Costa Rica and Rio de Janeiro launch electric bus initiatives

Costa Rica and Rio de Janeiro are advancing separate initiatives to electrify their public bus fleets through significant financial frameworks and international or national partnerships.

In Costa Rica, the European Union is contributing 8 million euros to help incorporate at least 75 European-made electric buses into the public transport system by 2027. Managed by the Banco de Costa Rica, a trust fund will provide financing mechanisms, such as leasing, to help bus companies manage the high initial costs of electric vehicles. The project also includes funding for charging infrastructure and depot adaptations, primarily targeting the Greater Metropolitan Area.

In Rio de Janeiro, the city is launching a public-private partnership (PPP) to integrate 175 electric buses into its transit system. The project requires a total investment of R$509 million, with R$329 million provided by the Brazilian National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) via the Climate Fund. The remaining costs will be covered by the private concessionaire and the municipality. The 16-year contract includes the acquisition of vehicles, maintenance, charging systems, and the construction of a 41,000-square-meter operational base in Maré, with the first 80 vehicles expected to begin service in October 2027.