Tata Motors has been a pioneer in the connected vehicle space in CV since it introduced telematics back in 2012.

V Seethapathi Vice President, Product Line – M&HCV, Tata Motors What are the market dynamics (demand-supply) for Heavy Duty (HD) trucks and tippers in the Construction Equipment (CE) space? The revival of the

Tata Motors has been a pioneer in the connected vehicle space in CV since it introduced telematics back in 2012.
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– V Seethapathi

Vice President, Product Line – M&HCV, Tata Motors 

 

 

 

 

What are the market dynamics (demand-supply) for Heavy Duty (HD) trucks and tippers in the Construction Equipment (CE) space?

The revival of the economy in the post lockdown phase, as well as the government’s increased focus on the construction and mining sectors, have boosted the demand for heavy-duty and tipper trucks in recent months. Furthermore, the surge in the demand for real estate and commercial properties has played an integral role in the renewed demand for tipper trucks in India. Major development activities in rural as well as urban areas which include construction of highways, bridges, ports have all collectively led to the rise in the requirement of tipper trucks. All these factors collectively are increasing the demand for tipper trucks over the last few months.

What are the technological trends in the trucks and tipper segment towards surface transportation of aggregates, road construction, infrastructure projects, port transportation as well as working in quarries?

Tata Motors BS6 range of tippers is fitted with an array of features and attributes which are immensely enhance their performance and profitability. Advanced technology features that are integrated into Tata Motors trucks include a multi-mode fuel economy switch that ensures appropriate power torque combination as per terrain-load requirement to ensure higher fuel efficiency and enhanced performance, engine brake for superior downhill control, Hill Start Assist for enhanced uphill driveability and iCGT/NGT brakes – for enhanced braking and longer brake life.  To ensure a fatigue-free driving experience, especially on long routes and off-road conditions, the trucks are offered with best-in-class Prima and Signa cabins fitted with tilt & telescopic steering, comfortable and adjustable seats, ergonomic pedal control and lower gear shift efforts and wide all-round visibility. To take the safety levels up a notch, enhanced safety improvements like anti-topple technology are fitted into the trucks.

The fleet efficiency is enhanced by Tata Motors Fleet Edge, an innovative and cutting-edge telematics system that has reshaped the Indian trucking experience. Tata Motors has been a pioneer in the connected vehicle space in commercial vehicles since it introduced telematics back in 2012. A huge success in the connected vehicle space, there are currently more than 200,000 vehicles fitted with telematics that are actively plying on the road. With the upgrade, Tata Motors Fleet-Edge has taken another step ahead towards enhancing the connected vehicle experience. It offers more than basic vehicle data and information across the vehicle lifecycle, including operational and financial data to deliver valuable insights relevant to the drivers, fleet owners and technicians. Factory fitted Fleet Edge in all trucks, offers features such as track and trace, geo-fencing and alerts, driver behaviour monitoring, fuel efficiency monitoring, fuel loss alerts and a digital instrument cluster which all collectively help in increasing the productivity of a fleet.

The new emission norms have come into effect, impacting transportation businesses in myriad ways. How has your company responded to this in terms of engine design, newer components to new fluids and additives?

In response to the BS6 transition, Tata Motors designed and developed its range of BS6 range of tipper trucks in line with customer demand while integrating class-leading features and attributes to ensure the highest business profitability. The BS6 transition was not merely an upgradation to comply the regulatory requirements but an opportunity to enhance the truck’s overall experience as Tata Motors adopted a ‘Power of 6’ philosophy, a theme on which new features and attributes have been integrated into the trucks to increase their business prospects. These include a host of features from Tata Motors to ensure industry-leading TCO, driving comfort and state-of-the-art technology. One of the key design elements is the vertical exhaust system on all tippers. This not only ensures enhanced safety for the exhaust system components but by releasing the exhaust gases away from the ground ensure dust-free working environment. Tata Motors’ BS6 range of trucks has proven to be a profitable and rewarding purchase for customers across sectors which has further led to repeat purchases.

What kinds of after-sales support initiatives have been embraced by you to maintain customer satisfaction and brand value?

Quality after-sales services play an integral role for construck customers while opting for a brand. Tata Motors has been a frontrunner when it comes to providing top-class after-sales services in India. Tata Motors has been continuously elevating and deploying newer after-sales themes thereby unlocking value to the customers and enhancing their experience with the brand. The company has devised effective Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC) solutions along with onsite support, extended warranty, Uptime Guarantee offerings to ensure better maintenance with high profitability. Tata Motors’ strong network of sales, service touchpoints across the country has been integral in assuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction. The Sampoorna Seva 2.0 offers a wide range of customised service solutions which include onsite service, container workshops, scheduled visits, fleet management services, uptime guarantee options to the customer. Furthermore, Tata Motors has leveraged its wide network to offer rapid breakdown assistance, genuine spare parts, fluids, accessories and other consumables.

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