Volvo’s hybrid buses to run in Navi Mumbai

MUMBAI: Volvo Buses has partnered the Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport to introduce hybrid buses in India under a pilot project that will commence in the first half of 2016.

The Swedish company is bringing its hybrid technology to India at a time when the government is trying to promote environmentally friendly vehicles. The government has recently launched FAME India (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric vehicles in India) scheme, offering incentives on electric and hybrid vehicles.

Hybrid vehicles usually have a non-conventional propulsion system, such as an electric motor, in addition to the engine that runs on conventional fuel. These less-polluting vehicles also often have mechanisms to capture energy, such as while braking, to recharge the battery.

“Volvo has a leading position in hybrid technology and electro-mobility. Hybrid buses is an important solution for cities that want to reduce vehicle emissions. I am very proud that Volvo is the first bus manufacturer to introduce hybrid buses in India,” said Håkan Agnevall, president of Volvo Buses.

The Volvo hybrids will be manufactured at the company’s facility in Bengaluru.

“The unveiling of the first Volvo hybrid city bus in India is contextual given the impetus from the central government to popularise public transport, while supporting the adoption of clean technology,” said Akash Passey, senior vice president, region international, at Volvo Buses. “Now, with the Volvo hybrid city bus, we are confident of transforming the public transport landscape further, by inspiring more cities to adopt this solution.”