Tata Motors flagged off 123 new AC buses in Ahmedabad, equipped with automatic transmission in addition to the order bagged by the manufacturer for 3,200 buses under the JnNURM – phase II scheme. These automatic transmission are meant to reduce driver fatigue and provide for a better commuting experience. The automatic transmission buses will also help save on fuel costs, due to efficiencies derived from constant engagement of both engine and transmission. The buses are built by Tata Marcopolo and are being operated by private operators.
Speaking about these automatic transmission busses, Vernon Noronha, Vice President, Defence & Government Business, Tata Motors said, “With state-of-the-art capabilities in developing and integrating intelligent world-class electronic vehicular systems, we at Tata Motors work closely with all stakeholders in successfully deploying these technologies across a broad spectrum of commercial vehicles, enabling connectivity, safety, better fuel economy, along with optimal vehicle performance. These air conditioned buses with Automatic Transmission are most suitable for BRTS operations and have been developed for the first time for Janmarg. Automatic transmission in buses will reduce driver fatigue, improve acceleration, manoeuvrability and overall passenger comfort and experience, and more revenue earnings per bus. With this order we are proud to partner Ahmedabad Janmarg Ltd., in efficiently and safely running their bus services, with a high degree of reliability and availability.”
With a floor height of 900mm and a length of 12 meters, these buses are fit with electronic display boards while the pneumatic door operation offer comfortable commute in an urban transport set-up. Other features include a wider passage-way for free movement, large window panes for better visibility, along with lower entry/exit doors, makes these new buses safe and convenient for commuters, also providing easy access for differently-abled and elderly passengers.