Until a few years ago, using electricity for massive transport around the city was not considered as a viable possibility, and keeping in mind that almost all the energy used in transportation derives from oil, to achieve public transport without generating polluting emissions would make a huge difference. In this regard, finding new uses for energy and doing so through innovative and sustainable solutions is one of the main challenges that the Enel Group has set out to achieve and is achieving through the promotion of electric mobility.
This new way of conceiving energy, as well as the development of the necessary recharging infrastructure, presently allows electric mobility in our country to become a reality, through a network of 130 interconnected "electrolineras" (charging stations) that have been installed by Enel Distribution in 64 districts in the capital. Another example of this was the presentation of the first electric taxis, which now circulate in Santiago, demonstrating their applicability and potential for massification in other cities such as Concepción. Also, in conjunction with the municipality of Santiago and BYD, Enel inaugurated the first formal route of a 100% electric bus which has compatible standards for operating in the Transantiago system.
In addition, in order to support urban services for improving the quality of people’s life, Enel has promoted a pilot program, in conjunction with the Municipality of Lo Barnechea, which aims at gradually incorporating electric bicycles into the inter-district network of Bike Santiago. The e-bike model is a type of bicycle especially designed for geographical conditions with sloping terrain and, for its operation, Enel has made the electrical infrastructure available necessary to massify its use, thus creating the first public network of electric bicycles with a pedal-assist system.
But the company's effort is also replicated within the organization, through a program that inspires Enel Group employees to join this global trend. The program includes a special financing plan for the purchase of electric cars, with three models available, Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Ioniq, and BMW i3. This program includes free charging in the corporate building, installation of a charger at home, and maintenance throughout the term of the plan.
All these initiatives allow the employees, the authorities, the community, and users to verify how electric mobility, in its various types of vehicles, can revolutionize urban transport in the near future, so as to bring us closer to a radical transition that contributes to achieving a more sustainable lifestyle while protecting the environment.