The Swedish operator will induct 15 new electric buses to augment the existing fleet of buses, and aid the local public transport authority to roll out its electrification strategy for a greener public transportation system.
Keolis Sverige, the Swedish subsidiary of multinational transport company Keolis, was awarded a four-year contract extension worth 500 million euros by the Swedish public transport authority (PTA) Storstockholms Lokaltrafik (SL). Effective August 2022, it covers the operation and maintenance of 335 fossil-free buses to serve the centre of Stockholm and Lidingö island northeast of the city, home to 400,000 residents.
Under this new contract, 15 new electric buses will complete the existing fleet from August 2022, paving the way for the PTA to roll out its electrification strategy for a greener public transportation system. Keolis will also enhance the passenger experience by implementing an IT system which will allow commuters to keep track of the precise position and arrival time of the next bus and know the number of passengers on board. The 361 km network features 41 lines, 400 bus stations, three depots and carries 80 million passengers annually. A new depot equipped with a charging system for the e-buses is due to be built and 1,400 Keolis staff will be dedicated to operating and maintaining this network.
“We are delighted that SL, our partner since 2003, has decided to extend their long-term relationship with us. Together, we will improve the quality of mobility as part of a strategy to develop greener cities. Thanks to our global experience in zero-emission bus operations elsewhere in Europe, Canada and the US, I have every confidence that we will successfully manage these sustainable contract transfers in close collaboration with the local authority”
Bernard Tabary, CEO International at Keolis
Keolis’ commits to accelerating the transition to greener energies worldwide. It works hand-in-hand with PTAs around the world to integrate more sustainable mobility within networks for the benefit of passengers and the environment. Recent wins and launches have confirmed the Group’s role as a central actor in the transition to greener energies.
