Ashok Leyland has announced a landmark deal with the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), securing its largest single order for 2,104 fully built Viking passenger buses, valued at approximately Rs 9.81 billion. The execution period for this contract spans from August 2024 to August 2025. These new buses will significantly enhance MSRTC?s fleet, which currently operates over 15,000 buses. The Viking buses will adhere to the latest Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) standards and feature AIS 153 compliant bodies. They will be equipped with advanced iGEN6 BS VI OBD II technology, a 197 HP H-Series Engine, and Rear Air Suspension, among other features, to ensure enhanced safety and comfort. The buses will be manufactured at Ashok Leyland's bus body plants, ensuring the highest standards of safety and lower total cost of ownership for MSRTC. Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director & CEO, Ashok Leyland, expressed enthusiasm for the continued partnership with MSRTC. We are excited to continue our long-standing partnership with the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC). This new order underscores our dedication to producing highly efficient and technologically advanced products, driving the growth of public transportation in the country, he stated. He emphasized that Ashok Leyland's deep understanding of customer needs and quick responsiveness set the company apart. Sanjeev Kumar, President- Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M&HCV), Ashok Leyland, echoed this sentiment. We are thrilled to have received this order from MSRTC. The order win emphasizes the confidence and trust our customers have in our products. Specifically tailored to meet the unique requirements of Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation, our buses stand as a testament to the reliability, durability, and robustness of our products, he said. Kumar added, We are proud to offer MSRTC and the people of Maharashtra a modern fleet that ensures superior comfort and the highest standards of safety. This order reflects the trust that our customers place on Ashok Leyland. As one of the top five largest bus manufacturers globally, this significant order further consolidates Ashok Leyland?s position in both the Indian and global bus markets. (Source: ET)