Volvo Group introduces UD buses

Swedish bus maker Volvo says  the group plans to introduce its UD bus range developed specifically for the value segment, between the entry-level buses priced in the range of Rs25-30 lakh and high-end premium buses priced upwards of Rs80 lakh, in its growth markets, starting with India.

''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 operations, responsible for the international markets including Asia.

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

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.

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

"UD buses will offer passengers a modern transport solution while at the same time focusing on operational essentials: fuel efficiency, reliability and optimised uptime," Volvo said in a statement. 

Håkan Agnevall, president, Volvo Group's bus operations, says, ''UD buses have had a strong brand presence in Japan and South East Asia in the past. Now we renew and adapt the buses for growth markets, starting with India. This is a brand with a proud heritage, marked by its core value of ultimate dependability. It will offer passengers a modern travel experience and fulfil the specific needs of the customers in the value segment.  With a multi-brand approach we look forward to playing an even more important role in the Indian bus market.''

The Volvo Group has played an important role in the Indian bus market since the start of operations in 2001. The company has developed the public transport sector by establishing the premium coach segment, and thereby redefining the public view on travelling by bus. Today approximately 5,000 Volvo coaches and city buses are in traffic in India.

The production of UD buses will start in Bangalore in 2014. The first buses will reach the customers later this year. Besides serving the domestic Indian market, the UD bus plant in India will also serve as an export hub in the future.