The redesigned bus, now upgraded to Super Deluxe with more seats, was fully booked on its first service. The number of seats has been increased to 37.
Earlier, the Navakerala bus service to Bengaluru was discontinued due to losses. Following this, KSRTC decided to redesign the bus, increase the seating capacity, and relaunch it as a Super Deluxe service. Features such as the escalator and rear door have been removed, with a single door at the front. The bus still has a restroom. The fare has been reduced from ₹1280 to ₹930.
Previously, as part of the Navakerala journey, the Kerala government had purchased a luxurious Bharat Benz bus worth ₹1.6 crore for the use of the Chief Minister and Ministers. This bus featured a hydraulic lift at the front, an automatic rear door, and restroom facilities.
The Navakerala bus had been surrounded by controversies earlier, with rumors circulating about luxury features like a fridge, microwave oven, bedroom, and meeting room. However, once the bus was launched, it became clear that such claims were exaggerated.
