Commercial vehicles majors Daimler Truck and Volvo Group have signed a binding agreement to establish a joint venture and are working towards setting up the company that will be headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden. 

This follows up to the earlier announcement made by the companies in May this year, when they outlined their ambition to develop a common software-defined vehicle (SDV) platform and dedicated truck operating system, providing the basis for future software-defined commercial vehicles.

The SDV platform will enable Daimler Truck and Volvo Group and potential other future customers of the joint venture to provide stand-alone digital vehicle functions for their products. 

Karin Radstrom, CEO, Daimler Truck, said, “The signing demonstrates our joint commitment to lead the digital transformation of our industry. The software and hardware from this joint venture will be crucial for achieving unprecedented levels of safety, comfort and efficiency for our customers.”

Martin Lundstedt, President and CEO, Volvo Group, added, “We are joining forces to redefine software architecture and pioneer a new era of self-optimising trucks. Together we are removing complexity to allow our customers to unlock higher levels of connectivity, safety and efficiency and continually push for a greater performance. It is a revolutionary response to the challenges of our modern world, and we are proud to be setting the industry standard.”

The JV’s activities will include the specification and procurement of centralised high-performance control units dedicated for commercial vehicles and capable of handling large amounts of data. The new company will develop an operating system and tools which vehicle manufacturers can use as a basis to develop their own differentiating digital vehicle features.

This will decouple software and hardware development cycles in the future and enable customers to purchase and update digital applications wirelessly ‘over the air’, ultimately enhancing customer efficiency and experience. 

What’s more, Daimler Truck and Volvo Group will remain competitors and continue to differentiate their complete product and services offerings, including their respective digital solutions.

The transaction for the joint venture is expected to be completed in the first half of 2025, subject to obtaining all required regulatory approvals.

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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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