The Business Bytes
Chennai, December 12, 2024 (TBB Bureau): SWITCH Mobility Ltd, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, has unveiled two groundbreaking electric buses designed to redefine urban transportation in India, Europe, and the GCC regions. The SWITCH EiV12, India’s first low-floor electric city bus with chassis-mounted batteries, was launched at a high-profile event in Chennai, presided over by Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways.
Simultaneously, the SWITCH E1, engineered for the European market, was flagged off virtually. Both buses embody a shared design philosophy and advanced EV architecture, showcasing SWITCH Mobility’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The SWITCH EiV12 is a purpose-built, low-floor electric city bus designed for seamless urban commutes. With scalable battery capacity exceeding 400 kWh, the bus offers unparalleled performance, safety, and passenger comfort. It accommodates up to 39 seated passengers and features state-of-the-art accessibility measures, including a kneeling mechanism, automated wheelchair ramp, and dedicated spaces for differently-abled passengers.
Passenger safety and convenience are top priorities, as evidenced by the inclusion of five CCTV cameras for 360-degree surveillance, five dedicated seats for women, and expansive panoramic glass areas for enhanced visibility and naturally lit interiors.
SWITCH EiV12 also integrates SWITCH iON, a proprietary telematics system enabling real-time vehicle health monitoring, Intelligent Transport Management Systems (ITMS), and efficient fleet management. With rapid dual-gun charging and an IP67-rated battery to handle adverse weather, the bus sets a new benchmark in operational efficiency and reliability.
The SWITCH E1, SWITCH Mobility’s latest offering for the European market, features lightweight monocoque construction, in-wheel motors, and a flat gangway layout. Its triple-door configuration (front, center, and rear) ensures quick boarding and alighting, catering to the demands of bustling urban transit systems.
Designed to accommodate up to 93 passengers, including standees, the SWITCH E1 focuses on sustainability and passenger-centric design. Its advanced engineering ensures superior energy efficiency, cementing its position as a frontrunner in sustainable public transport solutions.
Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of Hinduja Group of Companies (India), expressed pride in the new launches, highlighting their alignment with the “Make in India” vision. “These buses are made in India for India and the world. The road infrastructure being developed under the visionary leadership of Modi Ji and Gadkari Ji has inspired SWITCH Mobility to push the boundaries of innovation,” he remarked.
Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of SWITCH Mobility, emphasized the global implications of these launches: “The EiV12 and E1 are proud milestones, showcasing our commitment to democratizing electric mobility worldwide. These products reflect our vision for a greener future and our determination to set global benchmarks in sustainable transportation.”
The Indian electric city bus market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 21% by 2030, with EV penetration expected to reach 70%. By then, the market is anticipated to surpass 70,000 units, reflecting a substantial shift towards sustainable urban transport.
With 1,800 orders already secured for the EiV12, SWITCH Mobility is poised to capitalize on this growth. Mahesh Babu, CEO of SWITCH Mobility, stated, “Our new products, built on global EV architecture, redefine efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort. The market’s overwhelming response affirms our vision for a sustainable transport future.”
SWITCH Mobility’s EiV12 and E1 underscore the company’s commitment to revolutionizing urban transportation. By combining cutting-edge technology with user-centric design, these buses promise to deliver a sustainable, efficient, and comfortable commuting experience for passengers worldwide.
