auto_expo

62 I COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FEBRUARY 2008 COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FEBRUARY 2008 I 63

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.

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 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.

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!!

9TH AUTO EXPO

2008

64 I COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FEBRUARY 2008

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AUTO EXPOSNAPSHOTSSNAPSHOTSAUTO EXPO

TATA MOTORS

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, 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 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 PS and 250 Nm, coupled with high torque levels over a wide RPM band enhance driveability in stop start city traffi c. For a vehicle its size, the Sumo Grande is extremely maneuverable with the turning circle radius of 5.25 m, similar to a small car.

The Sumo Grande range is priced in the range of Rs.6.55 lakhs to Rs.7.49 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). It comes with an enhanced warranty of 2 years or 75000 kms. The vehicle will be available in showrooms across the country starting this month.

Sumo Grande >>

(A) 1-TONNER: Big brother is fi nally 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.

Ace >>

(B) CNG VERSION: The Tata Ace is now available in a CNG version, with a number of features that are a fi rst in its category. It is India’s fi rst MPFI (multi-point fuel injection) mini-truck on CNG. The vehicle is equipped with deceleration cut-off for better fuel economy, another fi rst in its category. Priced at Rs 2.99 lakh, it can carry a payload of 625kg. Unlike other CNG vehicles, the CNG Ace comes with a user-friendly CNG-level indicator. The Ace meets all safety norms, including frontal crash, roof crush and rear wall strength. To ensure the safety of the driver and co-driver, seat belts are standard fi tment. Another never-before safety feature is the distributor-less, non-wasted spark-ignition with misfi re detection. Bookings for the vehicle have already commenced.

TATA MOTORS

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-fl y 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.

Xenon Single Cab >>

ENGINE: 3.0 L engine, DI common rail with Turbocharged Intercooled Diesel Engine

MAXIMUM POWER: 115 PS @3000 rpm

MAXIMUM TORQUE: 300 Nm @ 1800- 2000 rpm

GEAR BOX: G-76- 5/ 4.1- Synchromesh with Overdrive

BRAKES: Vacuum assisted independent hydraulicFront: Ventilated Disc brakes with Twin pot calliperRear: Drum brakes, auto adjusting type with Load Conscious Relief Valve ( LCRV)

SUSPENSION: MultilinkFront: Independent Double Wishbone with Torsion barRear: parabolic leaf spring

SEATING CAPACITY: 1+1

SEATING CAPACITY: 1 + 1

ENGINE MODEL: Tata 475 IDI TCIC BSII

MAXIMUM POWER: 52 Kw@4500 rpm

MAXIMUM TORQUE: 135 Nm @ 2500 rpm

GEAR BOX: GBS 65- 4.19 Synchromesh on all forward gears, sliding mesh for reverse

BRAKES: Dual circuit hydraulically activated front: disc, rear: drum

TYRES: 165 R14 LT 8PR

MAX. GVW: 2135 Kg

ENGINE MODEL: Tata 275 MPFI CNG BSIII

MAXIMUM POWER: 21 Hp @3400 rpm


GEAR BOX: GBS 65- 4/5.27 Synchromesh (4 forward gears), sliding mesh for reverse

BRAKES: Dual circuit hydraulically activated front: disc, rear: drum

TYRES: 145 R12 LT 8PR Radial

MAX. GVW: 1550 Kg


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AUTO EXPOSNAPSHOTSSNAPSHOTSAUTO EXPO

TATA MOTORS TATA MOTORS

(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 and the connectivity and conveniences of a modern offi ce. The vehicle is equipped with a secure LAN connection, a printer, scanner and copier on board; alongside a full-fl edged AV/entertainment centre consisting of a DVD player, LCD screens and speaker set-up, making for a plush mobile offi ce for up to 4 people.

Winger Van >>

(B) CARGO PANEL VAN:The Tata Cargo Panel Van is a ready-to-use cargo carrier for applications like cash van, parcel and/or courier van. It is powered by a 1948cc TCIC engine. It has a payload of 1.2 tonnes and is expected to be priced at Rs 7-8 lakh.

