Gujarat’s Sustainable Advancement: Switch Mobility’s Double-Decker Electric Bus Steals the Spotlight
The Gujarat Chief Minister, Bhupendrabhai Patel, officially opened the Switch EiV 22 bus at the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) during the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024. Switch Mobility Ltd, a member of the Hinduja Group and manufacturer of cutting-edge carbon-neutral electric buses and light commercial vehicles, unveiled its double-decker bus.
Chief Minister, Minister of State for Transport Harsh Sanghavi, GIFT City chairman Hasmukh Adhia, GIFT City Managing Director Tapan Ray, Additional Chief Secretary (Ports, Transport, Revenue) MK Das, and GSRTC MD MA Gandhi rode the bus for the first time. GSRTC has committed to enhancing public transportation in Gujarat by acquiring five Switch EiV 22 buses. The buses constructed by Switch Mobility will run on the SG Highway between Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad, providing commuters with an environmentally friendly option.
The goal of the GSRTC fleet is to offer smarter and cleaner intra-city transportation. Switch Mobility is in charge of the procurement, upkeep, and operation of these electric buses.
“Revealing the nation’s inaugural EV double-decker, Switch EiV 22, in August 2022 showcased our dedication to redefining urban mobility. Presently, as we deliver these double-deckers to GSRTC, it is an honor to contribute to Gujarat’s vision of sustainable progress.”
Mahesh Babu, CEO of Switch Mobility Automotive Ltd., stated,
“These vehicles will emerge as iconic landmarks along the Gandhinagar-Ahmedabad route, establishing connections between cities not just efficiently but also offering passengers a panoramic, comfortable, and genuinely electrifying experience. The expansive interiors, high-quality seating, and inventive elements such as extra-wide doors herald a new era of heightened commuter comfort.”
Babu further underscored the importance of the buses, stating.
“May these double-deckers become synonymous with a new era of smart, green, and truly delightful urban travel in Gujarat!”
He added a vision for the future.
The bus, which can accommodate 65 passengers, is designed to offer more eco-friendly and intelligent travel experiences. It has extra-wide doors, a safety-compliant emergency exit, and a custom air conditioning system made for India. The bus prioritizes comfort with its premium interiors and lightweight cushions. It also has exclusive features like “Switch iON,” which allows for continuous real-time monitoring and remote diagnostics.
With its 231 kWh battery pack that uses cutting-edge lithium-ion NMC chemistry, the Switch EiV 22 represents a significant breakthrough in environmentally friendly urban transportation. Switch Mobility’s vast fleet of almost 600 buses runs smoothly in major Indian cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.