Azerbaijan is set to embark on a bold initiative to replace 3,000 combustion engine buses with electric models, signaling a significant shift towards sustainable transport. While several suppliers are vying for the opportunity, Chinese company BYD has emerged as a frontrunner, announcing plans for a new production line in the country.
The decision was announced by Fariz Aliyev, head of the transport policy department at the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan, in an interview with the Azerbaijani news portal abc.az. Aliyev highlighted the long-term vision to replace all buses in Baku and the Absheron peninsula with electric buses, with retired buses being redeployed to other regions before eventual replacement.
Aliyev stressed the importance of accompanying infrastructure development for the successful integration of electric buses into Azerbaijan’s transport system. He revealed that BYD is gearing up to invest $34 million in the production of electric motor buses at a plant in the Sumgayit Chemical Industrial Park. The planned annual production capacity of 500 buses is expected to meet both domestic demand and provide export opportunities, contributing to Azerbaijan’s economy.
Regarding the selection of a supplier, Aliyev mentioned that buses from three Chinese companies are under consideration, each offering distinct features. However, he did not disclose the specific differences or indicate a preferred supplier.
The move towards electric buses is particularly noteworthy for Azerbaijan, a country heavily reliant on its oil production sector. This transition underscores Azerbaijan’s commitment to sustainability and signals a departure from traditional reliance on combustion vehicles.
The ambitious project is expected to not only modernize Azerbaijan’s public transport system but also create approximately 800 new jobs, further boosting the country’s economy and driving its sustainable development goals.
