Ashok Leyland Opens New Bus Manufacturing Plant In Andhra Pradesh

Ashok Leyland, part of the Hinduja Group, inaugurated a new bus manufacturing plant at Malavalli, about 40 km from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The facility was inaugurated by Nara Lokesh, Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications and Human Resource Development, Government of Andhra Pradesh. Several state ministers, MPs, MLAs and representatives from the Hinduja Group were present at the event.

The plant spans 75 acres and is designed to manufacture both Ashok Leyland diesel buses and Switch Mobility’s electric buses. It has an annual production capacity of 4,800 buses. The facility includes a learning center, a service training center, and infrastructure to support skill development.

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Dheeraj G. Hinduja, Chairman, Ashok Leyland said, “Inspired by the vision of the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri 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.”

Ashok Leyland has integrated several sustainability measures at the facility. The plant features rooftop solar panels, LED lighting, battery-operated vehicles for in-plant logistics and a zero-discharge system. The company states that the facility will contribute to local employment and workforce training.

During the event, Ashok Leyland and the Hinduja Group handed over the keys to a Switch electric double-decker bus to the Andhra Pradesh government. Minister Nara Lokesh received the vehicle as part of the state's efforts to expand sustainable public transportation.

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Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland added, “With inauguration of the new plant, Ashok Leyland will further consolidate its position as #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% 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 highest quality standards.”