The Volvo buses have been designed by the ace automobile designer Dilip Chhabria. With an initial investment of Rs 30 crore for 12 buses and infrastructure, it is likely to be scaled upto Rs 450 crore in the next seven years with acquisition of 250 buses.
Initially Luxuria bus service, will be flagged-off on November 15 with two buses departing at 5 am and 7 and two buses at 10 pm & 11 pm from Whitefield going via the Luxuria lounge at HSR Layout Bangalore.
The first three services will culminate at Hotel Sabari Classic on OMR Road at Sholinganallur in Chennai and the last service departing from Bangalore will culminate at Hotel Radha Regent, Koyambedu Chennai.
Prabhu Ramachandran – Director Blue Hill Group, said “Luxuria is a novel concept for travel in India. We believe that we have the first mover advantage in this category and in the next 3 years we plan to expand our services to other major cities in the country.”
“Nilgiris Supermarket Chain was the first self-service supermarket in India and pioneered the concept of retail shopping experience in India. Luxuria we believe will be a true trend setter in travel in India. The designs of the buses are a true embodiment of style by Dilip Chhabria and will become a benchmark in travel”.
The multi-axle Volvos provide high-grade leather reclining seats with electronically operated calf support. Entertainment on board is guaranteed with individual screens for each seat – which screens movies and music on demand plus live satellite television. The bus is Wi-Fi enabled.
Pursers on board will serve travellers with delectable food and refreshments that would be a delight to a gastronome. The bus also has an in-built toilet, refrigerator and microwave, he said.
Pankaj Rampal, COO Blue Hill Logistics P Ltd. said “These ultra luxury buses are targeted at air travellers. The buses are designed to give business class and first class luxury and comforts at far lower prices”.