Karsan eJEST

North American Mini-Bus

What's on this page:

Explore the eJEST, a vehicle that is reshaping suburban transportation and seamlessly connecting citizens to main transit lines. The Karsan eJEST sets a new standard in the industry with an impressive 12-year service life, doubling the durability of traditional "cutaway" buses. This longevity enhances operational effectiveness and provides transit agencies with a more substantial return on investment, making it a prudent choice for long-term transit solutions.

Reshaping transit in Canada and the USA

Immerse yourself in the world of this highly effective mini-bus solution that is reshaping transit in Canada and the USA. By seamlessly connecting rural areas to mainlines, it enhances accessibility, transforms the operations of transit authorities, and contributes to the development of on-demand transit.

Cost-effective operation

Transit authorities reap the benefits of its cost-effective operation, ensuring efficient resource utilization. With a length of 19.2 feet (5.8 meters), this mini-bus maximizes capacity utilization even at off-peak hours. It can accommodate up to 19 passengers, with 10 seated, and provides wheelchair accessibility.

eJEST Interior

Exploring the Comfort and Features Inside the eJEST

Karsan's CEO Okan Baş About the eJEST

"Structure is unique. It took us more than two years to come up with the design of this bus because there is no predecessor. It's not [a] replacement to any type of vehicle."

eJEST is made of premium components. Very reliable and robust.
"BMW batteries are used here and some components from [BMW] i3 or i8".

About Karsan

Interview on TRT World about eJEST

Karsan CEO Okan Baş and the Karsan Team Discuss the eJEST on TBTNews

eJEST Impression

Elevate the Image of Your City
Testimonials
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Santa Maria Transit, USA
G. Anguiano discusses how the eJEST addresses the driver shortage challenge:
"

Individuals with such (CDL) licenses are hard to come by. Our contractor has to recruit and help individuals secure that license before they can become bus drivers. So technically you could have a regular driver's license and we can get you at least driving this type of a vehicle until you onboard your CDL license

"
About ridership after 8:30 and explains how the agency plans to utilize the eJEST for both fixed routes and on-demand services
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We looked at the data and unfortunately, there isn't sufficient ridership beyond the 8:30p.m. period for us to have 18 routs active. But (what riders say) you guys shut down before I get out of class or I close down the kitchen. We'll do something better. We'll provide door-to-door service. After 8:30 we'll come to your curb, pick you up and take you to your front door".
And during the daytime, the eJEST will operate as a fixed-route bus, says Gamaliel Anguiano.

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2
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Minnesota Valley Transit Association, USA
MVTA Fleet Manager Scott Poppenhagen estimates that the annual fuel savings from operating eJEST electric vehicles will offset the initial infrastructure costs within approximately 3.5 years.
"

The Karan eJest is a purpose built, people moving machine that is turning heads and getting people excited about transit. Super proud to be part of an organization that values sustainability, innovation, and the sheer awesomeness of these vehicles. Each bus is set to deligently serve our on-demand Connect routes for many years to come. It took a tremendous effort to reach this milestone. A heartfelt thanks to all at MVTA, Schmitty & Sons, and Damera for kicking off our journey toward a zero emission future.

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Scott also said that the distinctive wrap design on the eJEST buses coupled with modern aesthetics has attracted attention throughout the community:
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It’s turned a lot of heads, and people have been taking out their phones to grab pictures.

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Scott Poppenhagen
Fleet Manager, Minnesota Valley Transit Association
3
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Minnesota Valley Transit Association, USA
In 2023, MVTA adopted its Sustainability Plan, creating a comprehensive framework to advance environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic value across its operations. As a key initiative within this plan, the eJEST was proudly added to the fleet.
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MVTA is committed to building a greener and more equitable public transit system of the future. Reducing the carbon generated by our own operations is at the forefront of our Sustainability Plan, and we’re committed to being an industry leader on this front. Introducing the eJEST as the first zeroemission vehicles in our fleet is a huge step in realizing our sustainability goals and positively impacting the communities we serve.”

