AMTS to roll out high-tech electric AC buses in Jan with auto fire control, cyber safety systems

In a major boost to safe and sustainable public transport, the Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) is set to roll out a new fleet of technology-enabled electric air-conditioned buses in the first week of January 2026. Designed with passenger safety at the core, the buses come equipped with automatic fire suppression systems, digital security safeguards and multiple emergency features, officials said on Wednesday.

An AMTS official said that 15 electric AC buses have already been delivered out of the total 225 ordered, and the remaining buses will be supplied in phases at the rate of around 20 buses every month. Once deployed, these buses will operate across key routes in the city.

Automatic fire control system in the battery section

With incidents of electric vehicle fires reported across the country in recent years, AMTS has placed special emphasis on fire safety. Each electric bus is fitted with an automatic fire suppression system in the battery compartment. If a short circuit occurs or the battery temperature rises beyond prescribed limits, the system will activate instantly and extinguish the fire without human intervention.

“This system ensures that any fire incident is controlled at the source itself, significantly reducing risk to passengers,” an AMTS official said

Cybersecurity measures to prevent hacking

Given that the buses operate on a digital platform, AMTS has also incorporated advanced cybersecurity measures to prevent hacking or unauthorised access to the software systems. The buses are protected with digital security protocols similar to antivirus systems, and an annual digital audit will be conducted to detect any breach attempts.

“This is a digital bus, but it is also a secure bus,” an AMTS official said.

Enhanced passenger safety features

The new electric AC buses are equipped with several passenger-friendly and safety-oriented features. All doors are electronically monitored, and the bus will not move unless all doors are properly closed. The buses are also fitted with real-time tracking systems, allowing operations staff to monitor vehicle movement.

Each bus has three CCTV cameras, the live feed of which is visible near the driver’s seat, enabling constant monitoring of activities inside the bus. In case of emergencies, SOS buttons have been installed to alert the driver immediately.

To facilitate evacuation during emergencies such as fire or accidents, the buses also have designated emergency exit gates, where glass panels can be broken using hammers provided inside the vehicle.

Audible alert system for pedestrians

Since electric vehicles operate almost silently, AMTS has introduced an audible alert system to improve road safety. When the bus moves at speeds below 20 km per hour, a special sound will be generated to alert pedestrians and nearby vehicles of its presence, reducing the risk of accidents.

Additionally, a STOP button has been installed inside the bus, enabling passengers to signal the driver to halt the vehicle when required and in an emergency.

No upfront cost for AMTS

The electric AC buses have been procured under a per-kilometre operational model in partnership with Aero Eagle Company. Under this arrangement, AMTS will not bear any upfront purchase cost and will instead pay the operator based on the distance covered by the buses.

Officials said the model allows AMTS to modernise its fleet while maintaining financial efficiency.

With these additions, AMTS aims to strengthen Ahmedabad’s public transport infrastructure while reducing carbon emissions and improving commuter experience. The introduction of electric AC buses reflects the civic body’s broader push towards cleaner, safer and technology-driven urban mobility.

Officials said more routes and service details will be announced once the buses are formally launched next month.