Spread over 70,000 square meters at Pragati Maidan – Delhi,

the 9th Auto Expo, has attracted an

unprecedented Rs 20,000 crore in business for the 1,200 crore exhibitors. Excitement from the
Tata Nano meant that 1.8 million visitors visited the Expo.

9TH
Against this, the auto show of 2006 had attracted ‘only’ one million visitors. The auto show also
saw over 9,000 trade enquiries, with 21 per cent coming from foreign visitors. Over 100 MOUs
were signed during this period. While 59 per cent of MOUs were inked with business visitors, 27

AUTO EXPO
per cent were with foreign visitors, and about 14 per cent with co-exhibitors
Vishnu Mathur, executive director, ACMA says, ‘30 international delegations, from Germany,
France, Japan, Spain and Canada and others, showed a keen interest in Indian Auto Component
sector.

2008
But this is only the big picture. The Expo has been a stupendous showcase of new-age trucks,
buses, utility vehicles, three-wheelers and tractors. The body builders and component makers
were in big attendance too. Over the course of the following pages, we let you occupy a virtual
front seat of all the action. Enjoy it!!

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TATA MOTORS TATA MOTORS

::: OEMs :::

::: OEMs :::

2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8

Ace >>
(A) 1-TONNER:
Big brother is finally here. The high performance, low maintenance Ace 1-tonne, combines a 1-tonne payload
mini-truck with sporty car-like features that enhance driver comfort and handling. The Ace 1-tonne comes with
HVAC for all-weather driveability. Besides the bigger 14-inch radials, power steering is another performance-
enhancing feature that comes as standard. It has an ergonomically designed, all-steel cabin with power
windows. The vehicle is equipped with an immobiliser for vehicle security. The power-packed offering is
expected to hit markets within 6-8 months.

Sumo Grande >>

Xenon Single Cab >>
The Xenon Single Cab is a pick-up with stylish looks, comfortable interiors and
4x4 off-road capabilities. The vehicle has an electrical shift-on-the-fly mechanism
with limited slip differential that facilitates easy driving. It offers car like
comfort and convenience features like power steering, power windows, HVAC,
electrically adjustable side rear view mirrors with heating and height adjustable
seat belts. Other features include engine immobiliser and a CLU (Central
Locking Unit), seat belt warning and door open warning, high mount stop lamp,
alloy wheels and tubeless tyres.
The new Sumo Grande combines the looks of an SUV with the comforts of
a family car. Designed with a longer wheelbase of 2550 mm (existing 2400
mm), the Sumo Grande sports comfortable 3 row seating. Dual HVAC with
roof integrated louvers ensures personalised climate adjustment for the
occupants in each row. Power steering, power windows, motorised ORVMs,
SEATING CAPACITY: 1 + 1
height adjustable driver’s seat and a state of the art CD/MP3 music system
further add to the comforts and convenience of a family traveling in the ENGINE MODEL: Tata 475 IDI TCIC BSII
Sumo Grande. The vehicle is powered by the new generation 2.2 L direct
injection common rail (DICOR) engine. Maximum power and torque of 120 MAXIMUM POWER: 52 Kw@4500 rpm
PS and 250 Nm, coupled with high torque levels over a wide RPM band
enhance driveability in stop start city traffic. For a vehicle its size, the Sumo
Grande is extremely maneuverable with the turning circle radius of 5.25 m,
MAXIMUM TORQUE: 135 Nm @ 2500 rpm
GEAR BOX: GBS 65- 4.19 Synchromesh on
similar to a small car. all forward gears, sliding mesh for reverse
The Sumo Grande range is priced in the range of Rs.6.55 lakhs to
BRAKES: Dual circuit hydraulically activated
Rs.7.49 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). It comes with an enhanced warranty of
front: disc, rear: drum
2 years or 75000 kms. The vehicle will be available in showrooms across
the country starting this month. TYRES: 165 R14 LT 8PR
MAX. GVW: 2135 Kg

ENGINE: 3.0 L engine, DI common rail

with Turbocharged Intercooled Diesel (B) CNG VERSION:
Engine The Tata Ace is now available in
ENGINE MODEL:
a CNG version, with a number
MAXIMUM POWER: 115 PS @3000 rpm Tata 275 MPFI CNG BSIII
of features that are a first in
MAXIMUM TORQUE: its category. It is India’s first MAXIMUM POWER:
300 Nm @ 1800- 2000 rpm MPFI (multi-point fuel injection) 21 Hp @3400 rpm
mini-truck on CNG. The vehicle is
GEAR BOX: G-76- 5/ 4.1- Synchromesh MAXIMUM TORQUE:
equipped with deceleration cut-off
with Overdrive 49 Nm @ 2400 rpm
for better fuel economy, another
BRAKES: Vacuum assisted independent first in its category. Priced at Rs GEAR BOX:
hydraulic 2.99 lakh, it can carry a payload GBS 65- 4/5.27
Front: Ventilated Disc brakes with Twin of 625kg. Unlike other CNG Synchromesh (4 forward
pot calliper vehicles, the CNG Ace comes with gears), sliding mesh for
Rear: Drum brakes, auto adjusting type a user-friendly CNG-level indicator. reverse
with Load Conscious Relief Valve ( LCRV) The Ace meets all safety norms,
BRAKES:
including frontal crash, roof crush
Dual circuit hydraulically
SUSPENSION: Multilink and rear wall strength. To ensure
activated front: disc,
Front: Independent Double Wishbone with the safety of the driver and co-
rear: drum
Torsion bar driver, seat belts are standard
Rear: parabolic leaf spring fitment. Another never-before TYRES:
safety feature is the distributor- 145 R12 LT 8PR Radial
SEATING CAPACITY: 1+1
less, non-wasted spark-ignition
MAX. GVW:
with misfire detection. Bookings
1550 Kg
for the vehicle have already
commenced.

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TATA MOTORS TATA MOTORS

::: OEMs :::

::: OEMs :::

2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8

Winger Van >>

(A) OFFICE-ON-WHEELS CONCEPT VEHICLE — DEVELOPED BY DC
DESIGN FOR TATA MOTORS:
A specially commissioned concept vehicle, the Winger Executive, combines
the practicality and driveability of the Tata Winger, with cutting-edge design
28-seater Tata
and the connectivity and conveniences of a modern office. The vehicle is
equipped with a secure LAN connection, a printer, scanner and copier on
Marcopolo minibus >>
board; alongside a full-fledged AV/entertainment centre consisting of a DVD This contemporarily styled 28-seater Starbus is among the initial
player, LCD screens and speaker set-up, making for a plush mobile office offerings of the Tata Marcopolo joint venture. It boasts of an attractive
for up to 4 people. front face, dashboard, seats and superior fits and finish, while offering
the driver good visibility and driving comfort. Tata Motors claims that
it is engineered for the lowest NVH levels in its category. A large rear
luggage-space, pneumatically-operated driver-controlled passenger
door and anti-skid vinyl flooring, all go towards improved passenger
convenience and safety.
ENGINE CAPACITY:
1948 cc TCIC BSIII (B) CARGO PANEL VAN:
The Tata Cargo Panel Van is a
MAXIMUM POWER: ready-to-use cargo carrier for DESCRIPTION Semi low floor Low entry diesel Low entry CNG
90 hp @4300 rpm applications like cash van, parcel
CHASSIS LPO 1612/59 LPO 1615 / LPO 1623
MAXIMUM TORQUE: and/or courier van. It is powered
RESLF 62 LE CNG LE
190 Nm @ 2000- 3000 rpm by a 1948cc TCIC engine. It has
a payload of 1.2 tonnes and is EMISSION BSIII BSIII BSIII
BRAKES: front: Disc with Twin expected to be priced at Rs 7-8
pot calliper, rear: Drum with LSPV ENGINE 130 HP 155 HP697 230 HP
lakh. Cummins Cummins LB
STEERING: Attractively styled on the recently
launched Winger platform, the ENGINE POSITION Rear Rear Rear
Power assisted, rack and pinion
cargo panel van offers power FUEL INJECTION Mechanical ECU-controlled ECU-Controlled
SUSPENSION: front: Mcpherson steering and independent - Rotary FIP - Rotary FIP - Rotary FIP
Strut with coil spring, rear: Double suspension, both firsts for its
parabolic leaf spring CLUTCH G/BOX 352 dia, G600 352 dia, G600 352 dia, G600
category, thereby offering good
manoeuvrability with a 6.4 metre FRONT AXLE Rigid Deep Throat Deep Throat
TYRES: 185R14 LT, 8PR radial
turning radius. Rigid Rigid
MAX. GVW: 2850 Kg
REAR AXLE RA 109RR RA 109RR RA 109RR
SUSPENSION FRONT Mechanical Pneumatic Pneumatic
SUSPENSION REAR Mechanical Pneumatic Pneumatic

