In line with his commitment to environmental stewardship, and as one of his final official acts, Pope Francis took part in the introduction of a new fleet of electric vehicles aimed at fostering a greener transport system within Vatican City.
As part of the “Ecological Conversion 2030” programme, the Holy See has since continued integrating electric cars and charging stations throughout its territory, seeking to completely eliminate transport-related emissions by the end of the decade.
Among the recently acquired models, two units were specially adapted for the personal use of Pope Francis, reflecting his active commitment to environmental protection and the promotion of mobility that respects the planet.
Electric vehicles for the Pope and the Vatican Gendarmerie
The initiative was carried out in collaboration with Italian company Exelentia Smart Mobility, which supplied vehicles from the Melex and Goupil brands.
A total of 14 electric vehicles were integrated: four Melex and ten Goupil, each designed for various functions within the Vatican territory.
The Melex 343 models are intended for the efficient transport of passengers in urban areas with restricted access, such as historic centres, parks, or institutional premises, as reported by Ámbito.
Thanks to their compact design and manoeuvrability, they are also well-suited for patrolling duties and medical assistance in pedestrian zones or hard-to-reach areas.
The Goupil vehicles, widely used across Europe for urban logistics, have been added to the operational services of the Vatican State, with applications including maintenance, light cargo transport and auxiliary services — all without generating emissions.
Charging infrastructure: Vatican adds fast and ultra-fast stations
Alongside the vehicles, the transition programme includes the deployment of electric charging infrastructure in strategic locations throughout Vatican City and its extraterritorial properties.
Since December 2024, the following have been operational:
• 20 fast-charging stations, distributed across 10 different locations.
• 2 ultra-fast charging stations, one of which is installed near Paul VI Hall, where papal audiences and official events are held.
The project also includes the progressive expansion of the charging network to support the growing electric fleet. The plan ensures efficient management of energy demand without compromising the microstate’s energy supply.
Solar energy at the Vatican Museums: photovoltaic panels
In keeping with the goal of reducing the Vatican’s institutional carbon footprint, a new solar panel system with photovoltaic glass roofing has been installed in the “Patio of the Armour”, one of the main entrances to the Vatican Museums.
The integration of this technology not only supplies part of the charging system’s energy demand, but also represents a replicable architectural model that harmonises historical heritage with environmental innovation.
This initiative strengthens the Vatican’s role as a promoter of sustainable infrastructure, energy, and mobility policies, carrying both symbolic and technical significance in the context of the global energy transition — a cause personally championed by Pope Francis.
Pope Francis as a driving force of the transition
Pope Francis was a consistent advocate for environmental protection and climate action.
In his encyclical “Laudato si’” (2015) and the more recent “Laudate Deum” (2023), the Pontiff urged the world to adopt concrete measures against climate change and to promote sustainable economic models.
His decision to use custom electric vehicles was not merely symbolic — it was a form of leadership aligned with his teachings.
It also represents a break from traditional petrol-powered Popemobiles, such as those from Mercedes-Benz or Fiat, which are now being gradually replaced by electric alternatives.
The Vatican has thus become one of the first countries in the world — albeit a small one — to officially commit to a 100% electric state fleet. This policy puts it on par with cities like Oslo, Amsterdam, and Paris, which have already laid out similar plans.
Through a combination of infrastructure, regulation, technological acquisition, and logistical incentives, the Vatican’s programme stands as a case study of how even microstates can take on major environmental responsibilities.
It may well be one of Pope Francis’ least publicised legacies — yet one of the most enduring.
