Electric Bus Market Size, Share, Growth, Report 2026 to 2035

Electric Bus Market Size and Growth 2026 to 2035

The global electric bus market size was valued at USD 53.21 billion in 2025 and is expected to surpass around USD 231.58 billion by 2035, exhibiting at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.8% over the forecast period from 2026 to 2035. The electric bus market is experiencing significant growth, mainly driven by environmental, economic, and regulatory factors. As of 2024, around 780,000 electric buses operate worldwide, with battery-electric models making up nearly 94% of the fleet. China accounts for over 90% of these deployments globally. Stricter emission regulations, zero-emission bus mandates, and clean-air policies implemented by governments in various regions are prompting transit authorities to switch from diesel to electric buses. Concerns about urban air quality, rising public demand to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and national climate goals have further accelerated this transition. Additionally, advances such as decreasing battery costs, higher energy density, and improved charging technologies have lowered operating expenses, reducing the total cost of ownership compared to traditional diesel buses and encouraging wider fleet electrification.

The shift to electric buses is also bolstered by public funding programs, pilot projects, and large-scale fleet electrification efforts, especially in public transportation. In Europe, battery-electric bus registrations rose by more than 40% in the first half of 2025, highlighting a swift replacement of internal combustion engine buses in city fleets. Emerging markets are also contributing to this trend. For example, India deployed over 1,500 electric buses between March 2023 and February 2024, an increase of approximately 80% year-over-year, driven largely by national incentives and regional tenders. Similar developments are seen in North America, where school districts and municipal agencies are increasingly adopting electric buses due to federal and state funding, lower maintenance costs, and greater vehicle reliability. Overall, these developments show that policy support, operational cost savings, and infrastructure growth are key drivers behind the global adoption of electric buses.

Report Highlights

• Asia-Pacific leads the global market with 86.5% share, supported by large-scale electrification programs in China and India, strong domestic manufacturing, and government-led procurement models.
• Intracity services represent the largest service segment, contributing 80.4% of market share, as urban transit systems remain the primary focus of public transport electrification initiatives.
• High-capacity buses (>40 seats) account for 60.5% share, reflecting strong deployment in dense urban corridors to maximize passenger throughput and emission reductions.
• Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries dominate battery chemistry with 61.8% share, favored for safety, long cycle life, and cost efficiency in mass transit applications.
• Buses with 100–300 kWh battery capacity lead the market at 65.9%, offering an optimal balance between range, cost, and vehicle weight for city operations.
• Government-owned fleets remain the largest buyers, representing 54.7% of total demand, supported by subsidies, centralized tenders, and climate policy commitments.

How the Rise in Government Mandates for Zero-Emission Public Transportation Is Driving the Electric Bus Market

Government mandates for zero-emission public transportation are a major driver of electric bus adoption. Many countries and cities now require transit agencies to purchase only zero-emission buses within set timelines, such as London’s commitment to a 100% zero-emission bus fleet by 2034 and California’s regulation that only zero-emission buses may be purchased after 2029 under its Innovative Clean Transit rule. This regulatory clarity removes uncertainty for fleet operators and pushes earlier electrification planning. It also encourages manufacturers to scale production and invest in technology. As policies tighten, government support often includes subsidies and grants - for example, under India’s EV scheme 14,028 electric buses received support with over INR 4,391 crore in funding and investments in charging infrastructure, which helps lower upfront costs for operators. Overall, these mandates help transform electric buses from pilot projects into a standard procurement choice for authorities seeking to achieve air-quality and climate goals.

The image presents electric bus adoption by country in 2025, revealing a significant disparity in global distribution. China is projected to maintain a dominant position, supported by early policy initiatives, extensive public procurement, and a robust domestic manufacturing sector. India is expected to follow, largely due to government-led urban electrification efforts. In contrast, regions such as Europe, Latin America, and North America are anticipated to exhibit relatively lower adoption rates. This suggests that, although the deployment of electric buses is increasing worldwide, substantial market penetration is still primarily limited to a select group of leading countries.

Recent Major Milestones

1. Strong Growth in European Electric Bus Registrations

During the first half of 2025, Europe registered 5,315 battery-electric buses over 8 tons, representing an increase of approximately 41% compared to the same period in 2024. When all weight categories are included, total registrations reached 6,444 units, reflecting a year-on-year growth of about 49%. This upward trend in registrations indicates that transit agencies are rapidly deploying electric buses, which in turn demonstrates growing confidence among operators in electric bus technology and procurement processes. The higher adoption rates are also driving further investments in infrastructure, strengthening supply chain reliability, and encouraging manufacturers to expand production capacity for the European market.

