PMI Electro Mobility

PMI Electro Mobility Solutions (PMI), one of India’s leading manufacturers of electric buses, has bagged a strategic investment of INR 2.5 billion through a preferential allotment of equity shares, led by a consortium comprising of Authum Investment & Infrastructure (Authum), Antique Securities and associated HNI family offices and Nikhil Kamath-backed Gruhas.

Incepted in 2017, PMI has a fleet of 2,000 e-buses already plying across 31 cities in India. Cumulatively these e-buses have clocked over 200 million green kilometres. Going forward, the company aims to expand its fleet to over 5,000 e-buses in the next 24 months. At present, PMI has an order book of more than 3,000 e-buses.

The new funding the company said will be used towards accelerating its strategic initiatives, including developing new solution, upgrading technology in production capabilities and scaling up operations.

Dr. Aanchal Jain, CEO, PMI Electro Mobility, said, “We extend a warm welcome to Authum, Antique Securities and associated HNI family offices and Gruhas as our strategic partners in the pursuit of revolutionising sustainable transportation in India. We are deeply honoured by this second round of private equity investment, which reinforces our commitment to advancing green mobility initiatives and accelerating the adoption of electric buses within the country’s public transport system. With robust government support, driven by progressive policies and visionary programs under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this transition is gaining significant momentum. We take immense pride in contributing to this transformative journey and shaping the future of mobility”.

Amit Dangi, Director, Authum Investment & Infrastructure, said, "At Authum, we believe that sustainable financing is critical to the future of our economy. Our investment in PMI Electro Mobility is a testament to our commitment to supporting green mass mobility and the EV sector in India. The adoption of electric buses in the public transport system is still in its nascent stages, but we believe that it is on the cusp of rapid growth. We are excited to partner with PMI Electro Mobility as they drive the nation’s green mobility revolution. This partnership reflects our shared vision of driving positive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) outcomes, and we are looking forward to contributing to the transformation of India’s transportation landscape.”

Abhijeet Pai, Partner, Gruhas said, "At Gruhas, we believe the future is built on the foundations of innovation and sustainability. PMI Electro Mobility is redefining urban transportation in India through their commitment to electric mobility and environmental stewardship. Our investment reflects our shared vision of accelerating India’s transition towards a green and sustainable future, creating meaningful change for generations to come”

Ashok Leyland To Supply 200 Trucks To Instant Transport Solution

Ashok Leyland - Instant Transport Solution

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.”

Mahindra Bolero Pik-Up HD 1.9 CNG Launched At INR 1.11 Million

Bolero MaXX Pik-Up HD 1.9 CNG

Mumbai-headquartered automotive major Mahindra & Mahindra has launched its all-new Bolero MaXX Pik-Up HD 1.9 CNG small commercial vehicle (SCV) at INR 1.11 million (ex-showroom). The new model expands the company’s popular Bolero Pik-Up brand.

The Bolero MaXX Pik-Up HD 1.9 CNG comes with a 2.5-litre turbocharged CNG engine, delivering 61 kW power, 220 Nm of torque @ 1,200-2,200 rpm and a payload capacity of 1.86-tonne. The SCV is specifically designed for long-distance operations and offers a claimed range of up to 400 km on a single CNG fill, supported by its 180-litre tank capacity. The SCV comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox and power steering.

In terms of connectivity, the Bolero MaXX Pik-Up HD 1.9 CNG is the company’s first CNG pickup offering with iMAXX telematics solution tech, providing fleet operators complete overview of the vehicle performance.

The SCV comes with air conditioning and heating systems for all weather driving, as well as a height-adjustable driver seat for ergonomic support.

The cargo bed designed to support diverse customer needs measures 3050 mm in length. Complementing the vehicle are the 16-inch tyres and durable leaf spring suspension on both front and rear axles.

Mahindra Launches Furio 8 LCV Trucks In 4-Tyre & 6-Tyre Cargo Variants

Mahindra Furio 8

Mahindra’s Truck and Bus business (MTB), part of the Mahindra Group, has launched the Mahindra Furio 8 – a modern range of Light Commercial Vehicle trucks, which comes with ‘Get the Highest Mileage or Give the Truck Back’ guarantee.

The Furio 8 range is manufactured at Mahindra’s Chakan facility and will be introduced in two variants – 4-tyre cargo and 6-tyre cargo.

Vinod Sahay, President – Trucks, Buses, CE, Aerospace & Defense, Member of the Group Executive Board, Mahindra Group, said, “The launch of the new Mahindra Furio 8 range of LCV trucks with the guarantee, ‘Get The Highest Mileage or Give the Truck Back’, will help our customers earn the highest operating profit from their Furio 8 in this category. The new truck series sets new benchmarks of excellence and customer-centricity while reflecting our serious commitment to the segment and confidence in our products”.

Dr Venkat Srinivas, Business Head, MTB & CE, added, “Mahindra Furio 8 is engineered to deliver higher earnings, lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), minimal maintenance, and unmatched safety, comfort, and convenience – ensuring profit, peace of mind and higher prosperity for our customers.”

The Furio 8 comes is offered with Double Service Guarantees: 36-hour guaranteed turnaround at workshops or INR 3,000 per additional day; Back on road in 48 hours or INR 1,000 per additional day. The trucks are equipped with Mahindra iMAXX telematics technology, offering benefits like location tracking, geofencing, vehicle health monitoring, driver performance analytics and fleet dashboards among others.

ZF India Bags Order To Supply Transmissions For Trucks To Leading CV Maker

ZF

German tier 1 supplier ZF India has inked a strategic business partnership with one of India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers to supply manual and AMT, 9-Speed transmissions for trucks in the 1300Nm segment.

As per the understanding, ZF will supply EcoMid and EcoTronic Mid transmissions, specifically developed for over 25-tonne truck applications. The company is focusing on expanding its presence in the high torque market, offering 9-speed transmissions with 1500 Nm and 12-speed transmissions with 3200 Nm.

Through its modular platform approach and innovative transmission solutions, it aims to expand its presence as a key supplier for CV Solutions globally, with potential extensions for higher horsepower segments (over 300HP).

Akash Passey, President ZF Group in India, said, "With over six-decades of strong market presence in India, ZF has consistently provided advanced technology solutions that enhance operational efficiencies. This partnership underscores our role in delivering cutting-edge transmission solutions, strategically tailored to meet the evolving demands of our OEM partners. Together, we continue to drive progress and innovation in the industry.”

P Kaniappan, SVP, ZF Group, added, "The EcoMid and EcoTronic Mid transmissions will help drive operational efficiencies for the commercial vehicle industry, particularly in the heavy truck sector. This strategic agreement not only strengthens ZF Group's position as the premier provider of commercial vehicle solutions but also aligns with the market's shift towards higher efficiencies in higher tonnage vehicles. We are committed to delivering substantial progress for our customers and the Indian market."

The transmissions are being manufactured at the ZF Plant in Chakan, Pune.