State-run Transport Co will propose that its executive committee procures 54 electric vehicle (EV) minibuses on a rental basis to cover five interprovincial routes, according to Managing Director Sanyalak Panwattanalikit.
He disclosed on Tuesday that the plan for a five-year contract is worth 800 million baht and will be proposed to the company's board at the end of this month. The buses are each equipped with 21-30 seats and will serve five key routes during the beginning of their operation.
Mr Sanyalak said that if the board approves the proposal, Transport Co will set up the terms of reference for electronic bidding.
The procurement process can take six to eight months and the company will acquire the mini EV buses by the end of next September, which marks the end of the fiscal year, he added.
He said the routes will not exceed 300 kilometres, covering the provinces around Bangkok.
In addition to the Bangkok-Saraburi route, the other four will operate out of Rangsit in the north of Bangkok to Burapha University, Laem Chabang seaport and Bowin industrial estate -- all in Chon Buri -- and to Map Ta Phut industrial estate in Rayong, according to Mr Sanyalak.
The project aims to boost transportation options from Bangkok to the Eastern Economic Corridor Development (EEC) zone.
Transport Co is looking to offer more mini EV buses across the country covering distances of less than 600km from Bangkok. However, the main concern is whether there are enough charging stations along the way.
Mr Sanyalak said diesel buses are still needed on long-distance routes due to their lower operating costs.
Transport Co has 257 buses in service, 151 of which are owned by the company while the rest are leased. All rental contracts end next year.
Mr Sanyalak said the mini EV buses will replace some rented diesel-run buses.
The plan is to provide at least 100 buses to substitute vehicles on the existing routes.
