Keto Motors Unveils Urbanova KE9, Entering India's Commercial Electric Bus Segment
Hyderabad-based commercial EV manufacturer, Keto Motors Ltd, has launched its first commercial electric bus, the Urbanova KE9, marking a significant entry into India's electric bus segment. The unveiling of the KE9 comes backed by manufacturing investments and long-term plans to support sustainable public transportation across the country.Keto Motors, founded in 2018, is dedicated to developing commercial EV solutions for Indian markets. The company leverages years of expertise in engineering and large scale electric bus deployment, building upon its legacy in pioneering India's early clean mobility industry.
The launch reflects Keto Motors' strategy of providing reliable, locally engineered zero-emission transportation solutions for both public and fleet mobility sectors. The company is committed to accelerating the nation's transition toward sustainable transport.
Growth Commitments and Industry Adoption
Supporting its growth mandate, Keto Motors signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Telangana in December 2025. This MoU commits an investment of approximately ₹300 crore toward expanding the existing 20-acre facility at Jadcherla and establishing a new greenfield site within the Telangana EV Mobility Valley. This expansion is expected to support the manufacturing of 9-metre electric buses and create over 2,000 direct jobs within three years, establishing Telangana as the primary manufacturing hub.The adoption potential for the Urbanova KE9 was highlighted by the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC). Shri Y. Nagi Reddy, Managing Director of TGSRTC, noted that his corporation currently operates 10,201 buses, including 1,050 electric buses, serving nearly 60 lakh passengers daily. TGSRTC plans to induct 800 electric buses by December of this year and an additional 1,400 by December of next year, with a goal to deploy approximately 3,000 electric buses in Hyderabad to reduce carbon emissions from city bus operations.
Technology Integration and Partnerships
Beyond the vehicle itself, Urbanova KE9 is engineered as a connected commercial mobility platform. This includes the KETO Connected integrated digital operations platform developed alongside ROQIT, designed specifically for fleet operators. The platform offers features such as real-time vehicle health monitoring, battery analytics, remote diagnostics, operational visibility, and predictive maintenance capabilities, helping operators maximize uptime and reduce operating costs.Keto Motors has also fortified its technology ecosystem through a strategic partnership with TRON Energy Technology, a leading Taiwanese electric bus manufacturer. This collaboration provides Keto Motors access to advanced battery systems, patented liquidcooled battery technology, Battery Management Systems (BMS), powertrain technologies, and chassis engineering expertise, ensuring the buses meet global standards while being tailored for Indian public transport requirements.
The Urbanova KE9 has received CMVR Type Approval Certification from the Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC), validating its compliance with statutory safety and performance standards, including structural integrity and range efficiency.
Vehicle Specifications
Purpose-built for urban and institutional transportation, here are the specifications of the 9-metre Urbanova KE9:| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length | 8,985 mm |
| Width | 2,532 mm |
| Height | 3,189 mm |
| Passenger Seating Capacity | Up to 31 passengers |
| Floor Height | 900 mm |
| Certified Operating Range | Over 150 km (fully loaded) |
| Top Speed | Up to 80 km/h |
| Safety Features | Electrohydraulic power steering, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), regenerative braking, and disc brakes |
Shri Venkatesh Challa, Director of Keto Motors Ltd, stated that the Urbanova KE9 represents a commitment to building a comprehensive commercial mobility ecosystem for India. He emphasized that by combining indigenous manufacturing with proven global technology partnerships, the company is developing solutions specifically engineered for Indian operating conditions.
Stock Price Movement
As of 11:32, shares of Keto Motors Ltd are edging down to ₹205.50, marking a decline of 4.99%. The stock is currently locked in place, trading completely flat within its intraday range.Disclaimer: Due care and diligence have been taken in compiling and presenting news and market-related content. However, errors or omissions may arise despite such efforts.
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