Eicher Trucks and Buses Delivers its First 13.5m Electric Intercity Sleeper Bus

Eicher Trucks & Buses has taken a significant step forward in India’s electric mobility journey by partnering with LeafyBus, a leading long-distance electric bus operator, to deploy Eicher 13.5m EV intercity sleeper buses across major national routes. In the initial phase, 35 units will be deployed between cities in Northern India.

The deployment is part of LeafyBus’ expansion across high-demand intercity corridors including Delhi–Dehradun, Delhi–Lucknow, and others.

Commenting on the partnership, Suresh Chettiar, EVP, Bus Division, VE Commercial Vehicles, said, “This partnership reflects Eicher Trucks and Buses’ ongoing efforts to advance sustainable public mobility solutions. We are extending electric mobility into the intercity segment and supporting the development of cleaner, more efficient passenger transportation along high-density corridors in environmentally sensitive regions. The Eicher 13.5m EV Sleeper Bus delivers environmental sustainability for the nation, low noise and smooth travel for passengers, and economic value for the operator. The partnership also reflects our alignment with the Government of India’s vision to decarbonize public transport – a significant contributor to India’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2070.”

Rohan Dewan, Co-Founder of LeafyBus, said, “India is at a turning point where long-distance mobility must transition beyond diesel, and partnerships like this will define that shift. Our collaboration with Eicher Trucks & Buses enables LeafyBus to scale electric sleeper buses on high-demand intercity corridors where passengers expect comfort, reliability and affordability together. The industry is moving toward cleaner mobility, but the real progress comes when EV travel is not experimental - it is consistent, commercially viable and widely accessible. With these new buses and our expanding charging ecosystem, we are accelerating the rollout of a national electric network that delivers a simple, comfortable and future-ready travel experience for millions.”

Designed specifically for long-distance intercity operations, the Eicher 13.5m electric sleeper bus, combines performance, comfort, safety, and efficiency. The bus features a 36+D sleeper layout with a 2×1 upper and lower berth configuration, offering superior passenger comfort for overnight journeys. Powered by a 400 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery and a 235 kW Permanent Magnet motor, the bus delivers a driving range of 320–330 km on a single charge, making it well-suited for extended highway operations.

The vehicle supports fast charging in 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on input power, enabling higher fleet utilisation. The vehicle is designed with safety and energy efficiency in mind – including front and rear air suspension, disc brakes, and advanced energy-efficient systems. Passengers will also appreciate 6 cubic meters of dedicated luggage space, USB charging ports, and a front seat berth designed for senior citizens and specially-abled passengers.

Safety and digital intelligence are further enhanced through an on-board camera system, advanced telematics, and Hill Assist, ensuring confident performance on gradients and improved driver support across varied terrains.

The fleet is being leased through Enetra EV Private Limited, a leading leasing company focused ensuring a commercially scalable and sustainable model for long-distance electric bus adoption.

Neeraj Gupta, Managing Director, Enetra EV, said, “The shift toward electric mobility in long-distance travel will require dependable operators, trusted OEMs, and financing models that support scale. LeafyBus has demonstrated strong execution in operations and route development, and we are proud to enable their next phase of growth with our EV leasing platform. This partnership represents a step toward a cleaner, scalable and commercially sustainable intercity travel ecosystem and we believe it sets the foundation for India’s transition to zero-emission highways.”

LeafyBus currently operates daily electric intercity services on the Delhi–Dehradun route and is expanding rapidly nationwide. With USD 4.1 million in funding from Enetra India Pvt. Ltd. being deployed toward fleet expansion, charging infrastructure, and new route development, the company plans to introduce at least one new electric intercity corridor every month, further strengthening India’s transition toward clean, zero-emission highways.