L&T’s commitment to sustainability is deeply embedded in its mission and values, shaping its vision, culture, strategy, and business processes.

Can you take us through the significant milestones in L&T’s construction and mining equipment business over the years? How has the company evolved to maintain its leadership position in the market?

The journey of Larsen & Toubro in the Construction and Mining equipment industry spans nearly 80 years, beginning in 1945 when the company commenced the distribution of Construction Equipment in India. Recognising the importance of customer support, L&T soon set up a Service Centre in Mumbai, embodying its philosophy that “In Service Lies Success.”

A landmark moment arrived in December 1972 during the Asia-72 Trade Fair at Delhi’s Pragati Maidan, inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi. Poclain showcased a Hydraulic Excavator that could transform the Indian construction landscape. This event paved the way for a technology transfer arrangement between L&T and Poclain, SA, France, to establish a Hydraulic Excavator manufacturing facility, thus pioneering the introduction of Hydraulic Excavators in India. Over the years, L&T introduced a range of Excavators including Electrically operated Excavators, significantly changing the Construction and Mining Equipment industry.

As technology evolved, L&T matched the pace by bringing in state-of-the-art machines and strengthening its after-sales support network. Service centres were strategically established, complemented by training facilities for operators and mechanics to ensure optimal machine performance and reliable support. A milestone was achieved in 1988 when L&T celebrated the roll-out of its 1000th Hydraulic Excavator, marking a significant contribution to the construction sector.

In 1998, L&T and Komatsu entered into a joint venture, resulting in the formation of L&T-Komatsu Ltd. The following year, the first L&T-Komatsu PC200 machine was launched, setting a new benchmark in the industry with cutting-edge technologies that reduced life-cycle costs while exemplifying quality, reliability, and durability. Over time, this partnership has brought numerous advanced machines to the market.

Recognising the need for rapid after-sales support, L&T-CMB began appointing dealerships across India in 1998, starting with seven dealers dedicated to enhancing customer satisfaction. This initiative has since grown into a robust network of 30 dealers nationwide and over 120 presence points, ensuring unparalleled service coverage.

Milestones continued to define our journey. By 2006-07, the company had sold 5,000 Komatsu machines, which soared to 25,000 by 2013-14.

In subsequent years, significant achievements included the establishment of a new campus in Doddaballapur in 2015 and the roll-out of the indigenously designed and developed Wheel Loader, the L&T 9020. The introduction of specialised road construction equipment followed this. In 2019, L&T ventured into special attachments such as Rammer and Movax while also beginning the manufacture of products like crusher buckets and rock splitters. By 2020, the 2000th vibratory compactor was rolled out, and Komatsu’s first PC3000 electric shovel was commissioned for coal mining operations.

Further innovations followed, such as the PC500 and a biodiesel (B20) range of mining machines in 2022. At present, we are considering upgrading our machines for B30 compatibility.

This year, we marked a historic achievement with the sale of its 50,000th Komatsu machine in India, reinforcing our leadership position in the industry. On the training front, we are close to completing the training of 100,000 individuals—a mix of operators and mechanics, among others.

From the very beginning, these machines have been pivotal in nation-building, meeting the demand for advanced technologies and robust equipment that deliver speed and efficiency. This enduring legacy continues to evolve, driven by innovation and a steadfast commitment to serving customers.

L&T is known for its innovation and cutting-edge technology. Could you highlight the evolution of key technological advancements and product innovations by L&T over the years to cater to the changing needs of the construction industry?

Larsen & Toubro has consistently advanced its product portfolio and technological capabilities to address the ever-changing demands of the construction and mining sectors. With a strong focus on sustainability, the Komatsu range of machines are all biodiesel-compatible, including the Komatsu PC205-10MO Hydraulic Excavator and the Komatsu GD535-6 Motor Grader. These machines deliver high performance while reducing environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals.

As part of its commitment to future-ready technology, L&T has pioneered electric-powered Hydraulic Excavators, enabling significant reductions in carbon emissions and operational costs. Komatsu, a key partner, is also working on innovations such as battery-powered Hydraulic Excavators and hydrogen fuel cell-powered Excavators, with a concept for a medium-sized hydrogen fuel cell machine already under development. These advancements are paving the way toward carbon-neutral construction machinery.

Komatsu and L&T are also pioneers in introducing telematics with the patented Komtrax in India. Komatsu has advanced the system over the years to provide customers with real-time data for performance monitoring, predictive maintenance, and improved fleet management. These technologies enhance productivity, minimise downtime, and optimise operational efficiency. It is the industry’s best.

