Volvo Buses India launches India’s first 13.5m 4×2 coach

Volvo Buses India, a part of VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV), has become the first manufacturer to launch a 13.5-metre 4×2 coach in India. The rear- engine bus has been developed on the modular Volvo 9400 platform that also includes the 12-metre 4×2 and 14.5-metre 6×2 configurations.

Commenting on the launch, Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VECV said, “The goal of forming our bus division, by integrating Volvo Buses India into VECV is to transform public transport. I am happy to highlight this development as the first fruit from our synergised way of working”.

The rear-engine Volvo B8R 13.5m coach maintains industry-leading safety, fuel economy, performance, and passenger comfort that Volvo Bus operators and passengers have come to expect in Volvo buses. It offers up to 10% extra seating and over 20% additional sleeper berth capacity with almost 25% increase in passenger luggage space. Fully built buses delivered from VECV’s Hosakote facility are fully compliant with prevalent CMVR norms.

“The Volvo 9400 B8R 13.5m 4×2 coach is part of our pioneering track record of offering market leading bus-based mobility solutions in India. I can assure our customers that they can look forward to a broader range of innovative market adapted offers from VECV’s Bus Division, including an Eicher front-engine coach range in the near future”, concludes Akash Passey, President, Bus Division, VECV.

Benchmark specifications

The Volvo 9400 B8R 13.5m coach is certified for a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 18 tonnes. It is powered by Volvo’s proven 300HP, D8K six-cylinder, direct injection diesel engine. This assures customers of best-in-class power to weight ratio. Ride quality is optimised through the Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) System, while safety is bolstered by the Electronic Braking System (EBS).