Ashok Leyland ’s Optare Versa electric bus to hit Indian roads by 2017

Photo credit indianautosblog

More and more Indian automobile players are coming forward with electric vehicles designed for Indian market.

Ashok Leyland of Hinduja Group is all set to roll out Optare Versa electric bus in the country by 2017.

The bus is targeted for feeder, airport tarmac and intra-city applications.

The 36-seater bus is being showcased at the 4th Bus and Special Vehicle Show (SIAM) held in Greater Noida, India.

The company expects to launch this vehicle in the country in the next two years.

The zero emissions vehicle, emitting zero noise can go up to 90 miles in one charge.

Photo credit indianautosblog
Photo credit indianautosblog

This low-floor, low-weight bus is a completely built unit (CBU) from its UK based subsidiary Optare and consumes only one unit of electricity for covering one kilometer.

Interior features include seat mounted stanchions, on-board Wi-Fi, dedicated wheel-chair access and foldable ramp.

The unveiling of Versa is expected to promote sustainable urban transport in India, enhancing government’s commitment to reduce carbon footprint.

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Ashok Leyland currently has 22 per cent market share in India in the 8-12 ton bus segment, which is expected to go up by 25 per cent in the forthcoming fiscal.

The company has over 60 per cent market share in above 12 ton bus category.

The company currently exports to various markets including ASEAN, SAARC, LATAM, middle East and Africa.

Ashok Leyland also presented the 12m FESLF CNG and the MiTR School bus at the SIAM show.

The company is one of the largest providers of electric and hybrid buses in the world.

Sabeena Wahid
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