24-07-2025
Volvo buses to hit Tamil Nadu roads soon
As anticipated, Volvo has emerged as the sole bidder for Tamil Nadu's high-profile tender to procure 20 fully built,
multi-axle AC buses
for State Express Transport Corporation (SETC).
The tender floated last month, opting for fully built buses instead of assembling them in Karur.
With stringent specifications - including BS-VI high-performance engines, full air suspension, Anti-Braking System, vehicle stability control, and
premium onboard features
- industry insiders had already indicated that Volvo was among the few players capable of meeting the requirements.
Volvo's bid will now be evaluated by SETC, following which the purchase order will be issued, provided the quoted price aligns with the department's estimate.
The company is expected to supply buses with either 51+1 or 55+1 seating layouts, offering wide gangways, theatre-style seating, individual USB ports, AC vents, and LED TVs at the front and rear.
SETC officials said the procurement aims to put state-run services on par with private premium operators, especially on busy routes such as Chennai-Bangalore and Chennai-Coimbatore.
The addition of underbody luggage compartments and anti-skid flooring is also likely to help SETC regain long-distance passengers lost to private carriers.
