Loke: Rapid Penang starts electric bus services with 15 vehicles, targets 75 by March 2027

GEORGE TOWN, Oct 17 — Rapid Penang launched its first 15 electric buses today, signaling the beginning of a transition to an electric bus fleet, stated Transport Minister Anthony Loke during a press conference at the Rapid Penang Depot in Weld Quay. Minister Loke announced that new buses will continue to arrive monthly, aiming to complete the fleet of 75 electric buses by March 2027.

The inaugural fleet consists of 14 buses measuring 8.25 meters and one 12-meter bus, highlighting the shorter buses' suitability for urban travel, such as navigating narrower roads and densely populated areas. This initiative aligns with Penang's goal to reduce carbon emissions and enhance its environmental sustainability. Rapid Bus reported that the first procurement phase involved 250 electric buses between Rapid Penang and Rapid KL, with 175 allocated to Rapid KL.

Transport Minister Loke clarified that the RM200 million investment covers all 250 buses under this phase, with deliveries divided into two stages to ensure the arrival of buses aligns with charging infrastructure and depot readiness. The first stage, which began deliveries in June and is expected to conclude by December 31, includes 40 buses for Rapid Penang and 110 for Rapid KL.

The second stage, scheduled to start deliveries in January and finish by March 2027, will see 35 buses for Penang and 65 for Rapid KL. As of October 13, Transport Minister Loke reported that 150 charging units have been installed at nine depots, including three in Penang, to support the initial delivery stage. An additional 100 charging units are planned for six depots, including two in Penang, for the second stage.

The electric buses are equipped with an Advanced Driver Assistance System, offering driving assistance and alerts to bus drivers, and an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System to emit warning sounds for pedestrians and other road users, particularly at low speeds. Minister Loke emphasized that this rollout is part of Prasarana Malaysia Berhad's plan to acquire 1,600 electric buses between 2026 and 2031, replacing part of the existing diesel fleet for Rapid Penang and Rapid KL.

Additionally, Loke outlined the electric bus operator's future role in complementing the Mutiara Line LRT, stressing the importance of improving first- and last-mile connections as part of the broader transport system.