BMTC launches 148 new electric buses

In a major step towards sustainable urban transport, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has launched 148 new electric buses on city roads. Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy flagged off the Tata-manufactured, non-air-conditioned electric buses from Jayanagar Unit-04 on Friday.

These 12-meter-long buses are equipped with modern safety and passenger-friendly features, including three interior CCTV cameras, rear-view cameras, fire detection systems, and a vehicle tracking mechanism. Each bus accommodates 35 passengers and has dedicated space for a wheelchair. For enhanced accessibility, the buses are fitted with an automatic kneeling system and feature stop-request buttons.

They can run up to 200 kilometers on a single charge and come with 298 kWh battery capacity. Emergency panic buttons (10 in each bus) have been installed for women’s safety. Additional features include four LED route display boards, an audio announcement system, and regenerative braking technology that recycles energy during deceleration. Charging infrastructure is already available at key locations like Kempegowda Bus Stand, K.R. Market, Shivajinagar, Bannerghatta TTMC, BTM Layout, Hebbal, and Mallasandra.

BMTC also plans to expand its electric fleet by the end of this year. Under the Prime Minister’s e-Bus Sewa scheme, 400 air-conditioned and 4100 standard electric buses will be added. Additionally, 195 air-conditioned buses from Global Mobility are expected to be rolled out in phases, taking the total electric fleet to 1,779 by December. The initiative highlights Bengaluru’s commitment to green mobility and improving public transport infrastructure.