Ashok Leyland, a leading Indian commercial vehicle manufacturer and flagship of the Hinduja Group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FlixBus India, a global leader in affordable and sustainable travel. This partnership aims to revolutionize India’s inter-city bus transportation by introducing advanced technology and innovation in high-capacity vehicles.
The MoU was signed by Mr Mohan K, Head of Bus Vertical at Ashok Leyland, Mr Max Zeumer, COO of FlixBus, and Mr Surya Khurana, MD of FlixBus India. Through this collaboration, FlixBus’s operating partners will benefit from Ashok Leyland’s advanced vehicle chassis and after-sales services, ensuring efficient operations nationwide. The partnership also focuses on empowering local bus operators with cutting-edge technology to offer seamless, eco-friendly travel solutions.
Ashok Leyland’s MD & CEO, Mr Shenu Agarwal, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing their commitment to safety, innovation, and cost-efficiency. He highlighted the company’s goal of continuing to provide industry-leading technologies and sustainable commercial vehicles.
FlixBus India’s MD, Mr Surya Khurana, noted that the collaboration will enhance inter-city bus travel, making it more accessible, sustainable, and comfortable for passengers. Following a successful start in South India, connecting cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai, FlixBus plans to expand its fleet and network to more regions. The partnership with Ashok Leyland positions FlixBus for further growth, with over 300,000 passengers already served and revenue increasing sixfold in its first six months.
This collaboration between Ashok Leyland and FlixBus is a significant step toward advancing eco-friendly, high-capacity transportation and contributing to the decarbonization of India’s transport sector. Ashok Leyland, a pioneer in the commercial vehicle industry and the flagship company of the Hinduja Group, ranks as the second-largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in India and the fourth-largest bus maker globally.
Additionally, it stands as the 19th largest truck manufacturer worldwide. Headquartered in Chennai, Ashok Leyland operates seven manufacturing facilities across India, along with a bus manufacturing plant in Ras Al Khaimah (UAE) and one in Leeds, United Kingdom. The company boasts a well-diversified portfolio and a strong international presence, recently earning the distinction of being ranked the 34th best brand in India.
With a rich 75-year legacy and a turnover of USD 4.5 billion, Ashok Leyland is a multinational company that operates in more than 50 countries. It is also one of the most fully integrated manufacturing entities in the region. In the commercial vehicle sector, the company has built one of the largest and fastest-growing networks, comprising 52,863 touchpoints, which include 1,748 exclusive service points and 11,207 outlets for Leyparts. Additionally, its “Ashok Leyland Quick Response” initiative ensures a service center is available every 75 kilometers along major highways, allowing the company to reach customers within four hours and get their vehicles back on the road in 48 hours.
