Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M Ltd.), a leading player in the small Commercial Vehicle segment in India, launched the Mahindra Alfa Plus, a longer deck variant of its 3 Wheeler Alfa Load carrier. Developed to enhance the value proposition for its customers, Alfa Plus has been designed for intra-city load transport, especially suited for the Captive segments like the distributors of mineral water, gas cylinders and consumer goods. It is equipped with class leading features – be it a longer wheelbase or an ergonomically designed, comfortable and spacious cabin while having a powerful engine and excellent mileage too.

With the longest cargo box in its class, the Alfa Plus offers a 20% increase in carriage of load volume in every trip, thereby increasing earnings for its customers. Alfa Plus also comes with a robust transmission, having improved the gear box life by upto 20%, more power with an increase in engine torque by 8% and an increase in clutch life by 50%.

“With the launch of the Alfa Plus we have significantly enhanced the value proposition for our customers and hence strengthened our 3W load product portfolio. This product is specially designed to cater to the needs of captive segment businessmen and traders and will make transportation of voluminous cargo easier,” said at the launch of the Alfa Plus, Mr. Vivek Nayer, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

While a bigger wheelbase adds to the vehicle’s stability thereby offering a smoother ride and increased safety, the ergonomically designed spacious cabin offers a fatigue free long distance drive. Further, with the tagline ‘Bade Fayde ke liye Bada Alfa’, the Alfa Plus offers to its customers a higher load carrying ability as well as lower operating costs. This product will roll out from M&M’s plants at Haridwar and Zaheerabad.

Also see – 2012 Auto Expo – Mahindra unveils Hydrogen powered three-wheeler

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Sweden-based commercial vehicle manufacturer, Volvo India announced the trial-run of its 14.5-metre-long multi-axle low floor city bus ‘Volvo 7400XL’ in Bangalore, India. This city bus is considered to be the Asia’s first 14.5 meter bus. Karnataka government-owned Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) held the run.

Earlier this-year, the Volvo 7400XL was showcased at the 2012 Auto Expo 2012 held in Delhi. Step inside the coach and discover the finest of interiors with the most luxurious environment. It is also the country’s first city bus ready to support efficient mass bus-based transport systems and can ferry up to 110 passengers at a time.

The Volvo 7400XL is powered by the Volvo 7-litre diesel engine, with 290 hp of power. It is also equipped with a turbocharger and an intercooler. The bus has improved fuel efficiency with lower emissions and reduced road space consumption. The rear axle too is steerable, which makes the bus very maneuverable even inside the city.

These better fuel efficient buses can carry 100 plus passengers at the same ticket rates applicable in existing Volvo buses.  The first trial trip by the bus was from Shanthinagar TTMC to Hebbal. The trial will continue for 3 months on different routes. No much details or information known about the Volvo 7400XL at the moment.

The management at Volvo Buses India is elated with a touch of confidence to see the response Volvo buses are getting in India.  The trial launch of Multi-Axle Volvo 7400XL underlines the efforts made by Volvo to make public transport the preferred choice of public in a city.  So far Volvo buses have made their presence in 13 cities throughout India.
 
What we say? Take a ride and discover a new dimension of comfort in road travel from the most well-built bus as you glide on for miles. It is a coach in its own class and an inspiration to travel, like never before.

Also see - 2012 Auto Expo – Volvo India showcases Volvo 7700 Hybrid bus

Volvo 7700 diesel-electric hybrid bus to run on Bangalore roads soon

See more pictures of Volvo 7400XL (Asia’s first 14.5 meter bus) -

Image Credit – SkyscraperCity

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Mahindra & Mahindra yesterday launched the ‘New Bolero Maxi Truck’, an addition to its ‘pick-up’ portfolio, priced at Rs 4.08 lakh (ex-showroom BS3 Karnataka, standard version). The all new Bolero Maxi Truck is powered by 2523cc MDI engine delivers a superior driving experience, comes with stylish new looks, gets the Bolero Maxi Truck option and better interiors.

On the exteriors, it has undergone a makeover to become more stylish with elegant new headlamps and a re-styled front grille. The new Bolero Maxi Truck takes ahead the equity of the Mahindra Bolero Pick Up brand with its strong build and finish quality while enhancing its style quotient.  The vehicle also has power steering for driving convenience, and is built for safety and stability.

In addition to the styling of the vehicle, it also offers a power packed performance with its 2523cc MDI engine providing 62 BHP power and 183.5 Nm torque, for ease of drivability in any terrain and effortless load carrying ability. Packed with several utility, technology and comfort features for more power, sturdiness, dependability, lower maintenance and greater earning, the Bolero Maxi Truck, scores highly over its nearest competitors.

Arun Malhotra, Senior Vice President, sales and customer care, automotive division, M&M Ltd, said -

” I am sure that this new Bolero Maxi Truck, with its power steering option will cater to the needs of the stand operators and the businessmen alike by offering them efficient cargo movement and driving comfort for even the longest trips. With a comprehensive portfolio of products we hope to further consolidate our leadership position in the commercial vehicle industry.”

The Bolero MaxiTruck is the first product in the Pick-Up category to offer the revolutionary Micro Hybrid technology. This system which proved to be extremely useful in the Scorpio has contributed to even more fuel efficiency in the Bolero which has actually been upped by 10% now. The system basically turns off the engine at signals. Moreover, the power of this vehicle enables it to cruise effortlessly between cities as also on the highway.

