AMTS Issues Tender for Smart, Safe and Fully AC Electric Double Decker Buses
In a major step toward upgrading public transport in Ahmedabad, the Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) has issued tenders for the purchase of four new Double Decker Type-II AC electric buses.
These buses are expected to improve urban mobility while offering passengers a safer, smarter, and more comfortable travel experience. Equipped with advanced Li-ion battery systems, modern safety features, and accessibility-focused design, the new fleet reflects Ahmedabad’s growing focus on sustainable and technology-driven public transportation.
This move comes shortly after the city reintroduced double decker buses in 2024 after nearly 30 years, reviving a nostalgic yet practical mode of public travel.
New Double Decker Electric Buses to Strengthen City Transport
Four Type-II AC Buses to Join AMTS Fleet
According to the latest tender announcement, AMTS plans to purchase four new Double Decker Type-II AC electric buses for city operations.
These buses will be:
- Fully air-conditioned
- Powered by high-capacity Lithium-ion batteries
- Designed for high passenger capacity
- Equipped with advanced safety systems
- Built with special facilities for differently-abled passengers
The buses are aimed at reducing congestion, improving public transport quality, and supporting Ahmedabad’s green mobility mission.
120 KM Range on a Single Charge
Li-ion Battery Technology Powers Efficient Urban Travel
One of the most important highlights of these buses is their battery efficiency.
The buses will operate on:
- High-capacity Li-ion battery systems
- Full AC operation without performance compromise
- Approximately 120 kilometers driving range on a single full charge
This makes it highly suitable for city routes with heavy passenger movement and continuous daily operations.
Electric mobility is increasingly becoming the preferred choice for urban transport as cities across India focus on reducing fuel dependency and carbon emissions.
Passenger Safety Gets Major Upgrade
CCTV Cameras, Panic Button and Smart Information System
Passenger safety has been given top priority in these new buses.
Each bus will include:
- 5 CCTV cameras for full surveillance
- Emergency panic button for passenger security
- Passenger Information System (PIS) for route and stop updates
These features will help ensure:
- Better monitoring of onboard activities
- Quick emergency response
- Improved passenger awareness during travel
With rising concerns around urban transport safety, especially for women and senior citizens, these additions are expected to improve commuter confidence significantly.
Comfort and Accessibility Features Included
Power-Operated Doors and Divyang-Friendly Facilities
Apart from safety, passenger comfort is another major focus.
The buses will feature:
- Power-operated automatic doors
- Comfortable seating arrangements
- Easy boarding and exit systems
- Special facilities for Divyang (disabled) passengers
Accessibility-friendly transport remains a critical requirement in modern city planning, and these buses aim to support inclusive travel for all sections of society.
10-Year Maintenance and Cleaning Responsibility Assigned
Operator to Handle Long-Term Service Quality
Unlike traditional procurement models, this project includes a long-term operations approach.
The selected operator will be responsible for:
- Maintenance of buses for 10 years
- Complete cleaning services
- Performance management
- Operational reliability and upkeep
This ensures that service quality remains consistent and reduces the burden on municipal transport authorities.
It also improves accountability and helps maintain better passenger satisfaction over time.
Ahmedabad’s Double Decker Legacy Returns
Double Decker Buses Restarted After Nearly 30 Years
A major emotional and practical aspect of this project is Ahmedabad’s return to double decker buses.
The city had originally operated double decker buses decades ago, but they gradually disappeared from the roads.
In 2024:
- Double decker buses were reintroduced after nearly 30 years
- Citizens welcomed the nostalgic comeback
- Public response remained highly positive
Now, with the addition of these new AC electric versions, the concept is being modernized for the future.
This shows how traditional public transport formats can evolve with smart technology and sustainability goals.
Why Electric Double Decker Buses Matter
Smart Cities Need Smarter Public Transport
Electric buses are becoming a major part of India’s Smart City vision.
Their benefits include:
- Lower fuel costs
- Reduced air pollution
- Less traffic congestion
- Better passenger carrying capacity
- Cleaner urban environment
Double decker buses are especially effective on high-demand routes where road space is limited but passenger numbers are high.
Ahmedabad’s move aligns with national urban transport goals and supports climate-conscious infrastructure planning.
Public Response and Urban Expectations
Citizens Welcome Cleaner and Modern Transport
Residents have shown strong interest in upgraded public transport options.
Passengers especially appreciate:
- AC comfort during extreme summer heat
- Better safety systems
- Environment-friendly travel options
- Improved city connectivity
Many daily commuters believe such projects can reduce dependence on private vehicles and improve traffic conditions across the city.
As Gujarat continues urban expansion, reliable public transport remains a key civic demand.
Future of AMTS and Smart Mobility
More Electric Fleet Expansion Expected
Transport experts believe this is only the beginning.
Future developments may include:
- Expansion of electric bus fleets
- Smart ticketing systems
- GPS-based route optimization
- App-based passenger updates
- Integration with metro and BRTS services
With Ahmedabad rapidly growing as a metro city, such upgrades are essential for efficient long-term mobility planning.
A Strong Step Toward Cleaner Urban Transport
The addition of four new Double Decker Type-II AC electric buses marks an important step for Ahmedabad’s transport future. With 120 km range, strong passenger safety features, accessible design, and long-term maintenance planning, the project reflects a serious effort toward sustainable and commuter-friendly urban mobility.
As the city continues modernizing its transport infrastructure, these buses are expected to become both a practical solution and a symbol of smart urban progress.
For passengers, it means safer journeys, better comfort, and a greener future.
Also read, Ahmedabad Metro ₹290 Cr Project GIFT City to Shahpur Route
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