"
Luther Wynder
CEO, Minnesota Valley Transit Association
4
/6
Saint John Transit
"

It's been positive feedback regarding just the bus itself. The word that everyone uses is 'Cute'. We hear that a lot: 'It's a cute bus!' These run approximately $350,000. And if you're looking at a diesel, you're somewhere around $600,000 to $700,000 for a diesel 44.

Another savings we're seeing is in terms of fuel. Obviously, switching to an electric bus means you're not purchasing diesel and incurring those costs; instead, you're doing an overnight charge. We're seeing costs between $3 or $4 per charge for the bus. So, you're getting 6 to 8 hours of service for $4.

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5
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"

The shuttle / paratransit space is a challenging area to decarbonize. Minimal options, range limitations and long/inconsistent blocks on top of the need for infrastructure is tough to chew on. A little bus came to visit us at CMBC that hopes to fill that void.
Like any good dolmus, we filled it full of people and put it through its paces around Burnaby and Vancouver, turning a bunch of heads in the process. Maybe it was the bright colour, giant wraparound windows or the micro machine scale factor but there’s a vibe to this thing that transcends the sum of its parts.
The eJest hails from Bursa, Türkiye. Nice to see a piece of Green Bursa on this side of the world. Çok güzel

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6
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"

Awesome day yesterday, testing the Damera Corporation mini E-bus in City of West Palm Beach, FL. We had 40 people test ride and over 30 people stop by to look inside and ask questions about the future of local transit in the City.

We added an additional time slot, due to demand, to take a test ride on the e-mini bus.

"

eJEST in the Spotlight

Media Highlights on the Revolutionary Mini-Bus
Oakville News

Oakville Transit Enhances Service with Innovative On-Demand Solution

Starting from July 2, 2024, Oakville Transit has significantly expanded its on-demand transportation services. This expansion is spearheaded by the innovative Karsan eJEST buses, which have enabled the replacement or supplementation of various fixed routes across new zones.

Mass Transit

What Kind of Big Impact Will a New Minibus Have on North America’s Small Bus Market?

The modern transit bus eJEST provides the flexibility that transit agencies need to manage on-demand services and achieve lower emissions. These vehicles are transforming service delivery in suburban areas.

eJEST Sustainability

Driving Innovation in Public Transit with Zero-Emission Technology

Each eJEST electric bus reduces carbon emissions by over 50 metric tons annually compared to standard internal combustion engine (ICE) buses.

According to calculations based on Environmental Protection Agency estimates, using the eJEST versus an ICE vehicle is comparable to planting 1,100 trees every year or removing 11 cars from the road. With the five vehicles going into service, that would be the equivalent of removing the carbon emissions of 55 cars or planting 5,500 trees annually.

as posted by Sun Thisweek

Original Article

eJEST Quick Manual

Essential Guide to Operating the Karsan eJEST

Reshaping transit in Canada and the USA

Transit agencies recognize the potential of eJEST in revolutionizing public transportation. Its smaller footprint, advanced features coupled with its extended range, a unique 4-wheel independent suspension system and hydraulic brake system, makes it an attractive option for enhancing urban mobility while reducing environmental impact. As cities strive for cleaner air and more sustainable transit options, eJEST by Karsan Automotive emerges as a crucial player in shaping the future of urban transportation.

Cost-effective operation

Through our exclusive distribution of Karsan vehicles and unwavering commitment to excellence, Damera empowers agencies across North America to revolutionize their fleets, minimize emissions, and pave the way for a more sustainable future. Our dedication to reliability and customer satisfaction sets us apart. With years of expertise in the transportation industry, we offer comprehensive support and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each agency.

