Eicher Trucks & Buses has delivered its first 13.5-metre electric intercity sleeper bus, marking a significant step in the expansion of electric mobility into long-distance passenger transport. The deployment is part of a partnership with LeafyBus, a long-distance electric bus operator, to introduce electric sleeper buses on major intercity routes across India.
In the initial phase, 35 electric sleeper buses will be deployed across high-demand intercity corridors in northern India, including routes such as Delhi–Dehradun and Delhi–Lucknow. The rollout supports LeafyBus’ broader expansion strategy aimed at scaling electric mobility across national highways.
Commenting on the development, Suresh Chettiar, Executive Vice President, Bus Division, VE Commercial Vehicles, said the partnership reflects Eicher Trucks and Buses’ continued focus on advancing sustainable public mobility solutions. He noted that the introduction of electric buses in the intercity segment will support cleaner transportation along high-density corridors, particularly in environmentally sensitive regions, while offering low-noise travel for passengers and improved operating economics for fleet operators. He added that the initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision to decarbonise public transport and supports the country’s long-term net-zero targets.
Rohan Dewan, Co-Founder of LeafyBus, said long-distance mobility in India must transition beyond diesel, and partnerships of this nature are critical to driving that shift. He stated that the collaboration enables LeafyBus to scale electric sleeper services on routes where passengers demand comfort, reliability, and affordability. He added that the focus is on making electric intercity travel consistent, commercially viable, and widely accessible, supported by an expanding charging ecosystem.
The Eicher 13.5-metre electric sleeper bus has been designed specifically for long-distance intercity operations, combining performance, comfort, safety, and operational efficiency. The bus features a 36+D sleeper layout with a 2×1 upper and lower berth configuration, offering enhanced comfort for overnight journeys. It is powered by a 400 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate battery paired with a 235 kW permanent magnet motor, delivering a driving range of approximately 320 to 330 kilometres on a single charge.
The vehicle supports fast charging within 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on charging input, enabling higher fleet utilisation. Safety and efficiency features include front and rear air suspension, disc brakes, and energy-efficient systems. Passenger amenities include six cubic metres of luggage space, USB charging ports, and a front seat berth designed to accommodate senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Digital and safety systems include onboard cameras, advanced telematics, and hill assist, supporting safer operations across varied terrain and gradient conditions.
The fleet is being leased through Enetra EV Private Limited, which is providing a structured leasing model aimed at enabling scalable and sustainable adoption of long-distance electric buses.
Neeraj Gupta, Managing Director, Enetra EV, said the transition to electric mobility in intercity travel requires strong operators, reliable OEMs, and financing structures that support scale. He added that the partnership helps lay the foundation for a cleaner and commercially sustainable intercity transport ecosystem.
LeafyBus currently operates daily electric intercity services on the Delhi–Dehradun route and is expanding its footprint nationwide. The company has secured USD 4.1 million in funding from Enetra India Pvt. Ltd., which is being deployed toward fleet expansion, charging infrastructure development, and new route launches. LeafyBus plans to introduce at least one new electric intercity corridor every month as part of its nationwide growth strategy.
