SCOOP! Ashok Leyland's next generation truck caught testing

Thanks to BHP'ian Moralfibre for sharing these pictures of Ashok Leyland's (ALL) next-generation truck undergoing testing. The CV was caught at Hosur, Tamil Nadu (close to Ashok Leyland's factory). As is the norm now in this class of heavy commercial vehicle, there would be a range of driver-comfort features as well.

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has just overtaken ALL to become the second largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in India. According to SIAM data, M&M sold 1,67,588 units between April 2012 and February 2013 (includes Navistar, Maxximo, Gio, Genio and Bolero pickup). ALL, sold 1,00,592 units (includes dost LCV) in the same period. The data does not include exports. 

ALL's new range of trucks must succeed, if the company is to survive and thrive in the face of stiff competition from a number of truck makers who have now entered the market. This next-gen truck is from Ashok Leyland's premium range and will go head to head against the Tata Prima. 

ALL is now looking at expanding its range of offerings in the Medium and Heavy segment. The tie-up with Nissan is likely to prove crucial to ALL's plans for the future. Ashok Leyland, last month became the first Company in India to receive the OBD (On Board Diagnostic) II certification for BS IV-compliant commercial vehicle engines.