Attractively styled on the recently launched Winger platform, the cargo panel van offers power steering and independent suspension, both fi rsts for its category, thereby offering good manoeuvrability with a 6.4 metre turning radius.

ENGINE CAPACITY: 1948 cc TCIC BSIII

MAXIMUM POWER: 90 hp @4300 rpm

MAXIMUM TORQUE: 190 Nm @ 2000- 3000 rpm

BRAKES: front: Disc with Twin pot calliper, rear: Drum with LSPV

STEERING: Power assisted, rack and pinion

SUSPENSION: front: Mcpherson Strut with coil spring, rear: Double parabolic leaf spring

TYRES: 185R14 LT, 8PR radial

MAX. GVW: 2850 Kg

The Tata LPT 909 EX2 Refrigerated Container (Reefer truck) comes with a number of performance-boosting features as standard fi tment, such as power steering and a clutch booster. The Reefer box is made of bonded PUF panels without joints and a GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) skin, making for better longevity and a lighter box with improved payload carrying capacity. The GRP outer panels do not require painting and are rust proof, while the anti-slip polyester fl oor coating inside the box increases safety. The reefer is capable of maintaining the temperature of its 25 cum box at -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/unloading, and seal securely, thus reducing load on the refrigerating unit. The reefer box comes fi tted with a rear tail-lift to enable easy pallet loading as and when required. The fully built truck is expected to retail at Rs 19-20 lakh. Tata Motors plans a similar reefer on a 25-tonne truck.

LPT 909 EX2 Refrigerated Container Truck >>

This contemporarily styled 28-seater Starbus is among the initial offerings of the Tata Marcopolo joint venture. It boasts of an attractive front face, dashboard, seats and superior fi ts and fi nish, 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 fl ooring, all go towards improved passenger convenience and safety.

28-seater Tata Marcopolo minibus >>

DESCRIPTION Semi low fl oor Low entry diesel Low entry CNG

CHASSIS LPO 1612/59 RESLF

LPO 1615 / 62 LE

LPO 1623 CNG LE

EMISSION BSIII BSIII BSIII

ENGINE 130 HP Cummins

155 HP697 230 HP Cummins LB

ENGINE POSITION Rear Rear Rear

FUEL INJECTION Mechanical - Rotary FIP

ECU-controlled - Rotary FIP

ECU-Controlled - Rotary FIP

CLUTCH G/BOX 352 dia, G600 352 dia, G600 352 dia, G600

FRONT AXLE Rigid Deep Throat Rigid

Deep Throat Rigid

REAR AXLE RA 109RR RA 109RR RA 109RR

SUSPENSION FRONT Mechanical Pneumatic Pneumatic

SUSPENSION REAR Mechanical Pneumatic Pneumatic

TYRES 10 x 20 11 R 22.5 Tubeless

11 R 22.5 Tubeless

BRAKES FRONT Drum Brakes Disk Brakes Disk Brakes

BRAKES REAR Drum Brakes Drum Brakes Drum Brakes

FUEL TANK 160L 150L 9 Cyl x 80 L = 108 Kg Gas

GEAR SHIFT Mechanical Cable Cable (NA for Auto Transmission)

FLOOR HEIGHT 710mm 380mm 380mm

LENGTH 11.2 m 12.0 m 12.0m

WIDTH 2.6 m 2.6 m 2.6 m

AIR CONDITIONING Optional through Auxilary engine

Direct Drive for AC

Direct Drive for AC

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

24V, 150 AH Battery

24V, 150 AH Battery

24V, 180 AH Battery

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 entry height of just 380 mm and wide doorways, the Starbus LE allows for easy and fast passenger entry and exit, reducing halt times and overall trip lengths and thereby increasing operating effi ciencies.

