Ashok Leyland Launches 'Saathi', an Affordable Entry-Level Light Commercial Vehicle

Ashok Leyland, a prominent player in the commercial vehicle industry, unveiled its latest entry-level light commercial vehicle (LCV) named Saathi at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. This new launch reinforces the company's position in the growing LCV segment, where affordability, efficiency, and performance are key drivers for success.

Saathi: Built for Efficiency and Strength

The Saathi is engineered using advanced LNT technology, ensuring durability and optimal performance. The vehicle is powered by a 45-horsepower engine that generates a torque of 110 Nm (Newton meters), providing the necessary strength for diverse commercial operations.

One of the key features of the Saathi is its 24% larger loading area, allowing for improved cargo capacity. This enhanced space translates into a payload capacity of 1,120 kg, making it suitable for various commercial applications, from logistics to small business deliveries.

Key Pricing and Performance Features

The Saathi is priced at ₹6.49 lakh, making it an affordable choice for small and medium-sized businesses looking to upgrade their commercial vehicle fleet without breaking the bank. The LCV also offers better mileage, ensuring reduced operational costs over time.

The vehicle comes equipped with larger tyres that ensure both performance and fuel efficiency. With these enhancements, the Saathi aims to address the common challenges faced by businesses in the transportation sector, such as high operational costs and limited cargo capacity.

Innovative Technologies and Future Prospects

Ashok Leyland has always been a pioneer in introducing new technologies in the commercial vehicle space. The launch of Saathi reflects the company’s readiness to lead the ongoing transformation in road transport. Executive Chairman Dheeraj Hinduja stated, "Saathi reinforces our commitment to innovation and sets the stage for the future of road transport in India."

This move positions Ashok Leyland as a forward-thinking company, not only focused on profitability but also on driving technological advancement in commercial transportation solutions. The company is focused on providing value-driven products that cater to a range of customer needs, from smaller business owners to large-scale commercial enterprises.

Ashok Leyland's Broader Technological Showcase

Alongside the launch of the Saathi, Ashok Leyland also unveiled other exciting products, including the GARUD 15, a multi-axle, front-engine, 15-meter fully-built premium bus. The GARUD 15 is specially designed for long-distance intercity travel, catering to India's diverse road conditions. The bus comes equipped with 42 sleeper berths, offering comfort for travelers on long-haul journeys.

Moreover, the company displayed the country's first electric port terminal tractor, a revolutionary product named eTIRAN Terminal Tractor. As the first company to introduce electric trucks in India, Ashok Leyland continues to lead the charge in sustainable transport solutions.

eTIRAN: A Game-Changer for Port Operations

The eTIRAN electric terminal tractor comes with a customizable battery range of 180-350 kilometers, depending on operational needs. This vehicle is equipped with a 360-degree view, air-conditioned cabin, and advanced safety features, such as ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) for safety alerts and hill start assist.

Designed to improve port operations, the eTIRAN is set to revolutionize logistics at India’s ports, making them more efficient and environmentally friendly. As part of Ashok Leyland's broader strategy to innovate in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, the eTIRAN showcases the company's commitment to driving sustainability within the transport industry.

Conclusion: Ashok Leyland’s Continued Leadership in Commercial Vehicles

With the launch of Saathi and the eTIRAN, Ashok Leyland reaffirms its leadership in the Indian commercial vehicle market. By focusing on both affordability and cutting-edge technologies, the company is setting new standards in the LCV and electric vehicle segments. As the demand for electric vehicles grows, Ashok Leyland’s innovation and commitment to creating efficient, eco-friendly solutions will play a critical role in shaping the future of road transport in India.