The United States and Ecuador have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance Quito's transportation system, aiming for sustainability and equity. This agreement includes support from the United States to transition Quito's diesel vehicle fleet to electric vehicles and technical assistance for a Universal Access Plan catering to users of public electric buses.
Signed on February 21, 2024, the collaboration involves the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) working with the Metropolitan Public Passenger Transportation Company of Quito. The goal is to provide technical support for converting diesel vehicles to electric ones and improving accessibility for people with disabilities, including redesigning bus access zones and enhancing communication equipment.
Daniel Sanchez-Bustamante, Director of USAID in Ecuador, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "We know that a modern, equitable, and sustainable bus system accessible to all can create economic opportunities and improve lives. We will assist the Transportation Company in its electromobility strategy and ensure that this public service is inclusive. It is planned that electric buses will start running this year, and buses in 2025."
This initiative aligns with Ecuador's national energy efficiency law prohibiting fossil fuel-based buses from 2030 onward. The Universal Access Plan aims to make municipal public transportation usable by individuals with disabilities.