Technology trends in modern buses are centred on the passenger’s needs and comfort. Here are six such developments that have reshaped intercity bus travel in India.
According to a PGA labs report, India’s Intercity bus travel market currently stands at USD 30.3 billion. The market is expected to grow by about 58% by 2025. The cost-effectiveness of intercity bus booking is attracting a growing number of travellers. Accordingly, bus aggregators across the country are revamping their offerings by adopting the latest technology trends in modern buses.
Technological innovations in bus travel are driving the intercity transport sector forward. Bus operators in India are adopting digital and global solutions. These solutions will help deliver a hassle-free, comfortable, and stress-free travel experience.
Bus booking in India has never been this easy! Select your destination, choose a bus provider, enter details, and pay. Travel to your destination with some of the best transport providers on redBus. Select agents include SRS Travels, Orange Travels, Rajdhani Express, VRL Travels, Neeta Travels, and more.
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Digitization of Bus Travel
Some modern technology trends in bus travel include:
Mobile Ticketing
During the pandemic, many services migrated online to provide consumers with a hygienic, contactless option. Mobile ticketing through bus booking sites is one such service. Consumers in India are increasingly using digital channels for their everyday needs. According to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (India), there are 600 million smartphone users in India.
redBus provides a simple platform to book tickets for intercity travel. On confirmation, RedBus will forward your itinerary to the registered mobile number and email ID. Paperless mobile ticketing offers ease to travellers. Consumers can select tickets based on the bus type, listed amenities, and bus images. This is quick and there is no scope for service carelessness.
Real-time tracking
Real-time tracking features have made bus travel safe, secure and more reliable. Track the position of your bus and choose the nearest boarding point.
The live tracking feature allows your loved ones to track your trip and the current location of the bus. Customers and their select contacts receive bus details and a tracer link 30 minutes before boarding. This allows passengers to safeguard their journey and also arrange for pick-up facilities. GPS and live tracking has made intercity travel safer for women, minors, and the elderly.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Currently, India’s internet network is connected by 7.37 lakh telecom towers and 23.7 lakh base stations nationwide. While mobile connectivity in India has grown by 60% in the last five years, there are still areas with low internet access. As a result, bus operators are providing passengers with Wi-Fi access.
Stay connected with your loved ones, binge-watch a show, or work while on the road without interruptions.
Smart Bus
The Smart Bus is a fine example of innovation in bus travel. The facilities provided ensure comfort, security, and efficiency while travelling. You and your family can monitor your live location by typing ticket details on the redBus website. The long-route smart buses are also equipped with toilets.
With the Smart Bus, you will reach your location on time and without hassle. A smart bus utilizes techniques and fleet management software to identify passenger needs and optimize vehicle performance. It also helps map out the best route to reach your destination on time and without detours.
Entertainment System
Long routes can be dull without entertainment. While offline download options are available on all streaming services, buses provide options for entertainment while onboard. Buses offer movies and other entertainment on the road on shared and personal TVs.
Check the services available as you browse through bus provider options on the redBus app.
Charging ports – USB cable ports, charging posts
Charging points, reading lights, and USB cable ports are commonplace in buses today. Never run out of battery while watching your favourite movie or making that important presentation for a client!
The Future of Bus Travel and Technology Integration
State bus operators are switching to electric buses for intracity travel and intercity travel. The electric bus market in India is expected to grow to USD 8 billion by 2028. Efforts are being made to reduce carbon emissions using zero-emission and sustainable public transportation.
Another big move in the transportation industry is the adoption of Smart Buses. Its customer-focused automation allows bus operators to provide a low-cost, secure and convenient mode of travel. Featuring CCTV and live tracking, these buses offer travellers nationwide a safe ride.
As a global platform serving 18 million customers, redBus offers convenient and low-cost travel solutions. On this platform, you can book tickets, check bus status, track the bus live, and choose the right bus. Its technology-driven approach enables you to receive excellent services at the best prices.
Read more about upcoming transportation trends on redBus.