Inside the bus, the wide and spacious interiors are kept consistently cool even at halts, with air-curtains at the doors. A rear engine bus, the Starbus LF, has injection-moulded plastic seats that resist the wear and tear of daily passenger transportation. The bus incorporates safety-enhancing features such as door opening and closing signals, 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 account corrosion resistance, electrical and fi re insulation for improved longevity. In keeping with the features of BRTS lines internationally, the air-conditioned Starbus LF also offers an electronic destination display integrated with voice announcement system and compatible to GPS and a Smart Card ticketing system. The bus is expected to be priced at Rs 70 lakh. A huge fl eet of 500 buses will be delivered to the DTC this year.

Air-Conditioned Tata Marcopolo Starbus LF >>


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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


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 fi rst rear axle and 1710 series between axles

FRONT AXLE: ‘I’ section, non-driven

REAR AXLES: Fully fl oating 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)

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 diffi cult, 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.

4935 TT (6x4) Tractor >>

CONFIGURATION: 8 X 4 Tipper

GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT: 31 Ton

GRADEABILITY: 51% @ 31T

MINIMUM TURNING CIRCLE DIA: 20.2 m

MAXIMUM SPEED: 76 kmph

WHEEL BASE: 5140 mm

ENGINE TYPE: Cummins LTAA 8.9 litre

MAXIMUM POWER: 254 KW @ 2200 rpm


CLUTCH: 430 mm pull type diaphragm clutch with booster for actuation

GEAR BOX: ZF 8S 151 – 8 speed synchromesh (8 forward + 1 reverse)

PROPELLER SHAFT: DIN 180 serrated between gearbox and fi rst rear axle and 1710 series between axles

FRONT AXLES: ‘I’ section non-driven steer able twin front axles

REAR AXLES: Fully fl oating 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

A heavy duty tipper featuring a 345 ps engine (torque : 1450 Nm @ 1500 rpm), an 8-speed gearbox and a 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.

The powerful engine, along with the enhanced clutch and the optimally-spaced, heavy-duty 8-speed gearbox, give the vehicle better pulling power and superior acceleration. A higher engine torque and deeper crawler ratio 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 suspension and two inverted spring, bogie rear suspension give it high stability during off-highway, heavy duty applications. Road grip and stability are enhanced by the sturdy frame and non-reactive load equalizing rear suspension.

The dual line braking with increased brake sizes, the ABS system and the ASA (Auto Slack Adjuster) ensure uniform braking on slippery and uneven surfaces like that encountered at mining sites.

A 430 mm diameter clutch and a hub-reduction axle provide greater productivity and reduced maintenance costs. For enhanced durability, the 18 cubic meter rock load body is of sandwiched hardwood between Hardox steel sheets to withstand heavy impact loads.

3135 HD (8x4) Tipper >>


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SNAPSHOTSAUTO EXPO

The Avia D series is an illustration of what next generation Indian CVs could look like. These petite 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 disc brakes at the front and rear enable better control. The tubeless tyres and parabolic springs are notable additions too.

The Euro IV compliant Cummins ISBe4 common-rail diesel engine is available in the economical 160hp or the potent 185hp options. The powertrain relies on SCR technology to reduce emissions while boosting fuel-effi ciency.

In keeping with European regulations, tachographs come as standard fi tments. The cab has standard side spoilers and an optional air management kit. The practical low cab-step and fl oor height make entry and exit easier for city distribution applications. Additional features tuned to the truck driver are air-suspended seats for extra comfort.

The manufacturing capacity at Avia’s Czech Republic facility is 20,000 units per annum, but with the current utilisation being only 1,500 units, there is a huge upside for ALL’s growth agenda in overseas markets.

