The European Investment Bank and the Brussels-Capital Region have signed an agreement for €475 million in financing aimed at enhancing the public transport system. This funding will be used to purchase 94 electric buses, including 70 long articulated buses measuring 18 meters each and 24 standard buses measuring 12 meters, as well as 90 trams of varying lengths and 43 metro trains measuring 94 meters in length. Additionally, the money will be used to renew 63 kilometers of tram and metro tracks.
The residents and commuters of the Brussels-Capital Region can expect significant improvements to their local public transportation system, as the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the region have entered into a loan agreement worth €475 million. This is the largest-ever loan provided by the EIB in Brussels and is aimed at modernizing and making the region’s urban transport fleet more sustainable. The loan will finance the purchase of 94 electric buses, 90 trams, and 43 metro trains, as well as the renovation of 63 kilometers of existing tracks on the tram and metro networks.
The regional government is working to transform the current transportation landscape through the Good Move mobility plan, with a key focus on expanding public transportation options. The improved infrastructure and new rolling stock financed by the EIB loan will make public transportation services more reliable, frequent, and efficient, with the ultimate goal of making public transportation more appealing than driving.
The Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company (STIB-MIVB) is driving the change through the acquisition of new rolling stock and improvements to the existing infrastructure as part of a broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions. By 2030, STIB-MIVB aims to cut emissions by 39% compared to 2010 levels. The new rolling stock will include 94 electric buses, 70 of which will be articulated buses measuring 18 meters each and 24 standard buses measuring 12 meters. 90 new trams called TNG trams measuring 32 or 43 meters, and 43 metro trains measuring 94 meters. Additionally, the project covers the installation of new equipment, modification of existing infrastructure and the renovation of 63 kilometers of existing single-track tram and metro lines, which will improve serviceability and availability of public transportation.
