Taiwan’s Bold Path to Net Zero 2050: Advancing Green Tech in Public Transport
Taiwan has long positioned itself as a leader in smart city innovations, integrating AI and emerging technologies into urban infrastructure. But beyond digital transformation, the Taiwanese government has set an ambitious goal – to achieve net-zero emissions in power generation by 2050. Given that many countries still rely heavily on coal for electricity, this commitment is a bold and forward-thinking move toward a sustainable future.
One key area where Taiwan is making tangible progress is in public transportation, particularly with electric buses. With Taipei’s extensive bus network being a vital part of daily commutes, reducing emissions in this sector is crucial. However, transitioning an entire fleet from fuel-powered to electric is a costly and complex process. Instead of outright replacing buses, the government is working closely with companies to develop sustainable solutions that gradually phase out fossil fuel dependency.
Homegrown Innovation: Master Transportation’s Electric Bus Solution
At the Smart City Summit & Expo 2025, we saw firsthand how local companies are contributing to Taiwan’s green mobility efforts. Master Transportation Bus Manufacturing Ltd. showcased its self-developed direct-drive central motor, designed specifically for electric buses.
While the bus looks just like any other on the streets of Taipei, what makes it special is its fully electric drivetrain. The system includes a high-capacity battery capable of powering the bus for up to 300km per charge, even with the air conditioning running. Additionally, fast-charging capabilities allow the battery to recharge up to 80% in just 15 minutes, making it a practical solution for real-world use.
Foxconn Enters the EV Bus Market
Foxconn, best known globally for assembling iPhones, is also stepping into Taiwan’s electric mobility scene. At the expo, the company showcased two new fully electric buses—Model T and Model U.
- Model T aims to replace traditional fuel-powered city buses with a modern design and an optimized interior layout, taking advantage of the compact nature of EV components.
- Model U, on the other hand, is a luxury electric bus, designed for a premium travel experience. With seats resembling business-class airline seating, it’s built for comfort while still contributing to Taiwan’s net-zero goals.
A Step Toward a Greener Future
Taiwan’s net-zero by 2050 initiative is an ambitious yet necessary step in combating climate change. The industrial revolution and decades of rapid development have taken a toll on our environment. While we can’t undo all the damage, reducing emissions and adopting cleaner technologies can slow down further environmental degradation.
Seeing more green technologies enter the public space gives me hope that, with collective global efforts, we can create a more sustainable planet. If more countries follow Taiwan’s lead in prioritizing clean energy and green mobility, we might one day see cities where public transport is entirely emission-free, making urban living both more efficient and environmentally friendly.
