SETC Tamil Nadu Modernizes Public Transport with Volvo 9600 Coaches
In a significant move to enhance luxury travel and modernize the state’s transport infrastructure, the State Express Transport Corporation (SETC) of Tamil Nadu has officially launched its premium intercity services. The induction of these world-class vehicles reinforces the government’s commitment to offering safe, modern, and comfortable public transport to its citizens.
Grand Launch in Chennai
On December 26th, 2025, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru M. K. Stalin, flagged off 20 new Volvo 9600 15-metre seater coaches at Island Grounds, Chennai. The ceremony was attended by high-ranking dignitaries, including the Minister for Transport, Thiru S. S. Sivasankar, and the Managing Director of SETC, Thiru R. Mohan.
Premium Features of the Volvo 9600
Manufactured at Volvo Buses India’s state-of-the-art facilities, the Volvo 9600 represents the latest generation of luxury coaches in India. These buses are engineered for high reliability and consistent performance on long-haul routes.
Key specifications include:
- Configuration: Each bus is delivered in a premium 51-seat configuration.
- Comfort: Luxury seats are equipped with calf support to ensure a superior ride quality.
- Safety: Designed to meet world-class safety standards for intercity operations.
Key Intercity Routes
The new Volvo 9600 fleet will connect major hubs within Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. Passengers can now experience luxury travel on the following key routes:
| Origin | Destination |
| Chennai | Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Thanjavur, Trichy, Nagercoil, Truchendur, Bengaluru |
| Coimbatore | Bengaluru |
| Trichy | Truchendur |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many Volvo 9600 buses were added to the SETC fleet?
A total of 20 new Volvo 9600 15-metre seater coaches were inducted during the initial flag-off ceremony.
2. What is the seating capacity of the new SETC Volvo coaches?
Each Volvo 9600 coach is designed with a premium 51-seat configuration for maximum passenger comfort.
3. Are these buses available for travel to other states?
Yes, the coaches will operate on several inter-state routes, including services connecting Chennai and Coimbatore to Bengaluru.
4. What makes the Volvo 9600 seats different from regular buses?
The luxury seats in these coaches are specifically equipped with calf support and designed for long-distance travel to reduce fatigue and enhance safety.
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