Schwing Stetter India, a concreting and construction equipment manufacturer, has unveiled its premium category Mini Excavator range under the XCMG brand at the Flora Airport Hotel & Convention Centre in Cochin, Kerala.

The company said in a statement that it launched four XCMG Mini Excavators in the range of 2 - 4 tonnes capacity. The premium “U” series excavators are XE 20 U, XE 28 U, XE 38 U and XE 40 U. 

All the models are embedded with the latest technology, the release said, adding that some of the other amenities that the machines have are boom deflection, zero tail, modern canopy and AC cabin, as well as built-in Self Diagnostic modules for easy service and maintenance. Schwing Stetter said it is also actively increasing its presence across the country.

VG Sakthikumar, Managing Director, Schwing Stetter India, said, “With our aim of expanding pan India, Kerala is one of the biggest markets for us; especially in this mini excavator segment. Therefore, we thought it imperative to unveil our four models in the heart of the state, Cochin, where we already have a significant customer base.”

The excavators were launched by PN Krishna Kumar, Director, XCMG business along with M Sezhiyan, Vice President CE business and Nassar, Director, Nas-Tech Trading company, on 17 June 2022.

Nas-Tech Trading Company, a dealer appointed by Schwing Stetter for XCMG Excavators, Wheel Loaders & Motor Graders product line for Kerala, expressed that with the pipeline of projects in the state; Schwing’s move to launching these machines in the state is monumental. (MT)

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German tier 1 supplier ZF India has inked a strategic business partnership with one of India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers to supply manual and AMT, 9-Speed transmissions for trucks in the 1300Nm segment.

As per the understanding, ZF will supply EcoMid and EcoTronic Mid transmissions, specifically developed for over 25-tonne truck applications. The company is focusing on expanding its presence in the high torque market, offering 9-speed transmissions with 1500 Nm and 12-speed transmissions with 3200 Nm.

Through its modular platform approach and innovative transmission solutions, it aims to expand its presence as a key supplier for CV Solutions globally, with potential extensions for higher horsepower segments (over 300HP).

Akash Passey, President ZF Group in India, said, "With over six-decades of strong market presence in India, ZF has consistently provided advanced technology solutions that enhance operational efficiencies. This partnership underscores our role in delivering cutting-edge transmission solutions, strategically tailored to meet the evolving demands of our OEM partners. Together, we continue to drive progress and innovation in the industry.”

P Kaniappan, SVP, ZF Group, added, "The EcoMid and EcoTronic Mid transmissions will help drive operational efficiencies for the commercial vehicle industry, particularly in the heavy truck sector. This strategic agreement not only strengthens ZF Group's position as the premier provider of commercial vehicle solutions but also aligns with the market's shift towards higher efficiencies in higher tonnage vehicles. We are committed to delivering substantial progress for our customers and the Indian market."

The transmissions are being manufactured at the ZF Plant in Chakan, Pune.

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Tata Motors has expanded its footprint in the Middle East with the launch of its all-new LPO 1622 bus in Qatar through its official distributor Al Hamad Automobiles. Marking the company’s first Euro VI-compliant bus in the region, the LPO 1622 is purpose-built for staff transportation, offering advanced safety features, superior comfort and low total cost of ownership.

The bus is powered by a 220hp Cummins ISBe 5.6L engine and delivers 925Nm of torque; it comes in 61- and 65-seater configurations. Key features include Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Cruise Control, ABS and ergonomic seating. Its rugged design and durable components are tailored to meet the demands of fleet operators in Qatar.

Asif Shamim, Head of International Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, said, “The Middle East continues to be a strategic focus for Tata Motors, where our products have consistently delivered value across a range of applications. With Qatar being a key market, we are pleased to further strengthen our presence with the launch of the all-new LPO 1622 bus, designed to offer higher profitability to customers and superior comfort to passengers. Supported by a strong and responsive after-sales ecosystem, we remain committed to delivering reliable, advanced mobility solutions tailored to evolving needs and requirements.”

Mohamed Yousef Al Mana, Chairman, Al Hamad Automobiles, said, “We are proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Tata Motors and support the expansion of their commercial vehicle portfolio in Qatar. As a trusted partner, our focus remains on providing comprehensive after-sales support through our wide service network and easy availability of genuine spare parts. With dedicated teams and infrastructure in place, we are fully committed to ensuring maximum uptime, operational continuity, and long-term value for our customers across the country."

Tata Motors also showcased its enhanced Euro V-compliant Prima range of heavy trucks – Prima 4040.K, 4440.S, 4040.T and 6040.S – aimed at meeting the country’s infrastructure and construction demands.

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Daimler Truck has officially opened its new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, Daimler Commercial Vehicles Manufacturing Indonesia (DCVMI), in the Cikarang Industrial Area. This significant IDR 500 billion (approximately USD 30 million) investment marks a major step in Daimler Truck’s regional expansion strategy, solidifying its long-term commitment to meeting the evolving mobility needs of Southeast Asia.

The expansive 15-hectare greenfield facility boasts an annual production capacity of 5,000 Mercedes-Benz trucks and buses. It's poised to become a central hub for vehicle assembly and distribution across key Southeast Asian markets, underpinning Daimler Truck's regional growth ambitions and strengthening Indonesia's commercial vehicle industry.

