UITP India continues its ‘Mobility Minds: Inside India’s Public Transport Leadership’ online series, which highlights the voices of leaders driving innovation and transformation across India’s public transport ecosystem.

Using a concise interview-style approach, the initiative highlights perspectives from top mobility experts by exploring their career paths, strategic viewpoints, and the experiences that have shaped their leadership.

This edition features Mr. Nishant Arya, Chairman, JBM Electric Vehicles (P) Ltd., who brings his distinct experiences and vision to the discussion.

What project of yours are you most proud of?

We don’t just build electric buses, we build ecosystems. Our most significant milestone to date is JBM E-Verse, a first-of-its-kind, end-to-end e-mobility platform. Deployed globally, it serves as a blueprint for the future of sustainable public transport. By integrating electric vehicles, high-speed charging infrastructure, proprietary Lithium-ion battery technology, operations and maintenance under one roof, we offer Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) driving optimum value and cost optimisation from our mobility solutions. This ensures that sustainability is not just environmentally viable, but economically irresistible.

What is one change that you would like to see in society in the near future?

If there is one fundamental shift I wish to see in our global society, it is the transition from ‘awareness’ to ‘accountability’ regarding our environmental footprint. I envision a society where a ‘Green-First’ mindset becomes a fundamental norm. This means actively adopting circular economies and zero-emission technologies as a way of life.

Which aspect of the work culture of your organisation do you really look up to?

Long-term thinking with uncompromising integrity, doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, regardless of how technology or leadership changes. I have consistently prioritised driving a purpose-led culture focussing towards creating future-ready talent. We understand that the collective strength of our human asset plays a pivotal role in driving transformation at scale.

What is one piece of pro advice that you would like to give to maintain work-life balance?

Work-life balance for me contains two key elements − passion and drive. What drives you and what is your passion? It is something that defines me as a person. I try to maintain work-life balance by setting realistic expectations and encouraging my colleagues to take regular breaks. Moreover, implementing efficient work processes by leveraging technology, delegating responsibilities effectively and providing professional development opportunities prevent burnout and ensure a balanced approach to scaling new horizons.

A book that you would recommend one must read.

For anyone looking to understand the DNA of enduring success, I always recommend Good to Great by Jim Collins. It perfectly encapsulates the transition from being a functional organisation to becoming a transformative global force.