Turkish automotive company Karsan expanded its electric public transportation footprint in Italy, delivering 12 e-JEST minibuses to the Municipality of Florence.
The handover ceremony was held at Piazzale Michelangelo Square, attended by Florence’s Mayor Sara Funaro and municipal council members.
The new 100% electric e-JEST vehicles will operate in the city’s historical center, navigating its narrow streets with minimal noise and zero emissions.
This development aligns with Italy‘s broader commitment to sustainable urban transport and highlights Karsan’s growing role in Europe’s electric mobility transition.
Karsan’s growing presence in Italy
Since entering the Italian market in 2018, the company expanded its operations significantly, now servicing 27 cities with a fleet of 250 electric vehicles, including e-JEST, e-ATAK, and e-ATA models.
The compact e-JEST, designed for maneuverability and equipped with an environmentally friendly powertrain, received high praise during tender performance tests in Florence for its ability to handle challenging terrains.
Karsan CEO Okan BaÅŸ emphasized the company’s strong market position, stating: “Karsan is one of the most preferred brands in the electric transformation of Europe’s public transport.”
“Our e-JEST minibuses not only fit seamlessly into the historical texture of cities like Florence but also offer unparalleled comfort and efficiency,” he adds.
The firm has been a leader in electric and autonomous vehicle innovation in Europe.
Its portfolio includes models ranging from six meters to 18 meters, catering to diverse urban mobility needs.
The company was also the first in Europe to introduce a fully electric product range and recently delivered Italy’s first 18-meter electric bus with pantograph charging to Bologna’s Tper system.
By 2025, the company aims to further strengthen its presence in Italy and other European markets.
“With our environmentally friendly vehicles and their economic benefits, demand for Karsan is rapidly growing. We will continue investing in this market without slowing down,” says BaÅŸ.
About Karsan
Founded in Turkey over 58 years ago, Karsan specializes in the production of commercial vehicles, including electric and autonomous models.
The company operates a state-of-the-art facility in Bursa, capable of producing a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to heavy trucks.
Karsan’s innovations have earned it a prominent place in the global automotive market, particularly in public transport.
With its latest delivery in Florence, Karsan continues to embody its vision of being “One Step Ahead in the Future of Mobility,” playing a key role in the green transformation of public transportation systems worldwide.