Air-Conditioned TYRES 10 x 20 11 R 22.5

Tubeless
11 R 22.5
Tubeless

LPT 909 EX2 Refrigerated Tata Marcopolo Starbus LF >> BRAKES FRONT Drum Brakes Disk Brakes Disk Brakes

Container Truck >> Ideally suited for BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) applications, the air-conditioned Low
Entry Starbus offers its passengers comfort with contemporary styling. With its low
BRAKES REAR
FUEL TANK
Drum Brakes
160L
Drum Brakes
150L
Drum Brakes
9 Cyl x 80 L =
The Tata LPT 909 EX2 Refrigerated Container (Reefer truck) comes with entry height of just 380 mm and wide doorways, the Starbus LE allows for easy and 108 Kg Gas
a number of performance-boosting features as standard fitment, such as fast passenger entry and exit, reducing halt times and overall trip lengths and thereby
increasing operating efficiencies. GEAR SHIFT Mechanical Cable Cable
power steering and a clutch booster. The Reefer box is made of bonded (NA for Auto
PUF panels without joints and a GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) skin, making Inside the bus, the wide and spacious interiors are kept consistently cool even at halts,
Transmission)
for better longevity and a lighter box with improved payload carrying with air-curtains at the doors. A rear engine bus, the Starbus LF, has injection-moulded
capacity. The GRP outer panels do not require painting and are rust proof, plastic seats that resist the wear and tear of daily passenger transportation. The bus FLOOR HEIGHT 710mm 380mm 380mm
while the anti-slip polyester floor coating inside the box increases safety. incorporates safety-enhancing features such as door opening and closing signals, LENGTH 11.2 m 12.0 m 12.0m
The reefer is capable of maintaining the temperature of its 25 cum box at seat belts, emergency door signals, pneumatic doors which arrest bus movement if
open, and a manual ramp for the physically challenged. Its structural design takes into WIDTH 2.6 m 2.6 m 2.6 m
-25 o C with ambient temperature around 40o C. The 5-lip sealing bonded
panel doors are lighter for easy handling, open 270o for easy loading/ account corrosion resistance, electrical and fire insulation for improved longevity. In AIR CONDITIONING Optional through Direct Drive Direct Drive
unloading, and seal securely, thus reducing load on the refrigerating unit. keeping with the features of BRTS lines internationally, the air-conditioned Starbus LF Auxilary engine for AC for AC
The reefer box comes fitted with a rear tail-lift to enable easy pallet loading also offers an electronic destination display integrated with voice announcement system
ELECTRICAL 24V, 150 AH 24V, 150 AH 24V, 180 AH
as and when required. The fully built truck is expected to retail at Rs 19-20 and compatible to GPS and a Smart Card ticketing system. The bus is expected to be
SYSTEM Battery Battery Battery
lakh. Tata Motors plans a similar reefer on a 25-tonne truck. priced at Rs 70 lakh. A huge fleet of 500 buses will be delivered to the DTC this year.

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ASHOK LEYLAND
::: OEMs :::
2 0 0 8
CONFIGURATION: 6 X 4 Tractor
GROSS COMBINATION WEIGHT: 49 Tons
with suitable three axle semi trailer
GRADE-ABILITY: 42%
MINIMUM TURNING CIRCLE DIAMETER:
17.3 m
MAXIMUM SPEED: 85 kmph
WHEEL BASE: 3810 mm
ENGINE TYPE: Cummins LTAA 8.9 Litre
MAXIMUM POWER: 254 KW @ 2200 rpm
MAXIMUM TORQUE: 1466 Nm @ 1400 rpm
CLUTCH: 430 mm pull type diaphragm clutch
with clutch booster for actuation
GEAR BOX: ZF 16S 151 – 16 speed
synchromesh (16 forward + 2 reverse)
PROPELLER SHAFT: DIN 180 serrated
between gearbox and first rear axle and 1710
series between axles
FRONT AXLE: ‘I’ section, non-driven
REAR AXLES: Fully floating hub reduction
with spiral bevel drive Tandem axles
FRAME (DEPTH X WIDTH X THICH):
305 mm X 76 mm X 8 mm
SUSPENSION: front: Semi-elliptic multi
leaf with shock absorbers, rear: Bogie with
overslung inverted semi-elliptical multi leaf
STEERING: Integral power steering
BRAKES: Dual line full air brake
ELECTRICALS: 24V – negative earth type
TYRES: 11.00 X 20 – 16 PR
(Optional: 11R20 – 16 PR)
FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 450 litres
CAB: NEWGEN sleeper cab with Aero Roof
(Optional: HVAC facility)
4935 TT (6x4) Tractor >>
The 4935 TT (6x4) tractor is a high performance tractor engineered to pull over-dimensional cargo. Priced at around Rs 35 lakh, it is expected to be
launched by September.
The powerful 345 ps Cummins ‘L’ series, turbo-charged, 9-litre engine is high on torque across a wide range of speeds which along with a 16-speed
gearbox coupled with the servoshift mechanism ensures exceptional gradeability of 42 percent.
The indigenously designed NEWGEN cab (with HVAC as option) is roomy, well-ventilated with twin wide berths for the crew. The fully-hydraulic steering
wheel, the ergonomically placed instrument panel and the adjustable driver’s seat afford easy access to the driver while the wide windows ensure excellent
all-round visibility. The rugged multi-leaf spring suspensions and the telescopic double-acting shock absorbers serve to reduce the effect of road shocks.
Safety is well addressed with the dual line, full air brake with TCV (Trailer Control Valve) for adequate braking while the ABS ensures safety even in panic-
braking or on slippery road surfaces. The anti-roll bar in the front suspension and bogie suspension in the rear keep the vehicle stable even on difficult,
uneven terrains. The frame side members are of ‘C’ section, made of high-quality carbon steel for rigidity and high impact strength.
The engine meets BSII emission norms, is upgradeable to the more stringent BS III norms.
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ASHOK LEYLAND
::: OEMs :::
2 0 0 8
CONFIGURATION: 8 X 4 Tipper
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT: 31 Ton
GRADEABILITY: 51% @ 31T
MINIMUM TURNING CIRCLE DIA:
3135 HD (8x4) Tipper >>
20.2 m
MAXIMUM SPEED: 76 kmph
A heavy duty tipper featuring a 345 ps engine (torque : 1450 Nm @ 1500 rpm), an 8-speed gearbox and a
WHEEL BASE: 5140 mm
climate-controlled NEWGEN cab, the 3135 HD Tipper is engineered for 31 tonne Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) in
the toughest of operating conditions. The tipper is priced at Rs 40 lakh. ENGINE TYPE:
The powerful engine, along with the enhanced clutch and the optimally-spaced, heavy-duty 8-speed gearbox, Cummins LTAA 8.9 litre
give the vehicle better pulling power and superior acceleration. A higher engine torque and deeper crawler ratio
MAXIMUM POWER:
enable easy negotiation of steep gradients, with a high 51 percent gradeability. The fully integral hydraulic power
steering for the twin steered front axles gives the vehicle great maneuverability. The anti-roll bar at the front 254 KW @ 2200 rpm
suspension and two inverted spring, bogie rear suspension give it high stability during off-highway, heavy duty MAXIMUM TORQUE:
applications. Road grip and stability are enhanced by the sturdy frame and non-reactive load equalizing rear
1466 Nm @ 1400 rpm
suspension.
The dual line braking with increased brake sizes, the ABS system and the ASA (Auto Slack Adjuster) ensure CLUTCH: 430 mm pull type
uniform braking on slippery and uneven surfaces like that encountered at mining sites. diaphragm clutch with booster for
A 430 mm diameter clutch and a hub-reduction axle provide greater productivity and reduced maintenance actuation
costs. For enhanced durability, the 18 cubic meter rock load body is of sandwiched hardwood between Hardox
GEAR BOX: ZF 8S 151 – 8 speed
steel sheets to withstand heavy impact loads. synchromesh (8 forward +
1 reverse)
PROPELLER SHAFT: DIN 180
serrated between gearbox and first
rear axle and 1710 series between
axles
FRONT AXLES: ‘I’ section non-
driven steer able twin front axles
REAR AXLES: Fully floating hub
reduction with spiral bevel drive
Tandem axles
FRAME
(DEPTH X WIDTH X THICKNESS):
305 mm X 76 mm X 8 mm
SUSPENSION: front: Semi-elliptic
multi leaf with shock absorbers,
rear: Bogie with overslung inverted
semi-elliptic multileaf
STEERING: Integral power steering
BRAKES: Dual line full air brake
ELECTRICALS:
24V – negative earth type
TYRES: 12.00 X 24 – 18 PR Mining
FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 300 litres
CAB: NEWGEN tiltable day cab with
HVAC facility
TIPPING SYSTEM:
Front end tipping system
LOAD BODY: 16/18 Cu.m rock
body scow type, Hardox material
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ASHOK LEYLAND
::: OEMs :::

