Thaindian News

Chennai, Nov 2 (IANS) India’s second largest commercial vehicle maker Ashok Leyland launched 10 new tippers and trailers here Tuesday and said old models would be phased out in 2012-13.

“It is a new beginning for us. The U truck platform consists of new modular design as well as components - front axle, chassis, beefed up suspensions, brakes and others. We will build 25 models on the new platform over the next 12 months,” R.Seshasayee, managing director, told reporters.

“During 2011-12, both old and new platform trucks would co-exist. By the middle of 2012-13 the entire product range would comprise of new model,” he said.

Though priced higher by around three percent over its current models, he said the operating costs and the vehicle up time will be higher in the new models.

About the prospects for the new range of tippers and trailers, Seshasayee said the company hoped to sell around 6,000 units over the next three months.

While the new models are powered by H-series engines now, he said the company will fit new Neptune engine on its trucks in a year’s time.

According to Seshasayee, the company’s target of having 27 percent market share in the domestic commercial vehicles market will not be affected by the launch of higher priced models.

“The new truck range is designed after taking into account the feedback from customers as well as the drivers,” he said.

Asked about the common parts and the resultant reduction in costs for the company, Executive Director (Product Development) R.R.G. Menon said: “Around 60 percent of the parts will be common.”

Seshasayee said the company will invest around Rs.2,200 crore in its own expansion as well as in joint ventures.