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Pics: Ashok Leyland chassis with air blower (as per new rule)

Thanks to Raja V G for sending these images in. Heartfelt gratitude for sharing them with other enthusiasts via this Team-BHP page

In July 2017, we had reported that the Union Government had decided to make air-conditioned cabins mandatory for trucks. Although the government later backtracked on its decision to make AC cabins mandatory, the new rule which came into effect from January 1, 2018, mandated that trucks with more than 3.5 tonnes GVW must have forced ventilation. These images indicate that manufacturers including Ashok Leyland and Tata Motors have started introducing cabin air blowers in their trucks.

The images, which are from a stock yard, confirm that at least some models from Ashok Leyland's long haul range will be offered with factory-fitted air blowers. The images also reveal Tata Motors' version of cabin air blowers, which has circular vents and a rotary blower speed knob with 4 positions. Ashok Leyland's design has three rectangular vents with a rotary knob placed next to the instrument cluster, just below the OBD port. It has 3 blower speeds. Both blower modules are mounted on the engine cover next to the driver's seat. It is worth noting that these are not connected to an AC compressor.

The government had mandated all N2 and N3 category goods carriers to have air-conditioned cabins. The move was aimed at reducing the number of road accidents by improving the working environment of the truck drivers. Truck manufacturers including Tata Motors weren't in favour of this decision as according to them, fleet operators have been reluctant to buy AC trucks as they are less economical than non-AC trucks. That said, Ashok Leyland has already been offering AC cabs in its U-truck and Captain range. Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles, Mahindra, Tata Motors and BharatBenz also have similar options for quite some time now.

 
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