Ashok Leyland’s SWITCH Mobility to Trial Electric Buses in UAE

Ashok Leyland’s SWITCH Mobility to Begin Electric Bus Trials in UAE and Saudi Arabia by Summer 2025

Ashok Leyland’s subsidiary, SWITCH Mobility Ltd, is set to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) landscape in the GCC with the trial runs of its advanced electric buses in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The trials, scheduled for the summer of 2025, will pave the way for a commercial roll-out by Q4 of the same year.

Innovative Electric Bus Models for GCC Markets

SWITCH Mobility unveiled two cutting-edge EV platforms—SWITCH EiV12 and SWITCH E1—targeted specifically for urban mobility and sustainability goals in the GCC.

• SWITCH EiV12:
  • India’s first low-floor city bus with chassis-mounted batteries.
  • Scalable battery capacity exceeding 400+ kWh.
  • Seats up to 39 passengers.
  • Offers enhanced safety with 5 CCTV cameras, automated wheelchair ramps, and dedicated seating for women and differently-abled passengers.
  • Features panoramic glass areas for better visibility and natural lighting.
• SWITCH E1:
  • Engineered for the European market.
  • Lightweight monocoque construction with in-wheel motors.
  • Flat gangway layout for seamless passenger movement.
  • Accommodates up to 93 passengers, including standees.
  • Triple-door configuration for efficient boarding and alighting.

Both models are designed to deliver global standards in performance, reliability, and passenger comfort, while addressing the unique needs of GCC markets.

Strategic Deployment and Manufacturing in GCC

Chairman of SWITCH Mobility, Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, emphasized the immense potential of these electric buses in the GCC. Governments in the region have shown a keen interest in SWITCH E1, while the private sector is expected to adopt SWITCH EiV12. To cater to local demand, Ashok Leyland plans to manufacture these EVs in its Ras Al Khaimah plant once sufficient volumes are achieved.

Vision for Sustainable Mobility

SWITCH Mobility’s CEO, Mr. Mahesh Babu, highlighted the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable urban transportation. The SWITCH EiV12 and E1 are products of SWITCH’s Global EV architecture, showcasing cutting-edge technology that optimizes energy performance, safety, and passenger accessibility.

Key Features of SWITCH EiV12 for Urban Commuters

• Low-floor entry with a kneeling mechanism for easier access.
• Automated wheelchair ramps and dedicated spaces for differently-abled passengers.
• Advanced safety features, including real-time health monitoring via SWITCH iON telematics.
• Rapid dual-gun charging interface for operational efficiency.

Future Outlook in the GCC

The introduction of SWITCH EiV12 and E1 aligns with the GCC’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions. SWITCH Mobility’s innovative approach ensures these buses are not only energy-efficient but also passenger-centric, catering to the growing need for accessible and modern public transit systems.

For those exploring commercial vehicles for sale in Dubai, the SWITCH EiV12 and E1 represent a new era of eco-friendly commuting. Learn more about upcoming electric buses and other sustainable options on Auto Trader UAE, your trusted platform for finding the latest cars for sale in Dubai.