What makes this initiative particularly noteworthy is its collaborative foundation, blending the precision of German engineering, the manufacturing prowess of India and the crucial market insights from Indonesia.

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), located in Chennai, will play a pivotal role by supplying high-quality Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits to the new Indonesian facility.

Satyakam Arya, Managing Director and CEO, DICV, said, "India remains a cornerstone of our global export strategy. Leveraging Indonesia for the ASEAN region is about expanding our reach, not shifting our focus. As DICV becomes further integrated into Daimler Trucks’ global manufacturing network, we will play a key role in building capabilities in Indonesia—transferring knowledge, developing talent, and strengthening the regional ecosystem. The integration of India’s advanced manufacturing capabilities into our Southeast Asian operations highlights our unified global approach. By combining German engineering excellence with India’s production strength and deep Indonesian market understanding, we are creating a robust platform for long-term success in the region."

Sankaranarayanan Ramamurthi, President Director, DCVMI, said, “This plant is not merely an addition to our infrastructure—it is a manifestation of our vision to make a tangible contribution to Indonesia’s economy, empower local communities and build a stronger industrial ecosystem. Each unit produced here reflects not only engineering excellence but also the spirit of collaboration and our confidence in Indonesia’s future. We are committed to continually creating job opportunities, innovating and contributing to growth in and for Indonesia.”

The opening of the DCVMI factory is a tangible realisation of Daimler Truck's ‘Bigger and Better’ vision. Beyond just expanding facilities, this move is set to enhance agility, streamline workflows, and improve the resilience of solutions offered to Indonesian customers. The company is committed to providing commercial vehicles that precisely meet local market demands, focusing on production efficiency, service reliability, and continuous innovation.

The DCVMI plant in Cikarang features an integrated manufacturing system for efficient production. It's equipped with a test track to simulate diverse road conditions and an advanced paint booth, both adhering to Mercedes-Benz's rigorous global manufacturing standards.

The facility will continue to produce popular Mercedes-Benz Axor Trucks models, including the 2528 CH, 4928 T, 4028 T, 4023 T, 2528 RMC, 2528 CX and 2528 C, as well as Mercedes-Benz bus chassis like the OH 1626 L and OH 1626 S, all specifically designed for the Indonesian market.

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In a landmark move for Japan’s commercial vehicle sector, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and Hino Motors have signed definitive agreements to integrate their operations. The merger will take place under a new holding company set to be established by April 2026, with Tokyo as its headquarters.

The new combined entity will have over 40,000 employees with the scale, resources and technology leadership to disrupt the commercial vehicle landscape in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. It will own 100 percent of Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino Motors.

The integration is the result of a collaboration between four major automotive players: Daimler Truck AG, Mitsubishi Fuso, Hino Motors and Toyota Motor Corporation. Both Daimler Truck and Toyota plan to acquire a 25 percent stake each in the newly listed holding company, which will in turn fully own Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino. The new entity is expected to be listed on the Prime Market of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, with Karl Deppen, current CEO of Mitsubishi Fuso, appointed as CEO of the holding company.

The partnership is designed to bring Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino together on an equal footing, with joint efforts across commercial vehicle development, procurement and production. It aims to enhance operational efficiency, improve global competitiveness and bolster the automotive industry across Japan and Asia.

The alliance underscores the companies’ shared vision of supporting society through sustainable mobility. A key focus of the integration will be addressing the urgent challenges facing the commercial vehicle industry, including decarbonisation, logistics efficiency and the development of CASE technologies (Connected, Autonomous, Shared and Electric mobility) alongside the adoption of hydrogen solutions.

Karin Radstrom, CEO, Daimler Truck, said, “The now decided integration of Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino Motors is truly historic. We are bringing together two strong partners to form an even stronger company and to successfully shape the decarbonisation of transportation. Together, Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino Motors have great potential to leverage scale – and scale is key to win in the technological transformation of our industry. Karl Deppen is an experienced and strong leader who comprehends the whole value chain of our business and I’m therefore convinced that he can bring the new company to the next level.”

Koji Sato, CEO, Toyota Motor Corporation, said, “We believe that the future is for us to build together. Today’s final agreement is not the goal but the starting line. Our four companies, aiming to achieve a sustainable mobility society, will continue to create the future of commercial vehicles together.”

Karl Deppen, CEO, Mitsubishi Fuso and designated CEO of new holding company, said, “Today is a great day for all our stakeholders. We are shaping the industry by bundling our strengths. With a strong new company we combine our two trusted brands, our resources, competencies and expertise to even better support our customers in their transportation needs in the future. I feel honoured and excited to be the designated leader of the new company and am grateful for the trust and encouragement from Toyota and Daimler Truck to make it happen.”

Satoshi Ogiso, CEO, Hino, said, “Cooperation among these 4 companies is truly ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’. In addition to operational synergy, we can expect immeasurable synergy affection from synthesising different culture and climate of us. Under commonly aimed aspiration, we are confident with building strong and resilient team to empathising with each other and contributing to society. As a new commercial vehicle company rooted in Japan, we collaboratively create ever better future.”

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