It is estimated that around 5,000 passengers will be transported daily by the 20 new electric tricycles that have begun operating in Santiago de Cuba, according to official state media.
The local channel Tele Turquino published a report on YouTube highlighting the initiative, stating it is "aimed at improving transportation" in Santiago de Cuba, and noted that the service cost will be 10 pesos.
“It will benefit the reorganization of other routes, as well as other transportation services,” the state-run channel emphasized.
A transportation sector official indicated that the first phase includes the introduction of 20 electric tricycles, which he explained have a range of more than 200 kilometers.
Challenges and Limitations
However, the primary characteristic of the Santiago de Cuba area is its steep hills, which limits the use of these tricycles to flatter areas like the Alameda zone. As a result, their use will not be extensive nor will it benefit the entire population.
Recently, Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, the first secretary of the PCC in Santiago de Cuba, defended the tricycle service on Facebook, presenting it as a viable alternative amid the transportation crisis: "This service enjoys great popular acceptance in various provinces. Here, we are already working on defining the routes."
This Sunday, 20 electric tricycles also began service in Guantánamo. These tricycles have the unique feature that customers can make payments digitally.
It marks the first time in the country that users can pay for a public transportation service via electronic transfer.
According to Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, the sector minister, who explained on Facebook, QR codes have been enabled for electronic payment in each vehicle, although the option for cash payment will remain for those who prefer it.
The tricycles operating in various provinces are owned by the Empresa Taxis-Cuba and are assembled domestically using components imported from China.
Although the regime promotes this initiative as a measure to alleviate the current transportation crisis, the reality is that the country is experiencing one of its worst periods in recent years in terms of public transportation, with barely half the number of vehicles on the road compared to five years ago.
FAQs About Electric Tricycles in Santiago de Cuba
To provide more clarity on the new electric tricycles operating in Santiago de Cuba, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
How many electric tricycles are currently operating in Santiago de Cuba?
There are currently 20 electric tricycles operating in Santiago de Cuba.
What is the cost of using the electric tricycles in Santiago de Cuba?
The cost of using the electric tricycles is 10 pesos per ride.
Can passengers pay for the tricycle service digitally?
Yes, in Guantánamo, passengers can make digital payments via QR codes, but cash payment is still available.
What are some limitations of the electric tricycle service in Santiago de Cuba?
Due to the steep hills in Santiago de Cuba, the electric tricycles are limited to flatter areas like the Alameda zone, making their use not extensive.