Commercial vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland recently held a mini expo at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata to showcase a range of its medium and heavy commercial vehicles (MHCV). The two-day expo from August 21 offered opportunity for visitors to experience not only the latest vehicles but also the comprehensive services and solutions that Ashok Leyland offers.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event to Motoring Trends, Ashok Leyland M&HCV President Sanjeev Kumar said, “Kolkata and other Eastern markets offer a vibrant business environment, a sizable customer base and a welcoming environment for investments. Recognising these factors, we have undertaken market analysis and strategic planning to ensure growth in this promising region. Our long-term vision is to become a market leader in the region and provide exceptional products and services.”

He added, “The state has planned new infrastructure projects like Rastashree to strengthen and improve the connectivity in the state. These new projects are expected to boost the demand for the commercial vehicle industry in the region. We want to support the growth story of the state with our robust and rugged M&HCV products best suited for the state.” 

Commenting on how does the company see the adoption of medium and heavy trucks in Bengal given that small transporters are leaving the sector, he said, ‘The M&HCV market is currently undergoing a significant transformation, where sustainability, connectivity, consumer-centric approaches and adaptability to global economic changes converge seamlessly. As the industry continues to evolve, these trends are likely to shape the landscape, influencing the production, and operation of commercial vehicles in the foreseeable future.”

“The growth of the M&HCV segment is propelled by a convergence of key factors. Urbanisation and industrialisation are driving increased demand for efficient freight transportation, fostering the need for medium and heavy commercial vehicles. Technological advancements, including features like advanced telematics and electric or hybrid options, contribute to both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability, aligning with current market trends,” he added. 

He also noted that changing consumer preferences and stringent regulatory standards influence manufacturers to invest in research and development, producing compliant and technologically advanced M&HCVs. Additionally, economic stability, rising incomes and infrastructure development projects globally contribute to a heightened demand for commercial vehicles. 

Hence the growth of the MHCV market in Bengal and across India is driven by a combination of urbanisation, technological innovation, changing consumer demands, regulatory standards and economic factors. Manufacturers' adaptability to these dynamic elements remains crucial in meeting the escalating demand for efficient, sustainable and technologically advanced commercial vehicles.

Ashok Leyland showcased a diverse line-up of vehicles at the expo including the AVTR 5525AN 4X2 AC, AVTR 4825HN AC, AVTR 4825TN HD AC, AVTR 3532TN 8X4, AVTR 1925 TN 10.5, Partner Super 914 14FT, Boss 1915 22FT, Oyster Vi School (53-seater), Oyster Vi Staff (40-seater), 15 M bus chassis, and AVTR 55T EV.

The company has organised expos in 11 exclusive locations across India to showcase the latest innovations in the M&HCV sector. 

Speaking from the podium, Kumar said, "The mini expo in Kolkata marks a significant milestone as we continue to lead the way in the commercial vehicle segment. West Bengal and Eastern India at large, has been a key market for us. We have always recognised the potential this region has and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in this geography. The expo is an opportunity for customers to experience our capabilities in driving the future of mobility. We are confident that our vehicles, coupled with our extensive aftermarket solutions, will demonstrate our dedication to providing comprehensive transportation solutions to our customers. We look forward to engaging with our customers and stakeholders at Kolkata."

Ashok Leyland, a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, has inaugurated its 22nd Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) dealership in Uttar Pradesh. The new 3S facility located in Chunar, Mirzapur will further strengthen the company’s presence in North India.

The company’s LCV portfolio includes Saathi, Dost, Bada Dost, Partner and MiTR targeted for a wide range of customers and applications.

Viplav Shah, Head – LCV Business, Ashok Leyland, said, “Recognising immense potential of Uttar Pradesh as a key market for us, we are thrilled to strengthen our presence in the region. Our new dealership in Chunar (Mirzapur) would go a long way in reinforcing our presence in the state. The phenomenal success of our ‘Dost’, ‘Bada Dost,’ and the new ‘Saathi’ range underscores the robustness of our products - thanks to their best-in-class mileage, superior performance, and higher payloads. We take immense pride in our exceptional service retention levels, with nearly 70% of our customers returning to our dealer workshops even beyond the warranty period. This new dealership marks yet another milestone in our journey to provide the best possible experience to our valued customers.”

