Tata Motors rolls out 123 AC buses for Ahmedabad Janmarg

New buses in addition to the order bagged by the company for 3,200 buses under the JNNURM - phase II scheme

The Ahmedabad Janmarg Limited (AJL), that runs the Bus Rapid Transport System (BRTS) in the city, has now got a new fleet of 123 air-conditioned (AC) buses equipped with automatic transmission from Tata Motors.

The new buses, flagged off by Tata Motors on Friday, are in addition to the order bagged by the company for 3200 buses under the JnNURM – phase II scheme. According to an official statement by Tata Motors, the buses are meant to reduce driver fatigue and provide for a superior commuting experience.

What's more, the automatic transmission buses will also help save on fuel costs, due to efficiencies derived from constant engagement of both engine and transmission.

"These air conditioned buses with Automatic Transmission are most suitable for BRTS operations and have been developed for the first time for Janmarg. Automatic transmission in buses will reduce driver fatigue, improve acceleration, manoeuvrability and overall passenger comfort and experience, and more revenue earnings per bus. With this order we are proud to partner Ahmedabad Janmarg Ltd., in efficiently and safely running their bus services, with a high degree of reliability and availability," said Vernon Noronha, Vice President, Defence & Government Business, Tata Motors.

Built by Tata Marcopolo, the buses are being operated by private operators.  With a floor height of 900mm and a length of 12 meters, the new buses are fit with electronic display boards and pneumatic door operations, for comfortable commute in an urban transport set-up.

Among other features, the buses will include wider passage-way for free movement, large window panes for better visibility, along with lower entry/exit doors, makes these new buses safe and convenient for commuters, also providing easy access for differently-abled and elderly passengers.