About the Bolero Maxi Truck -

The Style Edge

The Bolero Maxi Truck comes with an attractive and unique grille design and elegant new headlamps that give the vehicle a stylish edge. The tastefully designed dashboard with an integrated glove-box further enhances its appeal. The interiors of the vehicle could be seen as a benchmark in the commercial vehicle segment with generous cabin space and elegant fabric seats to make even the longest trips comfortable.

Power Packed Performance

The Bolero Maxi Truck offers a more power packed performance as it comes with a renowned and trusted 2523cc MDI engine. With its 62BHP (45.5 kW) power,183.5 Nm torque, sturdy rigid leaf-spring suspension robust build, it is capable of handling any kind of load and terrain. Further, large 15 inch (38.1cm) tyres ensure greater stability and less wear and tear.

Best Operating Economics

The Bolero Maxi Truck is built to move heavy loads over longer distances without breakdowns. With low maintenance, the Bolero Maxi Truck offers reduced spends and the superior fuel efficient MDI engine gives greater earnings.

Safety First

The Bolero Maxi Truck is far ahead of its contemporaries in terms of safety features. It boasts of a front–nose design for enhanced safety and strong body and chassis to handle rough and tough usage without any complaints. It has a large wheel base to ensure stability and safety even while carrying heavy loads.

Built on Trust

The Bolero Maxi Truck boasts of extensive spare parts availability and Mahindra’s wide spread network for service support. In keeping with our customer centric initiatives and to reiterate the confidence in quality and also to enhance the value of our products, the Bolero Maxi Truck comes with a 3 year unlimited kilometres warranty on engine and gearbox. Further, this vehicle also boasts of high durability, reliability and strict adherence to quality standards, which are Mahindra trademarks.

What we say? Mahindra Bolero Maxi Truck, is the oldest of all the commercial vehicles in the Mahindra’s line-up. Mahindra fans would swear by the Bolero’s off road capability, its ability to take abuse and also its high fuel efficiency and overall low maintenance. It uses the same engine as in the Mahindra Bolero.

Also see -  Firstlook – Mahindra Genio

Mahindra Genio DC (Dual Cab) pick-up launched

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Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M), one of the leaders in the small commercial vehicle segment in India, having conquered 20-25% share in the mini truck segment with the Maxximo load and soft top van, the company has launched a hard top version and tagged it as VX. Launched in the Ahmedabad market, the Maxximo Mini Van Vx BS III is priced at Rs 3.7 lakh (Ex-showroom Ahmedabad) and is the only diesel hard top van in the country.

The Maxximo hard top minivan will be pitted against the Maruti Omni, which despite being more than a two and half decades old continues to be a big seller for Maruti. The Maxximo will also compete with the Eeco minivan, which is another product in Maruti’s range. The company claims it is 30-40% more spacious then Omni.

This Minivan features wide-body with proper hardtop design, ergonomically designed and well-cushioned seats, independent front suspension system, monocoque chassis, booster-assisted twin LSPV brakes and with bigger box-sections for greater rigidity. Butterfly windows and two rows of seats will make short-distance journeys comfortable for about eight people.

It is powered by Mahindra’s advanced 909cc, C2 CRDe diesel engine that generates 25Hp of power at 3600rpm and 55Nm of torque at 2200-2400rpm that offers a mileage of 18-20 kmpl. It is matted with a 4-speed manual transmission, single plate dry clutch with manual steering with rack & pinion.

The vehicle will be launched in a phased manner all across India. The vehicle has been first launched in Gujarat, which would be followed by Rajasthan. Mahindra plans to launch the minivan in the rest of the country within six months.

The hard top van is the fourth product offering on the flexible Maxximo platform, which has spawned products like Maxximo load, semi hard top van, a CNG pick up and now the hard top van produced out of the company’s plant in Chakan, Maharashtra.

On the launch, Mahindra & Mahindra Senior Vice President, Sales & Customer Care (Automotive Division) Arun Malhotra said -

“Our aim is to offer a diesel vehicle that is stylish and best-in-class in space, comfort and operating economics. The hard top Van can be used for the purpose of school van, stage carrier application, used by tour and traveler operator and even the TV crew and inside the airport.”

Also see -  Mahindra Maxximo Minivan Launched

See more pictures of Mahindra Maxximo Hard Top Van -

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Last-month we reported that Asia’s first 14.5-metre-long multi-axle low floor city bus Volvo 7400XL is on the trail-run in Bangalore. Now Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has introduced new services in the Volvo multi-axle buses to make long-distance travelling a world-class experience for its passengers, particularly for elderly and those with kids, which features a chemical toilets, in-built pantry, live TV and Wi-Fi facility.

Currently, six Volvo multi-axle buses with chemical toilets and the two of them feature additional in-house pantry services. The buses with pantry and toilet facilities are called ‘Airavat Bliss’ and buses with only toilets are called ‘Airavat Superia’. Initially, four of the buses will operate on the Bangalore-Chennai route and two will be pressed into service between Bangalore-Tirupati.

