Long buses are not permitted: Bishkek to purchase 624 new short electric buses

During the ‘Open Cabinet’ event, Mayor Aibek Junushaliyev announced that the capital is testing electric buses from several Chinese manufacturers and is preparing for a major overhaul of its public transport system.

According to him, 8-metre, 8.7-metre and 8.8-metre buses from Yutong Bus, Higer Bus Company Limited, Geely Group and Zhongtong Bus are currently being tested in Bishkek.

The city council plans to purchase 624 buses for the newly incorporated territories and residential areas. The authorities are opting for shorter models, as long buses cannot navigate certain streets in the city. The first batch is expected as early as June.

According to Dzhunushaliyev, Yutong buses are considered the highest quality, though they cost between $95,000 and $100,000 per unit. The more affordable Higer buses cost around $76,000.

The city council expects the new fleet to last at least 10 years, as the city cannot afford to renew its fleet every few years.