buses (e-buses) as part of a pilot phase, with an additional 16 to be added over the next three years. The City’s transition from diesel to battery-electric buses has been hailed as a significant step toward sustainable transportation, aligning with global efforts to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

This initiative was announced at a three-day E-Bus Workshop held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 11 to 13 February. Hosted by eThekwini Municipality in partnership with C40 Cities, the workshop brought together representatives from 18 African countries to share best practices and key lessons on deploying electric buses across the continent.

The City’s transition to e-buses aligns with the Department of Transport’s Green Transport Strategy for South Africa 2018–2050, which sets a target for at least 10% of municipal bus fleets to operate on clean energy within the next 10 to 20 years.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba emphasized that the workshop demonstrates the City’s proactive approach to promoting eco-friendly and low-emission transportation systems. “However, as we implement this transition, we must ensure that it is just, inclusive, and leaves no one behind. It must protect people’s livelihoods and contribute towards the creation of sustainable jobs,” said Mayor Xaba.

Lusanda Madikizela, Head of Zero Emission Freight at C40, expressed excitement over the workshop’s success in sparking robust discussions and feasibility studies on eThekwini’s readiness for electric bus deployment.

C40 is a global network of mayors from the world’s leading cities, united in taking action against the climate crisis.

Babalwa Nyoka, Senior Manager of Public Transport Services at the eThekwini Transport Authority, said the workshop extensively explored various business models for public transport electrification, public-private funding opportunities, and available electric bus technologies, including charging infrastructure.

The City will introduce e-buses to its existing services as part of a pilot phase to assess their long-term sustainability in eThekwini.

“The feasibility study will evaluate various factors involved in transitioning to electric buses over a specific period before the full fleet is deployed. Three electric buses will be used to test market routes, passenger uptake, battery types and lifespans, charging infrastructure availability and positioning, as well as operating costs and sustainability,” said Nyoka.