New Switch EiV22 double decker open top buses deployed in Kerala, India

by Usha Praveen

Thiruvananthapuram, the vibrant capital city of Kerala, India, is witnessing the introduction of Switch EiV22 open top double decker buses. This forward-thinking initiative represents a significant stride towards sustainable urban mobility, providing commuters with a comfortable and eco-friendly mode of travel.

The new model was announced in 2022 and subsequently delivered in Mumbai and Hyderabad. The first set of deliveries (in mid February 2023) was part of the 200 electric double decker buses ordered by Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) in Mumbai. Other units were flagged off in Hyderabad.

Switch Mobility double decker buses for Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

KSRTC Swift has procured 2 buses, each costing Rs 2.01 crore. These Switch EiV22 buses are funded under Smart City Mission by Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. These Double decker buses Designed, developed, and manufactured by Switch Mobility India, a subsidiary of British bus manufacturer, Ashok Leyland.

With an overall vehicle length of 9.8 meters and a height of 4.75 meters, the buses are accommodating 65 seated passengers, with 35 on the upper deck and 30 on the lower deck. They feature state-of-the-art technology, such as extra-wide doors and an emergency exit to ensure safety compliance. With an open-top design, passengers can relish panoramic views of the city’s landmarks and attractions during their journey. These buses equipped with onboard Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and comfortable seating, providing commuters with a convenient and pleasant travel experience.

Equipped with a permanent magnetic synchronous AC Motor with a peak output of 235 kW (140 kW continuous) and a peak torque of 3,100 Nm, these buses feature front weveller suspension, rear air suspension, disc brakes at the front, and drum brakes at the rear.

Electric buses for Kerala, by Switch Mobility

The EV double-decker bus embedded with proprietary solutions including ‘SWITCH iON’ to enable remote, real-time diagnostics and monitoring as well as world-class digital battery management tools.

Powered by a 231-kWh capacity, liquid-cooled, NMC battery pack, the Switch EiV 22 can cover up to 250km in a day, according to the OEM. Time of charging is 1.5 to 3.0 hours.

Thiruvananthapuram’s Electric Double Decker Buses also offer a unique and memorable experience for tourists. Tourists can explore the city’s cultural and historical landmarks in style, enjoying the sights and sounds of “Ananthapuri” city from a new perspective.

Thiruvananthapuram’s adoption of Electric Double Decker Buses reflects a pragmatic approach to enhancing urban mobility which focusing on eco-friendly features and improved connectivity, aligning with the city’s focus on innovation and sustainability in transportation.