AKIA has won the fully electric bus tender held by the IETT General Directorate (Istanbul Electric Tram and Tunnel Enterprises) and will produce 50 units of its 12-metre Ultra LF12EV model for Istanbul. Production and deliveries of vehicles are scheduled to begin in 2027.
A dedicated charging and operations depot will also be established for the electric buses joining Istanbul’s public transport fleet. The facility will feature high-capacity charging infrastructure and a centralised fleet management system, enabling the entire operation to be monitored and coordinated in real time from a single control centre. The AKIA Ultra LF12EV is equipped with a 465-kWh battery and a 240-kW electric motor. Data on battery health, energy consumption and overall fleet performance can be monitored in real time. Measuring 12 metres in length the Ultra LF12EV has a passenger capacity of 80. Its fully low-floor design and wheelchair ramp provide accessible, barrier-free travel for passengers. The vehicles are equipped with latest-generation Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Digital mirror camera systems, blind spot warning, lane monitoring, pedestrian detection and collision warning systems. Following the delivery process scheduled for 2027, the new version of the Ultra LF12EV will begin carrying passengers on the streets of Istanbul.