Manila - Electricity-powered jeepneys, or minibuses, started commercial operations in the Philippines on Tuesday, with environmentalists hoping that the green version would soon replace all smoke-belching models.

Four "e-jeepneys" began to ply two routes in Manila's financial district of Makati City, one year after the electric minibuses were launched as part of an initiative called the Climate Friendly Cities Project.

Greenpeace said the e-jeepneys were "the first public transport system of its kind in South-East Asia."

"The e-jeepney intends to steer clear of the use of fossil fuels to help mitigate climate change while addressing problems such as air pollution, solid waste and rising oil prices," the environmental watchdog said in a statement.

Greenpeace said the number of e-jeepneys plying routes in Makati would steadily increase to 50 as more routes were determined.

Rides on the electric mini-buses are free for the next two weeks until the Land Transportation Franchising Board decides on the fare, it added.

The e-jeepneys run on batteries that are recharged using power derived from biodegradable waste. The body, chassis and batteries of the 14-seater minibuses are locally made, but its electric motor, power-train, steering and brake components are still imported.

Athena Ballesteros, chairwoman of Green Renewable Independent Power Producer, a key proponent of the project, urged the Philippine government to eventually phase out the old version of the jeepney, which has been a major contributor to air pollution.

"The electric jeepney is a win-win solution for all stakeholders," she said. "It provides a climate-friendly alternative to polluting, fossil-fuel-based modes of transport, and enhanced income to jeepney drivers."

"The government should be embracing this project," she added.

Ballesteros said e-jeepneys would also soon start commercial operations in the Philippine cities of Puerto Princesa, Bacolod and Baguio, which earlier tested the electric minibuses and even used the technology to power other vehicles.

Jeepneys derive their name from the World War II jeeps left behind by US troops from which they were originally made. They are known for their colourful decoration and crowded seating, and are an iconic symbol of Philippine culture. (dpa)