Switch Mobility, the Anglo-Indian developer of carbon neutral electric buses and light commercial vehicles, has launched its 4th generation SWITCH e1 bus, its first fully electric bus tailored to the European market.
Developed based on 10 years of EV bus experience in UK and India and over 30 million driven miles, Switch says it “raises the standards of quality and performance in the segment”.
The bus features a monocoque design and is one of the lightest 12m buses in Europe at less than 10,800kg. Powered by a 389KWh advanced NMC battery which offers a higher density solution than conventional LFP batteries, it has a range of around 390km and, says Switch, a lower total cost of ownership. The bus also benefits from Switch technology including iAlert, enabling remote, real-time diagnostics and monitoring services, as well as world-class digital battery management tools.
Switch says that developing the bus as a completely new product has also enabled full integration of the latest driver aids and safety features.
The vehicle boasts a flexible seating layout which has been engineered to enable easy ingress and egress. With capacity for up to 93 passengers – including up to 30 seated, passengers will ride in a contemporary and open interior design with reading lights, under seat lights, USB ports and a wide-screen monitor including a “next five stops” feature and information on nearby local public transport.
The interior layout and ultra-low floor throughout improve wheelchair access which is available through both the front and middle doors, which is a unique feature within this segment. Passengers and drivers can also enjoy the double skin heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ducts, directing airflow towards the occupants, reducing wastage, and increasing efficiency.
Speaking at the launch, Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of Switch Mobility, said, “The Hinduja Group and Ashok Leyland are committed to providing zero carbon mobility through Switch. Today is a significant milestone for us. Switch is dedicated to the development of new electric buses and light vehicles for multiple geographies and price points including Europe, UK, India and elsewhere that will be launched over the next few months.”
Andy Palmer, Vice Chairman and CEO of Switch Mobility added, “We are proud to continue innovating the sector with not only one of the lightest widely available buses in Europe, but our first fully electric bus designed specifically for the European market. The SWITCH e1 is delivering a state-of-the-art transport solution designed with a customer first mindset. Switch continues to enable cities to meet net zero targets, allow operators to maximise efficiency whilst minimising costs and ensure drivers and passengers experience unrivalled comfort.”
