Ashok Leyland Secures Order for 500 Electric Buses from Chennai MTC

Ashok Leyland, a prominent player in the commercial vehicle sector, recently announced that its subsidiary, OHM Global Mobility, has secured an order for 500 ultra-low floor electric buses from the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) in Chennai. This significant deal underscores the company's commitment to advancing electric mobility in urban transportation.

Details of the Electric Buses

The contract involves the delivery of 12-meter electric buses, with 400 of them being non-air-conditioned and 100 equipped with air conditioning. Each bus is designed to accommodate 37 seated passengers and has the capacity for an additional 24 standing passengers. The electric buses are engineered to offer a range of over 200 kilometers on a single charge, making them suitable for urban commuting needs.

Role of Switch Mobility

In this arrangement, Switch Mobility, another subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, will supply the Switch EiV12 model buses to OHM Global Mobility. OHM is responsible for operating and maintaining these buses for a period of 12 years as part of the contract awarded by MTC. This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of public transportation in Chennai.

Commitment to Electric Mobility

Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director and CEO of Ashok Leyland, emphasized the company’s dedication to facilitating the transition towards electric mobility. He stated, "We are committed to driving the transition to electric mobility, and this partnership with MTC is a step forward in creating cleaner, more efficient transport systems." This sentiment reflects the broader industry trend towards sustainable transportation solutions.

Current Operations of Switch Mobility

Switch Mobility has a proven track record in the electric vehicle space, with over 950 vehicles already in operation. This latest order contributes to a robust order book of over 2,000 vehicles, showcasing the growing demand for electric public transportation solutions. The success of Switch Mobility is indicative of the shift in consumer preference towards environmentally friendly alternatives.

Significance of the Contract

The partnership between Ashok Leyland and Chennai MTC represents a pivotal move towards modernizing urban transit systems. By integrating electric buses into the fleet, MTC aims to reduce the carbon footprint of public transportation, aligning with global sustainability goals. The introduction of electric buses is expected to lead to lower operational costs and enhanced passenger comfort.

Future Outlook

As urban centers worldwide seek solutions to combat pollution and traffic congestion, the demand for electric buses is anticipated to rise. Ashok Leyland’s strategic focus on electric mobility positions it well to capitalize on this trend. The successful implementation of this project could serve as a model for other cities in India and beyond, encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles in public transportation.

Conclusion

Ashok Leyland’s acquisition of an order for 500 electric buses from Chennai MTC marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards promoting electric mobility. With the support of its subsidiaries, OHM Global Mobility and Switch Mobility, Ashok Leyland is poised to make substantial contributions to cleaner and more efficient urban transport systems, setting a precedent for future advancements in the industry.