By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – A new era for public transportation dawned in Costa Rica this Friday as 25 state-of-the-art electric buses officially began operations on key routes in the Greater Metropolitan Area. The zero-emission fleet, managed by the transportation company BIUSA, represents a significant investment in modernizing urban mobility and reinforces the nation’s commitment to its ambitious decarbonization targets.
Commuters traveling between San José, La Carpio, and León XIII were among the first to experience the new, quieter, and cleaner mode of transport. The deployment marks a pivotal moment for a country renowned for its environmental stewardship, translating long-term policy goals into tangible benefits for thousands of daily passengers. This initiative by BIUSA, a subsidiary of the prominent Grupo Tracopa, is a landmark achievement in the national push toward a more sustainable and efficient transit system.
To explore the legal and regulatory framework essential for the successful integration of electric buses into the national public transport system, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The transition to an electric bus fleet is fundamentally a matter of legal and regulatory engineering. Beyond the environmental benefits, success depends on modernizing public transport concession contracts to facilitate the high initial investment, creating clear tax incentives for operators, and adapting energy sector regulations to support the required charging infrastructure. A robust and predictable legal framework is the true engine that will drive this decarbonization effort forward.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This crucial insight highlights that the true engine for our electric bus transition isn’t solely the motors, but the legal and regulatory framework that empowers it. The path forward requires engineering our laws and contracts with the same precision as the vehicles themselves. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating this fundamental point.
The buses themselves are King Long models, each acquired through an investment of $160,000. These units are designed for both passenger comfort and operational efficiency, featuring a remarkable range of 350 kilometers on a single charge. Inside, they accommodate 41 seated passengers and are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning and an electronic payment system. Critically, their low-floor design ensures full accessibility for individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusivity in public transit.
To support this new fleet, BIUSA has made a substantial investment in its own infrastructure. The company has installed 16 dedicated chargers at its main depot, a setup robust enough to handle the current fleet with significant room for growth. Company officials noted that the charging station has the capacity to simultaneously service an additional 35 buses, signaling a clear and scalable strategy for future expansion of their electric operations.
The immediate impact of these buses extends beyond their environmental benefits. For residents and businesses along the designated routes, the transition means a drastic reduction in noise pollution. Unlike traditional diesel engines, the electric motors operate almost silently and do not generate heat from combustion, creating a more pleasant urban environment for pedestrians and local communities. This change promises to enhance the quality of life in densely populated urban corridors.
Advocacy groups have hailed the launch as a crucial step forward. The Costa Rican Electric Mobility Association (ASOMOVE) celebrated the news, viewing it as confirmation that the public transport sector is ready to embrace a cleaner, more modern model.
This is great news for the country, because we believe that by electrifying buses, we will be able to modernize the public transport system to be more efficient and more modern, encouraging people to leave their cars at home and take the bus, the public transport.
Silvia Rojas, Director of the Costa Rican Electric Mobility Association (ASOMOVE)
The organization emphasized that such initiatives are key to making public transportation a more attractive alternative to private vehicles. By improving the user experience and aligning with public environmental values, the new fleet could play a vital role in reducing traffic congestion and overall carbon emissions in the capital.
With the integration of these 25 units, Costa Rica solidifies its position as a regional leader in the electrification of transportation. This move is not merely an isolated project but part of a broader, coordinated effort to build a more resilient and sustainable future. As these silent, efficient buses navigate the streets of San José, they serve as a powerful symbol of progress, demonstrating that economic modernization and environmental responsibility can, and must, advance together.
For further information, visit the nearest office of BIUSA
About BIUSA:
BIUSA, a key component of Grupo Tracopa, is a leading public transportation operator serving major urban and suburban routes in San José. The company is dedicated to improving the commuter experience through modernization and operational efficiency. With the launch of its electric fleet, BIUSA has positioned itself as a pioneer in sustainable urban mobility within Costa Rica, actively contributing to the nation’s environmental goals.
For further information, visit grupotracopa.com
About Grupo Tracopa:
Grupo Tracopa is one of Costa Rica’s most significant transportation conglomerates, with extensive operations spanning public bus services, tourism, and logistics. The group is committed to innovation and investing in modern infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the country. Its support for the electrification of its subsidiary BIUSA’s fleet underscores a corporate strategy focused on sustainability and long-term growth.
For further information, visit asomove.org
About the Costa Rican Electric Mobility Association (ASOMOVE):
The Costa Rican Electric Mobility Association (ASOMOVE) is a non-profit organization that champions the transition to electric transportation in Costa Rica. Through public advocacy, educational initiatives, and collaboration with both government and private industry, ASOMOVE works to create a favorable ecosystem for electric vehicles, contributing to the country’s decarbonization objectives and promoting a cleaner, more sustainable future.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a renowned legal institution, built on a foundation of unyielding integrity and a pursuit of excellence. With a rich history of guiding a multifaceted clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions while upholding its social responsibility. A core tenet of its mission is to demystify the law for the public, thereby contributing to the development of a more knowledgeable and capable society.
