Electric Mini- and Microbuses (EMBs) sold under the SET4NPL framework will always come with a special support package.
The EMB Support Package will make switching from a diesel to an electric vehicle easier, at the same time introducing modern digital solutions for vehicle charging, vehicle maintenance, e-ticketing, and fleet management. The design of SET4NPL’s EMB Support Package was guided by the question ‘What is needed to create a wholistic ecosystem using Electric Mini and Micro Buses while improving public transport for passengers?’ and wants to achieve seamless operation and maintenance of EMBs for Public Transport Operators.
The package includes access to specific loan/hire-purchase schemes from SET4NPL Partner Banks and to a scrapping subsidy if an old diesel vehicle is being scrapped. Moreover, the new EMBs will be equipped with additional features such as electronic ticketing machine, LED route display, an immobilizer and GPS device connecting the vehicle and bus operator to a digital ecosystem which includes mobile apps for digital payment, vehicle live tracking and route planning. Public transport operators (PTOs) who are purchasing SET4NPL-supported EMBs will be able to add a basic maintenance contract and a chargers as per their needs.
In summary, SET4NPL’s EMB Support Package includes the following components:
Please find more information about the individual components below.
The e-ticketing machine will be part of every EMB. The e-ticketing machine with short-range wireless technology is able to read QR codes, connect with smartphones and contactless cards. Together with the public transport app or a contactless card, the e-ticketing system provides access to digital ticketing and cashless public transport services.
For more information, visit:
e-ticketing
The GPS device will be in-built into every EMB and will provide the live location of the vehicle for tracking and fleet management. The signal sent by the GPS device will deliver data to the mobile app for PTOs and for public transport users. It will be possible to see the bus route on the app and where the individual buses are. This will help public transport users with time management and route planning contributing to a more convenient and transparent public transport system for everyone.
For more information, visit:
e-ticketing
Public Transport User
This device, preinstalled in every EMB, will provide increased security for PTOs with regards to vehicle theft. The immobilizer can be activated remotely which will prevent vehicle movement and with the GPS tracking, the location of the EMB can be easily detected. On the other hand, the vehicle immobilizer also provides additional security for loan/hire-purchase providers which can lead to better financing conditions for PTOs.
For more information, visit:
Public Transport Operator
The LED Panel will also be pre-installed in every EMB behind the windscreen, on the side, or at the rear of the vehicle. Via the LED Panel, the route and/or destination of the bus will be displayed making it easier for public transport users to identify the right bus. The displayed information can be changed through the app for PTOs.
The Maintenance Contract will be individually fitted for the EMB model and will cover battery replacement under warranty (battery not fulfilling the warranty terms) to ensure proper functioning of the vehicle.
Vehicle Suppliers (themselves or through a franchise) will provide the basic Maintenance Contract. For more information about the Maintenance Contract, please contact one of SET4NPL’s partner vehicle suppliers.
SET4NPL will support the Electric Vehicle (EV) sector through different charging stations selected through a public shortlisting tender in 2024 to best accommodate the different vehicle requirements and needs of EV users. There are ‘Slow Chargers’ (7kW) which are suitable for home charging (e.g., overnight) and ‘Medium Chargers’ (20kW or 22kW) which can charge an EV in about 2 to 4 hours*. While traveling, for charging stops, a ‘Fast Charger’ (60-120kW) is the best option, charging an EV in about 30+ minutes*. The Fast Charger can also charge two vehicles at the same time. All SET4NPL-supported charging stations can be purchased with chargers fulfilling either the CCS2/Type 2 or GB/T standard.
*depending on the battery size and state-of-charge
Visit:
Charging Stations
For medium or fast Charger there might be the necessity to apply for a 3-phase electricity connection from Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA).
The link to the NEA application can be found here:
https://crm.nea.org.np/new-connection
