Big boost for long-distance travel: India gets first ICAT certified 15-m multi-axle sleeper bus

The International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) has issued its first compliance certificate for a 15-metre multi-axle sleeper bus, a significant step forward in the certification of long-distance passenger vehicles in India.

The certificate was awarded to Synaty Automotive Pvt Ltd for its 15-metre multi-axle sleeper bus under automotive standards AIS-119 and AIS-153 in accordance with the provisions of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules..

The certificate was handed over by ICAT Director Saurabh Dalela to Synaty Automotive Managing Director Naresh Kumar Yadav at an event in Manesar, Haryana.

The bus has been designed for long-distance passenger transportation, with features focussed at structural strength, emergency and fire safety, passenger movement and travel comfort, the Ministry of Heavy Industries said in a statement.

The fully sleeper variant has a capacity of 42 berths, while the hybrid sleeper version can accommodate 21 berths and 42 seats.

The vehicle was tested and certified for requirements relating to safety, structural integrity, passenger accommodation and comfort under the relevant automotive standards and CMVR provisions.

"This certification is a significant achievement for ICAT and reflects our technical capabilities in testing and certifying advanced passenger vehicles," Dalela said.

“It reinforces our commitment to passenger safety, regulatory compliance and technological advancement,” he added.

Yadav said the certification would strengthen the company's efforts to develop safe, reliable and comfortable solutions for long-distance passenger transportation.

ICAT provides testing, certification and homologation services to the automotive industry and supports manufacturers in meeting regulatory and technical requirements.