A bus operator in Ho Chi Minh City has replaced a fleet of diesel buses with eco-friendly ones in a bid to encourage more commuters to use public transportation.
The new fleet, consisting of 24 buses running on compressed natural gas (CNG), began to serve passengers on the route No.18, on Friday, according to its operator, 19/5 Transport Cooperative.
The service connects Ben Thanh Market in District 1 and Hiep Thanh Market in District 12.
Most buses in Ho Chi Minh City are still powered by diesel.
Besides being eco-friendly, the new vehicles also boast a number of major new features compared to their diesel-driven predecessors, according to the operator.
The 60-seater buses follow semi-low floor design, with a two-step entry, easing accessibility for users, while the interior is fitted with security cameras and a GPS-based bus station announcement system.
Seating priority for seniors, expectant mothers and passengers with disabilities is clearly indicated by orange seats while normal users receive blue ones.
The new fleet collectively costs VND55.2 billion (US$2.43 million) and will averagely travel 220 times per day, according to the operator.
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