2. Launch of Next-Gen Electric Bus Platforms by Major OEMs

Major manufacturers are now launching new electric bus platforms that offer enhanced range and capacity. For instance, Volvo has introduced the Volvo BZR electric bus and coach chassis, with certain models capable of achieving up to 700 kilometers on a single charge. These new electric configurations are being deployed in both Latin America and Europe. Such technological advancements are enabling electric buses to be used not only on urban routes but also for longer intercity services. As a result, electric buses are becoming a viable option for a wider range of transit networks and passenger segments, which is expected to accelerate the electrification of bus fleets.

3. Expansion of Double-Decker and High-Capacity Electric Bus Models

Global original equipment manufacturers are increasingly producing and delivering advanced high-capacity electric buses. In 2025, Alexander Dennis introduced updated versions of the Enviro500EV, a battery-electric tri-axle double-decker bus, featuring larger battery capacity and extended range for the North American market. At the same time, operators in Hong Kong and other regions are increasing their orders for these vehicles. The introduction of high-capacity electric buses enables transit agencies to serve major corridors more efficiently, supports the reduction of overall emissions, and meets the growing demand for passenger transport. This trend is expected to further accelerate the electrification of large urban bus fleets.

4. Growth in Global Electric Bus Adoption Rates Across Multiple Countries

Several countries, such as China, the Netherlands, Finland, Switzerland, and Denmark, have increased the share of electric buses in total bus sales from less than 6% to over 60% within a period of six years. This rapid expansion demonstrates the technical feasibility of large-scale electrification when supported by effective policy measures and investment. The significant change in sales composition indicates a structural transformation in the global bus market toward electrification. This development is likely to encourage other countries to implement similar policies, thereby accelerating the overall global demand for electric buses.

Report Scope

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

• Government Zero-Emission Mandates and Policies: Government mandates that require zero-emission public transportation have become a significant driver for the adoption of electric buses. Numerous countries and cities have established timelines for the gradual elimination of diesel buses, compelling transit agencies to shift toward electric fleets. Such policies serve to reduce regulatory uncertainty, expedite procurement processes, and provide manufacturers with greater long-term demand visibility. As a result, electric buses are increasingly regarded as a strategic priority rather than a limited pilot initiative.
• Lower Operating and Maintenance Costs: Electric buses are associated with considerably lower operating costs in comparison to diesel buses, primarily due to reduced fuel expenses and a smaller number of moving parts. The cost savings achieved through the use of electricity instead of diesel, combined with decreased maintenance requirements for engines and transmissions, enhance the total cost of ownership throughout the vehicle lifecycle. These economic advantages are prompting both public and private fleet operators to increasingly consider electric buses as a viable alternative.

Market Restraints

• High Upfront Capital Cost: Although electric buses offer long-term cost savings, the initial capital investment required remains higher than that of conventional buses. Expenses related to batteries, charging infrastructure, and necessary grid upgrades can place significant strain on municipal budgets, particularly in developing regions. This continues to represent a major barrier for smaller transit agencies that have limited access to financing or government subsidies.
• Charging Infrastructure Limitations: The lack of adequate charging infrastructure continues to restrict the large-scale deployment of electric buses. Constraints related to depot space, elevated grid connection costs, and extended installation timelines can delay the electrification of fleets. In areas where power supply is unstable, concerns regarding charging reliability further hinder the pace of adoption.

Market Opportunities

• Expansion into Intercity and High-Capacity Routes: Recent advances in battery energy density and fast-charging technology have enabled electric buses to operate on longer routes and serve high-capacity corridors. These developments are creating new opportunities beyond traditional urban transit, such as intercity transport, coaches, and articulated or double-decker buses, thereby significantly expanding the addressable market for electric buses.
• Growth of Battery-as-a-Service and Leasing Models: The introduction of battery leasing and operating lease models is contributing to the reduction of upfront costs for operators. By separating battery ownership from the vehicle itself, these models enhance affordability, mitigate technology-related risks, and facilitate more rapid adoption. Additionally, such approaches generate recurring revenue opportunities for original equipment manufacturers and service providers.

