SML Isuzu Hiroi.ev: The electrified version of India’s popular school, staff midibus

by Dhiyanesh Ravichandran · Published January 19, 2025 · Updated January 19, 2025

The SML Isuzu Hiroi.ev is the homegrown brand’s first-ever EV, with a battery capacity of 200 kWh and driving range of over 180 kms under standard driving conditions.

*The EV version of the ‘Hiroi series takes the modern midibus platform to the next level*

Midibuses for school and staff transportation has always been the forte of home-grown CV manufacturer SML Isuzu. At the Auto Expo 2025 Motor Show, the automaker unveiled its first-ever electric vehicle, essentially the electrified version of its latest and most popular ‘Hiroi’ 9-metre bus.

The Hiroi series was actually the modernized iteration of the popular ‘S7’ platform that is always considered as synonymous with the brand. It featured a fresh design, interiors, driver cockpit and information system and so on, launched in Auto Expo 2020. The debut of the EV version takes the Hiroi midibus range to the next level.

In fact, SML Isuzu is one of the last CV brands in India to embrace the electrification trends. The company, whose midibuses also a mainstay for state transport corporations (STUs) across the country, was missing out the emerging market of electric buses, primarily driven by STU orders in the country.

How’s it?

Retaining its the chassis (‘Domex 650’)and body frame, the Hiroi.ev accommodates a Lithium-ion battery pack of 200 kWh capacity as its energy source. The battery system features active cooling and protection for lightening, short-circuit, and thermal runaways. The battery pack is also IP57 safety compliant.

Hiroi EV midibus — *SML Isuzu is primarily targeting STUs tenders for Hiroi.ev midibus*

The claimed charging duration for the e-bus is 2 to 4 hours, depending on the charger capacity. The axle-mounted traction motor delivers a max power of 200 kW and 2,500 Nm of peak torque. SML Isuzu claims a driving range of above 180 kms on single charge under standard driving conditions for the e-bus.

Also Read: Switch EiV 7: The 7m Electric bus for smart city commute

Braking and suspension setup remains largely the same as the diesel midibuses. With a GVW rating of 12,500 kgs, the Hiroi.ev boasts a seating capacity for 32 passengers. Its body is compliant to the established build quality norms under AIS 052.

The commercial roll-out of the EV is expected in the coming months. SML Isuzu primarily targets state government tenders (STUs) for electric midibuses in the country. The company may also get some traction among private operators for this e-bus, especially for school and staff transportation.

Images Credit: Teambhp.com/ libranof1987