 
Features of Airavat Bliss a multi-facility bus -

• Chemical Toilet - You do not have to worry whether the conductor will oblige you by stopping the bus if you need to go to the toilet.
• Pantry – Passengers have to pay an additional price of Rs 125** for the food service and the menu includes pongal, bonda, chicken kabab, samosa, sandwich, fruit salad, fruit juices, coffee, tea etc. Passengers are allowed to use the oven in the pantry to heat the food items. Passengers can also choose the preferred food item from the menu available at counters or online while booking the tickets.
• Live TV - Live television sets fixed behind the each seat, along with ear phones and remote control facility.
• Wi-Fi facility - For the first two months, Wi-Fi facility will be provided free. Later, it will be charged where the passengers can pay Rs. 15** and get a scratch card from the conductor to use the facility throughout the journey.
• Track the Vehicle - Well-wishers of passengers can even track the bus in a service called ‘Track the Vehicle’, wherein anybody can login to the KSRTC website and check the location of any bus on the move. As a part of this service to track the bus, people can also send an SMS to 9243755920. For this, they have to type: ‘Where are you?’ along with the PNR number mentioned in the ticket.

 
KSRTC officials said that the toilets will be cleaned by maintenance staff of KSRTC and the food provided will be outsourced to a private vendor. Later we will outsource the entire pantry service to the vendor, depending on the demand. Also, they added saying we have tied-up with Integration Consultancy Services and Airtel TV for the live TV facility.

 
(NOTE – **The  prices are constantly updated and hence may differ from figures shown.)

 
What we say? Now since all these facilities are introduced, the driver will not be obligated to stop at restaurants en route, this mean that they’ll reach their destinations faster. Meanwhile, the buses with pantry and toilet facilities called ‘Airavat Bliss’, the word Bliss here suggests the perfect happiness and great joy.

Also see - The longest Volvo bus on trail-run in Bangalore – Asia’s first 14.5 meter bus

See more pictures of Volvo 7400XL (Airavat Bliss) -

Image Credit - SkyscraperCity & Team-BHP

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Tata Motors today launched the Tata Xenon Pick-up, offering both single cab & dual cab versions, with best-in-class looks, operating economics and fuel efficiency. The Tata Xenon Pick-up is suitable for a wide range of commercial applications.

The workhorses are matched with commensurate power and they come with 3.0-litre Common Rail and Turbo Direct-Injection engine options, which deliver a top speed of 120 kmph with peak power of 72HP in the single cab and 115HP in the dual cab, with a peak torque of 223nm and 300nm respectively. The Tata Xenon Pick-up delivers best-in-class fuel efficiency because of its scientifically engineered drive train. The Tata Xenon’s engines, with their flat torque characteristics, the overdrive gearbox, radial tyres and the aerodynamic shape, contribute to its high fuel efficiency. With a gradeability of 32%, the vehicle will also prove reliable in hilly terrains. The Tata Xenon Pick-up comes with a warranty of 3 lakh kms or 3 years, whichever is earlier, further affirming Tata Motors’ confidence in the abilities of the range.

The Tata Xenon Pick-up is versatile, with payload options to suit varied business requirements. The Tata Xenon single cab variant offers the longest-in-class body length of 8’4″. Additional utility features like convenient loading height, 3-side drop load body bring ease to day-to-day operations. The vehicle comes with 2-stage semi elliptical leaf in the rear suspension, which ensures good load carrying ability, with better ride comfort and handling. The Tata Xenon single cab also comes equipped with power steering, adjustable steering column, cushioned bucket seats in the front with adjustable lumbar support. There are conveniently placed utility spaces, clutch foot rest, a mobile charging point.

The dual cab variant comes with fully-loaded features like HVAC, power windows, central locking, seats with lumber support, high-end cab trims as standard fitment. The dual cab is equipped with limited slip differential, which resists wheel spin on gravel or muddy roads, thereby offering better control and making the vehicle ideal for off-track usage. The stylised load body further enhances design appeal. The vehicle is targeted for applications involving both crew and cargo movement in a comfortable and safe manner.

The vehicle has been designed to meet global safety standards. Variants of the model offer safety features like the unique 3-layered body construction, crumple zones, a collapsible steering column, central locking, retractable seatbelts and side intrusion beams which will protect passengers in the event of a side impact collision.

4 Shades available in Tata Xenon –

• Arizona Blue
• Mineral Red
• Arctic Silver
• Arctic White

Prices of Tata Xenon Pick-up (Ex-showroom, Thane) -

• Tata Xenon Pick-up single cab version – Rs. 5.44 lakh
• Tata Xenon Pick-up dual cab version – Rs. 6.34 lakh

Also see – Spied – Tata Xenon Single-Cab Commercial Pickup in Pune

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A couple of months before, KSRTC or Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation started commenced the trial-run of its 14.5-metre-long multi-axle low floor city bus ‘Volvo 7400XL’ in Bangalore, India. And last-month, the KSRTC introduced new services in the Volvo multi-axle buses like toilet and pantry facilities. Now combining the both KSRTC launched country’s longest bus measuring 14.5-metre-long bus, with a toilet and in-house pantry services.

Earlier this-year, along with the Volvo 7400XL the company also showcased the Volvo 9400PX at the 2012 Auto Expo, both of this bus measures 14.5-metre long and becomes the country’s longest multi-axle intercity bus with a steerable rear tag-axle. The new coach is powered by the new Volvo 11-litre engine with 370hp. An automated I-Shift gearbox handles the transmission duties.

The Volvo 9400PX is built on the new light-weight Volvo PX platform, which provides even better grade ability and acceleration as well as enhanced stability & larger luggage space. This 14.5-metre-long bus is 0.8 metre longer than a multi-axle bus, and has around 41 seats. Inside the cabin, passengers have the luxury of a big size pantry with a coffee maker, a refrigerator and a wash basin, VOD (Video-on-demand) and in-built toilet. Even, mobile chargers are attached to each row. The fare for the Bangalore-Mysore route will be Rs. 300.

