Tata Motors, the well-known Indian automobile manufacturer, appears to be working on a fully electric double decker bus. As revealed by a leaked patent image. This new electric double decker is set to compete with the Switch EiV22 double decker electric bus. Which is already operational in cities like Mumbai.
Tata Motors Patent For Electric Double Decker
The leaked patent image provides a glimpse of the bus’s design. Showcasing a modern double decker with rounded edges, large windows, and front and rear glasses. The front of the bus is flat with some design details, and the overall appearance is in line with typical double decker buses.
Tata Electric Bus Powertrain
Although not many specifics are available regarding the platform or powertrain. It is likely that Tata’s electric double decker bus will be based on a strengthened version of its existing single decker electric bus platform. Similar to Ashok Leyland’s Switch EiV22 electric double decker bus. However, the exact length of the upcoming e-double decker bus is not confirmed yet. For reference, Switch Mobility’s version currently in service with BEST is 9 meters long.
Mumbai Urban Transport Plans
The city of Mumbai has a significant demand for electric double decker buses. With the city’s transport undertaking, BEST, requiring 900 such buses. Switch Mobility, a company owned by Ashok Leyland, has already provided 200 units, and about 12 of these buses are already operational. With more expected to join the fleet soon. However, the order for the remaining 700 buses was recently canceled. Since the supplier, Causis E-mobility, was blacklisted by BEST for failing to deliver the promised 700 units of buses.
In response to the tender for 700 e-double decker buses and an additional 50 with open decks and air conditioning in the lower deck. Additionally Tata Motors is rumored to be considering submitting a bid with its own version of the e-double decker bus.
BEST already operates a wet-leased fleet of Tata EV buses in both 9-meter and 12-meter body styles, indicating the city’s increasing interest in adopting electric buses for its public transportation system.
Future of Urban Transport for Tata Motors
As electric mobility gains momentum in India and around the world. The development of electric double decker buses could bring significant benefits in terms of reduced emissions and a greener future for urban transport. The introduction of Tata Motors’ e-double decker bus. If successful, could add a valuable option to Mumbai’s growing electric public transportation fleet.