Evaluating the Transition to Electric Bus Systems in Indonesian Cities: A Cost–Emission–Policy Perspective

Department of Civil Engineering, Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta, Jl. Babarsari No. 44, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

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Abstract

The transition to an electric bus system is a key strategy for realising more sustainable urban public transportation in Indonesia. This study aims to evaluate the performance of electric buses compared to diesel buses from a cost, emissions, and policy perspective using a descriptive-analytical approach based on secondary data. The study applied a normalised Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) per kilometre of operation to analyse costs. In contrast, the emissions analysis differentiated between direct and indirect emissions and accounted for the national electricity mix. The analysis results indicate that electric buses have TCO values comparable to those of diesel buses and, under certain conditions, lower ones, especially in public transportation systems with high operating intensity. From an environmental perspective, the carbon emissions of electric buses under the current energy mix are still relatively comparable to those of diesel buses. However, they have the potential to achieve significant emission reductions alongside the energy transition in the electricity sector. Furthermore, electric buses provide local environmental benefits through reduced exhaust emissions at the point of operation. From a policy perspective, the successful implementation of electric buses depends heavily on integrating transportation, energy, and environmental policies, as well as on a phased, context-specific implementation approach. These findings confirm that bus electrification is a strategic option for developing sustainable urban public transportation in Indonesian cities.