Bengaluru Unveils Electric AC Buses for Green Future
Bengaluru is taking a significant step towards transforming its public transport system with the introduction of its first-ever electric air-conditioned (AC) buses. In a move to enhance the city’s eco-friendliness and address its growing traffic and pollution issues, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has begun trial runs of these low-floor, electric buses. This marks a crucial milestone in the city’s push for sustainable public transportation, with the aim of replacing the aging Volvo fleet currently used on premium and airport routes.
The new electric buses, developed by Ohm Mobility Private Limited, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, offer a range of up to 200 kilometers on a full charge, making them well-suited for daily city commutes. With charging taking between 60 to 70 minutes, these buses promise to deliver a reliable, low-emission alternative to their diesel-powered counterparts. The buses are initially being trialled on the Kadugodi-Majestic route, with five buses already operational. This trial phase, which began on January 10, 2024, will span 10–15 days, giving both the BMTC and commuters a chance to experience the electric buses in real-world conditions.
What makes these electric buses even more remarkable is their cost-efficiency and environmental benefits. Under a Gross Cost Contract (GCC), Ohm Mobility has committed to supplying a fleet of 320 electric buses to BMTC, with a 12-year contract in place. Each bus is guaranteed to cover 225 kilometers daily for 350 days a year. This ambitious project is backed by a ₹150 crore state-government grant, which has allowed BMTC to lease the buses and roll out this pioneering initiative. Charging infrastructure for these buses is also part of the contract, with Ohm Mobility responsible for installing and maintaining the necessary stations at depots and key locations across the city.
The focus on opportunity charging is another innovative aspect of this initiative. The buses are charged throughout the day during brief stops at key locations like Kempegowda Bus Station. This allows the buses to recharge for approximately 45 minutes, ensuring their readiness for the next leg of their journey. Overnight charging will be done at Depot 18 in ITPL, while Kadugodi Bus Station will also serve as a site for opportunity charging as the fleet grows. The integration of these electric buses into Bengaluru’s public transport network aligns with the city’s broader sustainability goals, significantly reducing carbon emissions and air pollution levels.
From a sustainability perspective, the introduction of electric buses in Bengaluru is a much-needed development that can help reduce the city’s dependence on fossil fuels, lower emissions, and alleviate air quality concerns. Bengaluru, like many other rapidly growing Indian cities, faces severe pollution levels, with road traffic being a significant contributor. These electric buses will help reduce noise and air pollution, contributing to cleaner and healthier urban spaces. Moreover, they are part of a wider global trend towards electrification in public transport, a strategy that has proven to be effective in reducing carbon footprints in cities worldwide.
In conclusion, the introduction of electric AC buses in Bengaluru not only marks a significant milestone for the city’s public transport system but also sets a precedent for sustainability in India’s rapidly urbanising cities. With the city’s public transport needs expanding, this shift to cleaner, greener technologies is crucial. By investing in electric buses, Bengaluru is taking a bold step towards addressing its environmental and civic challenges while enhancing the overall commuter experience. If successful, this initiative could serve as a model for other Indian cities, demonstrating the transformative potential of electric vehicles in urban mobility.