Akash Passey, senior vice president – Business region international, Volvo Bus Corporation and chairman of the board, Volvo Buses in India said –

“The Volvo 9400PX is an important milestone for Volvo buses in India. Since 2001, each year, we have introduced a new concept or product in India. We keep this momentum and take an important step forward. The introduction of the Volvo 9400PX is even more special. First, because it is a global introduction from India, and has been developed keeping in mind the evolving customer, passenger and driver needs in India. Next, it is a continued sign of our local product development capabilities, where the Volvo 9400PX has witnessed a very close collaboration between our engineers in Sweden & India together.”

 
Checkout the video below the jump.

Also see - Volvo-KSRTC introduces multi-facility bus with pantry and toilet

The longest Volvo bus on trail-run in Bangalore – Asia’s first 14.5 meter bus

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Tata Motors’ Commercial Vehicles Business Unit (CVBU) today launched 6 first-of-its-kind Heavy Trucks in India. These trucks include the 10×4 LPT 3723 37-tonne 5-axle, Prima  4938 tractor and 3138K tipper, LPK 3118 tipper, Prima 4923 and 4023 tractors. All these 6 trucks have been designed and built specifically to offer the lowest TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), best-in-class fuel efficiency; longer service runs and enhanced levels of driver comfort, resulting in best-in-class profitability and lowest payback period for the fleet operator.

Along with the trucks, the company also showcased the Tata Fleetman services. Tata FleetMan combines state-of-the-art IT and Telecom equipment and software, with Tata Motors’ expertise in automobile technology, offering one of the most advanced Telematics solutions in the country. With features like real time fleet tracking, SMS Alerts, Geo-fencing and trip management, Tata FleetMan will help fleet owners increase productivity and profitability of their transport business. The service will carry an annual subscription charge and will be marketed through the Tata Motors commercial vehicle dealer network.

Prices of the Tata Motors 6 new trucks (ex-showroom, Mumbai) -

• Tata LPT 3723 priced at Rs. 25.5 lakh
• Tata Prima 3138.K priced at Rs. 52 lakh
• Tata Prima 4938.S priced at Rs. 55 lakh
• Tata LX 4023.S priced at Rs. 21.5 lakh
• Tata Prima LX 4923.X priced at Rs. 25 lakh
• Tata LPK 3118 priced at Rs. 29 lakh

Speaking on the occasion, Ravi Pisharody, executive director – commercial vehicles, Tata Motors, said -

“Tata Motors has been in the Indian commercial vehicle space for over six decades. Over this period, we have developed a very deep understanding of the Indian market, bringing world-class technologies at world-class prices, having always paced ourselves one step ahead in meeting our customer needs. The six first-of-its-kind trucks bear testimony to that tradition of the company. Besides products, we have also developed a host of innovative service offerings, which will further our dominance in the Indian market. Tata FleetMan, completely developed in-house, further affirms our expertise in offering solutions which can transform the dynamics of the transport industry.”

Also see – 2012 Auto Expo – Tata Motors unveils Ultra range LCV & ICV trucks, commercial vehicles line-up

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Daimler India Commercial Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. (DICV), recently launched its first set of trucks under the BharatBenz brand in Mumbai, BharatBenz is 100% Indian subsidiary of the world’s No. 1 truck manufacturer Daimler AG. The 3 Heavy-Duty trucks launched are first among the range of 17 models that will happen in the next 17 months and will expand from six to 8 segments later.

Three heavy-duty BharatBenz trucks in 25 tonne and 31 tonne category – 2323R and 3123R for the haulage segment and 2523C for the construction segment – all based on the Axor platform, the heavy duty trucks feature a 230PS 6-cylinder engine. The 2523 range is priced between Rs 15.7 lakh and 17.2 lakh, and 3123 is from Rs 18.7 lakh to Rs 20.2 lakh.

Speaking on the occasion, Marc Llistosella MD and CEO of DCIV, said –

 “Today is an important milestone for all of us at Daimler and Indian trucking as, from today on, Indian truck buyers will have a new choice. A choice of trucks that are more fuel efficient, more reliable and in the end makes them more successful. BharatBenz is here, and we are proud to have delivered on the promise we made since 2010, to launch our trucks in September 2012. We will drive the change in the Indian market with a new product experience, a new sales experience and a new service experience for our customers.”

 
Checkout more pictures below the jump.

Also see - 2012 Auto Expo – BharatBenz unveils their heavy-duty truck

See more pictures of BharatBenz trucks -

Image Credit – Team-BHP

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Pune-based automobile company, Force Motors launched the all new Traveller-26, which has been said to be the world’s largest monocque van with price of Rs 10.87 lakh. As the name itself mentions, this vehicle has ability to accommodate 26 people on the board apart from the driver. The Traveller-26 was first unveiled at 2012 Auto Expo held in New Delhi earlier this-year.

Today, the all new Traveller-26 has been launched in three variants: Standard, School bus and Deluxe priced at Rs 10.87 lakh, 11.17 lakh and 13.78 lakh respectively. Power steering is standard on all variants and the Deluxe variant comes with factory fitted AC. Initially, this vehicle will be sold via 27 dealerships of the company in Maharashtra and Goa states.

Coming back to Traveller-26, it comes with a wide body design and twin tyred rear wheels for better load bearing and stability. It is the very first LCV in India to use mass flywheel and has got the best-in-class power to weight ratio. The Traveller-26 is the only vehicle in its class to adopt the Cathodic Electro Deposition (CED) dip painting process for the primer application, which offers highest protection against rust.

