Golden Arrow introduces 20 electric buses in Cape Town

The Golden Arrow Bus Services has announced the arrival of 20 electric commuter buses set to hit the streets of Cape Town. This move marks a significant step towards modernizing public transportation and reducing carbon emissions in the city.

The bus operator has already taken delivery of these first 20 electric buses, and this is only the beginning. Over the course of the year, Golden Arrow plans to introduce an additional 100 electric buses, expanding its fleet and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable transport.

Largest Charging Facility in South Africa

To support the growing fleet of electric buses, Golden Arrow has also installed 30 state-of-the-art charging units, each equipped with two dispensers. This makes it the largest electric bus charging facility in South Africa. According to the company’s spokesperson, Bronwen Dyke-Beyer, this infrastructure will undergo further expansion.

“The charging facility will be expanded to 60 chargers, with a total of 120 dispensers during the second half of 2025,” Dyke-Beyer confirmed.

Positive Public Reception

The introduction of electric buses has been met with widespread approval from the public and Golden Arrow’s passenger forums.

“The new buses were given a resounding thumbs-up by the company’s passenger forums, and feedback from passengers and the public has been overwhelmingly positive thus far,” Dyke-Beyer said.

With a focus on reducing noise and air pollution, these electric buses offer a more environmentally friendly and comfortable commuting experience.

Years of Testing and Development

Golden Arrow’s shift towards electric buses has been years in the making. The company first tested two electric buses in 2021 to determine their suitability for South African roads and commuting conditions.

“There was a great deal of uncertainty around the suitability of electric buses for the South African commuter bus industry,” Dyke-Beyer explained.

However, after extensive testing, international research, and strategic partnerships, Golden Arrow has successfully integrated electric buses into its fleet.

A Historic Moment for Golden Arrow

For Golden Arrow, this transition to electric buses represents a historic milestone. Dyke-Beyer highlighted the company’s long-standing connection to electric public transport.

“This is a full-circle moment for Golden Arrow. In 1896, we were behind the wheel of the first electric tram in South Africa, and now, 129 years later, we are the first commuter bus company to introduce electric buses into service at scale.”

The Future of Public Transport

Golden Arrow’s investment in electric buses aligns with global efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. As South Africa continues to explore sustainable transport solutions, the success of these electric buses could pave the way for further expansion and encourage other public transport operators to follow suit.

By the end of 2025, Golden Arrow aims to have a fully functional electric bus system supported by an extensive charging infrastructure. The company’s initiative is expected to play a crucial role in reducing Cape Town’s carbon footprint while providing commuters with a modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible public transport system.