::: OEMs :::

2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8

Avia >>
The Avia D series is an illustration of what next generation Indian CVs could look like. These petite Force-MAN >>
vehicles have a new suspension and braking system as part of a Euro IV drivetrain. The 12-tonne GVW,
D120 comes equipped with an Albion front axle that allows tighter turning circles. Full air- ventilated GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT: 11990 kg
disc brakes at the front and rear enable better control. The tubeless tyres and parabolic springs are WHEEL BASE: 4500 mm
notable additions too.
The Euro IV compliant Cummins ISBe4 common-rail diesel engine is available in the economical 160hp ENGINE: Cummins ISBe4 185
or the potent 185hp options. The powertrain relies on SCR technology to reduce emissions while EURO 4 phase 2 with NOx sensor
boosting fuel-efficiency. Capacity: 4.5 litre
CMD, Abhay Firodia poses
In keeping with European regulations, tachographs come as standard fitments. The cab has standard with the new Force Traveller
POWER: 185 hp (136kW) @ 2500 rev/min
side spoilers and an optional air management kit. The practical low cab-step and floor height make
entry and exit easier for city distribution applications. Additional features tuned to the truck driver are TORQUE: 700 Nm @ 1200 – 1700 rev/min
air-suspended seats for extra comfort.
The manufacturing capacity at Avia’s Czech Republic facility is 20,000 units per annum, but with the GEAR BOX: ZF 6S850 6 speed full
current utilisation being only 1,500 units, there is a huge upside for ALL’s growth agenda in overseas synchromesh with cable actuation
markets. FRONT AXLE: Albion F48, plated at 4200 kg
REAR AXLE: Albion 8 – 20, plated at 8200 kg
TYRE: 245 / 70R19, 5 tubeless
BRAKES: Full air, disc brakes of size: 330
mm diameter on both front and rear axles
SUSPENSION: front: 2 leaf parabolic springs
with shock absorbers and anti-roll bar, rear:
3 leaf parabolic springs with shock absorbers
and anti-roll bar The Minidor M4 pickup has had a The 430HP MAN TGA truck fitted
successful start with a refrigerated container.
FRAME: 203 X 62 X 6.5 mm, riveted
construction
CAB: All steel sleeper cab
Width 2150 mm, BBC 1776 mm
Hydraulic tilt
Premier >>
Suspended driver seat
Suspended co-driver seat
Optional equipment: Air-conditioning, 200
litre fuel tank, premium cab pack

MPFI engine >> ENGINE:

W06DTI H series CNG engine It is ideally suited for
being customised as
Ashok Leyland has developed the country’s first one-litre-per-cylinder 6 cylinder CNG engine for buses employing Multi ASPIRATION:
The first glimpse of the an ambulance
Point Fuel Injection (MPFI). The W06DTI ‘H’ Series CNG engine combines superior power rating (185HP @ 2400 rpm) with TC with CAC
low emissions. This 5.7-litre turbocharged inter-cooled natural gas engine meets Euro IV emission standards – ahead of revamped Sigma multi
the mandate in India. POWER OUTPUT: utility van
The high power CNG engine uses stoichiometric combustion technology (chemically correct air-fuel ratio) in combination 135 kW @ 2400 rpm
with a three-way catalytic converter to reduce emissions to the MAX TORQUE:
lowest possible level. The Multi Point Fuel Injection system delivers 600 NM @ 1400-1600 rpm
the required quantity of gas at the intake manifold, as per vehicle
demand even in transient operating conditions. The engine is COMBUSTION TECHNOLOGY:
expected to be deployed on Ashok Leyland’s AC vestibule buses in Stoichiometric
Delhi within six months. Durability tests are currently on.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER:
The Exhaust Gas Re-circulation (EGR) used in this engine not only
Three way catalytic converter
lowers the NOx emission but also restricts thermal load on engine
components. The quantity of EGR is controlled by the difference GAS INDUCTION:
in pressures between exhaust manifold and the turbocharger’s Multi point gas injection (sequential)
compressor inlet. The waste gate turbocharger is optimised for
maximum torque. IGNITION:
The high performance CNG engine features electronics provided DLIS with plug on coil
by a new state-of-the-art ECU that controls the sequential gas EMISSION LEVEL:
injection and high-energy ignition systems. Euro V + The Roadstar, designed with a side tipper
“Having developed in-house the first CNG bus engine in India

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STANDARD GROUP SWARAJ MAZDA

::: OEMs :::

::: OEMs :::

