BMTC launches first air-conditioned electric buses in Bengaluru on trial run

OHM Global Mobility has been awarded the contract to supply 320 air-conditioned electric buses to the BMTC. 
| Photo Credit: special arrangement

The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has introduced its first fleet of air-conditioned electric buses, which are currently undergoing trial runs.

Five buses, supplied by OHM Global Mobility, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, have been deployed on the route between Kempegowda bus station (Majestic) and Kadugodi (Whitefield), according to BMTC officials.

With this launch, the BMTC aims to replace its aging Volvo buses operating on the Vajra and the Vayu Vajra airport routes with environment friendly air-conditioned electric buses. This marks the first time the BMTC has added air-conditioned electric buses to its fleet.

Electric transition plan  

OHM Global Mobility has been awarded the contract to supply 320 air-conditioned electric buses to the BMTC. These buses will operate under a gross cost contract (GCC) model, where the BMTC will pay ₹65.8 per kilometre. “The full fleet is expected to be delivered by March 2025,” a BMTC official said.

The new buses are 13-metres long and feature low floors, making them accessible for individuals with disabilities. They are equipped with retractable ramps to facilitate easier boarding. As per the contract, each bus is required to cover 250 kilometres per day, amounting to 87,500 kilometres annually.

To accommodate the new fleet, the BMTC has earmarked four depots: Depot 7 (Subhashnagar), Depot 13 (Katriguppe), Depot 18 (Whitefield), and Depot 25 (HSR Layout).

Commuter experiences 

Passengers who have used the buses between Majestic and Whitefield expressed their satisfaction with the new fleet, praising the comfort and design of the seats, which feature integrated headrests.

Pramod Kumar, a resident of Whitefield, said: “The seats provide excellent support for the head, and the ride quality is good. However, I feel the suspension of the Volvo buses is better. Overall, it’s a good start.”

Another commuter, Kavya Rao, a daily traveller on this route, said: “The electric buses are quieter and smoother compared to diesel ones. It’s refreshing to travel in a bus that is both modern and eco-friendly. However, I hope the BMTC will reduce the fare since these are electric buses.”