SMART LAST MILE

The IeV Series electric SCV-pickup range has Switch Mobility addressing urban logistics needs. Ashish Bhatia drives the twins to find out how!

- Ashish Bhatia

In a segment rapidly embracing electrification, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are innovating to meet the changing demands of customers and regulatory pressures. Ashok Leyland stands out in the commercial vehicle industry as the forerunner in delivering practical mobility solutions. Their electric mobility arm, Switch Mobility, with its foray into the electric Light Commercial Vehicles (eLCVs) and the commercialisation of the IeV series is making significant strides at addressing urban logistics needs. “The Switch IeV series showcases our commitment to innovation, providing commercially viable solutions for last-mile mobility. It is meticulously designed to meet our customers’ specific needs and boasts advanced battery technology, impressive range, and intelligent design,” averred Mahesh Babu, CEO at Switch Mobility Ltd. The test of the IeV Series range—the IeV3 and IeV4—on Ashok Leyland’s company test track in Chennai turned out to be an insightful experience. The test drive highlighted the capabilities of these purpose-built electric vehicles. The in depth look revealed how they perform on the ground, with key takeaways for fleet operators and logistics managers looking to upgrade to electric mobility for last-mile delivery.

A LEGACY REINVENTED

Ashok Leyland has a rich history in commercial vehicles courtesy of models like the ‘Dost’ and ‘Bada Dost’ being household names in their respective segments. However, with the advent of electric mobility, Switch Mobility has adapted this legacy to tap into the ever-expanding electric commercial vehicle market in the lower tonnage spectrum and diversification to goods carriers poles apart from the ebus segment. The IeV series—consisting of the IeV3 and IeV4 models—represents Ashok Leyland’s strategic push into this space.