Sanur’s Electric Shuttle Buses Made Permanent to Boost Tourism

Sanur is making headlines as Bali pushes forward with sustainable tourism initiatives. After a successful trial period that began in August 2025, the electric shuttle bus service in Sanur is no longer just an experiment. It is now set to become a permanent fixture in one of Bali’s most visited beach towns. 

For both tourists and locals, this move signals a major step toward cleaner, smarter, and more convenient mobility.

The Denpasar City Government has committed to expanding the fleet to 12 electric buses by the end of the year. These vehicles are designed to carry up to 12 passengers each, making them ideal for short-distance trips in and around Sanur’s bustling resort area. Operating from 6 am to 10 pm, the service provides consistent access for visitors who want to explore the town without relying on private vehicles or motorbikes.

Connecting Sanur’s Hotspots

The shuttle buses link Sanur’s key touchpoints, including local markets, malls, and beach parking areas. The route runs from Sanur Tourism Junior High School to Sindu Market, Icon Mall, a public EV charging station at Lake Poso, and down to Mertasari Beach. For tourists arriving with cars or scooters, designated parking hubs have been integrated into the system, ensuring that streets are less congested while still keeping popular attractions easily accessible.

The Bigger Picture for Sanur’s Tourism

The permanent adoption of the electric shuttle service fits into a wider ambition: turning Sanur into a low-emission tourism zone. By encouraging visitors to leave their vehicles in designated pockets and move around on shared, eco-friendly buses, the city is positioning itself as a model of green urban planning in Bali.

The timing is symbolic as well. The official launch will coincide with Bali Climate Week, showcasing Sanur’s commitment to aligning tourism growth with environmental responsibility. It is a clear message that the island is taking both visitor comfort and sustainability seriously.

Practical Questions for the Future

While the benefits are obvious, questions remain about how this service will evolve. Ticket rates are expected to be introduced or adjusted to ensure long-term financial sustainability. The challenge will be balancing affordability for locals while maintaining a service level that appeals to tourists who value convenience.

Another concern lies in accessibility. The buses currently accommodate a small number of passengers, which is suitable for quieter periods. But during peak holiday seasons, demand could quickly outstrip supply. If successful, scaling the service will require more investment in fleet size, infrastructure, and possibly integration with other parts of Bali’s transport system.

Toward a Cleaner, Smarter Sanur

Despite these open questions, the move to establish permanent electric shuttles is a major win for Sanur. It represents a step toward better air quality, smoother traffic, and a more relaxed experience for tourists exploring the beachside destination. For locals, it signals a government willingness to invest in infrastructure that supports both daily mobility and the long-term appeal of Sanur as a tourism hub.