Auto Expo 2012
By siliconindia   |   Saturday, 07 January 2012, 00:54 IST
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Ashok Leyland launches 'Jan Bus
Ashok Leyland launches 'Jan Bus' Heavy vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland launched the 'Jan Bus', a low and flat floor bus designed for urban usage. Launched by Urban Development Minister Kamal Nath at the 11th Auto Expo here, the front engine bus has been designed in India and has five doors for ease of movement with separate space for luggage. Talking about the features of the bus, Ashok Leyland managing director Vinod Dasari said the 'Jan Bus' was the world's first single-step bus and was designed keeping in mind the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT). 'The seats on the bus have been mounted on the wall so that it is easier to clean. It is perfect for city use, BRTS and airport application. It also has five doors for the ease of passenger movement,' said Dasari. As per Dasari, the bus would be available in both diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) versions, in Bharat Stage III or IV emission standards, and in air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned options. Praising the effort, Kamal Nath said: 'Greatest challenge in urban life is urban mobility. To deal with this problem, it is very important that specific transportation provides the answers.' Apart from the 'Jan Bus', the company also launched multi-purpose vehicle Stile which will compete with popular cars like Mahindra Xylo and segment leader Toyota Innova. Stile would be available in both CNG and diesel versions with a wide choice of seating options of two and three rows. In addition, a six-tonne light commercial vehicle - Partner - was also launched.