Work

Understanding the enablers and barriers to electric bus adoption: Comparative insights from India and the Netherlands

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The electrification of urban public transport systems is critical for decarbonization and achieving inclusive, sustainable development. However, the pathways for adopting electric buses (e-buses) vary significantly between high-income and low-and middle-income countries. This study investigates the socio-technical enablers and barriers influencing e-bus adoption across seven cities, three in the Netherlands and four in India using a socio-technical transitions framework integrated. Finding of this studies shows that Dutch cities have made considerable progress, supported by strong policy alignment, robust infrastructure, and institutional capacity. In contrast, Indian cities face persistent challenges, including fragmented governance, infrastructure deficits, and limited financial support. By comparing these contexts, the study identifies actionable lessons for urban public transport transitions in the low-and middle-income countries, including the importance of localizing national policy frameworks, developing scalable public–private partnerships, and addressing social acceptance and capacity constraints. The findings offer valuable guidance for policymakers and urban development practitioners aiming to accelerate zero-emission public transport transitions in rapidly urbanizing countries.

Source: Urban Transitions

DOI: 10.1016/j.ubtr.2026.100021

Authors: Parveen Kumar, Amit Kumar, Christopher Brewster

Institutions: Maastricht University, Wageningen University & Research, Great Lakes Institute of Management, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research

Language: English

Topic: Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities, Reduced inequalities, Climate action

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $1,500