Electric buses are a vital component of modern electromobility. They are starting to play a key role in urban public transport across the Czech Republic. Cities like Prague, Brno, Ostrava, and others are incorporating electric buses into their public transport systems, bringing both benefits and challenges.
This article explores the specifics and advantages of electric buses within the context of public transport in Czech cities.
Electromobility is gradually infiltrating all transport sectors. In recent years, electric buses have become increasingly popular. Due to their quiet operation, cities initially deployed them mainly at night.
While some e-buses can run on a single charge and only need to be recharged between the end and start of the next service, others require continuous recharging. Like electric vehicles, e-buses use all-electric and hybrid drives.
The City of Prague is a pioneer in electromobility, having introduced its first electric bus on line 140 in 2015 . Prague aims to continuously expand its fleet of electric buses and has set a goal to significantly reduce emissions by 2030 .
Brno began operating electric buses on select lines in 2018 as part of its efforts to promote sustainable transport, a move also adopted by Hradec Králové.
Ostrava launched a pilot project with electric buses in 2020 and is focused on upgrading its fleet and developing the necessary charging infrastructure.
In 2022 , Pilsen will start operating electric buses on selected routes, aiming to reduce the ecological footprint of urban transport.
Electric buses are generally more expensive to purchase than traditional internal combustion buses. High acquisition costs are one reason why cities may be hesitant to introduce electric buses. Another challenge is the charging infrastructure; efficient operation of electric buses relies on a well-developed network of charging stations.
New technologies naturally require time, patience, and expertise to implement. Urban transport workers are understandably concerned about the training and learning required for new vehicles. This concern is one reason some transport companies may hesitate to adopt them.
Electromobility in public transport also comes with regulatory and administrative challenges. Approving and regulating new technologies can be a lengthy process. Additionally, transport companies face economic pressures and uncertainty about the return on investment in electromobility.
A study on electromobility in bus transport suggests that electric buses charged while driving and fuel cell buses are promising technologies for the future of public transport, with great potential.
Cities aiming to combat greenhouse gas emissions, reduce noise pollution, and improve air quality should continue to adopt electric bus solutions. They can look to large cities where electric mobility has been successfully implemented, contributing to the long-term sustainable development of urban transport.
