Porto: STCP puts 20 new electric buses from CaetanoBus into service

CaetanoBus and Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto (STCP) share a long-standing partnership, which has seen several hundred buses delivered over the years. “This collaboration has been further strengthened through electric mobility,” says CaetanoBus. In addition to the 15 first-generation e.City Gold battery-electric buses that have been in service in Porto for several years, STCP has now taken delivery of 20 more.

The new battery-electric vehicles are the latest generation of the e.City Gold model in the 12-metre version, with space for up to 88 passengers. Equipped with a 422 kWh battery, they are expected to achieve ranges of over 400 kilometres. However, no further technical details have been provided. “In close collaboration with STCP, CaetanoBus has developed a new-generation electric bus solution that meets the current and future demands of urban mobility, combining innovation, reliability, and operational efficiency,” the Portuguese bus manufacturer states.

The 20 new electric buses will be stationed at the Via Norte depot, where they will replace an equal number of decommissioned vehicles. From there, they will be deployed in regular service across the greater Porto area.

STCP states that the investment for the procurement amounts to 8.6 million euros. This is the first investment since the intermunicipal merger of Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto in 2021, fully funded by the six participating municipalities: Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, Maia, Matosinhos, Valongo, and Gondomar. The procurement highlights the municipalities’ joint commitment to a more sustainable and modern public transport system.

“The Municipal Executive is focused on the challenge of continuously improving the reliability of service and punctuality in public transport, and the arrival of 20 more electric buses to STCP represents a significant step in improving the comfort and experience of users,” said Hugo Beirão Rodrigues, City Councillor of Porto.

Cristina Pimentel, Chairwoman of the STCP Board, added: ““The acquisition of these 20 new 100% electric buses represents another firm step in STCP’s transformation journey. We are consolidating a more modern, efficient and environmentally responsible fleet, while reinforcing the quality of service provided to our passengers. This investment reflects the commitment made to our shareholders and the region: to accelerate the decarbonization of operations, reduce environmental impact and prepare the company for the challenges of urban mobility in the future.”

With the integration of the 20 new electric buses, Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto now operates 88 zero-emission vehicles, according to its own figures. This accounts for nearly 20 per cent of its total fleet. To date, the Portuguese manufacturer CaetanoBus has delivered 35 electric buses to the transport operator. STCP has not provided details about other suppliers. The remaining fleet consists predominantly of compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, making up around 70 per cent, and diesel buses, accounting for approximately ten per cent.

However, the electrification strategy is set to continue. By the end of 2026, the delivery of 38 additional electric buses is planned. Of these, 30 vehicles will be the 12-metre e.City Gold model, for which CaetanoBus already won the tender last summer. Additionally, eight midi electric buses will be introduced, though STCP has not disclosed the manufacturer. With these additional vehicles, the operator will deploy 126 electric buses in the future, representing around 30 percent of the total fleet.

Source: Information via e-mail, stcp.pt