Keto Motors’ 9-Metre Urbanova KE9 Receives CMVR Approval for India

Hyderabad-based electric vehicle maker Keto Motors has secured CMVR Type Approval Certification for its Urbanova KE9 9-metre electric bus, paving the way for commercial operations across India’s urban transport and private mobility fleets. The certification, issued by the Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC), confirms that the bus meets all safety, performance, and operational standards mandated under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.

Urbanova KE9: Designed for City Transport

The Urbanova KE9 is built specifically for urban mobility, offering seating for 31 passengers and standing room for 11, with a top speed of 80 km/h. Powered by a 245 kW liquid-cooled PMSM motor, the bus delivers 3000 Nm of torque, ensuring smooth performance on steep gradients and in heavy city traffic. The electric bus provides a range of 225 km, which can vary to around 188 km depending on driving patterns.

Safety and passenger comfort are central to its design. Features include air suspension, regenerative braking, anti-lock brakes, CCS2 fast charging, electro-hydraulic power steering, and disc brakes, all tailored for efficient urban operation.

Fleet Demonstrations and Market Deployment

With certification complete, Keto Motors is preparing demonstrations for potential clients, including State Transport Undertakings, school fleets, corporate mobility services, and urban mobility operators. The company aims to encourage a transition from diesel buses to sustainable electric options.

Production and Technology Support

Manufacturing of the Urbanova KE9 will begin in early FY26 at Keto Motors’ 20-acre integrated facility in Jadcherla, Telangana, which houses in-house bus body production and has an annual capacity of 1,000 electric buses.

Product development benefits from a partnership with TRON, providing advanced liquid-cooled battery technology, a proprietary battery management system, and fleet management solutions, ensuring reliable performance under Indian urban conditions.

Expanding Electric Bus Portfolio

Keto Motors is also planning additional models, including 12-metre and 6-metre variants, targeting different segments of public transport. Since its founding in 2018, the company has focused on creating electric mobility solutions that meet the specific challenges of India’s urban transport environment.

Conclusion

 The CMVR certification of the Urbanova KE9 positions Keto Motors as a major player in India’s electric bus market. With production ramping up in Telangana and a focus on fleet deployment, the company is ready to expand sustainable mobility options in cities nationwide.

FAQ

What is the seating capacity of Urbanova KE9?
It accommodates 31 seated passengers and 11 standing passengers.

What is the driving range of the bus?
The bus offers up to 225 km, depending on driving conditions, with a practical range around 188 km.

Which motor powers the Urbanova KE9?
A 245 kW liquid-cooled PMSM motor with 3000 Nm of torque.

Where will the bus be produced?
At Keto Motors’ integrated facility in Jadcherla, Telangana, with an annual capacity of 1,000 buses.

Are more electric bus variants planned?
Yes, 12-metre and 6-metre models are in development for wider urban transport coverage.