Adding to its suite of customer-centric offerings, L&T has rolled out its unique Machine Care Programme and Full Maintenance Support (FMS) which provides the longest coverage in the industry. This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to ensuring machine reliability and maximising “customer satisfaction”.

Furthermore, our digital innovations, such as the Smart Construction initiative, leverage IoT to revolutionise project planning and management. By enabling remote monitoring and near real-time decision-making, these solutions improve efficiency and reduce errors in construction operations.

Through its continuous focus on innovation and sustainability, L&T, along with Komatsu, remains a leader in delivering cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of the construction and mining industries.

How has the construction and mining equipment market in India evolved in recent years? What are the current demand trends, and how is L&T positioned to address them?

India’s construction and mining equipment market has evolved rapidly, driven by urbanisation, infrastructure expansion, and increased mining activity. The industry is poised to become the second-largest globally by 2030, fuelled by ambitious government initiatives such as the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), Bharatmala Pariyojana, Sagarmala, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. These projects, alongside significant budgetary allocations for railways, roads, airports, and renewable energy, have fuelled demand for advanced construction machinery.

L&T Construction & Mining Machinery Business, Komatsu, and IBTPL are well-equipped to meet these growing demands. Komatsu’s portfolio includes machines with cutting-edge technologies like biodiesel compatibility, electric-powered equipment, and advanced telematics. These innovations enhance efficiency and sustainability and align with the market’s focus on reducing environmental impact.

To further strengthen its customer support, L&T emphasises proactive maintenance and incorporates the latest IT-enabled tools in its after-sales services. With real-time monitoring through advanced telematics, predictive maintenance solutions, and the unique Machine Care Programme offering the longest coverage in the industry, L&T ensures that equipment remains reliable and operational for longer periods.

Komatsu’s Smart Construction initiative adds another dimension, leveraging digital tools and IoT for project optimisation. These solutions help customers streamline operations, reduce downtime, and improve productivity. By combining its robust product offerings with unparalleled after-sales support, L&T remains at the forefront of India’s construction and mining equipment market, ready to address the demands of a rapidly transforming landscape.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the construction sector. What initiatives has L&T taken to align its products and operations with the growing need for sustainable and eco-friendly practices?

L&T’s commitment to sustainability is deeply embedded in its mission and values, shaping its vision, culture, strategy, and business processes. The company integrates Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its operations, striving to conserve natural resources, enhance social equity, and promote innovation. This approach underscores L&T’s dedication to protecting the environment, empowering communities, and fostering inclusive growth. Through a focus on climate stewardship, circular economy, green supply chains, and workforce welfare, L&T continuously aligns its initiatives with global sustainability goals.

In collaboration with Komatsu, L&T has introduced a range of sustainable construction and mining equipment designed to improve productivity while reducing environmental impact. These include biodiesel-compatible machines such as the Komatsu PC205-10MO and PC500LC-10R Hydraulic Excavators and Dump Trucks, which use B20 biodiesel to conserve fossil fuels and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We are currently upgrading these machines to B30 Bio-Diesel compatibility.

Hybrid solutions, such as the Komatsu HB365LC-1 Hybrid Excavator, offer energy savings of at least 20% compared to traditional equipment. Additionally, the PC300LC-8, designed for scrap handling, supports the circular economy as India adopts new automobile scrapping policies.

L&T and Komatsu have also pioneered the introduction of electric-powered machines, including Excavators and Hydraulic shovels. The Komatsu PC3000 Electric Hydraulic Excavator serves as a key example of sustainable mining solutions. Future developments include battery-operated and hybrid equipment, showcasing our proactive approach to reducing carbon emissions and addressing evolving industry demands.

Technological advancements play a critical role in enhancing the sustainability of Komatsu and L&T’s offerings. Komatsu’s HydrauMind Hydraulic system optimises power balance, ensuring maximum fuel efficiency and productivity. The Komtrax remote monitoring system provides real-time insights into machine performance, fuel consumption, and emissions, enabling efficient operation and reduced environmental impact. Innovations in Hydraulic components, such as nanotechnology-enabled filters and custom-designed undercarriages, extend maintenance intervals and improve durability, reducing costs and waste.

The environmental impact of Komatsu and L&T’s equipment is meticulously tracked using Komtrax, allowing customers to monitor key sustainability metrics, including greenhouse gas emissions and fuel efficiency. This commitment to transparency and performance reinforces L&T’s dedication to minimising its carbon footprint and driving sustainable growth.

By integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices, L&T continues to lead the construction and mining equipment industry. Its focus on innovation, efficiency, and environmental stewardship positions the company as akey contributor to a greener future.