The other features include the disc brakes on all wheels, load conscious regulating valve, electronic indicators for wear and tear and various other top notch comfort and safety feature. Powered by a 2.2-litre common rail diesel mill sourced from Dailmer AG, the all new Traveller 26 churns out the maximum of 127bhp and 295Nm of torque. This engine drives the rear wheels of the Traveller-26 through a five speed manual gearbox. And its 15% more fuel efficient than its competition.
 
Checkout more pictures below the jump.

Also see – 2012 Auto Expo – Force Motors showcases Force One 4X4 variant and Traveller-26

Image Credit – IndiaAutosBlog

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Sweden-based commercial vehicle manufacturer, Volvo India has launched their new 45 tonne capacity FM480 10×4 Dump Truck which is slated to be the next big ‘Game Changer’ in the mining application business. This truck is an innovation which is being built with keeping in pace with the dynamics of the industry for over a decade and a half. This truck is believed to set new benchmarks in the mining industry.

The Volvo FM480 is the largest truck to be launched in India and expected to be a major record breaker in the mining industry. It is built on the Volvo FM13 platform through the Volvo – Eicher joint venture, the new dump truck was launched in Bangalore at a price of Rs.1.08 crores (Ex-showroom). This multi axle truck is the largest mining truck Volvo has ever introduced in the country.

The FM480 features air suspended pusher axle with electronically controlled suspension for optimized load distribution, electronically controlled and hydraulically operated steering system, an additional parking brake on rear-rear axle which improves braking performance, especially on steep slopes.

It is powered by a 13-litre Volvo D1 3A480 engine that helps to generate 480 hp, 2400 Nm torque and a power to weight ratio of 7.38 with 24 M3 struck volume. It is this power to weight ratio that offers enhanced speed that leads to better productivity while low kerb weight ensures better fuel efficiency.

Volvo trucks operate only in select premium and niche segments in India and hold the Number 1 position in the premium European truck segment in India. The company also has the Southern parts of the country covered with sales and service hubs in and around the mining towns of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
 
On the launch, Mr. Philippe Divry, Managing Director, Volvo India Private Limited and a VECV Board member said –

“At a time where business is tough for everybody in the mining sector, Volvo, the market leader, once again innovates to create value for its customers. This is the biggest truck ever in India; it looks like a truck, but produces like a machine. The Volvo FM480 10×4 Dump Truck is slated to be the next big Game Changer in the mining industry.”

 
On the launch, Mr. Vinod Aggarwal, Chief Executive Officer of VE Commercial Vehicles Ltd. said –

“The Volvo FM480 is the first 10×4 dump truck concept in the Indian market for mining applications. The Volvo 10×4 benefits the customers with higher productivity and lower overall operating costs. The higher capacity rock body enables the customers to derive the best-in-class productivity; thereby reducing their fleet size and helping them achieve increased profitability and higher operating efficiency.”

Also see – Truck driver bags Volvo Award

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Volkswagen-owned, Scania Commercial Vehicles has launched a new range of on-road trucks for trial runs in India. Through the launch of these trucks, Scania will continue with its heritage of offering customers world class products and services and being a trusted transportation partner, also for India. The Scania has launched four truck models in India – R 500 6×4, the G 460 6×4, the P 410 6×2 and the P 360 4×2.
 
Scania Truck range in India -

• The Scania R 500 6×4 is a heavy-duty puller, which is rightly called “King of the Road” across the global markets, is powered by its best-in-class 500 horsepower V8 engine, offering a high low-speed torque rating, which is essential for super ODC transportation. With the automated gearchanging system Scania Opticruise, this will be the first of its kind in the Indian market to carry the super Over Dimensional Cargo across the country in the most demanding highway conditions.
• The Scania G 460 6×4 heavy duty puller, powered by a 460 hp engine and also equipped with the Scania Opticruise that will help the driver to cruise with ease and comfort. The Scania G 460 offers the higher torque than any competitive 13-litre truck on Indian roads, thereby also redefining the ODC transportation in India.
• The Scania P 410 6×2 prime mover, a multi-task master, is the first of its kind in the Indian market with a powerful 410 hp coupled with a liftable tag axle tailored to long haul transport. Scania P 410 promotes efficiency through fuel savings and faster turnaround times, thereby setting new standards in the logistics segment, with a significant shift in Total Cost of Ownership.
• The Scania P 360 4×2 prime mover, powered by a 360 hp engine, is a specially engineered truck with high power and torque with rear air suspension that serve the needs of critical and fragile cargo transportation which require safety, lower turnaround time and offers a better solution through Life Cycle cost savings.

Scania was already present in India since 2007 in partnership with L&T, so far the company has sold around 800 18-axle mining trucks, each with a capacity of over 25 tonne. And back in Jul-2012, Scania India had begun work on their new manufacturing plant in India, which will be located at Narasapura Industrial Area, Bangalore. This new facility will be built over an area of 140,000 sq. mts. and will feature body building of coaches and buses along with assembling of trucks and buses.

The Narasapura Industrial Area (Bangalore) plant will be able to produce 2,000 heavy haulage trucks and 1,000 intercity buses, over the next five years. In order to sustain their growth, Scania will be investing Rs 250 crores ($45.8m) in India over the next three years. Scania India has appointed Larsen & Toubro as their distributor in India.

On the other hand, Scania is busy testing their future V8 powered commercial vehicles rigorously on their test tracks in Sweden. “Our mission is to find any faults before the trucks get in the hands of our customers,” explains Johan Lindh, manager at the vehicle validation department. “Every new truck that leaves Scania should be a better truck than the previous one.”

