Indian Blackbuck EV expands beyond e-coaches with 9-meter electric city bus VIRO 2X

The Hyderabad-based manufacturer Blackbuck EV has unveiled VIRO 2X, a 9-meter battery-electric bus developed for urban mobility, corporate transport and premium shuttle services.

The Hyderabad-based manufacturer presented the model as its entry into the urban electric bus segment, following the ELON 3X multi-axle platform, which is progressing toward production following announcement in 2023, trial in 2024 and 350 units preordered as of mid 2025.

Commercial deployment is expected from Q4 2026, with initial vehicles scheduled to enter service in selected urban markets.

Blackbuck EV VIRO 2X is based on a proprietary EV platform

VIRO 2X is based on a proprietary EV-native architecture developed in-house by Blackbuck EV, the company stresses. The structure combines an aero-grade aluminium and composite spaceframe with a high-strength stainless steel skateboard platform.

The company says the architecture integrates vehicle structure, electrical systems and software within a unified platform. Blackbuck Electric Vehicles states that this configuration reduces overall vehicle weight compared with conventional buses in the same segment while maintaining structural strength and durability.

The model supports multiple interior layouts, including a 34-seat configuration and a 30-seat fully reclining premium-luxury version. These configurations are intended for corporate staff transport, premium shuttle operations, private charter services and selected intercity applications.

Range, energy consumption and launch timeline

According to Blackbuck Electric Vehicles, VIRO 2X recorded energy consumption of up to 0.6 kWh per km in highway testing with air-conditioning. The company reports a range of up to 260 km at 80% state of charge.

VIRO 2X is engineered and manufactured in India, with localization included in the industrial setup. Key systems and components are sourced from global technology suppliers operating in India, according to the company.

“With VIRO 2X, we are focused on how efficiently mobility can operate in real-world conditions,” said R K Raju, Founder & CEO of Blackbuck EV. “By developing the platform in-house—from structure to software—we can continuously evolve the product, integrate new technologies, and respond quickly to customer needs. For operators, the focus is on cost per kilometer, reliability, and uptime. With VIRO 2X, we have optimized energy consumption and engineered a structure designed for long-term durability. Localized development also ensures component availability and faster service turnaround, supporting predictable operations and improved return on investment.”