Ashok Leyland Opens Advanced Bus Manufacturing Plant in Andhra Pradesh!
By Ashutosh Arora
Ashok Leyland has inaugurated a new, state-of-the-art bus manufacturing facility near Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. Spanning 75 acres, the Malavalli factory utilizes innovative production methods to maintain world-class quality standards. The plant will produce both the company’s diesel buses and electric buses from its Switch Mobility division, with an annual manufacturing capacity of 4,800 buses. Additionally, the facility houses Nalanda, a modern learning centre, and an advanced service training centre to bolster skill development.
This new facility is expected to have a significant impact on local employment and workforce skill development. With sustainability in mind, the plant features green initiatives, such as rooftop solar panels, LED lighting, battery-powered vehicles for in-plant logistics, positive water balancing measures, and a zero-discharge system to reduce its environmental footprint.
The plant’s launch is seen as a major step in strengthening the industrial ecosystem of Andhra Pradesh. Minister Nara Lokesh expressed enthusiasm about the plant’s role in providing employment opportunities, enhancing skill development, and contributing to the state’s economic growth.
Ashok Leyland Chairman Dheeraj G. Hinduja emphasized the company’s commitment to exploring growth opportunities in the region. Managing Director and CEO Shenu Agarwal stated that the new plant will reinforce Ashok Leyland’s leadership in the bus segment, positioning the company as the top bus brand in India and among the top five globally. With the production process already underway, the plant will begin operating at full capacity from day one, supporting the company’s strong order book.
