BMTC to replace Volvo buses with electric fleet

The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), which currently runs Volvo buses under the Vayu Vajra service to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), is set to introduce electric air-conditioned (AC) buses starting next month. This decision aims to address financial losses and modernise the city’s airport transport services.

Currently, 150 Volvo buses operate daily to the airport. BMTC plans to phase out 83 of these with electric AC buses over the next 15 days. Most of the existing Volvo buses have completed their kilometre lifespan, prompting the shift to electric vehicles. BMTC Chief Traffic Manager Prabhakar Reddy confirmed the move, stating that the replacement will be done in stages. “The operations will begin in 15 days,” he added.

The electric buses will operate under the Gross Cost Contract (GCC) model. According to Reddy, the private firm providing the buses will be paid Rs 65.80 per kilometre. The drivers will be outsourced, while BMTC conductors will remain on duty. The overall cost per kilometre, including maintenance and other charges, is estimated at Rs 85. The switch is expected to save Rs 5 per kilometre compared to the Rs 90.70 incurred by the Volvo buses, leading to a monthly saving of around Rs 1.8 crore. However, some BMTC staff have raised concerns over increasing privatisation, fearing job losses and a future decline in government roles.