Ormsin Chivapruck explained that electric buses sourced from overseas companies would cost THB15 million. In comparison, local makers had indicated they could supply buses for just THB10 million apiece.
He carried on by saying that the ministry should receive final bids to supply the buses by the end of November. The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) originally said it needed 3,183 buses to upgrade its fleet.
It had already confirmed orders for 489 NGV (natural gas vehicle) powered ones, but delivery has been held up by allegations the purchase process was less than transparent. Mr Chivapruck said that if the investigation into the purchase does not turn up any irregularities, the NGV buses will be delivered in November.
He also warned that the BMTA might not have enough money to buy the total number of buses needed for its fleet upgrade. He finished off by saying the agency had already worked out a contingency plan that would see 670 old buses refurbished at an average price of THB1 million each.
Bangkok may source new buses from Thai manufacturers
News in Asia
The Thai Transport Ministry says it may opt to source new electric buses for Bangkok from local manufacturers. The deputy-minister said that the price for the total 200 buses might tip the balance in favour of Thai makers.