Next-generation electric bus and light commercial vehicle company Switch Mobility Limited has unveiled its fourth generation Switch e1 bus. The newly-launched electric bus is tailored for the European market and is a significant step forward in Switch‘s mission. This electric bus is a part of the company’s ‘Project Odin’
A bigger project is also awaited which will be the 5th generation of ‘Project Odin,’.
Launched at the European Mobility Expo, the Switch e1 combines a lightweight monocoque construction with advanced NMC battery technology. Along with a monocoque design, the vehicle comes with the latest NMC battery technology and Switch’s digital tools. Switch Mobility expects the vehicle to be the lightest widely available 12-metre electric bus in the market.
The e-bus comes with a 389kWh battery capacity and ZF hub motors. According to the company, fast charging is achieved in under 3 hours and A/C charging in 7 hours.
Andy Palmer, Vice Chairman and CEO, Switch Mobility Ltd, said, “The SWITCH e1 is the result of learning from the 30 million electric miles our buses have covered, delivering a state-of-the-art transport solution designed with a customer-first mindset. The switch continues to enable cities to meet net-zero targets, allow operators to maximize efficiency whilst minimizing costs, and ensure drivers and passengers experience unrivalled comfort.”
With a capacity for up to 93 passengers – including up to 30 seated, passengers will ride in comfort with a contemporary and open interior design, 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, a unique feature within this segment.
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, with the launch of our first European Bus. The switch is dedicated to the development of new electric buses and light vehicles for multiple geographies and price points including, Europe, the UK, India, and elsewhere that will be launched over the next few months.”
Developing the Switch e1 as a completely new product has also enabled the latest driver aids and safety features to be integrated. Electronic Stability Control and the Electronic Braking System provide a confident driving experience whilst blind-spot monitoring, collision detection, and lane departure warning will maximize safety for drivers and passengers alike.
Switch e1 is adaptable to any city to ensure fleets can be decarbonized, with customizable batteries to fit the desired range and modular roof-mounting for future expansion needs, stated the company.
