Mumbai: A fleet of nine new blade battery buses arrived at the Magathane depot on Saturday, with a total of 49 new tech e-buses expected to arrive within a week, according to a senior official.The new induction features next-generation electric buses manufactured by Olectra Greentech Limited, powered by advanced Blade Battery technology designed for lower risk, longer operating range and fast-charging capabilities.Said a senior official: “Our fleet of buses is over 2,800 at present and with the new buses joining the fleet, it could cross 2,900. The new buses will be deployed on longer routes connecting south Mumbai to suburbs and some from city to Navi Mumbai. These buses are safe and can run longer distances than the existing e-buses in our fleet.”The buses will have lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries integrated directly into the bus chassis. Designed for enhanced safety, longer range and lower operating costs, these compact and lightweight batteries offer at least 30% more energy storage than those currently used in electric AC buses, while significantly improving overall vehicle stability and space efficiency.While existing electric buses cover around 250 km on a single charge, the new Blade Battery fleet boasts a range of 325 km to 500 km. Even on congested city roads, they guarantee a minimum range of 325 km, allowing up to two days of continuous operation without returning to the depot for recharging.Charging efficiency has also received a massive upgrade. Sources indicate that standard high-power depot DC fast chargers can power the battery from 30% to 80% in just 30 to 45 minutes. A complete 100% top-up typically takes one to two hours to protect long-term cell health.Blade Battery technology is globally recognised for superior thermal safety, featuring reduced heat generation and non-oxygen release during high stress. “Blade battery is designed to withstand extreme climatic conditions and is much safer even when severely damaged during accidents,” stated an official from Olectra Greentech. With battery life exceeding 5,000 charge cycles, replacement and maintenance costs will be drastically reduced over the vehicle’s operational lifecycle.