Avia >>

GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT: 11990 kg

WHEEL BASE: 4500 mm

ENGINE: Cummins ISBe4 185EURO 4 phase 2 with NOx sensorCapacity: 4.5 litre

POWER: 185 hp (136kW) @ 2500 rev/min

TORQUE: 700 Nm @ 1200 – 1700 rev/min

GEAR BOX: ZF 6S850 6 speed full synchromesh with cable actuation

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

FRAME: 203 X 62 X 6.5 mm, riveted construction

CAB: All steel sleeper cabWidth 2150 mm, BBC 1776 mmHydraulic tiltSuspended driver seatSuspended co-driver seatOptional equipment: Air-conditioning, 200 litre fuel tank, premium cab pack

Ashok Leyland has developed the country’s fi rst one-litre-per-cylinder 6 cylinder CNG engine for buses employing Multi Point Fuel Injection (MPFI). The W06DTI ‘H’ Series CNG engine combines superior power rating (185HP @ 2400 rpm) with low emissions. This 5.7-litre turbocharged inter-cooled natural gas engine meets Euro IV emission standards – ahead of the mandate in India.

The high power CNG engine uses stoichiometric combustion technology (chemically correct air-fuel ratio) in combination with a three-way catalytic converter to reduce emissions to the lowest possible level. The Multi Point Fuel Injection system delivers the required quantity of gas at the intake manifold, as per vehicle demand even in transient operating conditions. The engine is expected to be deployed on Ashok Leyland’s AC vestibule buses in Delhi within six months. Durability tests are currently on.

The Exhaust Gas Re-circulation (EGR) used in this engine not only lowers the NOx emission but also restricts thermal load on engine components. The quantity of EGR is controlled by the difference in pressures between exhaust manifold and the turbocharger’s compressor inlet. The waste gate turbocharger is optimised for maximum torque.

The high performance CNG engine features electronics provided by a new state-of-the-art ECU that controls the sequential gas injection and high-energy ignition systems.

“Having developed in-house the fi rst CNG bus engine in India

MPFI engine >> ENGINE: W06DTI H series CNG engine

ASPIRATION: TC with CAC

POWER OUTPUT: 135 kW @ 2400 rpm

MAX TORQUE: 600 NM @ 1400-1600 rpm

COMBUSTION TECHNOLOGY: Stoichiometric

CATALYTIC CONVERTER: Three way catalytic converter

GAS INDUCTION: Multi point gas injection (sequential)

IGNITION: DLIS with plug on coil

EMISSION LEVEL: Euro V +

Force-MAN >>

Premier >>

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CMD, Abhay Firodia poses with the new Force Traveller

The 430HP MAN TGA truck fi tted with a refrigerated container.

The Minidor M4 pickup has had a successful start

The fi rst glimpse of the revamped Sigma multi utility van

The Roadstar, designed with a side tipper

It is ideally suited for being customised as

an ambulance


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It is very rare that a combine manufacturer gets into tractors instead of the other way round. This is the case with Standard Combines which has been making tractor-mounted combines since 1975. It still makes 2,000 of them each month, with 60-75 percent of them being mounted on its own tractors. Standard got into the manufacture of tractors in 2001. The engines and a special cultivation gear for the 24-75HP range are made in-house for the 5,000 tractors that are sold each year.

Standard has also diversifi ed into battery operated two-wheelers as also three-wheelers. Both passenger and 1,200 kg GVW cargo versions have been launched. A small four-wheeler is also up for market introduction once the initial test phase is completed.

Other business lines for the widely-diversifi ed Standard Group include 9-13 tonne hydraulic cranes, gensets and HCV engines and axles. The Rs 300-400 crore fi rm has two plants – in Barnala, Punjab and Bidadi in Himachal Pradesh.

