Nagpur-Chandrapur Electric Bus Service Launched by SWITCH Mobility and PURPLE BUS
The first electric intercity bus service on the Nagpur-Chandrapur route aims to enhance sustainable transport in Vidarbha.
SWITCH Mobility and PURPLE BUS launched an electric bus service on October 21, 2026.
The service connects Nagpur and Chandrapur, promoting eco-friendly travel.
This initiative marks the third deployment of electric buses in intercity routes by SWITCH Mobility this year.
On October 21, 2026, SWITCH Mobility and PURPLE BUS inaugurated the first electric bus service on the Nagpur-Chandrapur route, marking a significant step towards enhancing sustainable transportation options in the Vidarbha region. The launch event featured the flag-off of six electric buses, part of a larger order aimed at improving intercity connectivity and providing an environmentally friendly travel alternative.
The introduction of this service is part of a broader initiative by SWITCH Mobility, a subsidiary of the Hinduja Group, and PURPLE BUS, an intercity mobility operator. This partnership reflects a growing trend in the adoption of electric vehicles for public transport, particularly in high-frequency corridors. Earlier this year, SWITCH Mobility had already launched electric coaches on the Mumbai-Pune and Dombivli-Pune routes, showcasing the viability of electric buses in busy travel corridors.
Ganesh Mani, CEO of SWITCH Mobility, emphasized the importance of the Nagpur-Chandrapur route, highlighting the economic and cultural ties between the two cities. He stated that strengthening this corridor aligns with their mission to develop future-ready public transport across India. Meanwhile, Saurabh Patwadhan, Director of PURPLE BUS, pointed out that their electric fleet has already surpassed one million kilometers in operations, proving that electric buses can offer lower operational costs compared to traditional diesel buses.
The launch of the Nagpur-Chandrapur service is expected to ease daily commutes for residents, support local businesses, and contribute to a shift towards cleaner transportation options in Maharashtra. The SWITCH EiV12m electric coach is designed for long-distance travel, featuring 45 pushback seats, a range of 350 kilometers per charge, and fast-charging capabilities, ensuring efficient operations for intercity travel.
Looking ahead, this initiative sets a precedent for further expansion of electric bus services across Maharashtra and potentially other states. As the demand for sustainable transport solutions grows, SWITCH Mobility and PURPLE BUS are poised to play a crucial role in reshaping public transportation in India, making electric travel the norm rather than the exception.
