The Government of Thailand announced a major initiative to convert 1,520 conventional buses into electric vehicles (EVs) under the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) modernisation programme. The plan aims to reduce emissions, cut operational costs, and enhance the city’s public transport system.
Currently, BMTA operates 2,883 buses, including 1,520 conventional and 1,363 air-conditioned vehicles, carrying 500,000–600,000 passengers daily. The government provides an annual subsidy of THB885 million to maintain affordable fares. The EV conversion is projected to save THB1.44 billion annually, with fuel costs dropping by 70 per cent and maintenance costs largely eliminated. Fare adjustments will be reviewed once the programme progresses.
The first phase of EV buses is expected to arrive by September 2026, coinciding with the rollout of real-time fleet management systems to improve punctuality and reduce service gaps. BMTA is also expanding modern technology adoption, including GPS tracking integrated with the BMTA Bus mobile app for live service updates and broader electronic payment systems for passenger convenience.
This move represents a significant step toward sustainable urban mobility in Bangkok, supporting the government’s vision of a low-emission, technology-driven public transport network.