TMB (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona) is set to complete the electrification project of the Triangle bus depot by 2026, making it the first depot to be 100% electric. The company recently announced the bidding for the fifth and final phase of installation of 63 chargers, bringing the total number of chargers to 176. This milestone was shared by TMB’s president, Laia Bonet, during a visit to the Bon Pastor facilities.
The investment for the last phase of charger installation amounts to a significant 13 million euros, in addition to the 12 million euros already invested in previous phases. Bonet emphasized that the renewal of TMB’s buses and now the total electrification of the Triangle operational center are clear examples of Barcelona and TMB’s commitment to advancing towards a zero-emission fleet.
President Bonet explained that while the primary reason for acquiring these types of vehicles is their sustainability, there are also long-term economic benefits. „The initial purchase may be more expensive, but when considering the vehicle’s entire lifespan of around 15 years, it is more economically sustainable,“ she noted. Additionally, subsidies accompanying this zero-emission initiative make it even more cost-effective.
By the end of 2024, TMB aims to have 242 zero-emission vehicles in its fleet. Currently, the company operates 147 electric buses, with 98 being overnight chargers and 49 opportunity chargers located at the ends of specific lines. TMB plans to introduce an additional 49 buses by the end of the year.
In 2024, a total of 100 new zero-emission vehicles will be integrated into the network, bringing the total to 242. Of these, 196 will be electric and 46 hydrogen-powered, accounting for 25% of the standard fleet. In July, a tender worth 19 million euros was issued for the acquisition of five minibusses and 18 double-decker electric buses, which will join the fleet in 2025 to serve the Barcelona Bus Turístic and Bus del Barri. The addition of these new buses will help reduce 1,285 tons of CO₂ emissions and 7 tons of NOx annually.
To power the electric buses, TMB will utilize green energy sourced from Ifercat, the energy provider for the metro network. Additionally, the off-peak hours of train circulation at night will be leveraged for charging the vehicles.
The electrification of the Triangle bus depot and the expansion of TMB’s zero-emission fleet demonstrate a significant step towards sustainable public transportation in Barcelona. With a focus on environmental responsibility and long-term economic viability, TMB is leading the way in promoting cleaner and greener urban mobility.