2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8

Standard- DI- 124

ENGINE: 24 Hp single cylinder
MAX RPM: 1770

It is very rare that a combine ENGINE RATED RPM: 1650

manufacturer gets into tractors CAPACITY: 1558cc
instead of the other way round. This
CLUTCH: Dry friction plate single clutch
is the case with Standard Combines
which has been making tractor- STEERING: worm and Screw type
mounted combines since 1975. It still HYDRAULIC SYSTEM: Draft & Position mixed control
makes 2,000 of them each month,
with 60-75 percent of them being LIFT CAPACITY: 1200 kg
mounted on its own tractors. Standard LIVE HYDRAULIC: Engine driven gear pump Swaraj Mazda showcased a range of buses and the D-Max pickup that
got into the manufacture of tractors attracted quite a bit of attention.
LENGTH: 3530mm
in 2001. The engines and a special The centre of attraction was the Swaraj Prestige. Powered by Isuzu’s Euro
cultivation gear for the 24-75HP range WIDTH: 1600mm III compliant diesel electronic governing 227HP engine, this 12-metre bus
are made in-house for the 5,000 HEIGHT UPTO EXHAUST: 2200mm spells luxury inter-city travel. The pricing for the 40+1 seater is Rs 59 lakh.
tractors that are sold each year. This figure is not that high, when taken in the context of its semi-integral
GROUND CLEARANCE: 420 mm construction that offers as much as 7 cubic metres of luggage space. The
Standard has also diversified into
battery operated two-wheelers as also TYRE SIZE: Front: 6.0 16 (6/8 Ply) driver controlled passenger entry doors, the ultra low floor entry, tinted
three-wheelers. Both passenger and Rear: 12.4 28 (12 Ply) glasses, twin LCDs, and a clutch of other thoughtful electronic systems do the
1,200 kg GVW cargo versions have WEIGHT: 1800 kg business. The engine overrun buzzer, tachometer and a GPS based location
been launched. A small four-wheeler is system help underline the stature of the bus.
CAPACITY:
also up for market introduction once
the initial test phase is completed.
Diesel Tank: 48 Ltrs
Younger sibling, the Swaraj Premium does not disappoint either. The bus
with a 28+1 seating capacity comes with most of the goodies visible in the
Swaraj Prestige
Engine: 5.5 Ltrs
Other business lines for the widely- Prestige. It too has a competent 172HP electronically controlled Isuzu engine. ENGINE: 6 HK 1 – TC Euro III Complaint
Cooling system transmission: 25 Ltrs
diversified Standard Group include Naturally, the price at Rs 28 lakh is quite competitive. Diesel Electronic Governing 169 KW @
9-13 tonne hydraulic cranes, gensets The Swaraj Executive 12+1 seater builds on the Chandigarh-based 2500 rpm
and HCV engines and axles. The Rs company’s competence in minibuses. The 100HP pocket dynamo is expected TYRES: seven including one spare tyre,
300-400 crore firm has two plants to be priced at Rs 20 lakh. 11- R- 22.5 – 16 PR ( BS)
– in Barnala, Punjab and Bidadi in Also on display was the smart new D-Max pickup. The D-Max was the original
SEATING: 40 + 1 Push back, reclining
Himachal Pradesh. model on which General Motors based the midsize Chevrolet Colorado and
seats with padded arm rest and foot rest
GMC Canyon, as well as U.S.-built spin-offs for Isuzu’s American subsidiary.
In Thailand, from where it is likely to be imported into India, the D-Max has OVERALL LENGTH:
been slightly freshened, with a Cadillac-like front end. The engine lineup has 11400 + 50 mm
been expanded with a new 3.0-liter common-rail diesel with a new turbo
Three-wheeler system. Sources reveal that the Swaraj-Isuzu combine will come out with
trucks too next year.
ENGINE: LDW- 422, single cylinder, water cooled, IDI diesel engine
DISPLACEMENT: 422 cc
MAX. ENGINE OUTPUT: 8.5 kw +/- 5 % at 4500 rpm Swaraj Executive
ENGINE: SLT3 Euro III Compliant Diesel 75 KW @ 3000 RPM
MAX. TORQUE: 21 Nm +/- 1.05 % @ 2800 to 3200 rpm
BRAKES: Hydraulic Dual Circuit
CLUTCH: Dry, single plate
TYRES: 5 (Including One Spare Tyre) 7.50 x 16 – 14 PR
GEAR BOX: Integrated power pack, constant mesh sliding 4 forward
SEATING CAPACITY: 12 + 1
and 1 reverse
DRIVE AXLE: rear
STEERING: worm and roller type
SUSPENSION: Leading link type with coil spring and shock absorber
Swaraj Premium
FRONT AND REAR BRAKES: Drum ENGINE: 4HKIXS Euro III Compliant
Diesel Electronic Governing 129 KW
TYRES: 4.5- 10, 8 PR @ 2600 RPM
FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 10L BRAKES: Hydraulic Dual Circuit
DIMENSIONS: Wheel base: 2350mm, Overall width: 1380mm, TYRES: 7 Tyres (Including One
Overall length: 3445mm, Overall height: 1850mm, Min ground Spare Tyre) 225 / 70 R 19.5 Radial
clearance: 180mm SEATING CAPACITY: 27 + 1

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VOLKSWAGEN VOLKSWAGEN
::: OEMs :::

::: OEMs :::

2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8

‘Starting 2010, our plant in Pune will be able to manufacture up to 110,000 cars’, says Dr.
Jochem Heizmann, board member for vehicle production at the Volkswagen Group. To reinforce Crafter >>
the strong allure of the Indian market, Volkswagen pulled out all stops at the Auto Expo as it The Crafter takes the T5 series commercial vans to a higher weight class.
unveiled new cars, SUVs and of course commercial vans. Some of which are sampled herewith: With 3.0 and 3.5 as well as 5.0 tonne gross weights, the base models
Crafter 30, Crafter 35 and Crafter 50 cover a broad bandwidth. Also
available: a box van version and a variant with extended overhang. The
power output of the economical TDI engines ranges from 87HP to 161HP.

Caravelle Comfortline >>

The large Caravelle represents the classic Volkswagen bus. In the Caravelle,

Caddy Maxi Life >> three or even four rows of seats – depending on the wheelbase selected
– create space for up to nine passengers. The gasoline and diesel engines
offered on this Volkswagen are also highly advanced; they deliver between
The extended Caddy Maxi Life merges the qualities of
83HP and 232HP.
a delivery van with the versatility of a compact van to
form a new vehicle class. Compared to a normal length
Caddy – such as the Caddy EcoFuel– the seven-seat
Maxi was extended from 4.41 meters to 4.88 meters.
4.2 m3 cargo capacity (corresponds to about 4,200
liters volume), 800 kilogram payload, 1,500 kilogram
trailer load and up to 3.07 meter maximum cargo length Multivan Highline
– depending on the interior configuration – are all record
values for this segment. Three engines are offered with and Multivan Business >>
power outputs from 100HP to 138HP. This vehicle is
expected to be launched by the middle of next year at a This is the top gun in VW’s van kingdom. As an option, the Multivan Highline,
price of Rs 23 lakh. Following the initial CBU imports, the with capacity for a maximum of seven seats, may be ordered with four
vehicle is likely to be localised. individual seats in the passenger compartment. The Multivan Business even
has them aboard as standard equipment. Providing for suitable propulsion
are either the V6 petrol engine (232HP) or a five-cylinder TDI (172HP), with
optional automatic transmission. On the Multivan Highline, a TDI with 129HP
Caddy EcoFuel >> can also be delivered.

The Caddy EcoFuel comes with a combined natural gas

and petrol engine. The natural gas tanks that hold 26
kilograms of fuel are located under the car floor and
enable a range of about 450 kilometers.

