Electric Vehicles in Tirana: Accelerating Towards a Sustainable Future

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Tirana, Albania’s capital, has embarked on a transformative journey towards cleaner and greener urban mobility. With rising concerns about air pollution, traffic congestion, and climate change, electric vehicles (EVs) are at the forefront of the city’s sustainable mobility agenda. From private EV ownership to innovative electric taxi services, Tirana is moving quickly in the Western Balkans for environmentally conscious transport solutions.

The Push for Electric Mobility

In recent years, Tirana has made substantial progress in promoting electric mobility as part of its broader sustainable urban development strategy. According to the Green City Action Plan (GCAP) (2018), Tirana’s leadership prioritizes reducing emissions through investments in alternative mobility solutions such as EVs, cycling infrastructure, and improved public transportation systems【11, 2018】. The city’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) (2020) further underscores the need for zero-emission transport options to combat reliance on diesel vehicles【12, 2020】.

By 2021, Albania registered 6,693 vehicles partially or fully powered by electricity, with Tirana leading this trend as the primary hub for electric mobility【13, 2021】. Between 2019 and 2022, the number of 100% electric vehicles grew from 24 to 1,236, demonstrating a rapid acceleration in adoption【13, 14】. As part of this growth, the share of petrol-electric hybrids also increased from 134 to 1,236 vehicles【13, 2021】.

The government has implemented policies to encourage EV ownership, such as reimbursement of registration fees for first-time EV owners, including inspection costs, license plates, and certificates, saving users 7,500 Albanian Lek【13, 2021】.

Electric Taxis: A Pioneer Initiative in Tirana

One of the most noteworthy achievements in Tirana’s electric mobility landscape is the introduction of electric taxis. In 2016, Tirana became the first Albanian city to adopt electric taxi services, paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient transport alternative【13, 2021】. This initiative marked a milestone in reducing the city’s carbon footprint while simultaneously inspiring similar projects across Albania.

Current Landscape

As of 2021, at least six major private taxi companies operate fleets composed entirely of electric vehicles. These companies collectively account for 121 licensed electric taxis, representing 10% of the total taxi fleet in Tirana【13, 2021】. By replacing traditional diesel-powered taxis with electric alternatives, these operators have reduced urban noise levels and contributed to improved air quality.

Supporting Infrastructure

To facilitate the growth of electric taxis, charging infrastructure plays a vital role. While Albania lacks extensive data on EV chargers nationwide, Tirana has taken proactive steps to improve accessibility. 15 fast and standard chargers have been installed by private taxi operators to ensure day-long operational capacity【13, 2021】.

Charging Stations in Tirana

The availability of charging stations is crucial for the success of electric mobility. Tirana has made strides in this area, with several key players contributing to the expansion of charging infrastructure:

1. Coca-Cola Bottling Shqipëria (CCBS) installed 6 charging stations in Tirana, including 4 fast chargers and 2 standard chargers【33, 2021】.
2. CCBS expanded infrastructure to Durrës and Kavajë with 3 fast chargers【33, 2021】.
3. Tirana Parking facilities now feature public chargers, such as those located in Sheshi Skënderbej, Rr. Elbasanit, and Arena Center, providing over 30 charging points【33, 2021】.
4. Private Operators: Taxi companies and businesses have installed additional chargers across key commercial and residential zones【13, 2021】.

These efforts align with a national strategy to improve EV accessibility. By 2023, the infrastructure will be further expanded, with public-private partnerships driving installation across urban centers【16, 2021】.

Patoko: A Startup Working on Green Transport

An example of innovative green transport in Tirana is Patoko, a locally founded ride-sharing startup. Currently, 80% of Patoko’s drivers use green or electric vehicles, setting a high benchmark for eco-friendly transportation within Albania【14, 2022】.

Patoko not only reduces emissions through its green fleet but also provides a cost-effective and comfortable alternative for city commuters. By blending technology and sustainability, the startup demonstrates how local businesses can lead the charge towards a cleaner future.

Noise Pollution in Tirana

Noise pollution remains a pressing issue in Tirana, particularly in high-traffic areas such as Zogu Zi. Recent studies report noise levels exceeding 80 dB during peak hours, far above the European Union’s recommended limits of 55 dB at night and 70 dB during the day【32, 2023】. For context, 80 dB is equivalent to the noise of a busy street with heavy traffic.

Key Findings

• Measurements taken at Zogu Zi showed average outdoor noise levels reaching 70-86 dB during the day【32, 2023】.
• Buildings near the intersection reduced noise levels by only 20 dB due to insufficient insulation, underlining the importance of structural solutions to combat noise【32, 2023】.

Role of EVs in Noise Reduction

Electric vehicles offer a critical solution to noise pollution. EVs produce significantly less noise compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, particularly at lower speeds. The wider adoption of electric taxis, buses, and private EVs could dramatically reduce ambient noise in Tirana, especially in heavily congested areas like Zogu Zi【32, 2023】.

Environmental Impact and CO2 Reduction

The shift towards electric mobility has already demonstrated tangible environmental benefits:

• 76 electric vehicles introduced by CCBS in Tirana, Durrës, and Kavajë have reduced annual CO2 emissions by 242 tons, equivalent to planting over 18,000 trees【33, 2021】.
• By replacing 10% of taxis in Tirana with electric alternatives, the city reduces significant air pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM2.5), key contributors to urban respiratory diseases【14, 2022】.

Future Prospects

The outlook for electric mobility in Tirana remains promising. Key initiatives include:

• Fleet Electrification: Plans are underway to expand the city’s electric taxi fleet further and introduce electric buses on major routes【12, 2020】.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between the government, private sector, and international organizations will drive investment in charging infrastructure and EV incentives.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educational programs and campaigns are essential to increase public understanding of electric mobility’s benefits.

Tirana’s vision, as outlined in its Green City Action Plan (2018), is to develop a resilient, low-carbon transport network that prioritizes electric and alternative mobility solutions【11, 2018】.

Tirana’s Green Future

Tirana is making strides toward becoming a sustainable urban hub, with electric vehicles playing a central role in this transformation. The city’s electric taxi services, innovative startups like Patoko, and the expansion of charging infrastructure demonstrate a coordinated effort to combat air and noise pollution. While challenges remain, Tirana’s commitment to improving infrastructure, incentivizing EV adoption, and reducing emissions positions it as a leader in sustainable mobility within the Western Balkans.

Through continued innovation, partnerships, and public engagement, Tirana is driving towards a cleaner, greener, and more livable future for its residents.

Sources

1. Tirana GCAP Presentation, 2018【11】.
2. SUMP Tirana Volume III Annexes, 2020【12】.
3. UPOLIS Presentation, 2021【13】.
4. Electric Mobility Brochure, 2022【14】.
5. NECP AL Draft, 2021【16】.
6. Noise Pollution Analysis, Zogu Zi, 2023【32】.
7. Coca-Cola Green Mobility Newsletter, 2021【33】.