As the construction industry experiences globalisation, Ashok Leyland emerges as a crucial player in aligning with this trend. This interview explores how the company’s engines contribute to localisation, its commitment to sustainability with a hydrogen internal combustion engine, and the emphasis on inclusivity in its operations.

What role does Ashok Leyland play in the construction industry, considering the emphasis on localisation?

To aid in localisation, Ashok Leyland uses its knowledge of operating in India and a wide choice of engines that comply with the most recent emission regulations. In addition to being commercially competitive, the company’s engines are essential to the manufacturing processes of diverse equipment since they align with Indian circumstances, operations, and client preferences.

How does Ashok Leyland view India’s regulatory regime, particularly concerning emission norms?

Emission standards are being caught up by the construction industry, just like the automotive sector. With our CE5 and CPC V4 engines, we closely align with the B6 OBD 2 norms in the automotive industry. This synchronisation is crucial as emissions play a significant role in both sectors. Our engines are prepared for every application, and we have scheduled the Industrial launch for April 1, 2024, and the Power-Gen launch for July 1, 2024.

How do globalisation, industry and technological development, inclusiveness, and sustainability relate to your involvement in the construction industry?

The construction industry is experiencing globalisation, with big companies viewing India as a crucial hub due to its swift economic expansion and infrastructural development. Businesses localise their operations to suit Indian conditions, and Ashok Leyland’s engines contribute to this process.

Sustainability is paramount, given the global focus on zero-carbon fuels. Our hydrogen internal combustion engine is a step in that direction, which provides a practical solution for some uses.

Ashok Leyland strongly emphasises inclusivity, and our Hosur operations have a diverse workforce, including women.

Can you provide more details about the hydrogen ICE engine?

The hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) is a H6 engine that uses our existing diesel engine platform and has been indigenously developed. Pioneering this technology in India addresses the need for zero-carbon fuels in certain applications. With around $3 per kg, we anticipate a break-even point with diesel, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. This engine offers versatility, with the capability to use CNG or LNG options, making it suitable for various applications.

What advancements and expansions can we expect in the engine offerings across various applications, particularly in the CV5 and A6 series and the Power-Gen segment?

In the CV5 series, we have expanded our engine platforms, offering industrial, agricultural, and barge application solutions. We aim to explore new applications while collaborating with our customers, pushing the boundaries beyond our current offerings. The A6 engine will also cater to higher horsepower ranges, reaching up to 450 horsepower. In the Power-Gen segment, we have broadened our range from 5 KV to 650 KVA, emphasising self-reliance and covering the entire power spectrum with our engines, particularly the CP4 series.

On the industrial side, we are featuring our CE5 engines, which are compliant with the latest emission norms effective from April 2024. Our CV 5 series, ranging from 133 to 250 horsepower, and a hydrogen ICE engine will be showcased. This innovative engine utilises zero-carbon fuel, providing a promising alternative for certain applications, especially in the construction sector.