Qatar continues to make significant strides in transforming its transportation system into an eco-friendly and sustainable model, addressing the global challenge of climate change. This vision aligns with the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the National Environment and Climate Change Strategy, focusing on integrating electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous vehicles (AVs) into its transport infrastructure.
In a major step forward, Minister of Transport H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani recently laid the foundation stone for an electric bus assembly plant in the Um Alhoul Free Zone. This initiative, a collaboration between Mowasalat (Karwa), Yutong, and the Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), aims to establish a production hub for EU-standard electric buses on a 53,000-square-meter site. The facility, set to be operational by the end of 2025, will produce electric city buses, metro feeder buses, school buses, and more, with an initial capacity of 300 buses per year, scaling up to meet local and international demand across the MENA region and Europe.
Equipped with state-of-the-art welding, painting, assembly, and testing workshops, the plant will leverage advanced electro-mobility technologies to ensure efficient and sustainable production processes. This greenfield project represents a milestone in localizing the electric bus industry and expanding Yutong’s manufacturing footprint in Qatar’s free zones.
Qatar’s efforts to transition its public transport bus system to a 100% electric fleet by 2030 have already gained global recognition. The country ranked ninth in the 2023 Global Electric Mobility Readiness Index, reflecting its commitment to e-mobility adoption. The Ministry of Transport has also launched the Autonomous Vehicles Strategy, regulating their use to create a smarter and more environmentally conscious transit system.
By embracing electric and autonomous vehicles, Qatar is not only advancing cleaner air and lower energy consumption but also ensuring a safer, more efficient transportation network. These initiatives enhance the nation’s global standing in sustainable mobility, driving innovation and eco-friendly advancements while improving the well-being of its citizens and residents.
