GEORGE TOWN, Oct 5 — Rapid Penang will conduct test runs of two electric buses on Oct 6 and 7, marking an initial step towards the introduction of electric buses into Penang’s public transport system.

In a statement today, Rapid Penang said the initiative was part of Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd’s ongoing efforts to replace existing buses with safer, more sustainable and environmentally friendly vehicles, while enhancing operational efficiency.

“The test run involves two electric buses from different manufacturers, namely a 12-metre Foton bus and an 8.25-metre Golden Dragon bus.

“Both buses will undergo separate test runs on selected routes to assess their suitability and operational capabilities under real-world conditions, including energy consumption, charging performance, passenger safety and comfort,” the statement said.

Rapid Penang said preparations would also be made to support electric bus operations, including the provision of charging infrastructure, maintenance facilities, staff training and other operational support requirements.

The statement said electric buses would be introduced in stages after the test runs, as Rapid Penang continued to enhance its operational readiness and make improvements to ensure smooth service delivery for passengers.

Meanwhile, Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Syahrul Azmir Ahmad Zaki said the test run formed part of Rapid Penang’s efforts to introduce electric buses in Penang, in line with its phased bus replacement programme.

“This provides a crucial benchmark to ensure our operations team has sufficient data and experience to assess the performance, capabilities and operational requirements of electric buses under real-world conditions before they are introduced on existing routes,” he said.

Rapid Penang is currently in the first phase of procuring 75 electric buses, with deliveries scheduled in stages through March 2027.

The procurement is part of Penang’s ongoing phased bus replacement programme, involving 240 electric buses and 70 new diesel buses. — Bernama