Can KSRTC’s new Volvo 9600 SLX sleeper fleet finally fix Kerala’s long-distance travel woes?

Kochi: To mark Kerala Piravi, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is gearing up to launch its new Volvo 9600 SLX sleeper buses, which are expected to hit the roads soon, Transport Minister K. B. Ganesh Kumar announced.

KSRTC’s Kerala Piravi gift unveiled

Transport Minister K. B. Ganesh Kumar announced that KSRTC’s latest addition—Volvo 9600 SLX sleeper buses—will soon join the corporation’s fleet. Sharing the first images through his official Facebook page, the minister described the new rollout as “KSRTC’s Kerala Piravi gift.”

Volvo 9600 SLX: A premium upgrade

The Volvo 9600 SLX is a multi-axle sleeper coach, designed for enhanced passenger comfort on long routes. The bus carries the familiar tricolour-themed design used on earlier KSRTC Volvo models. However, the minister did not yet disclose details about the interiors, routes, or operational schedule.

The 15-metre Volvo 9600 SLX model had previously arrived for KSRTC in August. The seater variant of the bus stands 3,800 mm tall, while the sleeper version is 4,000 mm in height. It has a width of 2,600 mm and a wheelbase of 8,340 mm, offering ample interior space.

The bus can accommodate up to 55 passengers in a 2+2 seating layout. It is powered by a DBK 6350 Common Rail Direct Injection diesel engine that generates 346 hp and 1,350 Nm of torque between 1,200 and 1,600 RPM. The powertrain is paired with a 12-speed I-Shift automated manual transmission, featuring four reverse gears for smoother operation.

Fuel capacity stands at 540 litres, with an additional 50-litre AdBlue tank, ensuring longer runs with reduced emissions.

Comfort and expectations

While KSRTC is yet to release information about on-board facilities such as Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, or sleeper configurations, the 9600 SLX series is expected to offer a significant comfort upgrade for intercity and overnight travellers.

As Kerala celebrates its 69th formation day, the launch of these premium Volvo coaches marks a symbolic step towards modernising KSRTC’s services and improving passenger experience across long-distance routes.