From initial consultations to the seamless installation of charging infrastructure, ongoing support, and timely parts supply, Damera is with our clients every step of the way. We prioritize transparency, communication, and efficiency to ensure that our clients receive the highest standard of service. Contact us today: 905-696-8328

01. How to start eJEST

  1. Turn the master switch to the open position;
  2. insert the RFID card (which serves as the key) into the reader;
  3. push the Start/Stop button;
  4. press the brake pedal;
  5. push the Start/Stop button again; it should turn green and
    ensure the "Ready" indicator appears on the cluster screen;
  6. press the brake pedal again;
  7. shift to D;
  8. release the Parking Brake.

You are now ready to drive.

How to Shut Down the Karsan eJEST

  1. Press the brake pedal;
  2. shift to N;
  3. activate the Parking Brake;
  4. press the Engine Start/Stop button and
    ensure the "Ready" indicator has disappeared from the cluster screen;
  5. remove the RFID card.

02. Unveil the Charging Process of eJEST 🔋

The combination of Li-ion batteries and an electric motor brings the eJEST, quiet and environmentally friendly vehicle, to life, delivering a reliable and safe transportation solution with a proven track record of real-world experience.

Watch a quick manual to learn all about the effortless and eco-friendly charging process. 🌱

  1. Shut down the vehicle;
  2. open the charging plug cap located on the front grille;
  3. Put the charging cable into the charging plug;
  4. Activate the charging operation on charging station;
  5. Start/Stop Button will start to blink;
  6. Check the status on the cluster screen:
    go to Energy tab on the touch screen and select Battery Icon and charging indicators will be displayed in green on the touch screen.

Read more about chargers

e-JEST easily charges itself through the charging socket at the rear right side. e-JEST, which can be charged with two types of AC and DC, recharges battery for 4 hours at night and 65 minutes with quick charging during the day.

Learn more what charger is the best solution for you by contacting our office: 905-696-8328

  1. ChargePoint Chargers
  2. Siemens/Heliox Chargers
  3. ABB Chargers

03. 10" Digital Cluster Screen 🖥

Experience enhanced situational awareness with the eJEST's intuitive 10" digital cluster screen, which displays critical vehicle information at a glance:

  • Speed and Remaining Range:
    Stay updated on your current speed and how far you can go on the remaining charge.
  • Electricity Consumption:
    Monitor your energy usage in real time.
  • Exterior Temperature:
    Keep an eye on the outside temperature for optimal vehicle performance.
  • Odometer:
    Track the total distance your vehicle has traveled.Charge Status: Easily view your battery's charge level.
  • Accelerator Position:
    See the position of the accelerator for efficient driving.Gear Indicators: Know your current gear setting at a glance.
  • Warning Lights:
    Be alerted immediately to any potential issues with visual indicators.

This smart dashboard ensures that you have all the necessary information for safe and efficient driving, making every journey in the eJEST seamless and informed.

04. Multimedia

04.01. Lighting and Climate

With the 10-inch touchscreen, you have seamless control over the vehicle's interior and exterior lighting, as well as the digital route indicator. In both cold and hot weather, you can easily access climate adjustments with just one touch, allowing you to control airflow direction within the vehicle. This feature enhances comfort by enabling functions like the windshield defroster when needed, ensuring a more pleasant and safe driving experience.

04.02. Bluetooth

With the Bluetooth feature, you can effortlessly connect your mobile phone to the vehicle's audio system, allowing you to listen to your favorite music wirelessly. Additionally, if you prefer, you can view and control your multimedia content directly on the 10-inch touchscreen by using the convenient USB plug, offering a versatile and immersive entertainment experience while on the road.

04.03. Rearview, Surveillance Cameras and GPS📷 🗺

Let's take the driver's seat of the Karsan eJEST and dive into its features.

This bus is remarkably agile thanks to its compact size of 19 feet 2 inches, and the REARVIEW CAMERA further enhances the driver's agility.


It offers a clear view of the area behind the bus, enhancing the driver's awareness and minimizing blind spots. This technology not only ensures safe reversing but also aids in maneuvering through tight spaces, making urban driving a breeze.


The SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS strategically placed throughout the bus provide a watchful eye on both passengers and surroundings. This added layer of security promotes a safe and comfortable environment for everyone on board.


With the advanced GPS system, navigation becomes seamless. The GPS guides the driver, optimizing transit time and ensuring passengers reach their destinations promptly.

04.04. Driving Settings

In the realm of urban mobility, safety and efficiency are paramount. That's why eJEST introduces innovative features like Speed Limiter and Acceleration Limiter to enhance the driving experience.

🚦 Speed Limiter:

With eJEST's Speed Limiter, drivers have the ability to set a maximum speed for the vehicle, ensuring it stays within safe limits. This feature can be easily adjusted via the touchscreen interface, allowing the driver to switch between 70 km/h and 50 km/h at the press of a button.

By controlling the speed, eJEST not only ensures the safety of passengers and pedestrians but also helps in reducing fuel consumption and wear-and-tear on the vehicle.

⚙ Acceleration Limiter:

The Acceleration Limiter, accessible through the ACC button on the touchscreen, restricts the vehicle's acceleration to a smooth 1 m/s². This measured acceleration provides a comfortable and stable ride for passengers while also promoting fuel efficiency and extending the lifespan of the vehicle's components.

These dynamic features showcase Karsan's commitment to cutting-edge technology that not only improves the quality of transit but also contributes to a safer and more sustainable urban environment. With eJEST's Speed Limiter and Acceleration Limiter, we're setting new standards for urban mobility that prioritize safety, efficiency, and a seamless driving experience.

🚍🚏 Your journey matters, and eJEST is designed to make it better, safer, and more efficient. Thanks to these innovative driving settings, every ride becomes a smoother and more controlled experience.

5. Regenerative Braking

Understanding Regenerative Modes.
Driving attitude plays a key role in maximizing the battery's range. When coupled with a mastery of accelerator and brake pedal control, regenerative braking emerges as a valuable asset, channeling surplus energy back into the battery. 🔋💨

Exploring Regen 1:

When you release the throttle pedal, Regen 1 mode initiates, immediately activating 10% of the vehicle's regenerative braking power. This action converts a portion of the vehicle’s kinetic energy back into electrical energy for storage in the battery, facilitating a smooth and gradual deceleration. As you press the brake pedal, the remaining 90% of regenerative power is progressively applied, enhancing energy recovery while ensuring a controlled slowdown.

Exploring Regen 2:

Full One-Pedal DrivingAlternatively, selecting Regenerative Braking Mode 2 (Regen 2) activates 100% of the regenerative braking power immediately upon releasing the throttle pedal. This setting allows the vehicle to slow down quickly and efficiently, maximizing energy recovery. Known as one-pedal driving, this feature enables drivers to manage deceleration through the throttle pedal alone, significantly reducing the need for the brake pedal and promoting a smoother, more energy-efficient driving experience.

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Bus Drivers in Saint John gave positive feedback about the regenerative braking. We provide the link to the article here.

Increase Ridership

with Karsan eJEST

eJEST on the Road

Increase Ridership with Damera Corporation

The design of a bus significantly impacts both ridership and driver satisfaction. Feedback from transit agencies and drivers alike underscores the appeal of the eJEST by Karsan Automotive.

With its sleek European styling and robust construction, the eJEST is ideally suited for the narrow streets prevalent in suburban areas of North America. Drivers frequently express their eagerness to operate the all-electric eJEST, often asking, "Can I drive this bus?"

The eJEST's design, emphasizing car-like comfort, directly contributes to driver satisfaction. Features like a telescopic, adjustable steering wheel and a comfortably adjustable seat enhance the driving experience. A less fatigued driver is able to provide better service, which in turn can improve overall transit operations and passenger experience. Such design considerations are crucial in making public transit an attractive option for both riders and drivers, ultimately boosting ridership and ensuring a positive impact on the transit system.