Hyderabad To Get 2,000 Electric Buses Under PM E-Drive

Hyderabad: Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) has projected a reduction of nearly four million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, when the 10,000 electric buses, for the purchase of which tenders have been finalised, hit the road. The mega tender is part of the PM E-DRIVE (Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement) scheme.

According to a media statement, the Phase-I tenders covered 10,900 electric buses. Technical bids were opened on November 14 with 16 bidders participating, while price bids were finalised on December 23. The allocation includes 2,000 e-buses for Hyderabad.

CESL, a subsidiary of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) and the Union government’s nominated agency, is spearheading the initiative to replace diesel buses in an effort to improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and enhance living standards across five major cities.

Under the PM E-DRIVE, 14,028 electric buses have been sanctioned, including 10,900 in Phase-I. The tender covers major cities and state transport undertakings (STUs), including Hyderabad. Procurement spans AC and non-AC variants, with standard floor, low floor, and bus rapid transit (BRT) models for city services.

Akhilesh Kumar Dixit, CEO of CESL and EESL, said the ministry’s support had enabled effective demand aggregation and ensured a transparent, competitive tendering process. He noted that the initiative will substantially reduce India’s carbon footprint, modernise public transport, and provide a cleaner, quieter, and cost-effective alternative to fossil fuel–based vehicles.