ELECTRIC BUSES AS A KEY FACTOR IN DECARBONIZATION WITHIN THE TRANSFORMATION OF URBAN TRANSPORT

The article examines the role of electric buses as a core component of the Russian Federation's transport decarbonization strategy. It analyzes the shortcomings of conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) buses and presents comparative characteristics with electric buses. The study systematizes the experience of Russian cities in the deployment of electric bus fleets, including a project implemented in the Donetsk People’s Republic with the support of the federal government. A three-stage model for integrating electric buses into urban transport sys-tems is proposed, combining a comprehensive approach with a phased resolution of technological, infrastructural, and environmental challenges. The article identifies key barriers to the deployment of electric buses and suggests solutions for their mitigation. The findings provide a foundation for the sustainable transformation of transport systems under ecological and resource constraints.