In a significant boost to India’s automotive manufacturing landscape, Ashok Leyland, the flagship company of the Hinduja Group, also inaugurated its new bus manufacturing plant at Malavalli, located 40 km from Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh.
The facility was inaugurated by Shri Nara Lokesh, Hon’ble Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications and Human Resource Development, Government of Andhra Pradesh. In a symbolic gesture reinforcing the state’s commitment to sustainable mobility, the first Switch electric double-decker bus was handed over to the Government of Andhra Pradesh during the ceremony.
The inaugural event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries including Shri M Ram Prasad Reddy, Minister of Transport, Shri T.G. Bharath, Minister of Industries, Shri V. Balashowry, MP – Krishna District, Shri Y Venkata Roy, MLA – Gannavaram, along with Shri Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman – Hinduja Group India, and Shri Shom Ashok Hinduja, President – Alternative Energy and Sustainability, Hinduja Group.
Sprawling over 75 acres, the modern facility is designed to manufacture the full range of Ashok Leyland’s diesel buses and Switch Mobility’s electric buses. With an annual production capacity of 4,800 buses, the plant will also house Nalanda, a cutting-edge learning center, and a service training center to upskill the local workforce.
Committed to sustainability, the plant incorporates green technologies such as rooftop solar panels, LED lighting, battery-operated logistics vehicles, a zero-discharge water system, and a positive water balance initiative.
Speaking at the event, Minister Nara Lokesh said, “This is a prestigious occasion for Andhra Pradesh. This facility not only brings in advanced manufacturing but also opens vast avenues for employment and economic growth in the state.”
Mr. Dheeraj G. Hinduja, Chairman, Ashok Leyland, remarked, “Andhra Pradesh has been a longstanding partner for us. With the vision of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu and his progressive industrial policy, this new plant is a symbol of our long-term commitment to this vibrant state.”
Mr. Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland, added, “With this new facility, we aim to reinforce our leadership as India’s No.1 bus brand and among the top five globally. With our strong order book, the plant will function at full capacity from day one, reflecting the high demand for our buses in both domestic and export markets.”
This facility marks a strategic milestone in Ashok Leyland’s journey, amplifying its EV manufacturing capabilities, supporting government initiatives for sustainable transport, and positioning Andhra Pradesh as a key player in India’s industrial growth.
