Odisha is emerging as a frontrunner in India’s transition to zero-emission public transportation, with a major push for electric buses in Odisha. The Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) system has now integrated 100 EKA Mobility electric buses into its fleet, marking a transformative step for the state’s sustainable mobility goals.
Electric Bus Deployment in 2026: A Major Leap for Odisha
The deployment of the CRUT Odisha EV buses began in 2026, driven by the state’s commitment to cleaner air, reduced carbon emissions, and improved urban connectivity. This rollout is not only designed to enhance public transport in Bhubaneswar and nearby cities but also to make daily commuting safer, more comfortable, and environmentally friendly.
Government Support Fuels Growth of Electric Buses in Odisha
The electric bus initiative was officially launched by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, underscoring robust government backing for eco-friendly transportation infrastructure. This project aligns with Odisha’s vision to:
- Reduce air pollution and carbon emissions
- Expand accessible public transportation
- Improve last-mile connectivity
- Transition from diesel to electric public transport
Strategic Partnerships: CRUT, EKA Mobility, and Travel Time Mobility Pvt. Ltd.
This milestone is the result of a strategic partnership:
- EKA Mobility: Manufacturer and supplier of the EKA 9M electric bus
- Travel Time Mobility Pvt. Ltd.: Responsible for fleet operation and maintenance
- CRUT Odisha: Oversees urban mobility services
This collaborative model ensures efficient deployment, reliable service, and long-term sustainability for zero-emission public transportation in India.
Key Benefits of EKA 9M Electric Bus Deployment
The introduction of 100 EKA 9M electric buses brings tangible benefits:
- More frequent and reliable public transit
- Reduced dependence on fossil fuels and lower operational noise
- Enhanced passenger safety and comfort
- Fully accessible design for individuals with disabilities
- Support for inclusive and user-friendly mobility
EKA 9M Electric Bus: Made for Indian Cities
The EKA 9M electric bus stands out as a purpose-built solution for Indian city transport:
- Length: 9 meters
- Seating Capacity: 35 passengers
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly design
- Electric Motor Output: 213 kW
- Battery: 200 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)
- Battery Advantages: Greater safety, longevity, and thermal stability
These features ensure that the EKA Mobility electric buses meet the diverse needs of urban commuters, including the elderly, differently-abled, and families.
Industry Leaders Share Their Vision
Rohit Srivastava (Business Head, EKA Mobility) emphasizes that the deployment reflects EKA Mobility’s mission to scale clean, efficient, and cost-effective urban transport solutions nationwide. These electric commercial vehicles in India are engineered to lower operational costs, reduce carbon footprints, and help India meet its EV adoption targets.
Vivek Kalkar (Director, Travel Time Mobility Pvt. Ltd.) highlights the importance of operational excellence, aiming for seamless rides, minimal downtime, and consistently high service quality for CRUT passengers.
Why Electric Buses Matter for Indian Cities
Switching to electric buses in Odisha and across India delivers clear advantages:
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Lower maintenance and operating costs
- Significantly reduced noise pollution
- Improved energy efficiency
- Better passenger experiences
As urban populations grow, large-scale electric bus deployment is critical for sustainable city development.
Odisha’s Expanding Role in India’s EV Ecosystem
Odisha’s commitment to electric commercial vehicles in India is evident through the CRUT initiative. The state’s focus on green urban planning, government support for innovation, and willingness to adopt future-ready transport solutions position it as a leader in India’s EV revolution.
About EKA Mobility: Pioneering Electric Commercial Vehicles in India
EKA Mobility, backed by Pinnacle Mobility Solutions Pvt. Ltd., specializes in electric vehicles for commercial use. With strategic partners like Mitsui & Co. (Japan) and VDL Groep (Netherlands), EKA Mobility is scaling up production and deployment of electric buses for both urban and rural India.
The Road Ahead: Expanding Zero-Emission Public Transportation
If this deployment proves successful, Odisha is likely to expand electric bus services to more cities and towns, further strengthening India’s public electric transit system. Projects like this pave the way for cleaner, more accessible, and sustainable mobility across the country.
Conclusion
The addition of 100 EKA Mobility electric buses to CRUT Odisha highlights a decisive step toward cleaner cities and sustainable public transportation. With government backing, strategic partnerships, and advanced technology, Odisha is setting an example for zero-emission public transportation in India. This initiative not only improves urban mobility and accessibility but also supports India’s long-term environmental and economic objectives.
FAQs
The deployment began in 2026.
A total of 100 EKA 9M electric buses.
Travel Time Mobility Pvt. Ltd. operates and maintains the CRUT fleet.
Each bus features a 200 kWh LFP battery.
Yes, all buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps for universal access.