Maruti suzuki develops customised school vans

Unveils its modified OMNI and EECO cars available in LPG and CNG options.

Taking a step forward in providing concrete solution to the transportation needs of school children, country's largest car maker Maruti Suzuki has unveiled its OMNI and EECO Cars in the new modified avatar of school vans.

These school vans have been developed by Maruti in association with Mahalaxmi Automotive, one of its Pune dealers to adhere to guidelines of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (School Bus Regulation) Act, 2011 and were launched in the city on Sunday. A total of 18 Maruti Omni school vans were delivered to various individuals who are in the business of transportation of school children.

Speaking on the occasion Rohit Goel, Regional Manager, Maruti Suzuki said, “In order to facilitate the individuals purchasing the vehicles, the company will provide a one-stop solution for school van buyers including easy finance and modification as per school bus norms of the state. The school van initiative would soon be extended through its entire network in the state. The process for the same has been standardised across the region for maintaining the quality standards. Maruti will also take initiative in creating awareness about this school bus policy across various schools and operators.”

He further added that as compared to cities like Mumbai where buses and auto rickshaws are used for school transport, such vehicles will be very relevant for smaller cities.

Some of the salient features of these OMNI and EECO school vans include seat belts, hangers to hold, safety grills, speed governor, first aid box and fire extinguisher.

The vans are painted in yellow colour with red band as per norms for its easy identification as a school van. It is also available in Auto LPG and CNG Options.

The price of these school vans start from Rs 3.25 lakh. There are over 16 lakh school children taking education in over 7000 schools in Pune district alone. As of now Maruti will have one dealership point with Mahalaxmi Automotives in Pune.