India’s first electric double-decker bus ‘Switch EiV 22’ launched

Highlights:

• Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari recently launched India’s first AC double-decker electric bus named ‘Switch EiV 22’ developed by Ashok Leyland in Mumbai.
• The bus can gain a 100km of range with just a 45min charge, while a full charge takes 80 minutes and has a Nickel, Manganese and Cobalt (NMC) battery that comes with an 8-year warranty.
• The ‘Switch EiV 22’ can ferry nearly twice the number of seated passengers as compared to a single-decker bus, with just 18% increase in kerb weight (without the passengers).
• The electric bus has contemporary styling with feel-good interiors and exteriors. With wide front and rear doors, two staircases and an emergency door, the bus boats of the latest safety standards.
• This electric double decker serves as an ideal solution for urban commuting, as they occupy less road, terminal and depot floor space per seated passenger.
• Ashok Leyland plans to deliver 200 air-conditioned units to Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), starting from December.
• In India, electric buses in future will have a big leap in mass public transport. 
• It would support the government initiative of reducing fuel import bill. 
• Besides, it will help to curb air pollution as these buses have zero tailpipe emissions and lower noise pollution.