Ovalle Launches South America's Second Fully Electric Bus Fleet

Ovalle inaugurated a 100% electric public transport system on Saturday, becoming the second city in South America with such a fleet after Copiapó. The system comprises 41 high-standard buses operated by TEC Ovalle across seven routes connecting the city center, hospital, and municipal stadium.

The Ministry of Transport invested over US$22 million (approximately 20 billion pesos) in vehicles and a new charging center. Buses feature air conditioning, Wi-Fi, security cameras, universal accessibility, and electronic payment via the Red Regional app.

“We are inaugurating the new Ovalle charging center that did not exist just six months ago, which will serve 41 world-class electric buses.”

A three-month 'white march' phase began this weekend to assess real demand and adjust frequencies. Full operational regime is projected for March 2027, accounting for lower summer demand in January and February.

Fares are differentiated: 500 pesos for adults, 250 pesos for seniors and students. The system operates within an exclusion perimeter allowing authorities to monitor frequency, punctuality, and regularity standards.

Women play a prominent role as drivers in the new fleet. Drivers such as Giselle Rivera, Patricia Valenzuela, Tomasa Aguilera, and monitor Carolina Casanova highlighted the new job opportunities in a traditionally male-dominated sector.