Ho Chi Minh City is expanding its public transport network with the introduction of three new electric bus routes: 73, 102, and 151. These routes, operated by Phuong Trang Futabuslines Joint Stock Company, will connect various bus stations, industrial parks, and key transport arteries across TP HCM. The transition is set to take place between 25/6 and 1/7, with 45 new electric buses replacing existing diesel vehicles.

The Public Transport Management Center, Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction, confirmed that the new Kim Long electric buses have a 60-person capacity, accommodating both seated and standing passengers. These air-conditioned vehicles include modern passenger support features and will serve routes with high travel demand, aiming to enhance the overall commuter experience.

A fleet of new electric buses for route 73 prepares for operation. *Ha Giang*

Detailed schedules for the new routes are as follows: Route 102, connecting Saigon Bus Station, Nguyen Van Linh, and Mien Tay Bus Station, spans nearly 33 km. It operates from 4:45 am to 7:00 pm, with each trip lasting about 80 minutes. Route 73, running from Binh Chanh Market to Le Minh Xuan Industrial Park, covers nearly 25 km and operates during the same hours, with a travel time of approximately 70 minutes. Route 151, linking Mien Tay Bus Station and An Suong Bus Station, is over 17 km long, operating from 4:00 am to 8:00 pm, with trips taking around 50 minutes.

This transition from diesel to electric buses aims to enhance service quality, reduce emissions, and encourage greater public transport ridership. As an added incentive, TP HCM will provide free fares on 134 bus routes, including routes 73, 102, and 151, from 1/7 to 31/12.

The city has been progressively converting its bus fleet. In mid-June, two routes—57 (Phuoc Binh Market - Hiep Binh High School) and 41 (Mien Tay Bus Station - Bon Xa Intersection - An Suong Bus Station)—were converted to electric vehicles. Currently, TP HCM's bus network features approximately 1,649 electric and green energy vehicles, representing nearly 68% of its total fleet of over 2,400 buses.

Looking ahead, the city plans to convert the remaining routes during the 2027-2028 period. The ultimate goal is to have all buses operate on electric or green energy from 2029 onward, reinforcing TP HCM's commitment to sustainable urban transport.