Standard- DI- 124ENGINE: 24 Hp single cylinder

MAX RPM: 1770

ENGINE RATED RPM: 1650

CAPACITY: 1558cc

CLUTCH: Dry friction plate single clutch

STEERING: worm and Screw type

HYDRAULIC SYSTEM: Draft & Position mixed control

LIFT CAPACITY: 1200 kg

LIVE HYDRAULIC: Engine driven gear pump

LENGTH: 3530mm

WIDTH: 1600mm

HEIGHT UPTO EXHAUST: 2200mm

GROUND CLEARANCE: 420 mm

TYRE SIZE: Front: 6.0 16 (6/8 Ply)Rear: 12.4 28 (12 Ply)

WEIGHT: 1800 kg

CAPACITY: Diesel Tank: 48 LtrsEngine: 5.5 LtrsCooling system transmission: 25 Ltrs

Three-wheeler ENGINE: LDW- 422, single cylinder, water cooled, IDI diesel engine

DISPLACEMENT: 422 cc

MAX. ENGINE OUTPUT: 8.5 kw +/- 5 % at 4500 rpm

MAX. TORQUE: 21 Nm +/- 1.05 % @ 2800 to 3200 rpm

CLUTCH: Dry, single plate

GEAR BOX: Integrated power pack, constant mesh sliding 4 forward and 1 reverse

DRIVE AXLE: rear

STEERING: worm and roller type

SUSPENSION: Leading link type with coil spring and shock absorber

FRONT AND REAR BRAKES: Drum

TYRES: 4.5- 10, 8 PR

FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 10L

DIMENSIONS: Wheel base: 2350mm, Overall width: 1380mm, Overall length: 3445mm, Overall height: 1850mm, Min ground clearance: 180mm

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Swaraj PrestigeENGINE: 6 HK 1 – TC Euro III Complaint Diesel Electronic Governing 169 KW @ 2500 rpm

TYRES: seven including one spare tyre, 11- R- 22.5 – 16 PR ( BS)

SEATING: 40 + 1 Push back, reclining seats with padded arm rest and foot rest

OVERALL LENGTH: 11400 + 50 mm

Swaraj Mazda showcased a range of buses and the D-Max pickup that attracted quite a bit of attention.

The centre of attraction was the Swaraj Prestige. Powered by Isuzu’s Euro III compliant diesel electronic governing 227HP engine, this 12-metre bus spells luxury inter-city travel. The pricing for the 40+1 seater is Rs 59 lakh. This fi gure is not that high, when taken in the context of its semi-integral construction that offers as much as 7 cubic metres of luggage space. The driver controlled passenger entry doors, the ultra low fl oor entry, tinted glasses, twin LCDs, and a clutch of other thoughtful electronic systems do the business. The engine overrun buzzer, tachometer and a GPS based location system help underline the stature of the bus.

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 Prestige. It too has a competent 172HP electronically controlled Isuzu engine. Naturally, the price at Rs 28 lakh is quite competitive.

The Swaraj Executive 12+1 seater builds on the Chandigarh-based company’s competence in minibuses. The 100HP pocket dynamo is expected to be priced at Rs 20 lakh.

Also on display was the smart new D-Max pickup. The D-Max was the original model on which General Motors based the midsize Chevrolet Colorado and 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 been slightly freshened, with a Cadillac-like front end. The engine lineup has been expanded with a new 3.0-liter common-rail diesel with a new turbo system. Sources reveal that the Swaraj-Isuzu combine will come out with trucks too next year.

Swaraj ExecutiveENGINE: SLT3 Euro III Compliant Diesel 75 KW @ 3000 RPM

BRAKES: Hydraulic Dual Circuit

TYRES: 5 (Including One Spare Tyre) 7.50 x 16 – 14 PR


Swaraj PremiumENGINE: 4HKIXS Euro III Compliant Diesel Electronic Governing 129 KW @ 2600 RPM

BRAKES: Hydraulic Dual Circuit

TYRES: 7 Tyres (Including One Spare Tyre) 225 / 70 R 19.5 Radial



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VOLKSWAGEN VOLKSWAGEN

The extended Caddy Maxi Life merges the qualities of 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 – depending on the interior confi guration – are all record values for this segment. Three engines are offered with power outputs from 100HP to 138HP. This vehicle is expected to be launched by the middle of next year at a price of Rs 23 lakh. Following the initial CBU imports, the vehicle is likely to be localised.

