Penang’s public transport gets a green boost with 240 electric buses and 170 new on-demand vans, aiming to cut emissions and improve services
GEORGE TOWN: Penang is set for a major upgrade to its public transport system with the phased introduction of 240 electric buses.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced the plan, stating the first 75 electric bus units are expected to arrive and begin operations from May.
The procurement for a further 165 electric buses will start this year and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Loke said the move aligns with Prasarana Malaysia Bhd’s new direction to use environmentally friendly buses to reduce carbon emissions.
He expressed confidence that the electric buses would be a game changer for Penang’s public transport system.
The initiative further supports the state government’s aspiration to make Penang a more environmentally sustainable state.
To support the new fleet, EV charging infrastructure is being developed at Rapid Penang depots, with the process already underway.
On costs, Loke noted that electric buses are, on average, almost twice as expensive as diesel buses.
He estimated the price at more than RM1 million per unit.
Separately, Loke said Rapid Penang will also complete the delivery of 60 new diesel buses by the end of February.
These are part of a final batch of 175 diesel buses from a total of 310 units acquired since July 2025 for the Klang Valley and Penang.
Meanwhile, the Rapid Penang On-Demand van service is set for a significant expansion.
Following a request from the state government, Prasarana plans to add 170 more vans to the existing fleet of 50.
The procurement process for the additional vans is expected to begin in the second half of this year.
“This addition will provide more options for users, increase capacity and expand the coverage of public transport services in Penang,” Loke said.
