Understanding the enablers and barriers to electric bus adoption: Comparative insights from India and the Netherlands

The electrification of urban public transport systems is critical for decarbonization and achieving inclusive, sustainable development. However, the pathways for adopting electric buses (e-buses) vary significantly between high-income and low-and middle-income countries. This study investigates the socio-technical enablers and barriers influencing e-bus adoption across seven cities, three in the Netherlands and four in India using a socio-technical transitions framework integrated. Finding of this studies shows that Dutch cities have made considerable progress, supported by strong policy alignment, robust infrastructure, and institutional capacity. In contrast, Indian cities face persistent challenges, including fragmented governance, infrastructure deficits, and limited financial support. By comparing these contexts, the study identifies actionable lessons for urban public transport transitions in the low-and middle-income countries, including the importance of localizing national policy frameworks, developing scalable public–private partnerships, and addressing social acceptance and capacity constraints. The findings offer valuable guidance for policymakers and urban development practitioners aiming to accelerate zero-emission public transport transitions in rapidly urbanizing countries.