BLR Airport embraces sustainability with electric airport taxis

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) have taken a significant step in its sustainability journey, introducing a new fleet of electric vehicle (EV) airport taxis, collaborating with Refex eVeelz. The introduction coincided with World Environment Day.

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) is the busiest airport in South India, as well as the third largest in the country. Achieving a significant milestone in December 2023 by crossing the 300 million passenger mark, BLR are also adept at air cargo transportation; the airport has continued to be the No. 1 Airport for processing perishable cargo in India for the third consecutive year.

Operations at BLR Airport’s Terminal 2 (T2) started in January 2023. The 255,000 square-metre T2 is built on the principles of four pillars: technological leadership; being a terminal in a garden; environmental and ecological stewardship; and a celebration of Karnataka’s rich heritage and culture.

Marking a substantial shift from traditional fuel-based taxis, the new EV fleet is made up of 175 compact SUVs. BLR has aimed to drastically reduce carbon emissions, hoping to contribute to a cleaner environment; now over 50% of the fleet is electric. 

BLR Airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship extends beyond greener transportation solutions. Commemorating World Environment Day, the airport also planted 100 trees in its campus showcasing its dedication to nurturing and revitalising the surroundings, creating green spaces that offer shade and solace to all who pass through.

Hari Marar, Managing Director & CEO of Bangalore International Airport Ltd, said, “At BIAL, our commitment to sustainability drives us to consistently implement initiatives that benefit the environment. The introduction of our EV taxi fleet and the tree planting drive are significant strides towards reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing the green spaces within our airport. With a strong focus on providing sustainable ecological solutions, these initiatives positively contribute to the ecosystem, improve the overall experience for our passengers, and benefit the local community.”

Anil Jain, Managing Director, Refex Group, added, “Refex’s Green Mobility vertical is on a mission to provide reliable, safe and cleaner options of commute through Refex eVeelz. Our 100% company owned and leased EV fleet, our driver partners, and our processes provide a safe and ecofriendly commuting experience.”

The new EV taxis can be conveniently booked by travellers, either at the airport taxi stands in both terminals or through the user-friendly BLR Pulse mobile application. Furthermore, the redesigned EV taxis come in two distinctive colours: teal, signifying the airport’s unwavering dedication to sustainability, and pink, specifically allocated for female passengers and operated by female drivers, thus amplifying safety and inclusivity for all travellers. Each passenger is also provided with a complimentary “Pink Card” containing emergency contact numbers for the Duty Manager, local police, and ambulance services, further enhancing safety measures.

Refex eVeelz by Refex Green Mobility Limited is one of India’s all-electric 4-wheeler fleet which has been launched in Bengaluru.  They offer 100% EV fleet, drivers, infrastructure and technology for a safe commuting experience.  Refex Green Mobility Limited (RGML) & Refex EV Fleet Services Private Ltd. (REVFSPL) together constitute Refex Group’s Green Mobility vertical, which is one of India’s leading business organisations serving multiple business verticals.

BIAL continues to align with its long-term vision of transitioning all vehicles at BLR Airport to sustainable options, following the successful implementation of semi-robotic aircraft towing vehicles and EV vehicles on both airside and landside. These initiatives not only prioritise passenger well-being but also contribute to broader environmental goals, fostering a greener future for all.