Also see – Scania to set-up a manufacturing facility in Bangalore

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Ashok Leyland, the Hinduja Group flagship, introduced a range of Haulage trucks fitted with Twin Speed Rear Axles and many other modifications that promises enhanced fuel efficiency of up to 10%. Deployed on 25 and 31 Tonne trucks in both 6×2 and 8×2 configurations, the new set of technologies are custom designed for the Ashok Leyland driveline, with the Twin Speed Axle being the primary change.

Ideal for an open highway condition, the technology allows the driver to shift to fuel-economy mode, while cruising, just by pressing the ‘Twin-Speed’ button. The ‘Twin-Speed’ technology also offers benefits of faster turnaround, improved driveability and reduced Noise levels.

On the introduction of this new technology, Mr. Vinod K. Dasari, Managing Director, Ashok Leyland said, “It is our constant endeavor to seek ways to improve our customers’ profitability and what better way than to reduce their burden on fuel cost. After all, fuel cost is the highest component in the cost of operating a vehicle. We are confident that our customers will find in this new technology an excellent value proposition.”

The Twin-Speed technology will be on offer on some of the Company’s flagship models, in the multi-axle range, like the 2516IL, 2516XL, 3116IL and 3118IL, which are best suited for applications like market load, cement, tankers and general cargo and are already top performers in their class. These vehicles equipped with twin-speed axles will be launched across the country in a phased manner. The package of such technology improvements will be extended to 4×2 Haulage and Buses as well.

Customer care will be on offer through Ashok Leyland’s robust network of 428 full service outlets that are positioned at every 75 kms on all major highways across the country. A rich bouquet of services including the unique TatkaAL promise, first launched by Ashok Leyland, that ensures service within 4 hours on any major highway and restoration of vehicle within 48 hours. In the rarest instance of causing any delay, the Company will pay a penalty of Rs. 1,000 a day to the customer. Besides this, the Company offers Annual Maintenance Contracts, 3 years’ extended warranty and 2 years’ extended service packages on its range of MAVs.

Also see – 2012 Auto Expo – Ashok Leyland presents India’s first 37-tonne haulage truck

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Toofles Foundation came with the concept of the Ashok Leyland Luxura Magical India Bus.

The concept – It is a luxury bus, providing private jet like comfort. The best feature of this launch is that it’s running for a noble cause as 50% of earnings go to NGOs like GOONJ to help the people in need.

The platform for the bus is provided by Ashok Leyland, the body & interiors are from DC Design while NGO ‘GOONJ’, Cancer Institute (Chennai) and Mann Travels have played a part in the realization of the concept.

The interiors of the Luxura Magical India bus can seat nine people and is equipped with two LCD televisions, a stereo, reading lights, power sockets, a kitchen with a coffee machine and microwave, a bathroom and even an on-board spa area for two individuals with trained therapists.

Platform and Drivetrain – Ashok Leyland provided its platform from the ‘Luxura’ line of buses. It is powered by a rear-mounted 225 bhp engine and is equipped with air suspension to increase the comfort of the passengers.

The bus can be chartered from Mann Travels, New Delhi for a day or for an overnight trip to destinations such as Agra, Jaipur, Neemrana and other places around Delhi. It has been announced that 50 per cent of the charter fees will be donated to NGOs like Goong and The Cancer Institute (WIA) Chennai.

Booking amount for this bus is Rs. 30,000 for 8 hours, which is the same as booking three Mercedes S Class cabs. Understandably the S Class cabs don’t offer the spa, washroom and the kitchen.

Also see - Tata Motors introduces 3-new color options for its Venture MPV

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Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M), one of the leaders in the small commercial vehicle segment in India, have recently launched their new Maxximo Plus mini truck. This new vehicle comes equipped with new Fuel Smart technology, permitting customers to opt for a choice between Power and Economy mode. In Power mode, Maxximo Plus is capable of 26 PS thereby delivering higher performance while in Economy mode, output is down to 17 PS while mileage is more enhanced at 21.9 kmpl.

Apart from Fuel Smart technology, the new Maxximo Plus adds to the superior value proposition of its predecessor with a longer wheelbase and a stronger 7-leaf rear suspension, which imparts more sturdiness under heavy load & over rough roads. Critical to commercial vehicle ownership is the operating cost, per ton per kilometer; with the new Maxximo Plus the customer will potentially earn approximately 30% more, per year, over the competition. This is on account of superior mileage which lowers fuel cost, a lower maintenance cost and the ability to carry more load with faster turn-around time.

The new Maxximo Plus also comes with a class-leading 2 year / 60,000 Km warranty, which provides greater peace-of-mind to the customer. Apart from these significant new advantages, the new Maxximo Plus retains the delight-features which give it the lead in Comfort, Style & Safety. The new Maxximo Plus will continue to be available in two attractive shades of Appy Red and Diamond White.

Maxximo Plus with technologically advanced features comes with a 0.85 ton payload and carries a price tag of Rs. 3.46 lakh (BS3, Ex-showroom Bangalore) & Rs. 3.54 lakh (BS4, Ex-showroom Bangalore). The Maxximo is today considered to be the most technologically advanced vehicle in the segment and this is what will attract a fair share of buyers.