Caddy Maxi Life >>

‘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 the strong allure of the Indian market, Volkswagen pulled out all stops at the Auto Expo as it unveiled new cars, SUVs and of course commercial vans. Some of which are sampled herewith:

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 fl oor and enable a range of about 450 kilometers.

Caddy EcoFuel >>

The large Caravelle represents the classic Volkswagen bus. In the Caravelle, 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 83HP and 232HP.

Caravelle Comfortline >>

The Crafter takes the T5 series commercial vans to a higher weight class. 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.

Crafter >>

This is the top gun in VW’s van kingdom. As an option, the Multivan Highline, with capacity for a maximum of seven seats, may be ordered with four 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 fi ve-cylinder TDI (172HP), with optional automatic transmission. On the Multivan Highline, a TDI with 129HP can also be delivered.

Multivan Highline and Multivan Business >>


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Vectra Kamaz 6540- 8 x 4.2ENGINE: 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 defi ned 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

Vectra Kamaz 5460- 4 x 2.2ENGINE: 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 defi ned 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

VECTRA KAMAZ

The Vectra-Kamaz- range has fi nally been unveiled. The fi rst 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.

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.

Rasandik Engineering Industries India Limited >>


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Kranti Automobiles Limited (KAL) has been making 280-510cc front and rear engined three-wheelers since 1995. More than 20,000 vehicles are already 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 fi rst 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.

Kranti Automobiles Ltd. >>

Eicher Motors, has announced the development of E483, a BSIV compliant, 120HP Common Rail Diesel engine. Speaking at the ‘Diesel City’ conference during 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 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 2009, once tests are completed.

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.

Eicher Motors >>

E483 EngineENGINE: 4 Cylinder, DI, TCIC

SWEPT VOLUME: 3.3 Ltrs

BORE X STROKE: 100 x 105 mm

COMBUSTION CHAMBER: Re- entrant

RATED POWER: 90 kW @ 2600 rpm

PEAK TORQUE: 400 Nm @ 1600 rpm

EMISSION LEVEL: Forthcoming BS IV

APPLICATION: Automotive

AFTER TREATMENT: DPF/ SCR

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M & MAs part of its Sustainable Mobility Solutions Programme, M&M has showcased the hydrogen powered Alfa 3-wheeler. The fi rst of its kind in the world, the Hy-Alfa runs on pure compressed hydrogen gas. Demonstrating that it is indeed possible to effectively store hydrogen, M&M showcased three-wheelers featuring both steel and composite material storage cylinders. 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 fl ame taper that prevents any fl ame from reaching the cylinder.

It is to be noted that the Hy-Alfa is as yet only a concept and as such, hydrogen is currently 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 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

Hydrogen delivers huge benefi ts over conventional fuels because it is renewable, has zero emissions, high calorifi c value and wider fl ammability limits. The fl ip side is that it is an infl ammable gas and hydrogen dispensing infrastructure and storage are issues to be reckoned with.

Hy-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 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 life. Its all wheel split-circuit hydraulic brakes provides for electrical regenerative braking and the integrated solid state power convertor is used for lights, horns, etc.

E-Alfa >>


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The B100 or 100 percent biodiesel Scorpio is the fi rst of its kind in South East Asia. This version of the CRDe Scorpio was successfully tested with B10 as the fuel in sub-zero conditions at the Khardungla Pass, at a height of 18,380 feet above sea level. M&M’s R&D efforts show an almost 35 percent reduction on tailpipe emissions of unburnt hydrocarbons and particulate matter when B100 is used.

B100 Scorpio >>

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 vehicleREGENERATIVE 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 conditionsIDLE CHARGING MODE: If the battery state-of-charge is lower than the threshold, the combustion engine recharges the batteries while idling.

Scorpio Hybrid >>

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 fi scal 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 fi scal year. AMW Global Truck series represents an effi cient 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 fi rst trial batch of 25 trucks. With the installed GPS, the fl eet 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.

