Ashok Leyland, the flagship company of the Hinduja Group has officially inaugurated its state-of-the-art bus manufacturing facility at Malavalli, near Vijayawada. The grand opening was marked by a ceremonial event attended by key dignitaries, including Nara Lokesh, Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, and Human Resource Development, Government of Andhra Pradesh, who led the inauguration.
A significant highlight of the event was the formal handover of the Switch electric double-decker bus to the Andhra Pradesh Government, reinforcing Ashok Leyland’s and the Hinduja Group’s commitment to sustainable transportation. Nara Lokesh received the keys on behalf of the State Government.
The sprawling 75 acre facility, built with advanced automation and modern manufacturing technologies, is set to produce 4,800 buses annually, including Ashok Leyland’s diesel models and Switch Mobility’s electric buses. The plant also houses Nalanda, a modern Learning Centre, and a Service Training Centre, aiming to enhance skill development and employment opportunities for the local workforce.
Emphasizing sustainability, the new facility integrates rooftop solar panels, LED lighting, battery-operated vehicles for in-plant logistics, a zero-discharge system, and water conservation measures, aligning with the company’s green initiatives.
Nara Lokesh, Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, and Human Resource Development, Government of Andhra Pradesh speaking at the inauguration, remarked, “This is a prestigious occasion for Andhra Pradesh. We are delighted to welcome Ashok Leyland to our growing industrial ecosystem. This plant strengthens our reputation as an emerging manufacturing hub and will play a crucial role in providing employment, enhancing skill development, and boosting the overall economy of the State.”
Highlighting the significance of the new venture, Dheeraj G Hinduja, Chairman, Ashok Leyland, stated, “Inspired by the vision of the Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who has crafted a progressive industrial policy for the State, we are excited to be in Andhra Pradesh and our relationship with this State has been over several decades now through Ashok Leyland and other Hinduja Group entities. The inauguration of the new plant marks the beginning of yet another chapter for Ashok Leyland in this vibrant State, where our Group is committed to explore more opportunities for driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and generating prosperity in the region.”
Shenu Agarwal, MD and CEO, Ashok Leyland, added, “With the inauguration of the new plant, Ashok Leyland will further consolidate its position as the #1 bus brand in India and among the top 5 globally. This facility will help us cater to the growing demand for fully built buses in India. Production in the new plant has just commenced, and owing to our large order book, the plant will start operating at 100 per cent capacity from day one. The new plant is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment with high levels of automation, signifying our commitment to making products of the highest quality standards.”
With production already underway, the new facility is expected to play a key role in meeting the growing demand for buses while driving industrial and economic growth in the region.