Volvo Group introduces UD buses

Swedish automobile maker Volvo today said it has introduced a UD bus range developed specifically for growth markets. In India, the UD buses will be positioned in the value segment.

The UD buses are first being introduced in India, and in the coming years, these will be introduced in other growth markets.

''In India we foresee that UD Buses will take the lead in developing the value segment," said Akash Passey, senior vice president, Volvo Group's bus operation, responsible for the Asian markets.

"There is a large potential middle segment in India, of which, the value segment targeted has a high growth potential. The Volvo Group will play a significant role in enhancing quality of transportation for an increased number of citizens.'' added Passey.

The UD bus brand will expand Volvo Group's customer base, improve competitiveness and capture growth opportunities in India. The bus range will include both city buses and coaches.

The new UD bus range will be developed by leveraging the Volvo Group's global engineering network in combination with its heritage of Japanese craftsmanship and reliability, Volvo said.

The new bus range will be supported by the Volvo Group's distribution network, providing service and parts.

Håkan Agnevall, president of Volvo Group's bus operations, said, ''UD buses have had a strong brand presence in Japan and South East Asia in the past.

Agnevall said, the brand has a proud heritage, marked by its core value of ultimate dependability. "With a multi-brand approach we look forward to playing an even more important role in the Indian bus market,'' he added.

Today approximately 5,000 Volvo coaches and city buses operate all over India.

The production of UD buses will start in Bangalore this ye

The Bngalore UD bus plant will also serve as an export hub in the future.