In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable public transportation, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has unveiled its prototype non-AC, Low Floor Electric Buses. Earlier BMTC announced its plan to induct 921 numbers of non AC electric buses under FAME II.
The first prototype non-AC TATA electric bus was inaugurated by Ramalinga Reddy, Minister of Transport and Muzarai, Government of Karnataka.
These non-AC Electric buses are of 12.0 meters long with Low Floor 400mm of height. The bus has a seating capacity of 25 passengers with easy entry and exit and the Charing will take around 45 minutes for each bus.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing concerns over air pollution and climate change, as well as enhancing the overall commuting experience and providing economic services for the residents of Bengaluru.
Route and Depots Identified
10 Depots are identified for these electric buses namely, Shanthinagar, Jayanagar, Hennur, Deepanjalinagara, Rajarajeshwarinagar, Penny 2nd Stage, Jigani, K R Pura, Seegehalli, Hosakote.
BMTC runs these buses on route number 96-A on a trial basis. 96-A Route covers Kempegowda Bus Stand, Sujata Talkies, Industrial Town, Rajajinagar, Havanur CIrcle, Modi Hospital, Harishchandra Ghat, Central, Kempegowda Bus Stand.
Electric Buses under the FAME-II Scheme
The Government of India introduced the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country. FAME II was the second phase of this scheme, which aimed to encourage the use of electric buses for public transportation.
Under the FAME II scheme, the government proposed a Gross Cost Contract (GCC) model for the deployment of electric buses in various cities including Bengaluru. In this model, the government would bear a significant portion of the capital cost of electric buses while also providing financial incentives to the state transport departments or city transport authorities.