Ashok Leyland, the flagship company of the Hinduja Group, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art bus manufacturing facility at Malavalli, approximately 40 kilometers from Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh. The inauguration ceremony was led by Shri Nara Lokesh, the state’s Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, and Human Resource Development.
Spanning 75 acres, the modern plant is designed to produce a comprehensive range of Ashok Leyland’s diesel buses and Switch Mobility’s electric buses. The facility boasts an annual production capacity of 4,800 buses and includes Nalanda, a contemporary learning center, along with an advanced service training center aimed at enhancing the skills of the local workforce.
During the ceremony, the first Switch electric double-decker bus was symbolically handed over to the Government of Andhra Pradesh, underscoring the state’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions. This gesture highlights the collaborative efforts between the government and Ashok Leyland in promoting eco-friendly public transportation.
Shri Nara Lokesh expressed enthusiasm about the development, stating that the establishment of this facility reinforces Andhra Pradesh’s reputation as an emerging manufacturing hub. He emphasized that the plant would play a crucial role in providing employment opportunities, enhancing skill development, and boosting the state’s overall economy.
Dheeraj G. Hinduja, Chairman of Ashok Leyland, highlighted the company’s commitment to the region, noting that the inauguration of the new plant marks the beginning of another chapter for Ashok Leyland in Andhra Pradesh. He reiterated the group’s dedication to exploring more opportunities that drive economic growth and generate prosperity in the area.
The facility incorporates sustainable practices, featuring rooftop solar panels, LED lighting, battery-operated vehicles for in-plant logistics, water conservation measures, and a zero-discharge system. These initiatives align with Ashok Leyland’s broader strategy to promote environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.
