Since colonial times, bus systems have been a part of metro cities. And they were constantly being updated from time to time. Something like that is happening now in Bengaluru. The city is set to introduce revamped double-decker buses that will operate on electricity. Intending to go green and reduce carbon emissions, the city has taken this decision. Here is everything you need to know about air-conditioned double-decker electric buses.
AC Double-Decker E-Buses In Bengaluru
The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is ready to replace all diesel buses with electric vehicles (EV). The first air-conditioned electric bus in Bengaluru is set to arrive in March followed by others in April and May. The orders for these buses have been placed with Switch Mobility — the manufacturer of electric buses and the EV division of Ashok Leyland.
Also Read: Come Jan 2023, BEST Electric AC Double Decker Buses Would Ply Mumbai And Thane Streets
There are no capable electric vehicle producers in India at this moment. Therefore, Switch Mobility was the lone bidder. And won the bid for a total of ten crores. The company will provide five AC double-decker buses.
Features Of These Buses
These buses are created and produced in India. With a capacity of 231 kWh, these buses have a higher-density NMC chemistry battery pack and a dual gun charging system. Therefore, it was claimed that the bus can cover two hundred and fifty kilometres within the city. The bus has a comfortable seating layout and other amenities to ensure hassle-free travel for commuters. There are security cameras installed in the bus and the batteries can reach full charge in eighty minutes.
At first, the double-decker bus will operate on the Hebbal-Silk Board route regularly. And the fare will be a minimum of ten rupees while a monthly pass will be around one hundred and twenty rupees.
On 13th Feb, the first batch of electric double-decker buses was delivered in Mumbai by Switch Mobility. BEST has ordered two hundred buses and this initial delivery was a part of that.
Cover Image Courtesy: Switch Mobility/ Twitter