The two low-floor electric city buses – E1 and EiV12 introduced by SWITCH Mobility, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, has been designed with clear objectives in mind.
As Mahesh Babu, CEO of SWITCH Mobility, explained, the company’s goal is to deliver “the best for all stakeholders and create value across every segment of the value chain.” The purpose-built buses are engineered specifically for urban commuting, prioritising enhanced performance, safety, and reliability.
Speaking to Mobility Outlook, Mahesh Babu, said, “These are born-electric bus,” emphasising its ability to minimise service downtime while providing customers with comprehensive data insights—up to two terabytes per vehicle per day—for transparent and efficient operations.
Emphasising the innovative EV architecture underpinning the EiV12 and E1, Mahesh Babu said the bus with chassis-mounted batteries, comes with several features including a kneeling mechanism for easy boarding, an automated wheelchair ramp, and dedicated spaces for differently-abled passengers. Women's safety has been prioritised with five CCTV cameras ensuring no blind spots and reserved seating for women. The panoramic glass windows, the largest in its segment, enhance visibility, create naturally lit interiors, and contribute to a superior passenger experience.
The SWITCH EiV12, designed, developed, and manufactured in India, combines cutting-edge technology with a user-centric approach. It offers scalable battery capacities, enabling a range of 200 to 400 kilometres, and boasts the highest seating capacity in its class, accommodating 39 seated and 63 standing passengers, he pointed out.
Built on three pillars—innovation, technology, and comfort—the EiV12 prioritises passenger inclusivity and safety. Features such as a low-entry height of 250mm, tilting mechanisms for differently-abled individuals, and automated passenger counting enhance accessibility. Five CCTV cameras and advanced fire detection systems ensure safety, while rear-end charging ports optimise depot space. With a lifespan-focused design, the bus promises a total cost of ownership savings of up to INR 1 crore over its operational (running about 90,000 km in 12 years) life, he explained.
Switch E1: A Global Innovation
Simultaneously, SWITCH has introduced the E1 bus for the European market. Lightweight and technologically advanced, the E1 is two tonne lighter than its competitors and features a flat floor, three doors, and seamless adaptability for future technologies, he asserted. The E1 is tailored for global markets, with deliveries already underway in Spain and other European countries.
Scaling Heights Globally
SWITCH Mobility’s global footprint includes three manufacturing facilities—two in India and one in the UK—supported by a robust dealer network. In India, the electric bus market is expected to grow exponentially, driven by government policies and the push for sustainable urban mobility. By 2030, city buses alone are projected to achieve 70% EV penetration. SWITCH is poised to lead this transformation with its innovative platforms and strong order book of over 1,800 buses, set for delivery in Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
The Journey Thus Far
SWITCH Mobility’s journey, which began with Ashok Leyland’s foray into electric mobility in 2010, has reached significant milestones, culminating in the recent launch of EiV12 and E1 buses.
Since unveiling its first product in June 2021, the company Mobility has expanded its portfolio to include light commercial vehicles, city buses, intercity buses, and more. Notably, the double-decker electric bus remains a hallmark of SWITCH’s ingenuity. Over the last three years, the company has achieved commendable growth, with 3,000 buses in operation globally, more than 130 million kilometers logged, and a strong presence in India and Europe.
Vision For The Future
SWITCH Mobility’s strategy transcends product development; it is about reshaping the landscape of urban transportation. By focusing on modular designs, scalable battery solutions, and a user-first philosophy, the company is delivering innovative, efficient and sustainable mobility solutions. Its proprietary SWITCH iON telematics system connects buses across ecosystems, analysing 22 million data points to optimise performance.
As Mahesh Babu remarked, 'We are not just creating buses; we are shaping the future of transportation. Our products are designed to meet global standards while addressing the unique challenges of Indian roads.'
With the SWITCH EiV12 and SWITCH E1, the company is setting benchmarks in electric mobility, both in India and globally. The company’s journey is a testament to its vision of delivering innovation and sustainability while redefining the possibilities of urban transportation. These new launches mark a significant step toward fulfilling their mission of pioneering a greener, more efficient future for mobility worldwide.
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