Cairo Launches Revolutionary Electric BRT System to Combat Traffic and Pollution

03 Jun 2025

Cairo Launches Revolutionary Electric BRT System to Combat Traffic and Pollution

Egypt's capital city takes a major step toward sustainable urban mobility with 100 electric buses operating 24/7

Cairo, one of the world's most congested and polluted cities, has officially launched its first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, featuring an entirely electric fleet that promises to transform urban mobility in Egypt's sprawling capital.

Historic Launch of Electric BRT Operations

Egypt's Ministry of Transport announced the start of trial operations for the first phase of the BRT project on Cairo's Ring Road on June 1, 2025. This groundbreaking initial phase extends 35 kilometers from the intersection of the Ring Road, marking a pivotal moment in the city's transportation infrastructure development.

The timing of this launch is strategic, with Egypt accelerating the BRT system development ahead of the scheduled opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum on July 3rd, demonstrating the country's commitment to modern, sustainable transportation solutions.

100% Electric Fleet Leading the Way

At the heart of this revolutionary system lies a fleet of 100 electric buses, making the BRT both fast and environmentally conscious. These locally manufactured MCV BRT-specification electric buses represent a significant investment in clean transportation technology.

The electric-powered vehicles boast impressive capacity, capable of carrying up to 4,000 passengers per hour. This high-capacity operation is supported by continuous service, with the BRT system operating 24 hours a day using three working shifts to ensure uninterrupted transportation for Cairo's residents.

Addressing Cairo's Environmental Crisis

The launch of this electric BRT system comes at a critical time for Cairo, which ranks among the world's worst cities for motor vehicle pollution. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has expressed confidence that the new bus service will significantly help improve the city's air quality, addressing one of the most pressing urban challenges facing the metropolis.

The World Bank is actively supporting this initiative, backing the deployment of approximately one hundred electric buses across the Greater Cairo area as part of broader efforts to tackle the city's notorious traffic congestion while reducing its climate impact.

Smart Ticketing Innovation

The BRT system introduces a modern approach to public transit pricing with two distinct ticketing options. Passengers can choose between a fixed fare option or a flexible ticket that adjusts based on the number of stops traveled. This distance-based pricing system offers a more tailored and fair approach to public transportation costs, ensuring riders pay according to their actual journey length.

A Model for Sustainable Urban Development

Cairo's electric BRT system represents more than just a transportation upgrade—it's a comprehensive approach to urban sustainability. By combining modern BRT infrastructure with electric vehicle technology, the project addresses two of the city's most significant challenges: traffic congestion and air pollution.

The success of this initial 35-kilometer phase will likely influence future expansion plans and could serve as a model for other major cities in the Middle East and North Africa region seeking sustainable transportation solutions.

Looking Forward

As Cairo embarks on this new chapter in urban mobility, the electric BRT system stands as a testament to Egypt's commitment to environmental sustainability and modern infrastructure development. The 24/7 operation schedule and high passenger capacity demonstrate the system's potential to significantly impact daily commuting patterns for millions of Cairo residents.

The project's alignment with the Grand Egyptian Museum opening also highlights how modern transportation infrastructure can support cultural and economic development, creating a more accessible and connected urban environment for both residents and visitors.