At Bharat Mobility 2025, Olectra showcased its innovative Blade Battery Electric Bus (EBS), marking a significant leap in electric vehicle (EV) technology. K.V. Pradeep, Chairman & MD of Olectra, discussed the company’s latest offering, highlighting the technology’s unique features and its potential to revolutionize urban and intercity transportation.
The Blade Battery is Olectra’s new next-generation technology, which distinguishes itself from conventional batteries used in electric buses. Traditionally, electric buses have relied on prismatic cells, which are arranged in packs to form the battery. However, with the Blade Battery, Olectra has moved to a design where blades are packed together to create the battery. This innovation offers several advantages, including higher energy density and reduced weight.
“The Blade Battery technology is a game changer,” Pradeep shared. “It offers a significant improvement over traditional prismatic cells. The energy density is much higher, which allows for better performance. Additionally, the Blade Battery weighs 30% less and occupies 50% less space than conventional batteries.”
This increased efficiency translates into longer ranges for the buses. For instance, the new Blade Battery-powered 12-meter city bus can travel up to 325 kilometers on a single charge, compared to 225 kilometers with traditional battery technology—an impressive 30% improvement in range.
Meanwhile, intercity buses that typically cover around 350 kilometers can now operate over 700 kilometers with the same battery.
“We are witnessing the next level of EV technology,” Pradeep continued. “With the Blade Battery, operational costs are lower, the product is stronger, and safety parameters have been significantly enhanced. This technology is set to make a major impact in the coming years.”
As Olectra looks toward the future, the company is already planning to extend this Blade Battery technology beyond buses. “Currently, we are using the Blade Battery technology for our buses, but in the coming months, we plan to introduce it to our truck segment as well,” Pradeep revealed. “By replacing cylindrical cells in our trucks with Blade Batteries, we expect to achieve more kilometers per charge, further improving operational efficiency.”
The response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive. “The feedback has been wonderful,” Pradeep said. “Our customers are eager to switch to the Blade Battery-powered buses because it offers them the ability to operate more efficiently and travel further on a single charge.”
With these advancements, Olectra is positioning itself at the forefront of the EV revolution, making significant strides in sustainable transportation solutions for both urban and long-distance travel.
