The case for electric buses 

Every day, more people rely on buses than trains or airplanes, yet the quality of their travel experience has often been overlooked. It’s time to rethink this, just as we’ve reimagined our highways, and design better, more comfortable journeys for Indians on the road. Today, as the world shifts toward cleaner, more sustainable transportation solutions, a quiet but transformative change is taking shape.

Electric highways and long-range electric buses are not only redefining public transportation but also offering significant financial savings and meaningful environmental benefits. This shift goes beyond numbers and technology—it’s about creating a future where cleaner air, quieter cities, and more efficient travel are the standard.

The Financial Case for Electric Buses

For decades, buses have been the backbone of public transport, carrying millions daily across cities and regions. However, as technology has evolved, so have the possibilities for more efficient, cost-effective transportation systems. Electric buses are at the forefront of this transformation. Not only are they more economical in the long run, but they also reduce ongoing maintenance needs. With simpler, more reliable systems, electric buses experience fewer breakdowns and require less frequent servicing, which translates into savings for both operators and taxpayers.

Moreover, advancements in battery technology are extending the range of these buses, making them capable of longer, uninterrupted journeys. When paired with electric highways—routes equipped with charging points—electric buses can travel greater distances with ease, eliminating the worry of constant recharging and downtime. This makes them an increasingly practical solution for long-distance travel, connecting cities in ways that were once unimaginable.

Less Reliance on Unpredictable Energy Sources

One of the most appealing aspects of electric buses is the potential to move away from fluctuating fuel costs. Traditional buses rely on fuel sources that are often subject to price swings, which can strain budgets and lead to uncertainty in operational costs. Electric buses, on the other hand, tap into a more stable and predictable energy source—electricity. This provides financial security for transit agencies, while also allowing cities to make greener energy choices in the future.

The integration of electric highways helps maximize the efficiency of these vehicles. These routes allow buses to recharge during transit, ensuring that buses stay on the road longer and serve more passengers, without compromising on performance.

The Environmental and Human Benefits

Electric buses don’t just make financial sense—they also carry significant health and environmental benefits. Our cities are becoming busier and denser, and with that comes the challenge of reducing pollution to create healthier living spaces. Electric buses produce no tailpipe emissions, helping improve air quality and contributing to a healthier, more vibrant urban life. Cleaner air means fewer respiratory illnesses, less strain on healthcare systems, and a better quality of life for residents.

Noise is another invisible disruptor in city life. The hum of busy streets can create stress and disturb sleep, negatively affecting people’s well-being. Electric buses operate more quietly, creating a more peaceful and enjoyable environment for commuters and residents alike. By reducing both air and noise pollution, electric buses are shaping a future where urban living becomes not just more efficient, but more pleasant.

A Success Story: Indore’s Green Corridor

The city of Indore offers a glimpse into what’s possible with electric mobility. By converting its Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) into a green corridor, the city has seen dramatic improvements in both environmental and economic terms. The transition has led to cleaner air, a noticeable drop in noise levels, and significant cost savings for the city’s transport system. This success shows how electric highways and buses can transform not only how we travel but how we live.

Indore’s example highlights the potential for other cities to follow suit, embracing electric buses not just as a transport solution but as a way to enhance the overall urban experience.

Government Support and Global Goals

India’s commitment to electrifying 40% of its public buses by 2030 is a clear signal that the future of transportation lies in electric mobility. This initiative is closely aligned with global climate commitments, making electric highways and buses a critical part of reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. With potential savings of 30 million tonnes of CO2 annually, the impact of these investments cannot be overstated. Moreover, these efforts are crucial to creating cities that are healthier, more livable, and sustainable for future generations.

Conclusion: Investing in a Sustainable Future

Electric highways and long-range electric buses are not just innovative—they are essential investments for a sustainable future. By reducing operational costs, lowering environmental impact, and improving public health, these technologies offer cities an opportunity to rethink their infrastructure. They represent a vision of transportation where efficiency, sustainability, and human well-being come together to create a cleaner, quieter, and more financially sound future.

For cities, governments, and operators, investing in electric highways is about more than cutting costs—it’s about building a future that prioritizes people and the planet. 

Devndra Chawla is the CEO and MD of GreenCell Mobility. Views expressed are his own.