Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), in partnership with private firm Refex eVeelz, has introduced a new fleet of electric taxis, marking a significant step towards sustainable transportation at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA). This initiative, launched on World Environment Day, underscores the airport’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting green mobility.
Passengers arriving at KIA can now book these electric airport taxis directly at the taxi stands in both terminals or through the ‘BLR Pulse’ mobile application. The fare structure is straightforward: a minimum of Rs 100 for the first 4 km and Rs 24 for each additional kilometer thereafter.
Hari Marar, Managing Director and CEO of BIAL, announced the launch while speaking at the World Environment Day celebrations at the airport. “Kempegowda International Airport was the first in India to introduce its own taxi service. We currently operate around 1,300 airport cabs, providing safe, reliable, and high-quality rides for our passengers. Today, we are excited to add 175 electric taxis to our fleet, with plans to increase this number significantly,” Marar said.
BIAL’s transition to electric vehicles is part of a broader strategy to convert all airport vehicles on both airside and landside operations to electric power. Marar highlighted that KIA already employs battery-powered semi-robotic aircraft towing vehicles and electric shuttle buses for terminal transfers and airside operations. “Our goal is to significantly cut down on carbon emissions, creating a cleaner environment that benefits not just the airport vicinity but also the wider community,” he added.
The new electric taxis, distinguished by their vibrant colors, are designed with sustainability and passenger safety in mind. The teal-colored vehicles symbolize the airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship. In addition, a special fleet of pink taxis has been introduced, exclusively for female passengers and driven by female drivers, enhancing safety and inclusivity for all travelers.
To further ensure passenger security, each rider receives a complimentary ‘pink card’ containing emergency contact numbers for the duty manager, local police, and ambulance services.
Private operators like BluSmart and Shoffr have also been providing electric taxi services at the airport, contributing to the growing ecosystem of sustainable transport options at KIA. As BIAL expands its electric taxi fleet, it aims to set a benchmark for other airports in India, driving the adoption of electric vehicles in public transport and airport operations.
This latest move by Bangalore International Airport not only enhances passenger experience with eco-friendly travel options but also reinforces the airport’s role as a leader in sustainable aviation practices.
