Emergent Trolleybuses: The Potential for Trolleybus Technology in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Summary
This report examines the potential role of modern trolleybus systems in advancing sustainable urban transport in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). As cities face rapid growth, rising transport demand, and worsening air pollution, the electrification of public transport has become essential. While battery electric buses (BEBs) have attracted global attention, this report highlights the often-overlooked advantages of trolleybuses—an established yet evolving technology that combines grid power with on-board batteries for flexible, low-emission operations. The paper traces the historical development of trolleybuses, explores their technological advancements, such as regenerative braking and off-wire operation, and compares their costs and benefits against BEBs. It notes that although trolleybus systems require higher upfront infrastructure investments, they can offer lower operating costs, longer vehicle lifespans, and improved energy efficiency.
Key takeaways
The report’s total cost of ownership analysis compares trolleybus and battery electric bus (BEB) systems over a 40-year operational period. While trolleybuses require higher upfront investment for catenary infrastructure, their longer infrastructure lifespan, greater energy efficiency, and lower maintenance needs make them more cost-effective in the long run. BEBs, by contrast, need larger fleets—around 20% more buses—to maintain service levels due to charging and range constraints, along with periodic battery replacements that raise operating costs. Overall, trolleybus systems are estimated to be about 18% cheaper than BEBs and 30% cheaper than diesel buses over their lifetime, making them a viable and efficient alternative for high-capacity urban corridors.
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Publisher
UNEP
Contacts
Polash Das polash.das@un.org Programme Management Officer Sustainable Mobility Unit United Nations Environment Programme