Ashok Leyland, one of the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nagaland Rural Bank for a strategic vehicle financing partnership. The partnership will see Ashok Leyland get access to customised financial solutions from Nagaland Rural Bank.

The MoU was signed by C Neelakantan, Head -Treasury and Direct Taxation, Ashok Leyland and Velayutham Sadhasivam, Chairman, Nagaland Rural Bank.

Balaji K M, CFO, Ashok Leyland, said, “At Ashok Leyland, we are dedicated to continuously enhancing customer experience and delivering greater value in our products and services. Nagaland Rural Bank is a regional rural bank with a strong presence in the state. With this partnership in place, our customers in the region will have access to comprehensive financing solutions with specially curated easy repayment plans”.

Sanjeev Kumar, President – MHCV, Ashok Leyland, said, “Ashok Leyland is looking forward to collaborating with Nagaland Rural Bank to offer our customers highly attractive financing solutions. This strategic partnership not only strengthens our market presence but also reinforces our commitment to innovation and customer success. With cutting-edge technology and industry-leading total cost of ownership, our products are designed to drive profitability and value for our customers. We remain steadfast in our commitment to deliver exceptional customer experience and build long lasting relationships.”

Velayutham Sadhasivam added, “Nagaland Rural Bank is delighted to collaborate with Ashok Leyland to provide seamless vehicle financing solutions. This partnership underscores our commitment to meeting the diverse financial needs of commercial vehicle customers across the state. We are confident that this alliance will help us expand our reach and offer customized financing options, fostering the growth of businesses in the commercial vehicle sector.”

Eicher Trucks & Buses, a business unit of VE Commercial Vehicles, has announced that it successfully hosted the second Woman Transporters Delegation at its Bhopal plant.

The event saw women leaders in the transport industry exchange ideas, share insights and explore new business opportunities. The discussion revolved around a wide range of topics such as digitisation, alternative fuels and intelligent mobility solutions that provide challenges and opportunities.

The women leaders were given an exclusive tour of Eicher’s Bhopal plant, an interactive session with VECV Executive Management and test drive experience.

Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VECV, said, “At Eicher Trucks and Buses, we firmly believe that inclusivity and diversity strengthen businesses and drives growth. Technology and digital solutions are transforming the industry, making businesses smarter and more efficient. While we are taking steps to improve diversity and inclusion internally through initiatives like an all-woman assembly line in Bhopal, we thank you for working with us to foster innovative approaches in the commercial vehicle industry."

Bhagwan K Bindiganavile, EVP, Strategic Planning, Brand & Communications, VECV, added, “The Indian CV industry is transforming rapidly, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Seven Cs for mobility solutions: Common, Connected, Convenient, Congestion-free, Charged, Clean and Cutting-edge. We appreciated the women leaders focus on balancing the new technologies making logistics more efficient with a people-first approach.”

SS Gill, Chief Commercial Officer, VECV; B Srinivas, COO, Eicher Trucks and Buses; Ramesh Rajagopalan, EVP, Customer Service, Retail Excellence and Network Development and Vimal Mulchandani, EVP- Manufacturing Operation, Eicher Trucks & Buses & Volvo Buses also engaged with the women transporters delegation.

Construction and off-road equipment major SANY has launched what it claims is India's first hybrid off-highway 100-tonne mining dump truck – the SKT130S – with localised manufacturing at its Pune factory.

The truck operates with a 925 kW engine, which generates 3200 Nm of torque, 100-tonne payload capacity and a 61 CuM heaped body capacity, designed for mining applications.

Deepak Garg, Vice-Chairman and MD, SANY India and South Asia, said, “The introduction of the SKT130S is a remarkable achievement in our journey towards driving innovation and self-reliance in India’s mining sector. As India’s first 100-tonne diesel-electric hybrid mining truck, the SKT130S demonstrates SANY India’s commitment to delivering high-performance, efficient and safe solutions to meet the evolving demands of the industry. Our focus on localisation not only supports India’s manufacturing vision but also ensures that we bring cutting-edge technology to enhance productivity in mining operations.”

The SKT130S is expected to achieve fuel savings of 20-25 percent compared to conventional mining trucks. A regenerative braking system enables the high-voltage battery to charge during downhill operation.

The truck includes an intelligent control module for operation management and a 10-inch central control screen for navigation and safety. The cabin meets FOPS/ROPS certification standards, aligning with global safety regulations.