Revolutionizing Zero-Carbon Mobility: Insights from Switch Mobility's CEO, Mr. Mahesh Babu

Switch Mobility, an integral part of the Hinduja Group, serves as a global manufacturer of electric buses and light commercial vehicles, dedicated to advancing environmentally friendly transportation. The company emerged from a strategic collaboration between the engineering expertise of Ashok Leyland, a powerhouse in India, and the British bus manufacturer Optare. This alliance integrates the best innovators and cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled product choices globally.

Switch Mobility, under the leadership of its CEO, Mr. Mahesh Babu, is at the forefront of transforming the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. In a recent conversation with 91trucks at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, Mr. Babu shared his vision, innovative strategies, and the company’s alignment with India’s sustainability goals.

A Vision for Zero-Carbon Mobility

Switch Mobility's core vision is to democratize zero-carbon mobility for the masses. Focused on two primary segments—passenger transport via electric buses and goods movement through light commercial vehicles (LCVs)—the company aims to redefine urban transportation.

By the end of this decade, Switch plans to cater to a wide range of passenger transport needs, from 13-seater minibusses to 65-seater double-decker electric buses. Their double-decker bus, a first in its class, exemplifies innovation with an aluminum-composite structure, superior air-conditioning, and enhanced comfort—all designed to reduce urban congestion and pollution.

Innovation Driving Differentiation

Switch Mobility’s approach extends beyond vehicle design to a holistic reimagining of public and commercial transport ecosystems. The buses and LCVs are modular and scalable, accommodating various battery sizes, seating layouts, and configurations. Furthermore, their Switch ION platform, a connected mobility solution, ensures real-time transparency for operators, drivers, and fleet managers, enhancing efficiency and uptime.

For goods transport, the company’s IEV series brings luxury-inspired interiors, ergonomic features, and a focus on total cost of ownership, making commercial EVs more appealing and viable.

Enhancing Range and Battery Efficiency

Battery technology and charging infrastructure are critical to Switch Mobility’s success. The company has achieved a 10–12% improvement in range over the past year by employing rigorous testing protocols and in-house software for route optimization and vehicle control. Driver training and digital twinning further enhance vehicle performance, ensuring longer battery life, safety, and reliability.

Aligning with India’s 2030 Goals

Mr. Babu predicts that city buses will achieve over 50% EV penetration by the target year. While the LCV market is still in its infancy, significant growth potential exists, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Improved electricity availability and a thriving rural economy are driving adoption in these regions. Switch has already established 45 dealerships across India, focusing on localized marketing and customer engagement to make EVs accessible in smaller towns.

Debunking Myths About EV Adoption

Mr. Babu addressed common misconceptions surrounding EV battery life and safety, emphasizing that while early hurdles existed, technological advancements have made modern EVs more reliable and durable than diesel vehicles. Switch’s track record of delivering over 700 LCVs in just 6–8 months reflects the growing trust and confidence in the EV ecosystem.

Conclusion

Switch Mobility continues to innovate, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in zero-emission transport. With a commitment to sustainability, technology, and user-centric design, the company is setting new benchmarks in the EV industry, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.