Also see - Spied – Mahindra Electric Maxximo Minivan

Image Credit – Car & Bike show on NDTV (on Facebook)

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The light-duty commercial vehicle has been one of the fastest growing segments in the Indian automotive industry. Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DCIV) has announced the launch of its light-duty trucks in India, under the BharatBenz brand. DCIV has already been successful in selling its heavy duty trucks in the range of 25 to 31 tons which will now be accompanied by the light-duty trucks in the range of 9 to 12 tons. Also DCIV plans to roll out a total 17 new models of the BharatBenz brand in the Indian market by the end of 2014.

Trucks in the light-duty segment will have power range of 140 to 170 hp all will mainly be used at construction sites and distribution transport. The trucks can also be used as a base for refrigeration unit. The company claims their trucks to be 10% more fuel-effective than other trucks in the same segment in the market. Marc Llistosella, Managing Director and CEO of DCIV said, “Our new medium-duty models will be setting new standards of efficiency and dynamics on Indian roads – in particular when rising fuel prices become an issue in India. Our customers trust our reliable products. This is demonstrated by our sales successes for the heavy-duty BharatBenz trucks.”

 
The Light-duty trucks are competitively priced as follows:

* Prices are Ex-showroom Chennai
* Prices include 14.5% VAT (Tamilnadu)
* Taxes & Levies applicable in different states vary
 
BharatBenz in collaboration with local dealer is working in building=up exclusive BharatBenz dealer network throughout India.
 
Check out another picture below the jump.

Also see - BharatBenz launches three heavy-duty trucks in India

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Greaves Ustad tractor

Greaves Farm Equipment Business, part of Greaves Cotton Limited, one of India’s leading engineering companies, yesterday launched its first –ever, compact, mini – tractor, ‘Ustad’. Greaves Ustad is present in the 11-12 HP range of entry level tractors and caters to a land holding size of 3-5 acres. This entry level tractor will come in at a price of INR 2 lakhs to INR 2.4 lakhs.

Greaves Ustad is fitted with an emission compliant, easy to service, economical and fuel-efficient Greaves G 600 W II engine with a Low Diesel consumption of 1 litre/hour. The 4-stroke direct injection single cylinder engine offers a Maximum torque of 32 NM. This smart working mini – tractor comes with a variety of unique features. Designed primarily for farming operations, Ustad lends itself to multiple operations such as haulage, cultivator, seed drill, pesticide sprayer, rotavator etc.

Greaves Ustad features forward – reverse with eight forward and two reverse gears, completely sealed water proof mechanical brakes and a pawl and ratchet type locking arrangement as a standard fitment. Ustad comes with a combination of synchromesh, constant and sliding mesh gear shifting with epicyclical planetary reduction gear that is suited for all agricultural operations and haulage.

Ustad presents a three point linkage allowing for attachment of various implements like plough, cultivator, and harrow seed drill and for movement of implements.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Sunil Pahilajani, MD & CEO, said, “The launch of Greaves Ustad is a testimony of our continuous focus on new product development and innovation. It symbolizes our commitment of providing the farming community a value for money product backed by a strong after market support.”

“Our foray into the tractor segment completes the wide range of existing farm offerings. Greaves Ustad is a smart mini- tractor option available in the entry level 11 HP range. Farmers can now avail of a fuel efficient, easily maneuverable mini- tractor that can perform multi tasks. Fuel efficient features and advanced ergonomic design provide farmers a comfortable driving experience coupled with functional superiority”, said Mr. C.M. Ashok Muni, CEO, Farm Equipment Business. He added, “Our endevour is to provide agricultural products that suit the Indian soil condition and crop pattern. The newly launched Greaves Power Weeder and Paddy Weeder have received a positive response in the market. We are confident that Ustad will also help in further improving the lives of farmers through mechanized farming.”

Also see – Mahesh Babu Telugu superstar is new brand ambassador of Mahindra Tractors

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New Mahindra Bolero Maxi Truck Plus

Mahindra & Mahindra today launched Mahindra Bolero Maxi Truck with m2DICR common rail diesel engine (CRDe) that powers the Bolero. Along with the engine, the Bolero Maxi Truck Plus gets a new exterior color options and dual tone interiors. The company says that the nose of the vehicle has been designed to enhance safety.

To cater to the challenges of transportation in urban areas, the Bolero Maxi Truck Plus has been designed to easily manoeuver through heavy traffic, narrow city lanes and numerous flyovers and still gives a best in class fuel economy. This is enhanced by a higher load carrying capacity and improved safety measures for customers, which Mahindra focuses on as a customer centric organization.

The vehicle’s front nose design provides safety in bumper-to-bumper traffic, while its lower turning radius coupled with power steering allows for better manoeuverability while transporting cargo through narrow city roads. The presence of a digital immobilizer also helps prevent vehicle theft. The vehicle’s comfortable cabin makes it an ideal stylish urban commercial pick-up.

The Bolero Maxi Truck Plus (BMT Plus), the Perfectly Styled City Pick-up at a price of Rs 4.33 Lac (BS3) ex-showroom Thane and Rs. 4.43 Lac (BS4), ex-showroom Mumbai excluding Octroi. The Bolero Maxi Truck Plus has been developed on Mahindra’s rugged Bolero Pick-up platform and is conceptualized to cater to the needs of urban goods transportation. It is powered by Mahindra’s proven 2523 cc fuel efficient common-rail engine, which delivers 17.7 km per litre* mileage.
 
Speaking on the launch, Pravin Shah, Chief Executive, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, “The Indian pick-up market is growing more rapidly than ever before and Mahindra has been leading this category (2–3.5 Ton GVW LCV segment) with a 54% market share during FY 2012 -13. We have continuously updated and evolved our products to deliver greater value to our customers while retaining the basic tough and rugged DNA associated with Mahindra vehicles.”

