Karsan e-JEST Minibuses Transform Transport in Santa Maria
Karsan, a leader in electric and autonomous vehicle technology, has once again made strides in the public transport sector, this time with its innovative e-JEST minibuses.
As part of its global expansion, Karsan has now introduced its first fully electric minibuses to Santa Maria, California, marking a significant step forward for clean, accessible urban transport in North America.
This delivery forms part of a pilot project, boosting the city's sustainability credentials while improving transport services.
Improving mobility with the Microtransit Project
Santa Maria's new Microtransit Project revolutionises local transport, offering a flexible, on-demand service.
Residents can now book rides easily via a smartphone app, track the minibus in real-time and enjoy the convenience of using current fare systems.
The e-JEST minibuses are perfect for this innovative scheme, as their compact size and excellent manoeuvrability allow them to navigate narrow city streets with ease.
These fully electric minibuses emit zero emissions, contributing to cleaner air in the city. Their quiet, smooth rides also create a more pleasant environment for passengers and residents alike.
Most importantly, the Microtransit Project provides transport options to areas not covered by traditional bus routes, improving mobility for all and offering a cost-effective alternative for city residents.
Reaching places other buses can’t
The recent delivery ceremony for the e-JEST minibuses was attended by key Karsan executives, including CEO Okan Baş and CCO Deniz Çetin.
Karsan’s involvement in the Microtransit Project aligns with its broader goal of making public transport accessible, sustainable, and adaptable to smart technology.
Okan Baş highlighted the company's pioneering role, stating: "In 2022, we entered the market with the e-JEST, the first 20-foot electric minibus in North America. Now we have delivered the first electric minibuses to operate in Santa Maria."
The Microtransit system fills a crucial gap in Santa Maria’s transport network, serving areas that fixed-route buses cannot reach. With Karsan's e-JEST at the core of this service, city residents gain easier access to transport, helping reduce travel costs while enhancing flexibility.
Technology at your fingertips
The Microtransit system is designed with convenience in mind. Passengers can use their smartphones to book rides whenever needed, offering unmatched flexibility.
This modern, tech-driven solution is underpinned by the compact and smart-compatible design of Karsan’s e-JEST minibuses. As demand grows, operating hours for the pilot project will expand, extending beyond the current late evening window.
Okan expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, "Our e-JESTs are the backbone of this innovative transport service. Their compact size and advanced technology make them ideal for projects like Microtransit."
The flexibility of the system ensures that as Santa Maria’s needs evolve, Karsan’s minibuses will remain a reliable, adaptable solution.
Karsan’s latest project in Santa Maria is part of its wider ambition to make public transport more efficient, environmentally friendly and tailored to the needs of today’s urban dwellers.
With more than 1,100 electric vehicles in operation across 23 countries, Karsan continues to prove its expertise in sustainable transport solutions. Through projects like these, Karsan cements its reputation as a global leader in smart and green mobility.
Karsan's e-JEST minibuses have now become a key component of Santa Maria’s transport infrastructure, highlighting the company's vision of staying "One Step Ahead in the Future of Mobility".
This pioneering spirit is helping to shape the future of public transport, not just in North America but across the globe.
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