In the recent past, modern technology has widened its wings and has been spreading across all industries. Due to this vast expansion of science and technology, the transport industry has also witnessed new vehicles and fuels. One such new mode of transport that rose to fame right after its introduction was the Electric Vehicle. Electric vehicles have taken over various modes of transport, from cars, rickshaws, and bikes to buses.
Among the different vehicles, it is electric buses are most commonly spotted. Most travel bus operators and local town busses now opt for electric buses. If you have been wondering about what electric buses are and how they come up, here is a short guide to help you understand their advantages, disadvantages and things you need to learn about them.
What is an electric bus?
To put it in simple words, an electric bus is a form of electric vehicle that runs on electricity rather than other kinds of fuel such as diesel or petrol. There are hybrid vehicles in the market that use a combination of two forms of fuels or energy, but electric vehicles rely only on electricity to operate. It charges itself from an electric grid and the energy is stored in a battery and used once the electricity is used up.
Advantages of Electric Buses:
1. Renewable Energy
The batteries used in these buses are renewable in nature. This makes it a sustainable mode and is preferred over the traditional fuel-running busses.
2. Support from Government
The Government of India is keen on expanding the use of electronic buses. This is the reason behind the increasing number of electronic buses spotted in cities as public transport mediums.
3. Lower Emissions
Electric buses are the game changers and are preferred over conventional buses since they have zero emissions. Hence they help limit pollution in cities and allow passengers and bus operators to travel and have a pollution-free travel experience.
4. Noise Reduction and Comfortable Experience
When we think of public transport, the first thought that comes is noisy and uncomfortable vehicles. However, this is where electric buses make the difference. Since these buses use electricity, the amount of noise created reduces, making passengers’ travel experience more comfortable. One major point to note here is, the more people prefer public transport, the lesser the pollution. Thus, electric buses not only reduce noise pollution but also play a key role in curbing various types of pollution in cities.
5. Low maintenance costs
In comparison to traditional buses, electric buses demand less maintenance. This helps bus operators manage their costs better and gives them another reason to opt for a sustainable option for the long run.
Disadvantages of Electric Buses:
1. Higher Purchase Price
Most electric buses cost more than traditional diesel-run buses. This acts as an obstacle when it comes to choosing electric buses over conventional ones.
2. Higher Maintenance Cost
Though electric buses require less maintenance, every maintenance need incurs a higher cost.
3. Need for a Charging Infrastructure
Since these buses run on electricity, the use of these buses needs a charging infrastructure. The cost of setting up a charging infrastructure and ensuring that the buses are duly charged on time and the charging units are well-equipped and maintained is an added hassle that the operator has to bear with.
4. Training of Driver and Technician
As a new concept, the drivers and technicians must be trained well and made aware of the use, possible hazards and differences between a traditional and electric bus.
Though there are pros and cons to opting for electric buses, the changing climate and increasing pollution demand the use of sustainable practices, even in the transport industry. One step to begin is to encourage travellers and bus operators to choose electric vehicles over conventional ones. With zero emissions and noise reductions, they are a better alternative for the planet.
Being climate-conscious and one of people’s loved brands, redBus ensures that electric buses are listed for all travel destinations possible. When looking for buses, you will find a list of buses available. On this list, you can access details about the buses and opt for electric buses if you wish to travel sustainably.