Srinagar, Dec 16 – Electric buses in the Union territory of Ladakh are setting a compelling example in the fight against climate change.
Ladakh’s Leh and Kargil regions have embraced the services of 19 electric buses (eBuses) from PMI Electro Mobility Solutions, one of India’s leading electric bus manufacturers and operators, for over a year now, operating on various local routes and accumulating an impressive distance of over 10,50,000 kilometres.
“Serving an average of 1500 passengers daily, these eBuses contribute positively to Ladakh’s delicate ecosystem with zero tailpipe emissions, no engine noise, and no vibrations, significantly reducing carbon footprint and noise levels while bearing the region’s inclement weather conditions,” officials said.
Since the commencement of their operations, these eBuses have effectively curbed CO2 emissions by an estimated 25,20,000 kilogrammes, and further impact is expected to persist over the next decade and a half, aligning with their end-of-life period.
Notably, regenerative braking solutions integrated into these eBuses during downhill movement enhance efficiency by recovering and recharging onboard batteries.
The eBuses are designed to prioritise passenger comfort, incorporating features such as cantilever mounting and plastic-moulded seats.
This thoughtful design not only enhances overall comfort but also ensures easy access for young and elderly passengers alike.
Equipped with factory-fitted cameras, these buses enhance security by continuously monitoring all travellers.
The Intelligent Transportation Management System (ITMS) software seamlessly integrates to enable the intelligent and optimal management of electric buses.
It automatically tracks schedules, monitors the state of charge (eliminating range anxiety), assesses vehicle range, and manages allocated routes.”eBuses have had a transformative impact on public transport in the region and look forward to increasing the fleet in the future.
Given Ladakh’s extreme temperatures, besides running smoothly, PMI Electro’s eBuses feature a state-of-the-art heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system to maintain a stable internal temperature, taking care of passenger comfort despite the harsh climatic conditions of Ladakh,” Zulfiqar Ali, Deputy Director, District Motor Garages, Leh, said.
Emphasising the global impact of climate change, Dr. Aanchal Jain, CEO of PMI Electro Mobility Solutions, said, “Climate change is affecting everyone globally, and most countries are taking the necessary steps to reduce their carbon footprint. As India aims to reach its ‘Net Zero’ goals, ecologically sensitive geographies like Ladakh stand as examples of taking appropriate measures to safeguard nature and help it regain its pristine beauty. We are happy to contribute to this journey for Ladakh through our electric buses, which stand as a testament to our commitment to supporting the larger goal,” she said.
At the G20 Summit held earlier this year in Ladakh over four days, electric cars and PMI Electro’s eBuses replaced internal combustion engines for delegate transportation.
This significant shift conveyed a clear message and purpose regarding sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility solutions.
