8000 Electric Buses in Mumbai by 2027, Best reveals Ambitious Plans
BEST aims for full fleet electrification by 2027, targeting 8,000 electric buses in Mumbai, up from the current 711. The 2025-26 budget proposal outlines the purchase of 2,650 E-buses annually while retiring older models.
Key Highlights
– BEST unveils plans to fully electrify its fleet by 2027.
– Ambitious plans of adding 2,650 buses annually.
– Expand fleet to 8,000 electric buses, including 1,000 double-deckers.
The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) has unveiled an ambitious plan to fully electrify its fleet by 2027.
The initiative will see the deployment of 8,000 electric buses in Mumbai, a significant increase from the current fleet of 711 — representing a jump of 1,025%.
As part of this plan, BEST aims to convert over 50% of its fleet to electric by March 2026.
To meet its electrification target, BEST has outlined a detailed strategy in its 2025-26 budget. The plan includes the annual acquisition of 2,650 electric buses, with a focus on 1,000 air-conditioned double-decker models to enhance commuter comfort and capacity.
Alongside these upgrades, older buses will be systematically retired, modernizing the fleet and improving operational efficiency.
Also Read: Kurla Bus Accident: Brake Failure or System Meltdown?
Struggles with Delayed Electric Bus Deliveries
BEST’s efforts to roll out electric buses in Mumbai have been hindered by substantial delays, with contractors unable to meet deadlines or deliver on their commitments.
Olectra Greentech delivered only 275 electric buses out of the 2,100 buses ordered in May 2022 and 2,400 ordered in February 2024.
BEST is facing challenges with its AC double-decker electric buses as well. After a contractor failed to deliver any units, the company canceled an order of 700 buses.
Currently, BEST only has a contract for 200 electric buses in Mumbai, reportedly from Switch Mobility for the EiV22, but even this deal is encountering issues.