3118 >>

As our scoop in the December 2007 issue revealed, AMW has announced its foray into the LCV segment by launching the 1.8 Ton GVW Pug mini-truck. The 25HP vehicle also features a 5-speed manual transmission is capable of carrying a payload of 880 kg. It is best suited for intra-city 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 fi rst 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.

Pug >>

AUTO EXPOSNAPSHOTS

AMW


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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.

ANG 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.

JBM Auto >>

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Body builder CEBBCO showed off two behemoths. The 18-metre chassis carrier has been designed for Ashok Leyland. It will help transport prime movers at low costs and at zero miles logged in prior to delivery to the customer. Priced at around Rs 9 lakh, the three-axle special load body is equipped with hydraulically operated lift ladders.

The ribless tip trailer on the other hand is the fi rst one designed in the country. It packs in a 28 cubic meter capacity. ‘We have imported a hydraulic press to ensure single piece top rail. We are the only body builders in the country to put up an automatic robotic welding line for tippers and tipper manufacturing. Because of this, we have been able to reduce the weight of this tipper trailer by 2 tonnes,’ states Ajay Gupta, Director CEBBCO.

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 buzzing with action. It has a JV with CT V-Doll of Thailand, among the largest 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 effi cient 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

CEBBCO

Specifi cations of the Chassis CarrierOverall body dimensions (LxWxH): 15298mm x 2600mm x 1360mmOverall trailer length: 17985mmOverall height of the vehicle under laden condition: 4500mmMain Frame: Main frame is fabricated ‘I’ beam of special grade material with formed cross members and bed is made of ISMC (std. Channel) fabricatedAxle & tyres: Tri axled with 12 nos. of 10.00 – 20 tyresSuspension: Over slung, tandem multi leaf spring suspension with torque rodsBrake system: full air brake, double line compressed air systemPainting: Shot blasted body with coat of PU primer and coats of high grade paint

SNAPSHOTSAUTO EXPO AUTO EXPOSNAPSHOTS


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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 fi tted,’ 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 justifi es the slight premium over unorganised sector solutions. ‘We fi t 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.

TRATECAt 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 fi gure 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 fi ltration was measured, zero fi ltration 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 fi rst engine to obtain Euro IV approval by Transport for London (TfL), the city’s public transport authority.

Four and six cylinder ISBe engines were tested for 2,10,000 kms over a period of 42 months by TfL. Comparing Euro III and Euro IV statistics, the transport body found that Cummins’ SCR technology ensured PM emissions comparable with the use of Diesel Particulate Filters. Along the way, fuel effi ciency was boosted by 7-20 percent, even as Nox emissions fell by 40 percent.

The same technology can be replicated in India to meeting upcoming emission norms.

Cummins >>

Euro 3 Euro 4 % Improvement Annual Savings

4.46 MPG 5.35 MPG 19.96 £2,452

6 Cyl ISCe 6 Cyl ISBe

8.44 MPG 9.64 MPG10 £ 863

4Cyl ISBE 4Cyl ISBE

ISBe (Euro 4) Field Test ExperienceLondon Bus operation over 42 months 210,000km

Power pack 2G 900 W IIIAPPLICATION: Automotive

EMISSION NORMS: BS III

ENGINE CAPACITY: 900 cc

COMBUSTION SYSTEM: 4 stroke Diesel Cycle, Direct Fuel Injection, Natural Aspiration

COMPRESSION RATIO: 18: 1

COOLING SYSTEM: Water Cooled

NUMBER OF CYLINDERS: 2

RATED ENGINE POWER: 19 bhp

RATED ENGINE SPEED: 3200 – 3400 rpm

MAX ENGINE TORQUE: 46 Nm

ENGINE SPEED OF MAX TORQUE: 2000 – 2200 rpm

WEIGHT, DRY: 105 Kg

OIL CAPACITY: 2.5 Ltrs

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

Small engines’ specialist Greaves Cotton showed off a few single and twin cylinder models. The 2G 870 WII and the 2G 970 WIII are both four stroke direct injection, twin-cylinder engines which are ideally suited for 1.5 tonne GVW vehicles. While the former is a Euro II compliant 871cc, 17.2 HP option, the latter is a EuroIII compliant 900cc, 19 HP. The existing pack of 1-tonne pickups lie in 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 year. It is likely to feature the same 18-20HP twin cylinder engine.

