Tata Motors is aware of competition in the CV segment from players such as Ashok Leyland, Eicher, Bharat-Benz, Mahindra and Swaraj. Keen to retain its market share and upgrade its existing portfolio, Tata Motors, along with their Brazilian partner, MarcoPolo plans to launch new luxury buses under a new nameplate called Magna. The first bus will roll out by mid 2016.
These buses will be produced from the company plant in Dharwad, Karnataka which was set up by Tata Motors and Brazilian bus makers, Marcopolo. The Dharwad facility has an annual capacity of 15,000 units plant but utilization as on date is of 12,000-13,000 units per year. These buses will be in a price bracket which will be very competitive and will sport larger dimensions and plenty of on board comforts.
Tata Marcopolo Magna luxury buses will possess a GI tubular structure and will come with fire retardant marine plywood, and 12mm skid proof vinyl flooring. The 44 seater bus will possess push back seating with a 2×2 layout and wide aisle with its emergency door situated at the rear. There are also two windows that can be used as emergency exits which can be easily broken with a hammer. This, in addition to two 5 kg fire extinguishers, ensures that every detail is addressed with regard to fire hazards.
Tata Marcopolo Magna luxury busTata Marcopolo Magna luxury buses will have fiber roofs, multi axles and larger wheel bases. The buses will measure 12,000mm long, 3,800mm tall and 2,600mm wide and will adhere to a host of safety norms. Tata Marcopolo’s upcoming luxury buses will be ideally suited for 350 kms to 700 kms runs and will be used for inter city travel. The buses will be produced under the Tata Marcopolo badge and the company has also designed sleeper coaches based on the same platform. Both buses are currently undergoing tests ahead of launch.
via Autocar Pro
