MTC Electric Buses in Chennai: 120 New Green Buses Launched for a Cleaner Commute

Tamil Nadu marked a big step towards eco-friendly public transport with the introduction of 120 MTC electric buses in Chennai. MTC plans to add a total of 1,225 electric buses, including both AC and bob-n-AC buses, in a phased manner.

Marking a major milestone, the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) has inducted 120 electric buses in Chennai. These are the first electric buses in Tamil Nadu and mark a big step towards eco-friendly public transport.

The new MTC electric buses were flagged off by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at Kalaivanar Arangam on July 1, 2025. Delivered by Switch Mobility, the electric arm of Ashok Leyland, these 9-metre-long buses are completely made in India.

The buses are fully electric, equipped with CCTV cameras, panic buttons for passenger safety, GPS-based tracking, a 3×2 seating layout with wide entry-exit doors for ease of access, and mobile charging point for every two seats.

MTC plans to add a total of 1,225 electric buses, including both AC and bob-n-AC buses, in a phased manner.

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MTC Electric Buses in Chennai: Depot Details

Currently, these MTC electric buses are operated from the newly built Vyasarpadi Depot. It is one of ten new electric bus depots being constructed across the city.

These 120 buses now serve 11 key routes in the surrounding areas of Vyasarpadi, providing silent, clean, and comfortable transportation.

Officials have confirmed that electric bus operations will soon begin in OMR and ECR regions too.

The next depot to be launched is in Perumbakkam. And once it is operational, the electric bus fleet will expand to cover OMR (Old Mahabalipuram Road) and ECR (East Coast Road).

As the remaining 9 depots are completed, services will be gradually rolled out to other neighbourhoods across Chennai.

MTC Electric Buses in Chennai: AC Buses Incoming Soon

While the 120 MTC electric buses are non-AC, the corporation has plans to soon add AC electric buses to its fleet.

Under the larger plan to induct 1,225 electric buses, 625 will be air-conditioned:

• Phase 1 will include 225 AC electric buses, expected to be launched soon.
• Phase 2 will bring in another 400 AC electric buses.

These AC buses will also feature similar tech and design but with improved passenger comfort during Chennai’s humid summers.

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What Is the Ticket Fare?

Good news for passengers — there is no extra charge for travelling on the new electric buses.

The fare is the same as MTC’s existing deluxe bus fare, making green travel affordable and accessible.

Is the ₹1000 Travel Pass Valid?

Yes, if you already have an MTC ₹1000 unlimited travel pass, it is valid on all non-AC electric buses. This ensures that regular commuters don’t need to purchase separate tickets for electric services.

Are Digital Payments Accepted?

Yes, the new electric buses are fully compatible with digital payment systems, including:

• UPI payments
• Singara Chennai Card (NCMC)

This allows for faster, hassle-free boarding and reduces dependency on cash.