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VECTRA KAMAZ
::: OEMs :::
2 0 0 8
Vectra Kamaz 6540- 8 x 4.2
ENGINE: Kamaz, turbocharged, water- cooled, overhead
Valve, 120mm bore, 8-cylinder, V-type
MAX POWER: 260hp@ 2200 rpm
MAX. TORQUE: 1060Nm@1300 rpm +/- 50 rpm
EMISSION: Euro II
CLUTCH: ZF- SACHS, MFZ 430 Single Plate, Dry Clutch,
Diaphragm Type, controlled by Hydraulic over Pneumatic
Booster
GEARBOX: ZF-Ecomid 9 S 109, 9- speed, Mechanical
Gearbox, electrically controlled
CABIN: All metal, Split Windscreen, Tipping Cabin with well
defined Instrument Panel with 2+1 seating capacity, Tipping
optional
BRAKE SYSTEM: Pneumatic Brakes, Expanding shoe type
with automatic slack adjustor, ABS activated for extra safety,
dual circuit brakes.
WHEELS & TYRES: 12.00 R 20 radial Tyres with 8.50 x 20
wheel rims; 11.00 x 20-18 PR tyres with 8.25 x 20 Wheel rims
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT: 31000 kg
PAYLOAD: 18000 kg
GRADEABILITY: 25 % @ GVW
MAX. SPEED: 80kmph
MIN. TURNING RADIUS: 10.5 m
BODY OPTIONS: 14 cu meter Box Body with Tailgate for
small aggregate transport; 15 cu meter Rock Body with
Tailgate for overburden removal
The Vectra-Kamaz- range has finally been unveiled. The first off the blocks is the 31-tonne GVW tipper which is being powered by the
same 260HP engine. Its 4 axle construction, a 9S ZF gearbox and ABS make it an attractive proposition. Sources reveal that this
premium tipper priced to be priced between Rs 25-30 lakh will come with two body options – a 14 cubic metre box body with tailgate
and a 15 cubic metre rock body.
Also debuting is the 260HP 40 tonne Vectra-Kamaz 5460 – 4x2.2 tractor (see facing page). With a Gross Train Weight of 44,000 kgs,
it is governed by a ZF – Eco-split 16 speed Gearbox. It will be launched in the middle of this year at an expected price of Rs 20 lakh.
It is also reliably learnt that a 360HP engine option waits in the wings. A 20 tonne 8x4 cargo tipper is also getting ready.
Meanwhile the Vectra Group is contemplating whether the Hemang dumper will be continued. It is to be noted that in an interview with
Commercial Vehicle magazine, Tatra Vectra Motors Ltd.’s former MD, Rakesh Jinsi had said that the specialised truck faced huge cost
overruns and capacity constraints at the mother plant in the Czech Republic. Another product about which he was not very bullish about,
the Binggo, mini-truck could also face the axe. There were niggles with sourcing a suitable engine for the vehicle.
Finally, the Vectra- Kamaz JV could go beyond a technology tie-up. Indications are that the Russian CV maker could take a majority
stake in the new venture. The projected capacity for the truck assembly in India will be 500 units. Until volumes pick-up, the localisation
levels will hover around 10 percent. As the trucks take their place, the buses will arrive by the middle of next year.
76 I COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FEBRUARY 2008
th SNAPSHOTS AUTO EXPO
::: OEMs :::
2 0 0 8
Vectra Kamaz 5460- 4 x 2.2
ENGINE: Kamaz, turbocharged, water- cooled, overhead
Valve, 120mm bore, 8-cylinder, V-type
MAX POWER: 260hp@ 2200 rpm
MAX. TORQUE: 1430Nm@1300 rpm +/- 100 rpm
EMISSION: Euro II
CLUTCH: ZF- SACHS, MFZ 430 Single Plate, Dry Clutch,
Diaphragm Type, controlled by Hydraulic over Pneumatic
Booster
GEARBOX: ZF-Ecosplit 16S 151, 16 - speed, Mechanical
Gearbox, electrically controlled
CABIN: All metal, Single wide Windscreen, Sleeper Cabin
with well defined Instrument Panel with 2+1 seating capacity,
Tipping optional
BRAKE SYSTEM: Pneumatic Brakes, Expanding shoe type
with automatic slack adjustor, ABS activated for extra safety,
dual circuit brakes.
WHEELS & TYRES: 315/ 80 R 22.5 Radial Tyres with 9.00
x 22.5 wheel rims; 12 R 20 Radial tyres with 8.50 x 20 Wheel
rims
GROSS TRAIN WEIGHT: 44000 kg
FIFTH WHEEL COUPLING: 2” standard, 3.5” optional, Fifth
Wheel load 10500 Kg
Rasandik Engineering
Industries India Limited >>
Rasandik Engineering Industries India Limited is piloting a range of 7-11
HP three-wheelers. Besides the three and six seater passenger versions,
there are ready made 0.5-0.75 tonne applications in the form of a mobile
shop, garbage tipper and a delivery van. As the trials get completed in
3-4 months, a new plant will come up in Himachal Pradesh. The capacity
in this plant should scale up to 100 units per month by mid-2009 ‘We are
also planning to set up another plant in South India. We have committed
Rs 80 crore in investments for the three-wheeler project,’ explains MD,
Rajiv Kapoor.
The three-wheelers are mid-engined with a larger wheelbase, windscreen
and a box type chassis for better load carrying abilities. The accelerator
and clutch assemblies are done in house.
Trials are also on for a CNG version targeted at markets like Delhi.
Rasandik has appointed 22 dealers for the three-wheeler business. And
the thoughts are already on offshore markets. ‘We have got enquiries
from Nepal, Sri-Lanka and China,’ reveals Kapoor.
Besides this new line of business, Rasandik specialises in making
fuel tanks, exhausts and stampings- including that for the Tata Nano.
Incidentally, the company is investing Rs 45 crore in Singur, where a
robotised pressline will come up soon.
With these developments, Rasandik expects to grow turnover to Rs 400
crore from the current level of Rs 250 crore.
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M&M
::: OEMs :::

::: OEMs :::

2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8

E483 Engine
ENGINE: 4 Cylinder, DI, TCIC Hy-Alfa >>
SWEPT VOLUME: 3.3 Ltrs
As part of its Sustainable Mobility Solutions Programme, M&M has showcased the hydrogen
BORE X STROKE: 100 x 105 mm
powered Alfa 3-wheeler. The first of its kind in the world, the Hy-Alfa runs on pure compressed
COMBUSTION CHAMBER: Re- entrant hydrogen gas. Demonstrating that it is indeed possible to effectively store hydrogen, M&M
RATED POWER: 90 kW @ 2600 rpm showcased three-wheelers featuring both steel and composite material storage cylinders.
PEAK TORQUE: 400 Nm @ 1600 rpm Safety was strongly adhered to, thanks to sensors like the pressure sensor which shuts off
the system when the pressure crosses a certain limit and a flame taper that prevents any
EMISSION LEVEL: Forthcoming BS IV flame from reaching the cylinder.
APPLICATION: Automotive It is to be noted that the Hy-Alfa is as yet only a concept and as such, hydrogen is currently
AFTER TREATMENT: DPF/ SCR stored under a pressure of only 120 bar - the maximum permissible in India. For hydrogen to
become viable as a fuel, pressure in the bracket of 800 bar is needed.
As a result, in a standard 33 litre CNG tank, just 1.2 kg of hydrogen can be stored. Since
Eicher Motors >> the hydrogen dispensing infrastructure is not yet in place, each kilogram of hydrogen costs Rs
200. The gas fuel can support a range of 60-70 km/kg
Eicher Motors, has announced the development of E483, a BSIV compliant, 120HP Common Rail Diesel engine. Speaking at the ‘Diesel City’ conference during Hydrogen delivers huge benefits over conventional fuels because it is renewable, has
the Auto Expo, Rajinder Sachdeva – Director Product Development said, ‘The 3.3-litre engine with a power output of 90-120HP could be deployed in a 11-12 tonne zero emissions, high calorific value and wider flammability limits. The flip side is that it is
LCV. The option also exists to develop the same engine in a 4.9 litre capacity (power output 128-175HP)’. The CRD engine is most likely to debut in the middle of an inflammable gas and hydrogen dispensing infrastructure and storage are issues to be
2009, once tests are completed. reckoned with.
The four cylinder Direct Injection engine develops a maximum torque of 400Nm@1600RPM. Eicher which has invested Rs 20 crore in the BSIV project is
equipping itself for all three possible platforms to meet EuroIV norms. Eicher claims that the engine has the highest power density of 27KW/Ltr, with the engine
itself having a life of 5,00,000 km.
The company is working on technologies such as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), or a combination of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPR) and Partial Flow Filters.
Eicher spends 4 percent of its turnover on product development. There are about 200 people working in product development. Before being introduced, a new
engine undergoes endurance testing for about 3,000 hours as well as a rigorous thermal shock testing procedure; all this apart from vehicle testing of about one
million kms during the customer piloting phase and the mandated statutory testing.

E-Alfa >>
The E-Alfa has a rugged 3 AC Asynchronous motor with an integrated transaxle. Fitted
with a 60V system, the E-Alfa provides high power and a long driving range. Moreover,
the state-of-charge monitor allows easy and accurate estimation of driving range.
Equipped with on-board and off-board charger capabilities, it has familiar driver controls

Kranti Automobiles Ltd. >>

which make it simple to drive.
The computerised controller with Limp Home capability prevents any damage to battery,
motor and electronics. Also the integrated battery protection system ensures long battery
Kranti Automobiles Limited (KAL) has been making 280-510cc front and rear life. Its all wheel split-circuit hydraulic brakes provides for electrical regenerative braking
engined three-wheelers since 1995. More than 20,000 vehicles are already and the integrated solid state power convertor is used for lights, horns, etc.
on the road. The manufacturing takes place out of two plants in Haryana and
Uttarakhand. Currently, Nandi manufactures 350 to 400 three-wheelers per
month. ‘We have both front and rear engined-models. While the robust front-
engined models are more popular in the North, the rear-engined ones are more
the choice in western and Southern India,’ explains Girish Bhatia, Director, KAL.
The 12HP Nandi Super Shakti Passenger three wheeler, a six-seater is priced
at Rs 1.5 lakh, which compares quite favourably with some popular brands.
The Nandi 400 D super Shakti, a three-seater has an ex- factory price of Rs
1.2 lakh. All three-wheelers have cargo options too. The key talking points for
the three-wheelers are their bigger tyre size, wider screen and twin headlamps.
The first of the CNG and LPG versions have started rolling out as well.
With new models being churned by the minute, is it that easy for players like
Kranti Automobiles to succeed in the three-wheeler mart? ‘We make a total
of 722 parts in- house. These include sheet metal, fabrication, die casting,
foundry and others. Our turnover is Rs 27-28 crore per annum, but we are yet
to breakeven. It is a lot of hard work,’ answers Bhatia.

