Switch Mobility, a Hinduja Group subsidiary specializing in next-generation buses and light commercial vehicles, has secured an order for 70 electric buses from Stagecoach, a bus and coach operator in the UK.
The order includes 10 Switch Metrocity electric buses measuring 9.5 meters in length, which will be deployed on Route W11 in London. Additionally, there are 60 Slimline Solo buses, measuring 8.5 meters, which are Euro 6 certified and marketed under the Optare brand, now integrated into Switch Mobility. These Solo buses will aid Stagecoach in replacing a portion of their Solo bus fleet across the country. The Metrocity electric buses are set to commence operations in early 2024, while the Solo buses will be introduced in the first half of 2024.
The Switch Metrocity electric bus boasts NMC battery technology and is considered one of the most efficient electric buses in its class. It has recently undergone upgrades to enhance its efficiency and extend its range, offering up to 170 miles (273 km) on a single charge. The Optare Solo, a well-recognized model in the UK with over 4,000 units produced, will be tailored to Stagecoach’s specifications and provide seating for 28 passengers.
Mahesh Babu, CEO of Switch Mobility said, “Stagecoach’s repeat order for the Metrocity electric bus, following the recent delivery of 20 buses in London, is a testament to the efficiency and versatility of the Metrocity. Whilst our focus at Switch is on engineering and delivering the world’s most efficient electric buses, we recognise operators such as Stagecoach are continuing to look for ways to reduce the environmental impact and improve the efficiency of their fleet. For this reason, we have taken the decision to re-start production of our renowned Solo product and support Stagecoach in replacing part of their existing Solo fleet.”
Sam Greer, COO of Stagecoach said, “We are pleased to be welcoming a further 70 low-emission vehicles to our fleet which will help us with our sustainability targets of reaching zero emissions by 2050 and a fully electric bus fleet by 2035.”
Source: Financial Express