In a major win for India's public transportation sector, Hinduja Group's flagship, Ashok Leyland, has bagged the largest-ever fully built bus order from the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC). The order, comprising 2,104 units of the highly-acclaimed Viking passenger bus, reinforces Ashok Leyland's leadership in delivering cutting-edge, reliable, and efficient transportation solutions.
As one of the top five bus manufacturers globally and the largest in India, Ashok Leyland continues to set benchmarks in the industry. Competing with leading names like Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, and VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV), a Volvo-Eicher joint venture, Ashok Leyland's ability to meet the highest standards of innovation and customer satisfaction remains unmatched.
The Viking passenger bus, tailor-made for MSRTC, is designed with advanced technology, featuring iGEN6 BS6 OBD2 technology and a powerful 197hp H-Series engine. In addition to being fully compliant with CMVR standards and boasting an AIS 153-compliant body, these buses come equipped with rear air suspension, ensuring superior ride comfort and safety for passengers.
MSRTC, one of India's largest state transport corporations with a fleet of over 15,000 buses, will benefit from Ashok Leyland’s long-standing expertise in the sector. The Viking buses will elevate public transport in Maharashtra, providing enhanced comfort and reliability for commuters across the state.
Mr. Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director and CEO of Ashok Leyland, commented on the achievement:“We are thrilled to extend our enduring partnership with MSRTC. This monumental order underscores our commitment to delivering highly efficient, state-of-the-art products that drive the growth of public transport in India. Our deep understanding of customer needs, combined with our ability to deliver, sets Ashok Leyland apart in the industry.”
Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, President of M&HCV at Ashok Leyland, echoed this sentiment, saying,
“The confidence MSRTC places in our products is a testament to the reliability, durability, and innovation that Ashok Leyland stands for. These buses are designed specifically to meet MSRTC's unique needs, ensuring that Maharashtra's commuters travel in comfort and safety.”
Speaking on behalf of the Hinduja Group, Mr. Prakash Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group, Europe, said, “This landmark order is a proud moment for Ashok Leyland and the entire Hinduja Group. It reflects our relentless pursuit of excellence and our focus on contributing to India's transport infrastructure. We are honored to serve MSRTC and the people of Maharashtra with the most advanced, comfortable, and safe buses that will redefine public transportation standards.”
This historic order further cements Ashok Leyland’s position as a leader in the bus manufacturing industry, as it continues to contribute to the modernization and growth of public transport across India.