SETC Multi-Axle Buses Set to Transform Long-Distance Travel in Tamil Nadu
SETC multi-axle buses will soon debut in Tamil Nadu, offering a premium travel alternative to private omnibuses on long-distance routes.
For the first time in its history, the State Express Transport Corporation (SETC) is preparing to introduce a fleet of luxury Volvo multi-axle buses, taking a significant step towards upgrading Tamil Nadu’s intercity public transportation.
Drawing inspiration from states like Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, which have successfully run luxury services like “Airavat Club Class” and “Garuda Plus”, SETC is ready to roll out its own high-end brand of comfort.
A total of 20 AC multi-axle buses will be purchased through a tender process already in progress. These vehicles are expected to feature state-of-the-art amenities and offer enhanced ride quality, especially on longer routes.
“The new lot of SETC multi-axle buses will provide a smoother, quieter, and far more comfortable experience than the conventional single-axle coaches,” said a senior SETC official familiar with the project.
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Catering to Comfort-First Passengers
The upcoming launch is aimed at a segment of passengers who often turn to private buses due to lack of train availability or tight schedules.
Many travelers are willing to pay extra for added convenience and comfort on popular routes like Chennai to Bengaluru or Nagercoil.
SETC’s new multi-axle luxury coaches aim to meet that expectation while maintaining the reliability of public transport.
In a parallel move to address peak travel demand, particularly during weekends and festival seasons, SETC will also lease 20 private AC buses starting from the end of May. This will help cushion the load as passenger numbers rise.
SETC operates long-distance services covering more than 300 km per trip. As of February 2025, the corporation was transporting over 72,500 passengers daily.
Its network includes 195 major routes, 90 interstate and 105 within Tamil Nadu, with a current fleet of 1,080 buses running nearly 1,000 scheduled services.
The addition of SETC multi-axle buses is more than a fleet upgrade. It signals a shift in how public transport in Tamil Nadu is perceived. Once seen purely as a budget-friendly option, SETC is now stepping into a space that prioritizes comfort and premium service.
As the new luxury buses roll out, passengers may no longer need to rely solely on private operators for top-tier intercity travel.
