Mahindra Truck and Bus Division (MTBD), unveiled CRUZIO, a brand-new range of buses based on its latest Intermediate Commercial Vehicles (ICV) platform. Aimed at the employee transport segment, the CRUZIO marks the company’s debut in the popular Lastwagen Pullman Overhang (LPO) segment of buses which is gaining momentum as it offers an enhanced consumer experience.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Rajan Wadhera, President, Automotive Sector, M&M, said: “The unveiling of the new CRUZIO bus range marks a defining moment for our Truck and Bus business as we have taken our ICV bus platform to the next level of customer experience. Being BS-VI ready, the CRUZIO is all set to be a game changer, and is one of the safest, most ergonomic and comfortable buses that will set new standards in the market. Going forward, we will also launch the school and stage bus variants to further increase our portfolio.”
Mr. Vinod Sahay, CEO, Mahindra Truck and Bus and Construction Equipment Divisions, M&M, added: “The CRUZIO demonstrates Mahindra’s ability to bring the best to Indian customers, and was developed on the basis of meticulously gathered consumer insights. Bus operators in this segment are clearly looking for a solution that can balance end-user benefits, as well as helping them optimize costs. I am confident that similar to the BLAZO X HCV & FURIO ICV range, the CRUZIO LPO bus range will also set new benchmarks for performance, earnings and deliver better value to our customers.”
Mr. Anurag Dubey, Vice President – Sales & Customer Care, Mahindra Truck and Bus Division, tells us that the bus has front overhang and advantage of two seats over and above normal LP buses without front overhang: “With 140 horsepower, this is a properly designed bus keeping in mind the needs of staff transportation. This can be also be used as city bus for stage carriers, with two doors, rear for entry and front for exit. Tour operators also can benefit, from the super-rich features of the bus, like mobile charger on every seat and 42 seating capacity, two seats more than the nearest competitor. The difference benefit can easily translate into an additional profit of one lakh rupees annually.”
From a safety perspective, the CRUZIO meets the Rollover Test norms as per AIS 031 and the bus body code as per AIS 052. It is also compliant with the latest regulatory requirements of AIS 153, which has stringent noise and vibration standards. CRUZIO offers enhanced visibility in both day & night and bigger brakes for efficient braking performance with short stopping distances. It has the highest ground clearance in the category to avoid damage to bumpers.
The CRUZIO also offers best-in-class seat width with seats that are contoured and ergonomically designed to provide full back support. A broad gangway and improved parabolic suspension lead to best-in-class ride comfort. CRUZIO’s Engine is equipped with the patented Mahindra FuelSmart Technology to optimize fuel consumption. The highlight of this technology is the multimode switches, which help optimize fuel consumption and engine power availability as per load and road conditions. This ensures higher savings in fuel expenses and greater profitability. CRUZIO is also equipped with an Intelligent Driver Information System (DIS) for easy driving with all the useful information available on the Instrument Cluster to help improve driver productivity and safety.