Daimler India Commercial Vehicles Pvt Ltd (DICV), a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG (Daimler Truck), today signed an MoU with IIT Madras Incubation Cell (IITMIC) to set up a technology epicentre.

The objective of the technology epicentre is to co-create mid- to long-term solutions necessary for the future of mobility. The foundation of this partnership is ‘technology-led mobility transformation’. The partnership – DICV-IITMIC – was inaugurated at IIT Madras Research Park in Chennai.

The aim of the MoU
Under this MoU, DICV and IITMIC aim to identify, mentor and provide opportunities to Indian technology start-ups, who will work towards finding futuristic solutions for the Indian mobility space in the years to come and introduce them to the market. The focus will be on all aspects, such as de-carbonisation (electric, hydrogen), road safety (ADAS-based safety technologies), efficiency, ecosystem creation and even preparing the industry for paradigm shifts in supply chain and logistics, manufacturing, product development, software driven vehicle architectures, ESG and other allied areas.

Sharing his thoughts on the partnership, Satyakam Arya, Managing Director and CEO, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, “India is going through rapid industrial and economic changes, and technology will be at the core of businesses and lifestyle going forward. Daimler Truck has always been at the forefront of technological development in the commercial vehicle space. We invested in India for the long term because we believe in its huge potential. DICV’s partnership with IITMIC is a watershed moment because this collaboration is based on a common belief that technology should be created and leveraged to transform the marketplace and not just product offerings. We also believe that by investing in and nurturing bright Indian technology start-up companies, we will contribute to India’s growing economy and sustainably lead the change in commercial vehicles, logistics and in the domain of mobility services.”

Two strengths as one
Through this partnership, both DICV and IITMIC will be putting their respective strengths to use. DICV will leverage its commercial vehicles domain expertise, while IITMIC will utilise its background in academia to strengthen the innovation and start-up ecosystem across India.

Throwing further light on this, Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, President – IIT Madras Research Park, IITM Incubation Cell, asserted, “As fossil-fuel-based vehicles get replaced by battery-powered or hydrogen-powered electric vehicles in the near future, innovation and the pursuit of deep-tech start-ups in the area will be a major task. The DICV-IITMIC joint incubator would strive to become a leading incubator, where young talent flourishes; further it will become a think tank for a fossil-fuel free world tomorrow. IITMIC and DICV will leverage our respective strengths to jointly provide mentorship and nurture start-ups by exchanging and participating in seminars, forums, events and symposiums that will help drive solutions for future mobility.”  

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Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler Truck, has launched its all-new BharatBenz Construction and Mining range, featuring the HX and Torqshift series models.

The company expects demand coming from India's mining and construction equipment sector, which is projected to grow from USD 16 billion to USD 45 billion by 2030.

The introduction of the HX and Torqshift series follows extensive real-world validation, with over 150 trucks undergoing customer trials across India's most diverse construction and mining sites. These trials reportedly showed significant improvements in uptime, operational efficiency and profitability, leading to full-scale production.

Satyakam Arya, Managing Director and CEO, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, "India's construction and mining sector continues to be one of our strongest business pillars, powering the next phase of national development. We're seeing a decisive shift as large contractors invest in owned assets for better control and long-term returns. Many fleets are 8-10 years old and reaching the end-of-life, creating a major replacement cycle. Our extensive customer trials with 150+ trucks have validated the real-world performance and profitability impact these vehicles deliver."

The company’s new product range includes the –

1. Heavy-Duty Construction Vehicles: The HX series, comprising the 2828C HX and 3532C HX models, are built for extreme durability, high productivity, fuel efficiency and drivability. It is available in two configurations: 280 hp with 1100 Nm torque and 320 hp with 1250 Nm torque. Additional features include Hill Hold Assist, unitised front axle bearings, a wind deflector and advanced driver state monitoring systems.
2. Specialised Mining Applications: The Torqshift series – 2832CM and 3532CM variants – features Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) for ‘zero lag performance, unmatched comfort, faster TAT and enhanced fuel efficiency’ in demanding mining operations.
3. Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) Solutions: The 2828C RMC variant with a 9 cubic metre capacity is equipped with the OM 926 BSVI OBD-II engine, generating 280 hp and 1100 Nm torque, ensuring reliable concrete transportation across challenging terrains.

Pradeep Kumar Thimmaiyan, President & Chief Technology Officer, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, "We designed the HX by listening to customers. Priority for vehicles with higher payload capacities, faster TAT and fleet managers demanding lower maintenance costs. Every component re-design addresses real customer challenges. We've prioritised driver safety with full EU ECE R29-03 cabin compliance and best-in-class safety features."

The HX series comes with several notable features:

• High Gradeability: Up to 60 percent in the 2828C and up to 54 percent in the 3532C, enabling confident climbing with a full load.
• 360deg Reliability: The frame, axle, braking, and engine are designed for integrated performance.
• Best-in-Class Warranty: Tailored for long-term ownership confidence.
• Hill Hold Assist: Prevents rollbacks on steep grades, crucial for mining and construction sites.
• Unitised Bearing at Front Axle: Reduces maintenance and extends service life, lowering total cost of ownership.
• Driver State Monitoring: Advanced safety technology that monitors operator alertness.
• Inter-Axle & Inter-Wheel Diff Lock (IRT 440-11): Provides superior traction control for challenging terrains.
• Bolster Bogie Suspension with Shock Absorbers: Enhances load capacity, stability, and ride comfort.
• G131/G131HD Transmission Options: 9F+1R synchromesh gears with a heavy-duty variant for extreme applications.
• New Improved Rear Axle (IRT440-11): Enhanced with higher capacity for superior performance.
• Wind Deflector: Improves aerodynamics for better fuel economy.
• Better Approach Angle: Optimised ground clearance for mining operations and challenging terrain.
• New Styling: A distinctive rugged design reflecting capability and durability.

