Eicher Trucks & Buses, a division of VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV), has announced the rollout of its 50,000th fully factory-built bus from its cutting-edge Baggad Plant. Marking this significant milestone, the milestone vehicle is an Eicher Skyline Pro E electric bus, showcasing the factory’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of India’s public transport sector.
Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VECV, expressed his pride in this achievement: “We take immense pride in reaching this milestone. VECV has consistently remained ahead of the curve with significant advancements that offer best-in-class products across segments and compliant with all regulatory norms. This milestone further underscores our dedication to shape the future of the Indian bus industry. We extend our gratitude to our dedicated team, esteemed customers, and channel partners for their unwavering support and making this achievement possible.”
The state-of-the-art Baggad plant, which commenced operations in 2013, spans 43 acre and is renowned for its production of a diverse range of buses, including light, medium, and heavy-duty variants in diesel, CNG, and electric drivelines. The factory caters to both domestic and international markets, serving various segments such as school, staff, route permit, intercity, and tourist transportation. Equipped with advanced robotic paint systems and certified for Integrated Management Systems, the facility exemplifies Eicher’s commitment to efficiency, quality, and environmental sustainability.
Eicher’s robust sustainability initiatives are a cornerstone of its manufacturing operations. The company has implemented energy management systems that utilize advanced energy monitoring and management technologies, such as Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)-enabled panels and energy-efficient motors, to optimize energy use and reduce wastage. Additionally, Eicher has adopted strategies to achieve zero waste by minimising packaging waste and ensuring safe disposal of hazardous materials. Impressively, the plant operates on 42 per cent renewable energy sources, including solar and mini-hydel power, reflecting a proactive approach to reducing its environmental footprint. The facility was certified as a Platinum Green Factory building by IGBC in 2016 and received the Smart Factory of the Year award in 2021.
Looking ahead, Eicher Trucks & Buses remains committed to advancing alternative fuel technologies, including CNG, LNG, and HCNG (hydrogen compressed natural gas), alongside its electric vehicle initiatives. The 50,000th bus, a Skyline Pro-E 9m model, embodies Eicher’s latest advancements in electric vehicle technology. Designed for urban environments, it integrates high-energy storing batteries and a reliable all-electric driveline, ensuring efficiency, cleanliness, and silent operation. Safety and comfort features have been prioritized to enhance the passenger experience and meet stringent regulatory standards.
This milestone achievement underscores Eicher Trucks & Buses’ unwavering commitment to shaping the future of the Indian bus industry and contributing to sustainable transportation solutions.