Tata Motors rolls out smart electric bus prototype in Bengaluru

Tata Motors announced the introduction of a smart electric bus in Bengaluru, marking a significant shift towards smarter, safer, and greener public transportation. The prototype was launched in a ceremony attended by Ramalinga Reddy, Minister of Transport, Government of Karnataka, and other esteemed delegates from the Government of Karnataka and Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC).

As per the agreement between TML Smart City Mobility Solutions Ltd., a fully owned subsidiary of Tata Motors, and BMTC, Tata Motors will supply, operate, and maintain 921 units of 12-metre low-floor electric buses for a period of 12 years. These Tata Starbus EVs, developed indigenously, boast superior design and top-class features, ensuring sustainable and comfortable commuting.

G Sathyavathi, IAS, Managing Director, BMTC, expressed her delight at the initiative, stating, “Meeting the high-quality benchmark, we are elated to flag off Tata Motors’ electric bus prototype. The advanced features and impressive performance of the electric bus align perfectly with BMTC’s commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and improving the quality of life for our citizens. We look forward to supplementing our fleet with Tata Motors’ new, smart electric buses.”

Tata Motors’ electric bus prototype flags off in Bengaluru, signalling greener future. Photo courtesy of Tata Motors.

Asim Kumar Mukhopadhyay, CEO and MD, TML Smart City Mobility Solutions Limited, echoed this sentiment. He remarked, “We are delighted to see our first smart electric bus get flagged off in Bengaluru. For decades, Tata Motors’ advanced research and development facilities have meticulously created offerings that are cutting-edge and eco-friendly. The bus flagged off today is equipped with state-of-the-art features and ergonomic design, providing commuters a hassle-free travel experience. We are confident that our electric buses will make public transportation safe, comfortable and energy efficient.”

The Starbus EV is equipped with a cutting-edge design, advanced safety features, and a powerful, energy-efficient electric drivetrain. The e-bus, with zero tailpipe emissions, plays a significant role in reducing air pollution and mitigating the impact of climate change. Till date, Tata Motors has supplied more than 900 electric buses across various Indian cities, which have collectively clocked over 8 crore kilometres, with an uptime of over 95%.