SWITCH Mobility, a leading player in the commercial EV sector, has announced plans to conduct trial runs of its cutting-edge electric buses in the UAE and Saudi Arabia during the summer of 2025. If all goes to plan, the company aims to roll out the vehicles commercially across the wider Gulf region by the fourth quarter of the same year.

Speaking at a launch event in India where two new e-bus models — the SWITCH EiV12 and SWITCH E1 — were unveiled, SWITCH Mobility Chairman Dheeraj Hinduja shared the company’s growing interest in the GCC markets.

“The launch of the [buses] is a proud milestone for the Hinduja Group and Ashok Leyland, underscoring our commitment to sustainable mobility […] At SWITCH Mobility, we are driving a greener future and advancing our long-term vision to democratize electric mobility worldwide,” Hinduja explained.

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According to the SWITCH chairman, the EiV12 is likely to appeal to private companies, while the SWITCH E1, designed for the European market, is meant for the public sector. The company also plans to eventually manufacture buses at Ashok Leyland’s Ras Al Khaimah facility once demand reaches sufficient levels.

SWITCH E-Bus Models

• SWITCH EiV12: This model is India’s first low-floor city bus equipped with chassis-mounted batteries. It offers a scalable battery capacity exceeding 400 kWh and can accommodate up to 39 passengers. Powered by SWITCH iON, the company’s proprietary telematics system, the EiV12 ensures efficient fleet management with features like real-time vehicle health monitoring. Its rear-end charging interface allows quick recharges while optimizing depot space. Interiors are spacious, well-lit, and provide excellent visibility thanks to a large panoramic glass area.
• SWITCH E1: Engineered in the UK for European markets, the SWITCH E1 boasts a triple-door layout (front, center, and rear) and a flat gangway, making it highly accessible. With a capacity to carry up to 93 passengers, the bus is powered by in-wheel motors and sets a new standard for sustainable public transport in urban areas.

SWITCH Mobility has revealed that both models have already attracted significant global attention, with the company having received 1,800 orders to date.