Rajiv Chaturvedi, President & Chief Business Officer, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, "Fleet operators increasingly demand maximum uptime and swift maintenance solutions. The HX range helps operators minimise project delays and optimise operations. We're seeing strong demand for factory-fitted features – GPS, hill start assist and driver comfort amenities. Also, safety innovations like reverse cameras and driver state monitoring are becoming customer priorities."

The new models will be available across BharatBenz's 385 dealer touchpoints in India and are supported by comprehensive service infrastructure and 15,000 hours annual maintenance contracts.

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Pune-headquartered alternative energy vehicle manufacturer EKA Mobility has appointed Sanjay Kumar Bohra as its new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO).

In his new role, he will lead the Financial & Commercial strategy for EKA Mobility and the group, driving growth, efficiency and value creation across the organisation. Bohra comes with around four decades of experience across finance, banking and Business Process Services (BPS).

Prior to joining EKA Mobility, he served as the Group CFO at Force Motors, having spent over a decade at the company, leading finance function across domestic and international operations. He has also worked with the likes of Citigroup and Tata Consultancy Services in his professional career.

Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder & Chairman, EKA Mobility & Pinnacle Industries, said, "We are glad to welcome Sanjay to the EKA family. His deep understanding of finance, coupled with a strong track record in business transformation and strategic leadership, will be instrumental in propelling EKA’s next phase of growth. He will play a key leadership role not just at EKA Mobility, but across our group, as we scale our operations and expand our global footprint."

Sanjay Kumar Bohra, said, "I am excited to join EKA Mobility at such a transformative time for the automotive and clean mobility industry. EKA’s bold vision, innovation-led approach, and strong commitment to sustainability are aligned with my professional ethos, and I look forward to contributing to the EKA and the group’s continued success and global expansion."

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The Indian commercial vehicle (CV) industry is likely to see wholesale growth of 3-5 percent in FY2026, backed by the resumption of construction and infrastructure activities. The report states that while domestic CV wholesale volumes saw a marginal 0.1 percent YoY increase in May 2025, retail volumes witnessed a 3.7 percent YoY contraction.

For the initial two months of the fiscal year 2026 (April-May 2025), CV wholesale volumes declined by 0.7 percent on a YoY basis. The decline in retail volumes, which also saw an 11.3 percent sequential drop in May 2025, suggests elevated inventory levels at dealerships.

Breaking down the performance by segment, the medium and heavy commercial vehicle (M&HCV) segment saw its retail sales volumes decline by 4.4 percent YoY in May 2025, with a significant sequential decline of 18.9 percent. ICRA noted that regional disruptions and the geopolitical situation had some impact on demand for the month. M&HCV (trucks) wholesale volumes are anticipated to register a modest 0-3 percent YoY growth in FY2026, following a 4 percent decline in FY2025.

Similarly, retail volumes in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment in May 2025 declined by 3.2 percent YoY and 4.9 percent sequentially, reflecting muted demand. LCV (trucks) wholesale volumes are expected to register a limited 3-5 percent YoY growth in FY2026. The increasing preference for pre-owned vehicles over new ones in this segment has also impacted demand recently.

Despite the subdued performance in May, ICRA forecasts a modest YoY growth of 3-5 percent in wholesale volumes for the domestic CV industry in FY2026, after a marginal 1.2 percent year-on-year decline in FY2025. While M&HCV (trucks) and LCV (trucks) segments are expected to see modest volume growth, the buses segment is projected to experience a relatively higher growth of 8-10 percent for the fiscal year.

The anticipated pick-up in construction and mining activities, coupled with a steady economic environment, is expected to support demand prospects for the LCV (trucks) and M&HCV (trucks) segments. Meanwhile, replacement demand is likely to be a key driver for volume growth in the buses segment.

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Chennai-based commercial vehicle major Ashok Leyland has bagged an order to deliver 200 trucks to Instant Transport Solution, a key express logistics player in India.

Instant & XP India, is a leading express logistics player in e-commerce, FCL, LCL and 3PL space, is one of the fastest-growing integrated logistics businesses in India.

It currently operates a fleet of around 2,100 trucks and has placed a substantial order of 200 units of Ashok Leyland’s trucks. The first batch of 100 units of 1916 single axle and 2820 multi-axle haulage trucks were delivered, marking the beginning of this extensive fleet expansion.

Sanjeev Kumar, President – MHCV, Ashok Leyland, handed over the keys to the first batch of 100 trucks to Rajbir Singh Chaudhary, Chairman, Instant Transport Solution, in the presence of senior executives from both organisations.

Sanjeev Kumar, said, “We are delighted to deliver the first batch of 1916 single axle and 2820 multi-axle haulage trucks to Instant Transport Solution. This order underscores the confidence customers place in our robust, innovative and reliable vehicles. As we continue to push the boundaries of technology and customer experience, collaborations like these will help shape a more efficient, future-ready logistics sector.”

Rajbir Singh, said, “We have complete trust in the quality and performance of Ashok Leyland trucks. Their outstanding after-sales support ensures seamless operations for us, while their growing service network further enhances our capabilities. This delivery represents more than just new trucks – it signifies a deepening partnership aimed at advancing logistics efficiency. With Ashok Leyland’s dedication to innovation and our forward-thinking approach to transportation, we look forward to continued success on the road.”

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