Western Auto opened a new chapter in its decade long Saudi presence by delivering first Ashok Leyland’s midi bus — Oyster.
This 33-seater 8m school bus is powered by durable H series engine, six-speed gear box and engine driven high capacity AC just required for the Saudi market.
Ashok Leyland, claimed as the fourth largest bus manufacturer in the world and market leader in 11m staff transport segment in the GCC, is keen on strengthening its position with its entry into the midi bus segment. 
“With the market dominated by Japanese in staff transport and by Chinese in the school bus segment, I am sure the customers will find Oyster profitable with 33 seats considered the highest in its class and lowest in total cost of ownership,” said H. Bhimasena Rau, SVP, international sales, Ashok Leyland.
The Oyster is a promise in the current market scenario, said the company, which boasts of superior testing and validation process. As per reports, Oyster has already covered more than 1.5 million km of testing.
A.J. Kamal, CEO, Western Auto, commented: “The customers have proved it yet again that Ashok Leyland is an obvious choice when it comes to value to money. We are happy to deliver the first set of 50 buses to Indian and government schools, which will go a long way in strengthening our presence in the Kingdom.”
The key handover function was highlighted by acknowledging the customers who were instrumental for Western Auto’s success. A Falcon bus, Ashok Leyland’s flag ship product that has covered 4,00,000 km without clutch overhaul, was standing witness to Ashok Leyland’s durability of aggregates.
Western Auto is looking forward to strengthening its Kingdomwide presence with Oyster school and staff transport buses backed by new service centers in Riyadh, Jubail, Dammam, Jeddah, Yanbu and Jazan.

Source: Arab News