Taking to social media, Nationalist MP Eve Borg Bonello and independent politician Arnold Cassola critiqued the acquisition of 25 new diesel buses set to hit Maltese roads.

‘It is deeply concerning that the government decided to introduce new DIESEL buses, going against all promises of electrifying the bus fleet and instead returning to one of the worst pollutants. This comes just a week after launching the climate change authority, highlighting a lack of commitment to real environmental action’, wrote Eve Borg Bonello.

‘Instead of investing in electric or hybrid buses, the government continues to make short-sighted choices that undermine Malta’s climate goals and credibility.’

On his part, Cassola said that he had breathed a sign of relief when he heard Transport Minister Chris Bonett announce an investment into 120 electric buses by the end of 2025.

‘Yesterday we learnt that Twenty-five new buses will hit the roads.  But….they all run on diesel. To move forward, the government has to deliver what was promised.’

In response, Malta Public Transport said that ‘the current bus charging infrastructure in Malta can accommodate 30 electric buses to charge simultaneously.’

’It is not as simple as buying an electric car, since high capacity charging infrastructure is required for any additional buses. These diesel buses have EURO 6 engines, which is the cleanest diesel technology on the market and many other countries are still investing in diesel buses as the transition is ongoing and not overnight.’

‘The 25 buses cost around 6 million, an investment made by MPT to improve customer experience for passengers in Malta. The buses were purchased for a project that was delayed in another European country, and they have never been used, so they are brand new, so we decided to bring them to Malta once the demand has increased this year.’

#MaltaDaily