Taichung’s electric bus fleet gets a boost! Ten electric buses have been officially added to Route 131, which serves Wufeng, Dali, Central, North, and Beitun Districts. Operated by Taichung Bus Company, these new vehicles began service in early April. According to Transportation Bureau Director Yeh Chao-fu, in line with the “Blue Sky and White Clouds” initiative launched by Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, along with the addition of these ten electric buses, the city now operates 293 electric buses, and more are on the way from last year’s approved batch. The expansion aims to give passengers a safer, more comfortable experience and brings Taichung closer to its goal of fully electrifying its bus system by 2030!
Director Yeh noted that Taichung has over 1,300 buses as of this February. The Transportation Bureau encourages bus companies to choose electric models when replacing old vehicles. These electric buses not only run quietly and smoothly but are also low in carbon emissions and designed for accessibility. The bureau is supporting the transition by securing subsidies from the central government and hosting meetings to listen to bus companies’ opinions. With 283 electric buses already on the road, the addition of 10 more on Route 131 and others from last year’s approved batch will bring the total to 376. This shift is expected to cut carbon emissions by 0.66 metric tons annually marking a significant step toward environmental sustainability and net-zero goals.
Director Yeh added that Taichung operates 235 bus routes citywide, including the Lishan Route 1 Happiness Bus and various eco-friendly electric bus routes that stretch across mountainous, coastal, and urban areas. Route 131, which now includes 10 new electric buses, covers a broad area—traveling through Wufeng, Dali, Central, North, and Beitun Districts. It links key commercial, school, and residential districts, making it a convenient public transport option for both commuters and students. The city continues to expand its electric bus network, offering the public an even better ride.
According to the Transportation Bureau, 93 electric buses approved last year will soon be rolled out, and more companies are expected to submit proposals this year. Each new electric bus will come equipped with Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), designed to boost safety by helping drivers better navigate traffic and reduce the risk of accidents. To make these electric buses easier to spot, they’re painted with a distinctive “white with green lightning” pattern on the front and back—an eye-catching look meant to draw more riders. The Transportation Bureau will continue to encourage companies to purchase electric models and promote the replacement of aging vehicles, fostering more user-friendly and convenient public transport options. (4/6*17)*Transportation Bureau