A Doha driverless train
In a surprising move, Qatar plans to transition to 100% electric public transportation by 2030, in stark contrast to its car-centric culture fueled by oil and gas wealth. The Ministry of Transport in Qatar has achieved a milestone with 70% of public buses already electric, aiming for a fully electric fleet by 2030. The country also envisions 35% of all cars to be electric by the same target year.
Experts predict that electric vehicle sales could reach 20% of the total auto market in Qatar by 2032, coinciding with the launch of the country’s first EV brand, signaling a shift towards sustainable transportation.
Despite the dominance of private vehicles in Qatar, the introduction of electric public transport signifies a move towards cleaner air, reduced energy consumption, and a smaller carbon footprint, but its impact will depend on the source of the electric power.
Whether you’re taking a bus in Doha or the tram in Lusail, the public transport network in Qatar means there are plenty of options for your daily commute to work.
Transitioning to electric buses will help reduce air pollution and lower energy consumption in urban centers, supporting Qatar’s commitment to combat climate change. The Ministry of Transport is focusing on creating an integrated infrastructure, including charging stations, to facilitate the operation of electric buses.
Furthermore, an initiative to promote environmental sustainability in Qatar has led to the development of the first prototypes of electric vehicles by Ecotranzit, showcasing the country’s efforts to shift towards cleaner transportation options. While Qatar currently lags behind other Gulf states in electric vehicle production, investments in this sector indicate a growing interest in sustainable mobility solutions.