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M&M AMW
::: OEMs :::

2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8

B100 Scorpio >>

The B100 or 100 percent biodiesel Scorpio is the Pug >>
first of its kind in South East Asia. This version of the
CRDe Scorpio was successfully tested with B10 as As our scoop in the December 2007 issue revealed, AMW
the fuel in sub-zero conditions at the Khardungla Pass, has announced its foray into the LCV segment by launching
at a height of 18,380 feet above sea level. M&M’s the 1.8 Ton GVW Pug mini-truck. The 25HP vehicle also
R&D efforts show an almost 35 percent reduction features a 5-speed manual transmission is capable of
on tailpipe emissions of unburnt hydrocarbons and carrying a payload of 880 kg. It is best suited for intra-city
particulate matter when B100 is used. journeys of 300 to 400 kms per day. The AMW mini trucks
have an ergonomically designed, all-steel cabin with all
modern features including a Music system, AC etc. The
vehicle is going to be launched in six months.
In the first six months from April to October 2007, LCV
segment has seen a growth of 16. 38 percent with sales of
nearly 1,92,000 units in the domestic market.

3118 >>
AMW has consolidated its position in the HCV segment by launching 3118
(HL) haulage for the Indian market aimed at cement, containers, tankers,
petrochemicals, fertilizers, agriculture, and general cargo.
Priced at approx Rs. 17 lakhs the company showcased the 31 tonner HL
with 180 HP engine. While announcing its expansion plans, the company
shared that it aims to sell 10,000 heavy commercial vehicles in the next
fiscal year. Speaking about AMW’s decision to launch another product in the
HCV segment, Mr. Anirudh Bhuwalka MD and CEO, Asia MotorWorks
said, ‘ The HCV
segment is expected to be a high –growth segment with a potential market
size of 3 lakh units per annum. We expect to sell more than 1,000 units
of 3118HL in the next fiscal year. AMW Global Truck series represents an
efficient mating of the best aggregates.
Says Mr. R. C. Mangal, Senior Vice-President, Marketing, Asia
MotorWorks Ltd. (AMW), With more strictness on overloading, instead
of overloaded 25 Tonner, transporter can now have a 31 Tonner to carry
goods legally. “3118HL’s unique design is not only extremely attractive
in its styling but is built for low operational costs and savings up to 10
- 15%. We will be marketing the 3118HLthrough our 29 main dealers
throughout the country. We are also in the process of rolling out a vast and
dependable, nationwide sales service and spares network, comprising
30 Main Dealers and 450 service and spare parts centres.
Asia MotorWorks has completed test runs of its trucks equipped
with global positioning system (GPS) and has rolled out the first trial
batch of 25 trucks. With the installed GPS, the fleet owners will
be able to have round-the-clock access to the truck through a call
centre or a service administers ensuring contact at all times with
the driver.

Scorpio Hybrid >>

The Scorpio HEV is a parallel diesel-electric hybrid vehicle that offers advantages of a diesel engine and an electric motor. The combustion
engine, the electric machine and the automatic transmission are coupled together through a mechanical torque convertor. The good lower end
torque, characteristic of the electric machine, provides improved acceleration behaviour and a crisp throttle response. Further the e-motor either
assists or loads the engine making the vehicle high on performance yet environment friendly.
There are four modes in which the hybrid operates:
MOTOR ASSIST MODE: Both the combustion engine and electric motor simultaneously power the vehicle
REGENERATIVE BRAKING MODE: Part of the brake energy wasted as heat is recuperated using the e-machine, as a generator into the battery.
GENERATOR MODE: The combustion engine powers the vehicle while charging the batteries during partial load conditions
IDLE CHARGING MODE: If the battery state-of-charge is lower than the threshold, the combustion engine recharges the batteries while idling.

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AUTO EXPO SNAPSHOTS
ANG Auto >>
::: body builders :::
With a capacity to manufacture 400 trailers each month, ANG Auto is Asia’s
largest trailer manufacturer. From an almost exclusive business relationship
with Ashok Leyland, ANG Auto is branching out to other OEMs and the retail
market. Starting with exports of trailer components to MAN, Daimler and Mac
Trucks almost two decades ago, the company is now starting to entrench itself
in the domestic market through sound horizontal and vertical integration.
In India, it introduced complete undercarriage assemblies of trailers in
2005. Besides the trailers itself - of which ANG offers 15 standard design and
application variants – ANG Auto also makes fully dressed dummy axles, air
brake assemblies, suspension systems and landing gears.
The company, which has mustered a turnover of 250 crore is doubling the
current capacity of 3,000 trailers at its Sitarganj plant. Experts say that a retail
customer can get trailers made from specialised players like ANG Auto at a
lower cost instead of buying a fully-built applications from an OEM.
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JBM Auto >>
JBM Auto, part of the Rs 2,000 crore JBM Group makes tippers, garbage
compactors, tip trailers and refrigerated vans. The company has sold 10
garbage compactors in Chennai. This application is made in collaboration
with Columbian partner Fanalca SA. Each compactor is priced at Rs 10 lakh.
This may well come down once the hydraulics are localised. ‘We are talking
to players like Wipro for local sourcing. Once localised, the price of each
compactor may fall to Rs 9 lakh,’ reveals Vinay Maheshwari, Business Group
Head (Business Group IV). These compactors are sold in the 12-16 cu metre
capacity. The company’s Faridabad and Greater Noida plants manufacture
500 tippers and 15 trailers in a month. The range extends from huge trailers
to mini tippers built on the Tata Ace. Capacity would need to be upped fast
because huge orders are being executed. ‘We are currently meeting a need for
100 tipper bodies a month from MAN-Force Motors’, explains Samir Bhargava,
Manager Marketing.
th SNAPSHOTS AUTO EXPO
CEBBCO
::: body builders :::
2 0 0 8
Body builder CEBBCO showed off two behemoths. The 18-metre chassis Specifications of the Chassis Carrier
carrier has been designed for Ashok Leyland. It will help transport prime Overall body dimensions (LxWxH): 15298mm x 2600mm x 1360mm
movers at low costs and at zero miles logged in prior to delivery to the
Overall trailer length: 17985mm
customer. Priced at around Rs 9 lakh, the three-axle special load body is
equipped with hydraulically operated lift ladders. Overall height of the vehicle under laden condition: 4500mm
The ribless tip trailer on the other hand is the first one designed in Main Frame: Main frame is fabricated ‘I’ beam of special grade
the country. It packs in a 28 cubic meter capacity. ‘We have imported material with formed cross members and bed is made of ISMC (std.
a hydraulic press to ensure single piece top rail. We are the only body Channel) fabricated
builders in the country to put up an automatic robotic welding line for tippers Axle & tyres: Tri axled with 12 nos. of 10.00 – 20 tyres
and tipper manufacturing. Because of this, we have been able to reduce Suspension: Over slung, tandem multi leaf spring suspension with
the weight of this tipper trailer by 2 tonnes,’ states Ajay Gupta, Director
torque rods
CEBBCO.
Brake system: full air brake, double line compressed air system
The company is the largest supplier of load bodies for Tata Motors, with
as much as 35 percent of the CV’s giant’s business. CEBBCO has been Painting: Shot blasted body with coat of PU primer and coats of high
buzzing with action. It has a JV with CT V-Doll of Thailand, among the largest grade paint
manufacturers of trailers in the world. There is also another JV expected
to be sown up with a French company for the manufacture of panels for
refrigerator containers.
‘If we conclude this JV by March, we could target a huge need from the
cold chain business. According to an IIM Ahmedabad survey almost USD
12 billion worth of perishables are lost each year due to the lack of efficient
storage and transport facilities,’ adds Gupta.
With these ambitions in mind, it is not surprising that the Rs 200 crore
CEBBCO targets a CAGR of 70-80 percent over the next 2-3 years. This
year, the company plans to invest Rs 30 crore on automatic robotic welding
lines, hydraulic presses and rolling machines. There is more to come in
any case ‘We are also talking to two more partners for special products in
petroleum tankers and aluminium bodies and once the JVs are done, we will
be setting up two new plants as well,’ reveals Gupta.
Sources also indicate that CEBBCO is also contemplating setting up body
building facilities for AMW close to the latter’s Bhuj facility as also another
one for Ashok Leyland at Nagpur. One or possibly both these facilities
could come up a year down the line. These new developments could double
CEBBCO, body building capacity from the current levels of 1,000 bodies
per month
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TRATEC

