BharatBenz Launches BB1924: 19.5-Tonne Heavy-Duty Intercity Bus in India

Key Highlights:

• 19,500 kg GVW, 51+1+1 seating capacity.

• 241 hp, 850 Nm BS-VI diesel engine.

• 1,300+ km range with 380 L fuel tank.

• ABS, EVSC, 5-stage retarder, Michelin tyres.

• Six-year/6 lakh km powertrain warranty and extensive support.

BharatBenz has unveiled its new BB1924, a 19.5-tonne heavy-duty bus chassis designed specifically for India’s intercity passenger transport segment. Developed for operators seeking higher capacity, lower operating costs, and enhanced safety, the BB1924 strengthens BharatBenz’s presence in long-distance mobility.

Built for Capacity and Efficiency

The BB1924 chassis comes with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 19,500 kg and can accommodate up to 51+1+1 seats, along with additional space for luggage. Field trials on popular routes such as Mumbai–Pune, Delhi–Jaipur, and Chennai–Bengaluru have proven that the chassis reduces the total cost of ownership compared to existing solutions.

Powered by a BS-VI OBD-II OM926 six-cylinder diesel engine with turbocharger and intercooler, the bus delivers 241 hp and 850 Nm of torque. It is paired with a six-speed synchromesh gearbox optimized for highway efficiency. A 380-litre fuel tank ensures a range of over 1,300 km, minimising refuelling stops for operators.

Comfort and Safety-Focused Engineering

BharatBenz has equipped the BB1924 with front and rear pneumatic suspension along with anti-roll bars for improved ride comfort. Its high-tensile steel frame (255 x 73.3 x 7 mm) and a 6,850 mm wheelbase provide structural strength and stability.

Safety features include:

• ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

• Electronic Vehicle Stability Control (EVSC)

• Five-stage electromagnetic retarder reducing brake wear by 40%

• Cruise control and brake-hold assist

• Factory-fitted Michelin 295/80 R22.5 radial tubeless tires

The cockpit comes with a TFT driver information display, while operators can also access IoT-based telematics for predictive maintenance and driver training programs in regional languages.

Reduced Downtime and Extended Service Life

The BB1924 offers a first service at 60,000 km, followed by subsequent services at 120,000 km intervals, supporting continuous operations. Designed for 10–15 years of service life, it comes with a six-year or 600,000 km powertrain warranty. Optional AMC packages are also available for the same duration.

Financing and After-Sales Support

Available through BharatBenz’s 398 authorized touchpoints across India, the BB1924 is backed by financial support from over 15 banks and NBFCs, including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Bajaj Finserv. Financing options include interest rates starting at 8.5% per annum, and EMI tenures up to five years.

Operators also benefit from:

• 24x7 roadside assistance

• 95% parts availability within 24–48 hours

• Localized supply chain with 92% of components sourced in India

• Dedicated customer care support

Expanding Market Opportunity

India’s intercity bus market, valued at USD 51.09 billion, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.36% through 2030. With rising passenger expectations and demand for higher-capacity platforms, the BB1924 positions BharatBenz as a reliable, efficient, and future-ready choice for long-distance passenger transport.

The BB1924 launch represents a significant step in enhancing intercity travel with better efficiency, safety, and comfort for operators and passengers alike.

Also Read: Tata Motors Unveils Powerful New EV Trucks Prima E.28K & E.55S at EXCON 2025

CMV360 Says

The BharatBenz BB1924 sets a new benchmark in India’s intercity bus segment by combining high payload capacity, fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, and passenger comfort. With extended service intervals, strong after-sales support, and flexible financing options, it ensures lower operating costs and higher profitability for operators. As India’s long-distance travel market grows, the BB1924 emerges as a reliable, future-ready solution for efficient and safe intercity mobility.