Switch Mobility, a Hinduja Group company and the next-generation bus and light commercial vehicle manufacturer has bagged an order for 70 electric buses from Stagecoach, one of the UK’s leading bus and coach operators.
The order consists of 10 Switch Metrocity 9.5-metre electric buses, which will operate on Route W11 in London and 60 Slimline Solo 8.5m, Euro 6 certified buses sold under the Optare brand, presently integrated into Switch Mobility. The Solo buses will support Stagecoach in replacing part of their significant fleet of Solo buses across the country. The Metrocity products will go into operation in early 2024 and the Solo’s during the first half of 2024.
Equipped with the latest NMC battery technology, the Switch Metrocity is claimed to be one of the most efficient electric buses in its class, that has been recently upgraded to deliver improved efficiency and an increased range of up to 170 miles (273km). The Optare Solo is one of the UK’s most recognisable buses, with over 4,000 having been produced. The 8.5m slimline variant will be manufactured to Stagecoach’s exacting specification and provide seating for 28 people.
Mahesh Babu, CEO, Switch Mobility said, “Stagecoach’s repeat order for the Metrocity electric bus, following the recent delivery of 20 buses in London, is 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, 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.”
By adding 10 advanced Metrocity e-buses and 60 Slimline Solo Euro 6 certified buses to their fleet, both companies show their dedication to improving public transportation efficiency.
