The joint-venture company of Volvo and Eicher Trucks & Buses, VE Commercial Vehicles, on Tuesday launched a new Coach & Sleeper bus range.
The custom-developed buses, designed and built-in Volvo Buses India’s factory in Hosakote on high-performance front-engine Eicher 6016 R LPO 12.4 m chassis, are suitable for bus travel in India with their future-ready design and luxurious interiors.
Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VE Commercial Vehicles, said, “A year ago, we announced the formation of a Bus division within VECV with the clear aim to shape the developments in the Indian bus industry. Today I am proud to launch a new range that synergises Eicher brand’s extensive local presence and expertise in value engineering with Volvo Buses India’s competence in premium bus segment. This product truly combines the best-of-the-both-worlds.”
Akash Passey, President, Bus Division, VECV, adds, “With the national permit being rolled out, operators seek high quality buses - that call for balanced upfront investment - to reliably cover longer distances. The new products are the perfect answer to this rapidly evolving market’s needs.”
The range of buses is powered by a 5.1-litre VEDX5 engine derived from Volvo Group’s global powertrain family. Capable of delivering maximum power of 210 hp and flat torque of 825 Nm @ 1,200-1,600 rpm, the powerhouse delivers improved performance for drivers and enhanced fuel efficiency for operators while getting passengers quickly to their destination.
The fully air-conditioned coach seats 43 passengers with 11.3 cu.m luggage space. The sleeper version offers 30 luxurious berths and offers 6.5 cu.m of luggage space. Full-height partitions separate berths to ensure privacy and security in the air-conditioned environment. It also comes with value-added features like Cruise Control, Fuel Coaching, Mbooster+ and Intelligent Engine Protection systems.
The coach’s theatre-type saloon seating, pushback seats and LED ambience ensure comfortable long journeys. USB ports, reading lights, speakers, AC louvres and infotainment systems are standard offerings.