New Delhi: Ashok Leyland, through its subsidiary OHM Global Mobility, has won a significant contract from the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) in Chennai for the supply and operation of 500 electric buses. This order includes 100 air-conditioned buses and 400 non-AC buses, designed to boost sustainable public transport in the city. The buses will be operated under a 12-year maintenance contract, with Ashok Leyland’s electric vehicle division, Switch Mobility, supplying the EiV12 model buses.
This initiative is part of a larger effort by MTC to modernize Chennai’s public transport system with electric mobility. The project is being implemented under the World Bank-funded scheme aimed at reducing the carbon footprint and promoting cleaner urban transportation in India. The total project cost stands at around ₹959 crore, with the World Bank funding 70%, while the Tamil Nadu government covers the remaining portion.
Ashok Leyland’s move aligns with its strategy to lead the electric vehicle market in India, contributing significantly to reducing diesel usage and cutting carbon emissions in urban areas. Delivery of the buses is expected to commence by March 2025, making Chennai one of the leading cities in India to adopt electric buses on such a large scale.(Inputs from agencies)
