Athens and Thessaloniki to Get New Electric Buses by Spring

Photo source: Transport Ministry.

A total of 250 new electric buses will be hitting the streets of Athens and Thessaloniki next spring after the Greek Transport Ministry finalized a concession contract this week.

Transport Minister Christos Staikouras and Jack Li, CEO for Europe for Chinese vehicle manufacturer Yutong Bus, signed the contract which foresees the arrival of 250 electric buses by the end of April

The agreement is part of ministry plans to renew bus fleet in Athens and Thessaloniki announced by Staikouras earlier this year.

Transport Minister Christos Staikouras (photo center) and Jack Li, CEO for Europe for Chinese vehicle manufacturer Yutong Bus (2nd from right). Photo source: Transport Ministry.

The aim, he said, is promote sustainable urban mobility, energy efficiency and to minimize the environmental impact of the fleet. At the same time, city residents will have access to affordable transport and improved quality of services.

The project is budgeted at 110,825,000 euros plus VAT and the contractor guarantees the maintenance, repair of damage and operation of the buses.

Photo source: Transport Ministry.

The 250 electric buses are the first of a total of 1,300 in the pipeline. In July, Staikouras said the next tender for an additional 400 buses was forthcoming with a second procurement phase being prepared for an additional 650 buses.

The renewal of Athens’ and Thessaloniki’s bus fleet is one of 10 priorities announced by Staikouras set to significantly contribute to an overall improved local and tourist experience. Other priorities include the completion of the Thessaloniki Metro to handle more than 300,000 commuters daily, the upgrade of main national roadways, Line 4 of the Athens Metro and train system modernization with an emphasis on safety.