::: ENGINES :::

2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8 Cummins >>
::: body builders :::

Gurgaon-based Tratec, specialises in hydraulic modular trailers for over
dimensional or super heavy payloads. It also makes running gears/ wheeled
undercarriages, car transport trailers and container trailers.
This makes the company an approved supplier of trailers for defence, space,
power and other infrastructure sectors in addition to the commercial transport
industry. Typically, these trailers are so big that only Volvo tractors can be
deployed to move them.
The modular trailers are constructed by using 2,4 or 6 lines of axles. The
advantage to this construction is that the structure is stable. And more
importantly, there is a reduction in weight too. ‘We can carry upto 2 tonnes of
extra cargo because, the trailers come with their own specially reinforced base
on which the wheels are fitted,’ explains Sunil Yadav, Marketing Executive.
Tratec can make 40 lines of axles in a month. But on account of the huge
backlog in orders, delivery times are being stretched to 5 months. Each line of
axles costs Rs 9.5 lakh for the customer.
Tratec justifies the slight premium over unorganised sector solutions. ‘We fit
custom built tarpaulins rather than using metal fabrications. This reduces weight
by as much as 30 percent. The extensive use of aluminium also helps in rust
prevention,’ adds Yadav. The coil carrier applications come with railings to help
anchor the cargo. There is also a coil holder that clings on to the coils. When
not in use, the coil holder can be stowed away under the chassis. This can allow
other kinds of cargo to be carried on the trailer.
ISBe (Euro 4) Field Test Experience
London Bus operation over 42 months 210,000km
Euro 3
4.46 MPG
6 Cyl ISCe
8.44 MPG
4Cyl ISBE
At the Diesel City conference Cummins made a strong case for Selective
Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology as the way to meet Euro IV and V
emission norms. Currently engine makers across the world are trying to figure
out whether they need to couple high pressure common rail engines with
SCR or instead a combination of Exhaust Gas Regeneration Technology and
a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC). In his presentation, Arun Ramchandran, VP,
Automotive Business, Cummins India said, ‘SCR shows predictable results for
Euro IV and is easily scalable to Euro V. On the other hand, EURO IV with PM-
catalytic convertor is unstable due to catalyst aging and irreversible adhesion
of ash particles. At operating conditions where 30-40 percent filtration was
measured, zero filtration was measured when approaching the same operation
point after a different testing history.’
SCR converts NOx with the aid of a catalyst into nitrogen and water. As a
result, there is a 86 percent reduction in Nox and 95 percent decline in PM,
when Euro I and Euro V emissions are compared. This means the emissions
from 20 Euro V compliant buses will be the same as that from merely two Euro I
compliant buses.
Cummins has already developed the XPI – Cummins Common Rail Fuel System
for Scania. This positive experience has been repeated in London. Cummins’
ISBe engine with SCR was the first engine to obtain Euro IV approval by
Transport for London (TfL), the city’s public transport authority.
Euro 4 % Improvement Annual Savings
Four and six cylinder ISBe engines were tested for 2,10,000 kms over a period
5.35 MPG of 42 months by TfL. Comparing Euro III and Euro IV statistics, the transport
19.96 £2,452 body found that Cummins’ SCR technology ensured PM emissions comparable
6 Cyl ISBe
with the use of Diesel Particulate Filters. Along the way, fuel efficiency was
9.64 MPG boosted by 7-20 percent, even as Nox emissions fell by 40 percent.
10 £ 863 The same technology can be replicated in India to meeting upcoming emission
4Cyl ISBE
norms.

GL 400 A+
APPLICATION: BORE: 86mm
STROKE: 68mm
DISPLACEMENT: 395 cc
COMPRESSION RATION: 18:1
RPM: 3600
HP (CMVR): 7.5 HP
MAX TORQUE: 17 Nm @ 2200 rpm
OIL CAPACITY: 1.4 litres
WEIGHT (DRY): 45 Kg

Power pack 2G 900 W III

Greaves Cotton >>
APPLICATION: Automotive
EMISSION NORMS: BS III
ENGINE CAPACITY: 900 cc Small engines’ specialist Greaves Cotton showed off a few single and twin cylinder models. The 2G
COMBUSTION SYSTEM: 4 stroke Diesel Cycle, Direct 870 WII and the 2G 970 WIII are both four stroke direct injection, twin-cylinder engines which are
Fuel Injection, Natural Aspiration ideally suited for 1.5 tonne GVW vehicles. While the former is a Euro II compliant 871cc, 17.2 HP
COMPRESSION RATIO: 18: 1 option, the latter is a EuroIII compliant 900cc, 19 HP. The existing pack of 1-tonne pickups lie in
COOLING SYSTEM: Water Cooled
the 11-14 tonne range, but as the market graduates to the sub-two tonner category, these bigger
engines could come into play. Incidentally, the Piaggio Ape Truk Plus is due to be launched later this
NUMBER OF CYLINDERS: 2
year. It is likely to feature the same 18-20HP twin cylinder engine.
RATED ENGINE POWER: 19 bhp On the other hand, the GL 400 A+ is a 395cc single cylinder 7.5HP engine that will do well for
RATED ENGINE SPEED: 3200 – 3400 rpm three-wheelers. Till date Greaves has sold 2,50,000 single cylinder engines.
MAX ENGINE TORQUE: 46 Nm The company has embarked on a major capital expenditure programme aggregating around Rs
120 crore over the next couple of years, which is likely to enhance the company’s capacity and
ENGINE SPEED OF MAX TORQUE: 2000 – 2200 rpm
bring newer engines that could help company double its turnover to around Rs 2,300 to 2,400
WEIGHT, DRY: 105 Kg crore over the next three years. Some of the newer product lines from the company includes gear
OIL CAPACITY: 2.5 Ltrs boxes, Leon engines and truck mixers.

