Switch Mobility introduces two low-floor electric city buses – EiV12 for India and E1 for Europe – aimed at redefining urban mobility and sustainable transportation across key markets.
11 Dec 2024 | 7373 Views | By Autocar Pro News Desk
Switch Mobility Ltd, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, has unveiled two new electric city buses – the EiV12 for the Indian market and the E1 designed for Europe. These buses represent the company’s efforts to strengthen urban mobility solutions in India, Europe, and the ...
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Switch Mobility Ltd, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, has unveiled two new electric city buses – the EiV12 for the Indian market and the E1 designed for Europe. These buses represent the company’s efforts to strengthen urban mobility solutions in India, Europe, and the GCC regions.
The Switch EiV12 is a low-floor city bus, designed specifically for urban commutes in India. It features chassis-mounted batteries with a scalable battery capacity of over 400 kWh, making it the first low-floor city bus of its kind in India. The EiV12 platform was launched by Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, in the presence of Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group, along with other dignitaries and industry leaders.
Additionally, the Switch E1, engineered for the European market, was virtually launched. Both models share common design philosophies and EV architecture.
The Switch EiV12 is designed and manufactured in India for urban city commuting, offering global standards in performance, safety, reliability, and passenger comfort. With seating for up to 39 passengers, the EiV12 aims to maximize operational efficiency for fleet operators.
Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group, remarked, “These buses reflect our commitment to the PM’s Make in India vision – made in India, for India and the world. Switch Mobility continues to innovate with cutting-edge technology and zero carbon emissions, driven by the infrastructure improvements in India.”
Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of Switch Mobility, emphasized, "The launch of the Switch EiV12 and the E1 for Europe marks a significant milestone for the Hinduja Group and Ashok Leyland, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable mobility. Switch is actively developing a range of products to expand our global reach and democratize electric mobility.”
Mahesh Babu, CEO of Switch Mobility, stated, "We’re excited to introduce two new products designed for India and Europe, built on our global EV architecture. The Switch EiV12 has already garnered over 1,800 orders, showcasing the market's confidence in our sustainable urban transport vision.”
The Indian electric city bus market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21% by 2030, with EV penetration expected to reach 70%. The total fleet of electric city buses is estimated to surpass 70,000 units by 2030.
The Switch EiV12 sets new standards in passenger comfort, safety, and technology. Its low-floor entry with a kneeling mechanism ensures easy access, while the automated wheelchair ramp and dedicated spaces make it accessible for differently-abled passengers. The bus is equipped with five CCTV cameras for safety, five dedicated seats for women, and a panoramic glass area that enhances visibility and interior lighting.
Powered by the proprietary Switch iON telematics system, the EiV12 offers real-time vehicle health monitoring, integrated fleet management, and an efficient rear-end dual-gun charging interface for quick recharging and optimized depot space use. Its IP67-rated battery allows for reliable performance in challenging road conditions.
The Switch E1, designed specifically for the European market, features a lightweight monocoque construction and in-wheel motors. It offers a flat gangway layout, triple-door configuration, and can accommodate up to 93 passengers, including standees. The E1 aims to set a new benchmark for passenger-centric public transportation in urban transit systems.