Tata Motors has unveiled their new range of Light Commercial Vehicles at the 2012 Auto Expo. The Tata Ultra is a more modern LCV, that has more contemporary features and looks and is essentially the new-generation Tata 407.
The Ultra LCV range will have variants between 5 and 14 tonnes that will be powered by new generation 3.0-litre engines that make 138 bhp and 5.0-litre engines that make 168 bhp. The engines are common-rail DiCOR 16 valve engines. The new ultra range is very modern looking and has a load cab body keeping in trend with contemporary CV design. The new ultra also has clear lens headlamps, new instrument cluster that indicates current mileage and full trip mileage. To make things easier for the driver, power steering as well as integrated headrests are also included. The steering is hydraulic and the steering wheel is adjustable for reach as well as rake, it is also collapsible. Cabin tilt is present too.
The Ultra range also is one of the first light commercial vehicles to come with radial tyres and disc brakes on all wheels.
Tata motors also unveiled an Ace EX with a new front fascia. This LCV comes with new headlamps, new grille and 13-inch tyres as compared to the 12-inchers on the old Ace. It comes with a 5-speed gearbox as opposed to the 4-speed unit in the old one. It gives a 1-1.5 kpl benefit as compared to the old model. It also has new seat fabric, a new insrument cluster, mobile charging point.
Ashok Leyland unveiled their Partner LCV which has been developed in collaboration with Nissan. The Partner comes powered by a ZD30 DDTi common rail diesel engine that is BS-IV compliant. The engine makes 120 bhp of power and 32.4 kgm of torque.
The Partner has a Gross Vehicle Weight of 6-tonne, multiple load body options. The Partner on display at the Auto Expo was a refrigerated container that had a capacity of 10.7 cubic metres and broad temperature controls of -25 deg C to 10 deg C.
Ashok Leyland claims the partner has features like low NVH levels, plenty of utility space, a spacious cabin, power steering, air-conditioning, a car like gear knob and a fully tiltable cabin.
The Partner will also go into production in 2013.
Force Motors has unveiled its first monocoque Light Commercial Vehicle in India, the New Traveller. This LCV comes in three different wheelbases - 3350 mm, 3700 mm and 4020 mm. All three wheelbases are longer than the previous iteration of the Force Traveller.
The New Traveller is powered by a 2.2 litre, common-rail, 4-cylinder engine sourced from Mercedes. This is the same engine that is seen on the Force One SUV. Under the hood of the Traveller, it makes 128 bhp.
The New Traveller is longer and wider and hence more comfortable for passengers. The vehicle even comes with improved equipment and comfortable seats that recline.
Another product on display was the Force Traveller Hybrid. The beauty of this LCV lies in the fact that it comes powered by a battery that is coupled to a diesel engine as well as a solar panel which occupies the roof area entirely. On a full solar charge, the range of the vehicle improves by 20 to 25 km.