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AUTO EXPO SNAPSHOTS
CONTINENTAL
::: COMPONENTS :::
Continental explores
CV radials opportunity
German Auto components conglomerate Continental AG will look at making
CV tyre radials in India soon. ‘We are discussing local manufacturing of radials
with a number of OEMs . As the volumes build in a couple of years, we should
be ready to capitalise on the huge opportunity,’ reveals Dr. Markus Distelhoff,
Managing Director, Continental Automotive Systems, India. The Euro 25 billion
Group already makes radials in China. But tyres are not the only thing on its
plate. Continental AG is looking to boost its India operations after the recent
buyout of Siemens’ Automotive business. The Euro 11.4 billion acquisition has
made Continental the second largest auto component manufacturer in Europe
(after Bosch) and the 5th largest in the world. It is worth noting that Siemens
has signed a JV with Ashok Leyland in the realm of telematics for CVs.
With an initial investment of Rs.100 Crores (17.5 Million Euros), the upcoming
automotive electronics plant in Bangalore is one of the major investments for
the new Continental in India. The new state-of-the-art manufacturing setup will
also house an R&D centre. The city will also have a 400-seat R&D centre that
will do sizeable offshoring for Continental.
After all, the Group makes everything from brake systems, systems and
components for the powertrain and chassis, instrumentation, infotainment
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::: COMPONENTS :::
2 0 0 8 2 0 0 8
Apollo Tyres >>
On display at the Apollo Tyres Ltd pavilion was the Endurance, a soon- to-
be launched premium radial tyre for commercial vehicles, from the Indian
market leader in this segment. This new product, for heavy commercial
vehicles, will be launched later in the year to compliment the company’s
existing radial range in this category of Duramile for Light Commercial
Vehicles and the Regal Transport for Medium-Heavy Commercial Vehicles.
Endurance is a premium product, positioned with the best in commercial
tubeless radials. It is currently undergoing extensive road tests in India,
South Africa and the UK to ensure product suitability for the export market.
The Endurance has unique decoupler grooves to arrest wear and tear. Post
solutions to vehicle electronics, tires and technical elastomers. Continental
launch, the tyres will be used in Volvo Mak II buses. The Endurance will be
is also a competent partner in networked automobile communication. The
made at Apollo’s Baroda plant. While, it will cater to the newer generation
corporation currently employs approximately 150,000 at nearly 200 locations
of commercial vehicles in India, the use of tubeless radials in India is still
in 36 countries.
very low.
Supplying both, OEMs and the Aftermarket worldwide, the Interior Division
A predominantly cross-ply usage market, India is currently witnessing
of Continental AG develops and produces electronic systems which allow the
what is being called the ‘second radial revolution’ – this time in commercial
information in a vehicle to be controlled and communicated according to the
vehicles as opposed to the earlier passenger segment. On a small base,
requirements of the driver and the driving situation. The Division achieves
the replacement market in commercial radials is currently growing at
annual sales of more then Euro 6 billion with a workforce of more than 33,000
a pace of 45-50 percent every year. In the replacement market, radial
employees. Besides ALL, Continental already counts OEMs like Tata Motors,
tyres constitute about 9 percent, compared to around 2 percent in 2005.
Eicher, Sonalika, M&M and JCB as its customers.
However, OE fitment of these tyres continues to be at a low of less than 1
‘At the moment we are quite advanced with vehicle instrumentation and
percent.
this year we will have a number of launches. We will start manufacturing
immobilisers, and engine management CPUs. We are in discussions for radio
systems for cars. At a later stage, we will also look at navigation systems.
Also, we think that with legislations, there will be increased demand for safety
Zen Technologies >>
features for EBS or ABS and also for air brakes,’ outlines Distelhoff.
In June 2007, Continental had signed a 50:50 Joint Venture Agreement
with RICO Auto to build a hydraulic brake systems plant in India in a two step
approach that will generate sales of Euro 30 million (Rs 165 Crores) in the first This driving training stimulator from Zen (ZEN DTS) can be used to
phase. The plant will begin mass production of hydraulic brake systems in the train drivers for all the light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles.
4th quarter of 2008, with 450 employees in Gurgaon. The simulator consists of an actual vehicle cabin mounted on a motion
When construction is completed in 2008, the plant will make 1 million brake platform. Various driving conditions can be simulated with the help of back
actuation units and 2 million brake calipers, 1.5 million drum brakes and 0.5 projected large curved screen display system. The motion platform comes
million load sensing proportioning valves. with three and six degrees of movement and thus helps to replicate a real
On completion of the 2nd phase the plant will have an annual turnover of Euro time driving experience.
65 million (Rs. 357.5 crore) while employing 625 people. This plant will raise The benefit of such a simulator is that even a single instructor can control
the number of Continental’s facilities in India to six. multiple training sessions simultaneously. Moreover, with the actual vehicle
Riding on these developments, Continental expects to grow in excess of 60 cabin, it is possible for the trainee to acquaint himself with the actual gear
percent each year in India over the next five years. ‘While North America and
the US continue to be our main markets, we will look to bag 25 percent of our
mechanism of the vehicle.
The simulator also comes with an optional electric motion platform for the
turnover from Asia,’ asserts Jay K Kunkel, President Asia and Member of the cabin providing movements like pitch, roll, forward and backward motion,
Management Board, Continental AG. abrupt braking and crashing movement. Zen Technologies manufactures
this simulator at its plant in Hyderabad. Though the production of
simulators depends upon orders, it normally takes 45 days to manufacture
one simulator. Zen has also developed another simulator known as ZEN DS
to impart basic driving skills.
It is a multi station classroom driving training stimulator and consists of a
LCD monitor that displays various driving scenes. All the driver stations are
networked to a single instructor who can control the sessions and monitor
the trainees either individually or as a group. As many as 10 driving
stations can be configured to an instructor station. The driver station can
be configured as a light, medium or heavy vehicle station.
Established in 1993, Zen Technologies Ltd has been involved in
designing, developing, and manufacturing training simulators. The company
has registered an average growth rate of 100 percent over the last three
years. Besides the two driving simulators, Zen has also developed various
other simulators for the defence sector. All Zen Products carry a warranty
of 12 (twelve) months against any manufacturing defects from the date of
installation.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FEBRUARY 2008 I 87
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AUTO EXPO
::: COMPONENTS ::: SNAPSHOTS th

Setco Automotive >> 2 0 0 8

Gujarat based Setco Automotive has joined hands with German Company FTE
Automotive to offer hydraulic clutch actuation systems and components for the CV
industry. With this JV, Setco plans not only to expand its presence in the M&HCV
segment, but also to foray into the LCV and tractor segments in the country. The
JV - FTE Setco automotive will have a plant near Baroda and will be operational by
December 2008. Setco will hold 51 percent stake in the joint venture while the
remaining stakes will be with the FTE.
Setco caters to commercial and military trucks; off-highway and agricultural
equipment. Last year, it had an annual turnover of Rs 180 crore. By 2012 it expects
to achieve a consolidated turnover of Rs 500 crore. The company has two plants in
India, one at Kalol in Gujarat and another one in Uttarakhand which will be operational
by March this year. It also has a manufacturing plant in the US and UK. According
to Harish Sheth, CMD, Setco Automotive, ‘we cater to almost 80 to 85 percent of
the requirement for HCV clutches in the country’. In India, Setco caters to OEMs like
Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland, Eicher and AMW. The company also exports to Europe
and North America, while catering primarily to the aftermarket requirements of Volvo
and Daimler. Exports constitute 10 percent of its total business at present and the
company expect this to grow to 30 percent in future.
Apart form the clutch systems for the medium and heavy commercial vehicles; it
also manufactures hydraulic - pressure converters for the construction equipment
industry, deep drawn and complex pressing up to 1,000 tonnes and various precision
components. It has the expertise to develop the products right from the inception
stage when the vehicle is conceived, to make changes to its product as the vehicle
takes shapes and ultimately fitment on the vehicle. Setco is capable of designing
products starting from159 mm, catering to various torque and RPM requirements
of the engine. The company also undertakes reverse engineering to suit specific
customer needs and also designs test rigs to meet customer validation programmes.

Allison Transmission >>

Bags major order from Tata Motors
Allison Transmission operations in India got a big boost when the company bagged orders from
Tata Motors for 500 Allison automatic transmissions for the Tata low floor CNG buses which Tata
Motors will supply to the Delhi Transport Corporation. This is Allison’s largest bus order in India
to date. In July 2007, Allison had set up Allison Transmissions India Private limited in Delhi to
increase supply base in India and also hunt for the potential business partners.
In India, Allison has been making transmissions for off- highway vehicles along with Hindustan
Motors since 1983 at Hosur. The company now want to make inroads into on highway segments
like city buses, airport buses, tipper trucks, fire fighting vehicles and other segments. The
company will initially concentrate on the city bus segment and will gradually look towards trucks
and other vehicles. In India, Allison has partnership with AVTEC, Bharat Power Corporation Pvt
Ltd and Prem Nath Diesel Pvt Ltd to cater to the after sales and service requirements. AVTEC
also has an alliance with Allison to market on- highway transmission in India and is licensed to
manufacture off- highway transmissions and parts.
Allison has two plants, one in Indiana and the other one in Hungary. The company has significant
presence in China, Russia, South America and Eastern Europe. In March 2007, Beijing Transport
Holding Ltd ordered for 2,500 Torqmatic Series Transmissions. Over the last two years, Allison
has supplied close to 8,135 units to Beijing. Allison’s growth in the global bus market has
registered a 50 percent jump between 2004 and 2006. Globally it caters to 250 OEMS including
Volvo, Scania, MAN, DAF, and Mercedes to name a few. In India, it supplies to Ashok Leyland, Tata
Motors, JCBL, and Sutlej.
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana US and employs 3600 people. Regional headquarters are
located in China, The Netherlands, Brazil and Japan. It has presence in 80 countries with close
to 1,500 distributor and dealer locations. The company had also launched hybrid powertrains in
Europe in September 2006. It expects that the demand for the GM- Allison hybrid system to grow
and projects that there will be over 1000 hybrid systems expected in operation globally by early
2008. These Hybrid system have also been fitted to the Phileas wheeled hybrid tram, developed
by Advanced Public Transport System (APTS) and is expected to go into service in a number
of cities including Dubai, France, Istanbul and Turkey. Last September, the ownership of Allison
Transmission was transferred from General Motors to the Carlyle Group and Onex Corporation.

88 I COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FEBRUARY 2008