📚 Mock Exercise 24

In 2011, the Urban Transport Electrification Agency (UTEA), headquartered at 88 Mobility Hub Avenue, Shenzhen, China, began evaluating electric buses to reduce air pollution and operating costs. At the time, diesel buses contributed approximately 21% of roadside nitrogen oxide emissions in central districts. Early feasibility studies between 2012 and 2014 examined battery capacity, charging infrastructure, and route suitability. Pilot routes demonstrated that electric buses could lower fuel costs by up to 34% while significantly reducing local emissions.

Large-scale implementation started in 2015, when UTEA partnered with municipal transport operators to deploy electric buses across 12 urban districts. By 2017, the city operated more than 6,200 electric buses, supported by 510 fast-charging stations. According to UTEA data, the transition required an investment of CNY 42 billion, funded through municipal bonds and national clean-energy subsidies approved in October 2014. Average fleet maintenance costs fell by 18% within two years.

Despite rapid progress, several challenges emerged. A 2016 operational review found that battery degradation reduced driving range by 11% after three years of use. Peak-hour charging demand also strained local power grids in some districts. Additionally, drivers required specialised training to manage regenerative braking systems. In response, UTEA upgraded charging infrastructure in 2017 and introduced mandatory training programmes at depots in Nanshan and Futian.

Government commitment strengthened after 2018, when the Ministry of Transport allocated CNY 68 billion to support electric bus expansion nationwide. By 2020, electric buses accounted for 59% of Shenzhens public transport fleet. Environmental monitoring showed that particulate matter concentrations near major bus corridors declined by 16% between 2018 and 2021, demonstrating the air-quality benefits of fleet electrification.

Economic and social outcomes were also documented. A 2022 study conducted by Tsinghua University estimated annual savings of CNY 7.4 billion due to lower fuel and maintenance expenses. Passenger satisfaction surveys reported a 12% increase in approval ratings, citing reduced noise and smoother rides. Employment effects were positive as well, with new technical roles created for battery maintenance and charging system management.

Future plans focus on next-generation battery technologies and grid integration. UTEA plans to introduce solid-state batteries by 2032 to extend vehicle range and reduce charging times. As of January 2024, 57% of Shenzhens bus fleet used advanced electric models with fast-charging capability. Pilot projects scheduled for 2026 will test vehicle-to-grid systems, allowing buses to supply electricity back to the grid during peak demand.