Market Challenges

• Grid Capacity and Energy Management: The operation of large electric bus fleets imposes substantial demand on local electricity grids. The management of peak loads, assurance of reliable power supply, and integration of renewable energy sources continue to present complex challenges. In the absence of effective energy planning, fleet operators may face operational disruptions and increased electricity costs.
• Battery Lifecycle and Recycling: Challenges related to battery degradation, end-of-life management, and the development of recycling infrastructure remain unresolved. Limited recycling capacity, along with regulatory uncertainty regarding battery disposal, contributes to increased environmental and cost risks. The development of scalable second-life applications and recycling solutions is essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of the market.

Electric Bus Market Regional Analysis

The electric bus market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. Here is a brief overview of each region:

Asia-Pacific (APAC) Electric Bus Market: Large national tenders & domestic manufacturing investments drive scale

The Asia-Pacific electric bus market size was estimated at USD 46.03 billion in 2025 and is projected to exceed around USD 200.32 billion by 2035. In China, India, and Southeast Asia, national procurement programs and rapid manufacturing expansion have led to the region holding a dominant share of global electric-bus deployments. Centralized tenders and subsidy schemes have generated high-volume demand, enabling local OEMs to scale up production, develop vertical supply chains, and increase battery manufacturing. The entry of new foreign investments has further expanded regional capacity. As a result, unit costs have decreased and delivery lead times have shortened, making large-scale electrification programs more feasible for a growing number of cities.

Recent Developments:

• India’s PM E-DRIVE and large e-bus tenders (including the 10,900-bus program) are driving procurements and local OEM wins
• VinFast expands manufacturing in Tamil Nadu (India) to serve regional EV and e-bus demand and exports.

North America Electric Bus Market: Federal funding & school-bus electrification drive adoption

The North America electric bus market size was valued at USD 1.70 billion in 2025 and is expected to surge around USD 7.41 billion by 2035. The electrification of fleets in the United States and Canada is being significantly driven by large federal stimulus and targeted school-bus programs. As a result, transit agencies and school districts are increasingly replacing diesel fleets with electric alternatives. Grants and incentives have reduced the initial costs for municipalities and school districts, which has improved the financial viability of these projects. This has encouraged the procurement of multiple vehicles and attracted OEM investment in local production and service networks. Additionally, the rise of state-level zero-emission bus mandates and utility partnership pilots has facilitated depot electrification planning and energy management. These developments are making large-scale rollouts more achievable for operators.

Recent Developments:

• Federal & state funding increases for electric school buses and transit (U.S. buyers’ guides and market studies highlight expanding support).
• OEM and market reports show rising North America market activity and forecasts supporting new manufacturing and supply investments.

Europe Electric Bus Market: City ZEB mandates & fleet procurement drive registrations

The Europe electric bus market size was reached at USD 4.74 billion in 2025 and is forecasted to hit around USD 20.61 billion by 2035. Across Europe, ambitious city and national zero-emission bus mandates have created predictable demand and led to large public tenders. This has motivated manufacturers to expand their capacity and adapt products to meet local market requirements. As procurement volumes increase, investments in charging infrastructure and service ecosystems are also rising. This is reducing the total cost of ownership and lowering procurement risks for transit authorities. The strong adoption of electric buses in several EU markets is resulting in their integration into standard urban fleets, rather than remaining limited to pilot projects. This trend is accelerating supplier consolidation and driving further technology improvements.

Recent Developments:

• Approximately 5,315 battery-electric buses registered in H1 2025 in Europe, 41% YoY growth, signaling rapid municipal adoption.
• ACEA / ICCT analyses and city-level depot expansions supporting large tenders and public financing for ZEB transitions.

Electric Bus Market Share, By Region, 2025 (%)

LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East & Africa) Electric Bus Market: City electrification pilots & international financing spur growth

The LAMEA electric bus market was valued at USD 0.74 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to reach around USD 3.24 billion by 2035. In Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, municipal pilot projects, international climate finance, and city-led procurement programs are playing a key role in initiating fleet electrification and developing the local project pipeline. Donor-backed and multilateral financing has reduced investment risks for cities, enabling the implementation of demonstrator projects that validate operational models. Successful pilot projects in countries such as Chile and Colombia have provided regional examples for replication. As a result, the expansion of local charging and maintenance capacity is supporting the potential for scaling up electrification across these regions.