On the other hand, the GL 400 A+ is a 395cc single cylinder 7.5HP engine that will do well for three-wheelers. Till date Greaves has sold 2,50,000 single cylinder engines.

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 bring newer engines that could help company double its turnover to around Rs 2,300 to 2,400 crore over the next three years. Some of the newer product lines from the company includes gear boxes, Leon engines and truck mixers.

Greaves Cotton >>

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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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solutions to vehicle electronics, tires and technical elastomers. Continental is also a competent partner in networked automobile communication. The corporation currently employs approximately 150,000 at nearly 200 locations in 36 countries.

Supplying both, OEMs and the Aftermarket worldwide, the Interior Division of Continental AG develops and produces electronic systems which allow the information in a vehicle to be controlled and communicated according to the requirements of the driver and the driving situation. The Division achieves annual sales of more then Euro 6 billion with a workforce of more than 33,000 employees. Besides ALL, Continental already counts OEMs like Tata Motors, Eicher, Sonalika, M&M and JCB as its customers.

‘At the moment we are quite advanced with vehicle instrumentation and 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 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 fi rst phase. The plant will begin mass production of hydraulic brake systems in the 4th quarter of 2008, with 450 employees in Gurgaon.

When construction is completed in 2008, the plant will make 1 million brake actuation units and 2 million brake calipers, 1.5 million drum brakes and 0.5 million load sensing proportioning valves.

On completion of the 2nd phase the plant will have an annual turnover of Euro 65 million (Rs. 357.5 crore) while employing 625 people. This plant will raise the number of Continental’s facilities in India to six.

Riding on these developments, Continental expects to grow in excess of 60 percent each year in India over the next fi ve years. ‘While North America and the US continue to be our main markets, we will look to bag 25 percent of our turnover from Asia,’ asserts Jay K Kunkel, President Asia and Member of the Management Board, Continental AG.

Continental explores CV radials opportunity

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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 launch, the tyres will be used in Volvo Mak II buses. The Endurance will be made at Apollo’s Baroda plant. While, it will cater to the newer generation of commercial vehicles in India, the use of tubeless radials in India is still very low.

A predominantly cross-ply usage market, India is currently witnessing what is being called the ‘second radial revolution’ – this time in commercial vehicles as opposed to the earlier passenger segment. On a small base, the replacement market in commercial radials is currently growing at a pace of 45-50 percent every year. In the replacement market, radial tyres constitute about 9 percent, compared to around 2 percent in 2005. However, OE fi tment of these tyres continues to be at a low of less than 1 percent.

Apollo Tyres >>

This driving training stimulator from Zen (ZEN DTS) can be used to train drivers for all the light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles. The simulator consists of an actual vehicle cabin mounted on a motion platform. Various driving conditions can be simulated with the help of back projected large curved screen display system. The motion platform comes with three and six degrees of movement and thus helps to replicate a real time driving experience. The benefi t of such a simulator is that even a single instructor can control multiple training sessions simultaneously. Moreover, with the actual vehicle cabin, it is possible for the trainee to acquaint himself with the actual gear mechanism of the vehicle. The simulator also comes with an optional electric motion platform for the cabin providing movements like pitch, roll, forward and backward motion, 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 confi gured to an instructor station. The driver station can be confi gured 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.

Zen Technologies >>



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Bags major order from Tata MotorsAllison 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 fl oor 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, fi re fi ghting 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 signifi cant 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 fi tted 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.

Allison Transmission >>

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 fi tment 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 specifi c customer needs and also designs test rigs to meet customer validation programmes.

Setco Automotive >>

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