SWITCH Mobility, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, has taken a bold step towards redefining urban mobility. At a high-profile launch event attended by Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, the company launched two new electric buses, the SWITCH EiV12 for India and the SWITCH E1 for the European market.
SWITCH EiV12: Made in India, for India
EiV12 is a low-floor electric city bus designed specifically for Indian roads. It is the first of its kind in India to feature a chassis-mounted battery with expandable capacity of over 400 kWh. This design optimizes energy efficiency and enhances operational flexibility.
The EiV12 can accommodate up to 39 passengers and prioritizes accessibility with thoughtful features such as an automatic wheelchair ramp and a kneeling mechanism. Passenger safety is further emphasized by five blind-spot-free CCTV cameras and female-only seats.
Other standout features include:
- SWITCH iON telematics: Real-time health monitoring and efficient fleet management.
- Panoramic glass area: Enhanced visibility and indoor lighting.
- Advanced charging technology: Rear-end dual gun charging ensures quick turnaround times, perfect for busy city garages.
EiV12 has secured 1,800 orders, reflecting strong market confidence in its capabilities.
SWITCH E1: European innovation
Designed specifically for European cities, the SWITCH E1 features a lightweight monocoque construction for optimal efficiency. Its features:
- hub motor: For a quieter, more efficient ride.
- Flat channel design: Ensure seamless passenger flow.
- Three door configuration: Reduce the time of getting on and off the bus.
The E1 can accommodate 93 passengers (including standing passengers) and meets the needs of Europe’s dense urban transport systems.
The growing electric bus market
The Indian electric bus market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21% by 2030. By then, it is expected that more than 70,000 electric city buses will be put into operation, and the penetration rate of electric vehicles will reach 70%. SWITCH Mobility aims to capitalize on this momentum with new product launches.
Commitment to sustainable development
During the event, Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman, Hinduja Group (India) emphasized that these buses are a realization of the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Indian government. The company’s long-term vision is to democratize electric mobility while growing its global presence. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman, SWITCH Mobility, highlighted the company’s goal of achieving sustainable mobility globally.
what this means for the future
The EiV12 and E1 demonstrate SWITCH Mobility’s ability to combine innovative engineering with passenger-centric design. From energy-saving operations to enhanced accessibility, these buses meet the pressing needs of urban transportation in an environmentally friendly manner.
By embracing electric technology, SWITCH Mobility not only contributes to sustainable mobility but also positions itself as the global market leader in electric buses.
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