Electric mobility is no longer a distant dream but a tangible reality shaping urban transport across the globe. SWITCH Mobility, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, has positioned itself at the forefront of this green revolution. With its upcoming trial of electric buses in the UAE and Saudi Arabia during the summer of 2025, SWITCH Mobility is set to redefine the transportation landscape of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
The trial will feature two revolutionary models—SWITCH EiV12 and SWITCH E1—designed to cater to the diverse needs of GCC cities. This milestone reflects SWITCH’s commitment to sustainable mobility and its vision of democratizing electric transport worldwide.
SWITCH Mobility’s Vision
The vision behind SWITCH Mobility is rooted in sustainability, innovation, and accessibility. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the company aims to deliver electric buses that are not only efficient but also environmentally friendly. These efforts align with global goals to reduce carbon emissions and promote greener urban spaces.
Unveiling SWITCH EiV12 and SWITCH E1
The EiV12 and E1 models represent the pinnacle of electric mobility innovation. Both vehicles share a design philosophy centered around efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort. The EiV12, developed in India, targets private-sector operators, while the UK-engineered E1 is tailored for public transport in GCC cities.
Strategic Importance of GCC Markets
The GCC region, with its ambitious sustainability goals and robust economic framework, is an ideal testing ground for SWITCH’s electric buses. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are already investing heavily in EV infrastructure, making them prime markets for innovation.
Strategic Importance of GCC Markets
Timeline of Rollout
SWITCH Mobility has meticulously planned its rollout. Trial runs for the EiV12 and E1 models will commence in mid-2025, with a commercial launch expected by Q4 2025. The company aims to manufacture these vehicles locally at Ashok Leyland’s Ras Al Khaimah plant once demand scales up.
SWITCH EiV12: India’s Urban Mobility Gem
The EiV12 stands out as India’s first low-floor city bus with chassis-mounted batteries. Featuring a scalable battery capacity of over 400 kWh, it is a benchmark in urban transport. Designed with accessibility and safety in mind, it includes automated wheelchair ramps, a kneeling mechanism, and dedicated seating for women.
SWITCH E1: European Sophistication
As SWITCH’s flagship model for the European market, the E1 combines engineering finesse with passenger-centric design. Its lightweight monocoque construction and flat gangway layout enhance energy efficiency and accessibility, making it ideal for urban transit in GCC cities.
Environmental Impact
The introduction of electric buses like the EiV12 and E1 is a step toward a greener future. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, these vehicles can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner air in GCC cities.
