Two years ago, we were introduced to the so-called 100% Lebanese electric car, the “Lira” which ultimately never materialized. Now, we’re hearing about the “Lira Bus,” slated for launch in May 2025. Lebanese engineer Hisham Hossami is behind both concepts, but until we see a functioning prototype on the road, it’s hard to view this as anything more than another hyped prototype that may never reach production.

Investor pitches are often part of getting these kinds of concepts off the ground, and the lack of a website or full details could be a red flag or simply a sign that they’re still in early stages. It would be reassuring to see a bit more transparency and development before getting too excited. I hope Hossami and his team can prove their skeptics wrong by delivering on the promise but it seems farfetched.

“Lira Bus” buses can accommodate 14 people and rely on clean solar-powered electricity, which reduces dependence on traditional fuel and lowers carbon emissions, and are equipped with highly efficient solar panels that convert solar energy into electricity, which enhances their daily operating range without the need for frequent recharging from the electricity grid,”