A new report by the ZEBRA Association (Zero Emission Bus Rapid-deployment Accelerator) reveals that Latin America is establishing itself as one of the fastest-growing electric transport markets in the world, with more than 7,000 electric buses in circulation.
The cities of São Paulo, Santiago, and Bogotá lead the investments, representing 75% of the total, marking a milestone in the transition towards clean, quiet, and accessible fleets.
ZEBRA: strategic alliance for transport electrification
C40 Cities, ICCT, and ClimateWorks drive urban transformation in the region.
The ZEBRA Association, created in 2019, works to overcome political, technical, and financial barriers in the adoption of electric buses.
Initially, the region had just 1,363 units; today, it exceeds 7,000, thanks to the push from global financiers such as the World Bank, IDB, BNDES, BNP Paribas, and Société Générale, and key players like VG Mobility, Enel X, Infrabridge, Kaufmann, and John Laing, which concentrate 80% of the capital investments.
“Securing financing for zero-emission projects is key to expanding the electrification potential across the region,” stated Claire Markgraf, director of urban finance programs at C40 Cities.
Buenos Aires and its electric buses
Inter-neighborhood connectivity, accessibility, and gender equity in a new mode of urban transport.
The City of Buenos Aires recently incorporated electric buses that connect Plaza San Martín with Parque Lezama, passing through the neighborhoods of Retiro, San Nicolás, Monserrat, San Telmo, and La Boca.
This new service restores connectivity in areas affected by infrastructure works and promotes cleaner, quieter, and more accessible mobility.
- Route: 12.3 km with 36 stops
- Autonomy: 170 km per charge
- Driving: female drivers, promoting equity
- Safety: cameras and driving assistance sensors
- Accessibility: low floor and adaptations for people with reduced mobility
Environmental and social benefits of electric buses
Less emissions, more inclusion, and better urban quality of life.
- Zero emissions: do not generate gases or vibrations
- Quiet: reduce noise pollution
- Accessible: improve access to opportunities
- Inclusive: promote female participation in transport
- Sustainable: aligned with the UN’s 2030 Agenda
The challenge: extending benefits to medium and small cities
ZEBRA works with national governments to democratize electrification.
The Association collaborates with ministries of Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico to accelerate the transition in cities outside major capitals, ensuring that the benefits of electric transport reach more communities and contribute to equitable and resilient urban mobility.
