Karnataka government has expressed interest in buying Tata’s Marcopolo range of low chassis buses, on a trial basis. Presently, the state government is using Volvo buses for intra-city use in Bangalore city and inter-city buses for long routes.
Speaking to reporters after meeting Tata Motors delegation led by its managing director Ravi Kanth here today, chief minister B S Yeddyurappa said, “The government has agreed to buy 10-15 buses on a trial basis before placing significant orders later.”
“The company, which is commencing full-fledged production at its Dharwad plant next month, has come forward to supply buses to the state government. This matter has been referred to the transport department to initiate the process,” he added.
As reported earlier, Tatas are gearing up to commence full-fledged commercial production of its second unit at Dharwad next month.
The unit is located on Garag road, 10 km from Dharwad. The work on the plant is nearing completion. It may be recalled that Tata Motors had announced a joint venture with Marcopolo, the Brazilian firm which is into bus body building and coaches, in May 2006.
Tata Motors had announced forming a 51:49 joint venture company with Marcopolo to build buses for domestic market as well as for exports to Africa and the Far East.
The joint venture will produce a variety of buses including 16-54 seater standard buses, 18-seater and 45-seater luxury buses, luxury coaches, and low-floor city buses. The JV will also explore emerging opportunities in Bus Rapid Transit System.
The joint venture will take help with technology and expertise in chassis and aggregates from Tata Motors, and expertise and know-how in processes and systems for bodybuilding and bus body design from Marcopolo.
The buses will conform to international standards in quality and safety, and will be marketed not only in India but also in all Tata Motors-focussed markets globally, Tata Motors said in a press release posted on their website.
