Kempegowda Airport Launches Electric Taxis For Sustainable Future In Bengaluru

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR Airport) in Bengaluru has launched 175 compact SUV electric taxis in collaboration with Refex eVeelz. The initiative was launched on World Environment Day, marking a significant milestone in the airport's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Hari Marar, Chief Executive Officer of BIAL, and Ravi B.P., Principal Secretary, Department of Forests, Environment and Biology, inaugurated the new electric taxis at the airport premises. The ceremony was marked by the CEO taking the wheel of one of the electric taxis, driving it around the airport to showcase its eco-friendly features.

Speaking at the event, Hari Marar emphasized that the airport is committed to creating an environment-friendly environment. "On this occasion of World Environment Day, we are taking a significant step by converting most of our fuel-based taxis to electric vehicles. We aim to increase the number of electric taxis to 50% of our total fleet in the coming days," he said.

Anil Jain, Managing Director of Refex Group, expressed his enthusiasm for providing eco-friendly transportation options to passengers. "With Refex Green and Refex eVeelz, we are proud to offer our passengers an easy and convenient way to book our new EV airport taxis. Bookings can be made at both terminals of the airport taxi stands or through the user-friendly BLR Pulse mobile app," he said.

The redesigned EV taxis will be available in two distinct colors - light blue and pink. The light blue color represents sustainability, while the pink color is reserved for women and will be driven by female drivers.

To further enhance security measures, each passenger will receive a complimentary "pink card" containing emergency contact numbers for duty managers, local police, and ambulance services.

The airport has also implemented semi-robotic aircraft towing vehicles and EV vehicles on both airside and landside. This initiative is part of the airport's long-term vision to convert all vehicles to sustainable options.

To commemorate World Environment Day, 100 saplings were planted in the airport campus, marking a significant step towards environmental sustainability.