Our motor graders are powered by Stage V emission-compliant engines, the latest benchmark in emission standards

P.N Krishnakumar
(XCMG - India)     

Could you provide an overview of your company’s Motor Grader product range and their unique selling propositions?

XCMG India offers a comprehensive range of motor graders designed to meet the evolving needs of road infrastructure development across urban and rural landscapes. Engineered for precision and efficiency, XCMG Graders are used in Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), general road construction, and mining haul road maintenance, delivering superior performance across diverse infrastructure projects.

The XCMG GR 1005T Motor Grader, specifically designed for rural roads, is powered by a 133 hp engine, making it the best in the segment. With tandem rear axles, the GR1005T ensures unmatched grading accuracy and maneuverability, making it an ideal choice for contractors handling compact projects in confined spaces.

Designed for general road construction, the GR1705/T is a robust and efficient grader powered by a 158 – 178 variable-horsepower/Fixed engine and a 12-foot moldboard, ensuring durability and higher productivity in demanding conditions. For mining and heavy-duty applications, XCMG offers the GR 2005T motor grader, powered by a 231 HP engine, with a Max operating weight of 17000 kgs and a 13-foot moldboard.

All XCMG motor graders come with BSV-compliant engines, ensuring the highest environmental and safety standards, improved fuel efficiency, and a reliable powertrain. The ergonomically designed trapezoidal cabin enhances operator comfort and visibility, allowing operators to work for extended hours with ease.  With low ownership and operating costs, XCMG Motor Graders offer value for money and the best offering in the market.

How has the demand for Motor Graders evolved in recent years, and which sectors are witnessing the highest adoption of Motor Graders, and why?

The demand for motor graders in India has been steadily rising since 2022, fueled by large-scale infrastructure development and rapid urbanization. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2024 to 2030, driven by government-backed initiatives and increasing demand from key sectors.

Flagship programs, such as the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), aimed at enhancing rural connectivity through all-weather roads, have significantly accelerated road construction efforts. Motor graders play a crucial role in these projects, ensuring precise grading and leveling for durable and efficient road networks.

Despite stable sales over the past two years, with approximately 1,000 units sold annually, the sector is set for an 8–10% growth in 2025. This surge is attributed to the continued momentum in road infrastructure projects and a growing demand from the mining industry. With the government granting clearances for new mining operations, the need for motor graders is increasing, as they are essential for constructing and maintaining haul roads, facilitating material transport, and optimizing overall mining efficiency.

Currently, road construction in India progresses at a rate of 34 km per day, but this figure is expected to rise significantly with several ambitious road projects in the pipeline. As infrastructure expansion and mining activities gain traction, the motor grader market is set to witness sustained growth in the coming years.

What are the latest technological innovations integrated into your Motor Graders and how are these advancements enhancing efficiency, productivity, and safety?

Our motor graders are powered by Stage V emission-compliant engines, the latest benchmark in emission standards. This cutting-edge technology not only ensures a cleaner environment but also enhances fuel efficiency and overall productivity. Additionally, our graders incorporate ROPS (Roll Over Protection Structure) and FOPS (Falling Object Protection Structure), prioritizing operator safety in all working conditions.

A key feature in our graders is the Variable Engine Horsepower (VHP) technology, which dynamically adjusts power output based on application requirements. This feature optimizes fuel consumption, enhances performance, and improves operational efficiency. As safety remains at the core of our design, we are the only company to offer a reverse camera as a standard feature, significantly improving visibility during reversing operations. This helps reduce accidents and enhances workplace safety, ensuring a secure and productive environment for operators. By integrating cutting-edge emission control, safety features, and intelligent power management, our graders set a new industry standard, delivering sustainability, efficiency, and superior performance.

What features in your Motor Graders contribute to improved operational efficiency and reduced downtime? Could you share best practices for maintaining the longevity and reliability of Motor Graders?

XCMG motor graders are engineered to deliver power, efficiency, and operator comfort, ensuring every job gets done smoothly and with precision. The Variable Horsepower Engine is intelligently synchronized with the powertrain to minimize power losses and maximize fuel efficiency, allowing operators to get the right amount of power when needed. Operator comfort is a key focus, with an ergonomically designed steering system, well-placed control levers, and a spacious trapezoidal cabin that reduces fatigue, allowing operators to work efficiently for extended periods Two wide windows on engine hood provides easy ground-level access to the engine, making smooth and hassle-free maintenance & reduced downtime. Additionally, regular servicing—daily, weekly, and monthly—plays a crucial role in enhancing machine longevity and reliability. The use of genuine parts & oil further extends the life of the machine, ensuring optimal performance and durability and extending the machine’s lifespan.

What are the primary challenges faced in the Motor Graders market today and how do you foresee the future of the Motor Graders market in India and globally?

The motor grader market is evolving rapidly, but it also faces several challenges. High initial investment and maintenance costs make graders less accessible for small and medium-sized contractors. Additionally, stricter environmental regulations, such as BS-V emission norms in India, increase R&D and compliance costs for manufacturers, and the shortage of skilled operators, particularly in developing markets, is among the key issues today.

Despite the challenges, the future of the motor grader market in India and globally looks promising. In India, the government’s focus on large-scale infrastructure projects, road development, and mining expansion will continue to drive demand. Projects like the Smart Cities Mission and new mining clearances are expected to fuel growth & expand steadily in the coming years. The expansion of domestic manufacturing & focus on localization under the “Make in India” initiative is helping to reduce import dependency and lower costs.

With increasing environmental concerns, manufacturers globally are actively investing & shifting towards sustainable and intelligent solutions like electrification and hybrid to reduce carbon emissions and improve fuel efficiency. The shift toward eco-friendly, energy-efficient, low-emission, and technologically advanced equipment will shape the future, making motor graders smarter, safer, and more productive.