Urban Development Policy Making

Urban Development Policy Making

Green Transformation of the Capital: A Comprehensive Vision for Electric Transportation in Tehran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Tehran North Branch, Tehran, Iran
2 CEO, Andishkar Consulting Company, Tehran, Iran
3 Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Transportation and Highway, Kermanshah, Iran
4 Master’s Degree in Energy Systems Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
5 PhD Candidate in Transportation Planning, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Tehran, as one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the region, faces significant challenges related to air pollution and traffic congestion, primarily driven by the heavy reliance of its transportation fleet on fossil fuels. The electrification of transportation has emerged as a critical strategy to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, enhance air quality, and achieve sustainable development in the city. This study aims to provide a comprehensive vision for the green transformation of Tehran’s transportation system. It begins by exploring the global context of this transition, drawing on international data and the successful experiences of leading countries such as China, Norway, and Denmark, while also examining the challenges encountered by other nations. Subsequently, the current state of Tehran is analyzed, highlighting key achievements such as the introduction of electric buses, the replacement of aging taxis with electric models, the installation of charging stations across the city, and the development of a comprehensive electrification plan. The study also addresses existing barriers, including the lack of adequate charging infrastructure, dependence on a fossil fuel-based electricity grid, and financial constraints. To overcome these challenges, practical recommendations are proposed for Tehran’s future development, including the enhancement of charging infrastructure with a focus on renewable energy sources, the provision of sustainable financial support, the promotion of public awareness, and the implementation of cohesive policy frameworks to expand the electric public transportation fleet. The findings suggest that by leveraging global best practices and adopting these recommendations in a coordinated manner, Tehran has the potential to become a regional model for sustainable transportation, taking significant strides toward reducing air pollution and realizing the vision of a green capital.
Keywords

Subjects


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Volume 2, Issue 2
Summer 2025
Pages 207-230

  • Receive Date 06 February 2025
  • Revise Date 19 March 2025
  • Accept Date 09 April 2025
  • Publish Date 10 May 2025