Senegal has reached a significant milestone in the green revolution with the launch of a 100 % electric bus network in Dakar. This innovative project, the first of its kind in Africa, aims to transform mobility in the Senegalese capital. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, featuring 121 battery-powered buses, operates on four distinct routes, providing a more comfortable and environmentally friendly travel experience. The total investment for this project is 193.6 million EUR, highlighting Senegal’s commitment to a more sustainable future.

Introducing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) concept

The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is designed to be fast, efficient, and eco-friendly. Powered entirely by electric buses, it operates on dedicated lanes to ensure smooth and reliable service.

Key features of the BRT include :

• Modern and Accessible Stations : Designed for quick boarding and alighting.
• High Frequency : Buses arrive every 5 to 10 minutes.
• High Capacity : Each bus can accommodate up to 150 passengers.

The buses are equipped with advanced technologies, such as air conditioning and spaces for people with reduced mobility. Additionally, the use of renewable energy, including solar power, enhances the sustainability of this transport mode. Expected outcomes include a significant reduction in air pollution and travel time.

BRT in Senegal : First for Africa

Dakar’s BRT stands out with several unique features. Firstly, it operates entirely on electricity, with a range of 250 km per charge, marking a major step toward sustainable urban transport.

The network includes 23 stations and three main transfer hubs, facilitating connections with other transport modes like the TER. Buses run every 6 minutes, ensuring exemplary regularity and reducing passenger wait times.

This project has been funded by entities such as the World Bank and the Sovereign Strategic Investments Fund of Senegal, reflecting international confidence in the initiative. The environmental impact is significant, with an anticipated reduction of 59,000 tons of CO2 annually.

How the BRT operates in Dakar ?

The BRT in Dakar utilizes electric buses on reserved lanes, avoiding the typical traffic congestion of the Senegalese capital. These dedicated lanes ensure shorter and more predictable travel times for passengers.

The buses, primarily powered by solar-recharged batteries, cover an 18.3 km route between Petersen bus station and Guédiawaye prefecture. With a frequency of every six minutes, travelers enjoy a regular and reliable service.

BRT stations are modern and well-equipped, featuring security gates, schedule displays, and electronic ticketing systems.

The BRT network also includes feeder buses that connect peripheral neighborhoods to the main lines, making it easier to access downtown and key areas like the Great Mosque or Sacré-Cœur district.

Advantages of the BRT for urban mobility

The BRT offers numerous benefits for urban mobility in Dakar. It significantly reduces traffic congestion, improving traffic flow. This is especially advantageous for workers who save time on their daily commutes.

The introduction of electric buses also enhances air quality. By replacing traditional diesel buses, the BRT reduces greenhouse gas emissions and fine particulate matter, fostering a healthier environment for Dakar residents.

Modern stations provide easy and inclusive access for all users. They are equipped to accommodate people with reduced mobility, ensuring accessible service for everyone. Security gates and electronic ticketing systems contribute to a secure and efficient user experience.

Additionally, the economic impact is notable, with job creation both during construction and operation. The BRT stimulates the local economy while modernizing urban infrastructure.

Cost of acquisition and maintenance of electric Buses

The acquisition cost of electric buses is high, averaging 300,000 to 650,000 EUR per vehicle, excluding battery costs. These figures may deter some municipalities, but the environmental benefits are substantial.

Maintaining electric buses requires specific infrastructure. Workshops must meet ATEX standards to safely handle hydrogen, if applicable. Maintenance costs include replacing batteries every 7 to 10 years.

Over 15 years, three key costs need to be considered :

• Acquisition
• Energy
• Preventive Maintenance

This includes the replacement of batteries, which can represent a significant budget.

Pricing and fare structure for the BRT

Various fare options are available for using the BRT, offering flexibility to meet user needs. A single trip within the same zone costs 400 CFA francs, while a trip covering multiple zones costs 500 CFA francs.

Children under 4 years old travel for free, making family travel easier.

For regular users, monthly subscriptions are available, providing an economical and practical alternative. These subscriptions are particularly advantageous for workers and students who use the BRT daily.

Concrete example : A student living in Guédiawaye and commuting daily to the University of Dakar could save money by opting for a monthly subscription instead of paying for individual tickets.

Environmental impact of electric buses

Electric buses drastically reduce CO2 and other pollutants. In Dakar, they save 59,000 tons of CO2 annually, contributing to cleaner air.

Moreover, these buses do not produce fine particulate matter, improving air quality and reducing respiratory illnesses. The batteries are recharged via solar stations, minimizing the carbon footprint.

Environmental benefits also include reduced urban noise, as these buses are much quieter than their diesel counterparts.

Furthermore, the use of advanced lithium-ion batteries allows for better energy management and a longer range.

In summary, the switch to electric buses in Dakar represents a significant advancement toward greener and healthier urban mobility for its residents.

Challenges of implementing the BRT in Senegal

The implementation of the BRT in Senegal faces several challenges :

• Infrastructure : Building dedicated lanes for electric buses requires major adaptations to existing roads, including creating dedicated corridors and installing modern stations.
• Funding : Although significant funds have been raised, the total cost of 330 billion CFA francs remains a barrier. Maintaining these infrastructures and managing electric buses adds financial constraints.
• Training and Employment : To ensure the BRT operates smoothly, it is essential to train staff on new technologies, including electric bus maintenance and electronic ticketing systems.
• User Awareness : Passengers need to be educated on using new transport systems, including purchasing electronic tickets and respecting reserved lanes.

These challenges require close coordination between local authorities, operators, and users to ensure the success of the BRT.

Future of public transport in Senegal : Towards sustainable mobility

Senegal is firmly committed to sustainable mobility with several ambitious initiatives.

The launch of electric buses marks a major turning point. These silent and non-polluting buses reduce CO2 emissions and noise pollution. They also provide a modern and eco-friendly alternative to traditional “rapid buses.”

The government plans to expand this model to other cities across the country. Additionally, solar charging infrastructure is already in place, enhancing the positive environmental impact.

Looking ahead, the development of dedicated bus lanes could further improve traffic flow and public transport punctuality. Authorities are also working on integrating these buses with other transport modes, such as electric bikes, for optimal intermodality.

Finally, the Executive Council for Sustainable Urban Transport (CETUD) plays a key role in coordinating these innovative projects.

Comparison between BRT and TER in Senegal

While complementary, the BRT and TER present notable differences. The BRT is designed for short urban trips, covering 18.3 km with 23 stations, whereas the TER connects Dakar to the new town of Diamniadio over approximately 30 km.

The BRT is particularly suited for alleviating urban road congestion, with buses passing every 6 minutes. In contrast, the TER is ideal for rapid intercity journeys, with a capacity of 50,000 passengers per day.

The TER uses a diesel-electric motorization system, unlike the 100% electric BRT, which further reduces CO2 emissions. In terms of cost, the BRT is cheaper to develop (420 billion CFA francs) compared to the TER (780 billion CFA francs). Lastly, the BRT offers flexible fare options with subscription plans, which is advantageous for regular users