He further adds, “The Bolero Maxi Truck Plus is aimed to cater to the transportation needs of the discerning urban city customer and will also meet the growing needs of current customers who want to upgrade and earn more. We are sure that the stylish new advanced Bolero Maxi Truck Plus will strengthen our Pickup portfolio and help consolidate our market share in this segment.”

 
The Bolero Maxi Truck Plus is packed with several utilities such as:

• 4-cylinder Common Rail engine (63 BHP, 195 Nm) for better performance
• Higher fuel efficiency at 17.7 km per litre*
• BS4 compliant
• Smaller Turning Circle Radius of 5.5 meters for better navigation in city-traffic
• Power Steering option
• Stylish exterior & interiors
• Superior Cabin comforts & features
• Larger 40.6 Sq ft (3.7 sq.mt.) cargo box
• Higher payload capacity: 1150 kg
• Highest warranty of 1 year / unlimited kilometers in the category
• Digital Immobilizer
• Large 15 inch ( 38.1 cm) tyre
• Rigid Leaf-spring front suspension

Also see - M&M launches new Bolero Maxi Truck with Power-Steering option

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Piaggio Porter 1000 and Porter 600

In Bangalore couple of week earlier, when I was riding near the Piaggio dealership I saw a Piaggio Porter parked outside, at first glimpse I thought it could be the test mule. Later, only after I enquired at the salesperson I came to know the Piaggio Porter is already launched in Bangalore couple of months ago, in a phased manner in some parts of South India like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and will be introduced in all other major markets over a period.

Piaggio India has silently launched the Porter 1000 and Porter 600 couple of months ago, the company also seems to have quietly removed the Ape Truk Plus and the Ape mini from their website, and replaced the same with new models. The company has not officially stated anything in this regard about discontinuing the old models or replacement with the new models. No much detail available online about the new Porter 1000 and Porter 600.

Piaggio Porter 600

Piaggio Porter 600 is replacement for the 0.5 tonne Ape Mini truck that was launched wayback in October-2010. Previously, the 500 kg capacity Ape Mini truck hasn’t done well in the Indian pick-up truck market. Therefore, Piaggio India replaced the Ape Mini truck with the Porter 600 with a rated payload of 600 kg. With the 600 Kg payload, the Porter 600 directly takes on the likes of Tata Ace Zip.

The Porter 600 comes fitted with 511cc single cylinder diesel engine mated to 4-speed manual gearbox. With a bigger loading area and higher ground clearance, it boasts of a mileage of 22 kmpl (Not ARAI certified) and a top speed of 60 Kmph. This engine outputs 10 Bhp of peak power and 27 Nm of peak torque. These figures are lower than what the Tata Ace Zip’s diesel engine (11 Bhp-31 Nm) outputs. Features both drum brakes at front and rear.

The total of 3 shades is available on Piaggio Porter 600 – Sahara Yellow, Light Blue and Western Red. The Porter 600 is priced at Rs. 2.28 lakh (ex-showroom, Bangalore) and Rs. 2.59 lakh (on-road price, Bangalore) and can also avail the discount at your nearest dealer. Apart from pick-up, Piaggio India is planning to launch the passenger version of Porter 600 in coming years to rival with Tata Magic Iris and Mahindra Gio.

Piaggio Porter 1000

Coming to the Porter 1000, it is a replacement for the Ape Truk Plus and will take on the likes of the Tata Ace and the Mahindra Maxximo. The first-gen Ape Truk in India launched on June-2007, had a payload capacity of 865kg, the second-model launched in June-2009 with ‘Plus’ moniker had a increased payload capacity of one-tonne (1,000 kg). Now the company has just revised the same along with its younger Porter 600 sibling.

Under the skin, the Porter 1000 comes fitted with 1034cc twin-cylinder four-stroke diesel engine mated to 5-speed manual gearbox and touches a top speed of 70 Kmph. This engine outputs 19.5 Bhp of peak power and 60 Nm of peak torque. Unlike Porter 600, these features a disc brakes at front and drum brakes at rear. In Porter 100, a unique feature is the driver cabin, which offers the comfort and safety features of a car.

The total of 2 shades is available on Piaggio Porter 1000 – Bianco White and Crimson Orange. The Porter 1000 is priced at Rs. 3.66 lakh (ex-showroom, Bangalore) and Rs. 3.99 lakh (on-road price, Bangalore) and can also avail the discount at your nearest dealer. The passenger carrier version speculated to launch next-year, will rival the likes of the Tata Magic and the Mahindra Maxximo van, people movers that are a regular sight in semi-urban and rural parts of India.

In Italy, the Porter series of mini pick-up trucks were first introduced two decades ago, when Piaggio joined hands with Japanese automaker Daihatsu. The Porter has been also sold in European markets, under the Daihatsu Hijet badge. Ever since, the Porter platform has spawned a range of variants including a passenger van and a tipper truck. Petrol, diesel, CNG, LPG and Electric power options are available on the Porter series. However, in India, the Porter series is only available with diesel engine pick-up truck option.
 
(Special thanks to Mahesh, Transbroadways authorised dealer for Piaggio Vehicles, Lalbagh road Bangalore.)
 
Check out more pictures after a jump.

Also see - Piaggio shows small car concept for India

See more pictures of 2013 Piaggio Porter 600 -

See more pictures of 2013 Piaggio Porter 1000 -