Switch Mobility Ltd, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, has introduced two advanced electric city buses: the EiV12, tailored for the Indian market, and the E1, designed for Europe. These launches signify the company’s commitment to enhancing urban transportation solutions across India, Europe, and GCC nations.
The Switch EiV12, a low-floor city bus built for urban travel in India, features a chassis-mounted battery system with scalable capacity exceeding 400 kWh, making it India’s first low-floor electric bus of its kind. The EiV12 platform was unveiled by Shri Nitin Gadkari, India’s Minister of Road Transport and Highways, alongside Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group, and other prominent leaders.
For the European market, the Switch E1 was launched virtually. Both models share a unified design language and a common EV architecture, reflecting the company’s global vision for sustainable urban mobility.
Designed and manufactured in India, the EiV12 combines exceptional performance, advanced safety features, and enhanced passenger comfort. With a seating capacity of up to 39 passengers, it is engineered for optimal operational efficiency. The bus features a low-floor entry with a kneeling mechanism for easy boarding, an automated wheelchair ramp with designated spaces for differently-abled passengers, and five CCTV cameras for improved security. Dedicated seats for women and panoramic windows further enhance visibility and lighting, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive travel experience.
The bus integrates the proprietary Switch iON telematics system, enabling real-time vehicle health monitoring and efficient fleet management. The dual-gun charging interface and IP67-rated batteries ensure quick recharging and reliable performance even on challenging roads.
The E1, designed specifically for European cities, boasts a lightweight monocoque structure, in-wheel motors, and a flat gangway layout. It can accommodate up to 93 passengers, including standing room, and features a triple-door configuration for seamless passenger flow.
Ashok P. Hinduja remarked, “These buses showcase our dedication to the Make in India initiative, delivering cutting-edge technology while addressing global transportation needs.”
Dheeraj Hinduja emphasized the milestone achieved with these launches, stating, “The EiV12 and E1 underscore our focus on expanding sustainable mobility solutions worldwide.”
Mahesh Babu, CEO of Switch Mobility, highlighted the market response, saying, “The EiV12 has already secured over 1,800 orders, reflecting trust in our vision for greener urban transport.”
With the Indian electric city bus market projected to grow at a CAGR of 21% and EV penetration expected to reach 70% by 2030, Switch Mobility is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of public transportation.
