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https://www.archdaily.com/1135959/oslo-announces-agreement-for-100-percent-electric-public-transit
As the urgency to replace fossil fuels increases, new electric vehicle models are announced with growing frequency. From urban cars to models equipped with solar panels, the focus is on prioritizing electric mobility, with automakers shifting production lines and countries and cities passing laws to accelerate the energy transition.
Beyond reimagining the future of the automobile, however, we must rethink which modes of transportation we prioritize. Electric or not, cars remain a form of private transit, and the environmental impact of a single vehicle is immense—particularly since they often carry only one person. Investing in sustainable public transit and cities designed for bicycles and pedestrians is essential. A single electric bus can transition dozens of passengers to clean energy all at once.
With this goal in mind, Oslo, the capital of Norway, is on track to become the first capital city in the world with a fully electric public transportation system. Following a new agreement to replace diesel-powered public buses with electric models, the city expects to achieve this milestone by the end of 2023. The initiative is part of an even more ambitious target: Oslo aims to become the world’s first emission-free city by the end of the decade.
According to the Reuters news agency, replacing the city’s active diesel fleet with 450 electric buses is part of a deal worth approximately $47 million. While it represents a significant upfront cost, the investment is expected to save the city money in the long run. In addition to eliminating emissions, the transition will improve quality of life by reducing noise and air pollution.
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Sirin Stav, vice mayor for environment and transport, expressed hope that the complete transition to electric buses would inspire other cities to follow suit. “Maintenance is cheaper, and it is also cheaper for the electric bus operators. In short, this is a win-win situation,” Stav explained.
Oslo has already electrified many of its ferries, and features an extensive network of bike lanes and enhanced safety measures for cyclists and pedestrians to encourage residents to choose more sustainable forms of transit.
“However, moving forward, it is important for Oslo to ensure transparency regarding the emissions associated with the manufacturing of these ferries and vehicles,” said Ingvild Roerholt, a transport advisor for the environmental organization Zero Emission Resource Organization (ZERO).
The expert praised Oslo’s agreement but warned that the primary environmental concerns surrounding electric vehicles involve battery manufacturing and the electricity grid used for charging.
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In Norway, 92% of electricity generation comes from abundant hydropower, yet oil, gas, and coal combined still make up a significant portion of the overall energy mix.
While there is still room for improvement and transparency regarding emissions and energy consumption in EV manufacturing, electric buses reduce emissions by approximately 62% compared to diesel alternatives.
Via CicloVivo.
This article was written by Natasha Olsen. The translation is powered by AI.
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