Recent Developments:

• Latin America’s e-bus fleet grew to 6,055 vehicles by end-2024 (+13% YoY) with ongoing city pipelines across multiple countries.
• C40 / ICCT and multilateral project pipelines publishing city project lists that mobilise funding and technical support for e-bus rollouts.

Electric Bus Market Segmental Analysis

The electric bus market is segmented into propulsion, battery chemistry, battery capacity, seating capacity, service, fleet ownership, and region.

Propulsion Analysis

The dominance of all-electric buses in the market can be attributed to their zero tailpipe emissions, reduced operating costs, and significant government backing. These vehicles have become a preferred choice for urban public transport systems, particularly where routes are predictable and depot charging infrastructure is available. Ongoing advancements in battery efficiency, coupled with declining battery costs, have enhanced both the range and reliability of BEVs, making them increasingly suitable for daily city operations. The widespread adoption of all-electric buses in regions such as China, Europe, and North America has further established BEVs as the leading propulsion technology in the sector.

Electric Bus Market Share, By Propulsion, 2025 (%)

Fuel cell electric buses represent the fastest-growing propulsion segment, primarily due to increasing demand for extended range and rapid refueling capabilities. These buses are especially well-suited for intercity routes and high-utilization services, where minimizing charging downtime is essential. The implementation of government hydrogen strategies, along with pilot programs and investments in refueling infrastructure, is accelerating the adoption of fuel cell technology. Although current costs remain elevated, ongoing reductions in fuel cell prices and the expansion of green hydrogen supply are projected to drive significant growth in this segment.

Battery Chemistry Analysis

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries have established themselves as the dominant chemistry in the electric bus market, largely because of their high thermal stability, extended cycle life, and cost-effectiveness. These characteristics make LFP batteries particularly suitable for public transport fleets that require a focus on safety, durability, and consistent daily operations. Their reliable performance in high-temperature environments and ability to withstand frequent charging cycles further enhance their suitability for urban bus applications. The extensive adoption of LFP batteries in Asia, particularly in China, has solidified their status as the preferred choice for large-scale electric bus deployments.

Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) and Nickel Cobalt Aluminum (NCA) batteries are currently the fastest-growing battery chemistries in the electric bus sector, primarily because of their higher energy density. This advantage allows for longer driving ranges and reduced vehicle weight, which is particularly beneficial for intercity, coach, and high-capacity bus applications. Manufacturers aiming to deliver premium or long-range electric buses are increasingly adopting NMC and NCA chemistries. Ongoing advancements in safety features, battery management systems, and cost optimization are expected to further accelerate the adoption of these battery types in global markets.

Battery Capacity Analysis

The 100–300 kWh battery capacity segment leads the market because it provides an optimal balance among range, cost, and vehicle weight. This capacity range is particularly well-suited for intracity operations, as it enables daily driving requirements to be met without incurring excessive battery costs. The majority of standard 9-12 meter city buses are equipped with batteries in this range, making it the most prevalent configuration in the market. Additionally, the compatibility of these batteries with overnight depot charging has contributed to their widespread adoption by municipal transport operators.

Electric Bus Market Share, By Battery Capacity, 2025 (%)

Battery capacities exceeding 300 kWh constitute the fastest-growing segment in the market, primarily due to rising demand for longer range and high-capacity electric buses. Articulated buses, intercity coaches, and vehicles operating on extended duty cycles are increasingly reliant on larger battery packs to meet operational requirements. Recent advancements in fast-charging technology and improvements in energy density have enhanced the practicality of high-capacity batteries. As electric buses are deployed beyond city centers into regional and long-distance routes, this segment is projected to experience accelerated growth.

Seating Capacity Analysis

High-capacity electric buses hold a dominant position in the market, largely because of their widespread use in urban public transportation systems. These vehicles are typically deployed on high-demand routes, which allows operators to maximize passenger throughput and reduce emissions on a per-capita basis. Government initiatives often prioritize the electrification of larger buses to achieve greater environmental benefits per vehicle. Standard city buses, articulated models, and double-decker buses are included in this category, making it the most significant contributor to global electric bus volumes.

Electric Bus Market Share, By Seating Capacity, 2025 (%)

Medium-capacity electric buses represent the fastest-growing segment, fueled by increasing demand for feeder routes, suburban transportation, and flexible mobility solutions. These buses are being adopted for a variety of applications, including campus shuttles, airport transfers, and last-mile connectivity. Their lower cost and greater maneuverability compared to high-capacity buses make them particularly appealing to smaller cities and private operators. The expansion of smart city initiatives and the rise of demand-responsive transit services are further contributing to the rapid adoption of medium-capacity electric buses.

Service Analysis

Intracity services are the leading segment in the electric bus market, primarily as a result of strong policy initiatives aimed at reducing urban air pollution and emissions. City routes typically involve predictable distances, frequent stops, and centralized depots, all of which make them well-suited for electrification. The majority of government incentives and zero-emission mandates are directed toward urban public transport fleets. Consequently, electric buses are most commonly deployed in city transit networks, serving as the foundation for global electric bus adoption.

Electric Bus Market Share, By Service, 2025 (%)

Intercity electric bus services are experiencing rapid growth, driven by advancements in battery technology and the expansion of charging infrastructure. Enhanced range capabilities and the availability of fast-charging solutions are enabling electric buses to operate effectively on regional and short-haul intercity routes. Both governments and transport operators are initiating pilot programs with electric coaches as part of broader efforts to decarbonize regional transportation. Additionally, rising fuel costs and increasing sustainability targets are prompting fleet operators to consider electric alternatives for intercity operations.

Fleet Ownership Analysis

Government-owned fleets are the dominant force in the electric bus market, largely due to public transport electrification mandates and commitments to climate goals. Municipal and state transport authorities represent the largest segment of buyers, frequently benefiting from subsidies and centralized procurement initiatives. Government ownership facilitates large-scale deployment, ensures stable demand, and provides long-term contracts for manufacturers. The leadership of the public sector has been instrumental in positioning electric buses as a mainstream solution for public transportation.

Electric Bus Market Share, By Fleet Ownership, 2025 (%)

Leasing and rental models represent the fastest-growing segment in fleet ownership, as operators increasingly look to minimize upfront capital expenditures. These approaches enable transit agencies and private fleets to adopt electric buses without assuming the risks associated with battery ownership and evolving technology. Leasing arrangements also facilitate more rapid fleet expansion and provide predictable operating costs. The emergence of battery-as-a-service and comprehensive mobility solutions is further accelerating the growth of this segment in both developed and emerging markets.

Electric Bus Market Top Companies

• BYD
• Yutong Bus
• Proterra
• Volvo Buses
• Daimler Buses
• Tata Motors
• Ashok Leyland
• Alexander Dennis
• Solaris Bus & Coach
• VDL Bus & Coach
• Ebusco
• NFI Group
• Scania
• Higer Bus
• CRRC Electric Vehicles

Recent Developments by Major Companies

• In 2025, BYD expanded its presence in the global electric bus market by introducing the eBus Platform 3.0 and launching new 12-meter and 18-meter electric bus models at Busworld 2025. These developments are expected to improve safety, performance, and range for both urban and intercity transport operators. The delivery of BYD’s 5,000th electric bus in Europe highlights the company’s growing market share in the region. In addition, BYD started pilot production at a new passenger vehicle plant in Hungary, which is likely to strengthen local manufacturing capabilities and contribute to the ongoing electrification of transport in Europe.
• In 2025, Yutong Bus recorded global sales of 49,518 vehicles, representing a year-on-year increase of more than 5 percent. This growth indicates sustained demand for electric buses and low-carbon technologies. The company continued to expand its international footprint by developing service infrastructure and introducing EV Long-Life technology, which aims to extend battery service life up to 15 years or 1.5 million kilometers. Yutong also prepared to launch several new electric bus models and intelligent service solutions at Busworld Europe 2025, further enhancing its global electric vehicle portfolio.

Market Segmentation

By Propulsion

• All-electric
• PHEV
• FCEV

By Battery Chemistry

• Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)
• Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) / Nickel Cobalt Aluminum (NCA)
• Lithium Titanate (LTO)
• Others

By Battery Capacity

• Below 100 kWh
• 100-300 kWh
• Above 300 kWh

By Seating Capacity

• Low-capacity (≤20 seats)
• Medium (20–40 seats)
• High capacity (>40 seats)

By Service

• Intercity
• Intracity

By Fleet Ownership

• Government
• Private Fleet
• Leasing & Rental
• Ride-hailing Operator
• Others

By Region

• North America
• APAC
• Europe
• LAMEA