Eicher Trucks & Buses, part of VE Commercial Vehicles, launched new variants for the Eicher Pro 1000 series in the CNG category in a bid to further strengthen its green energy portfolio. Eicher introduced CNG in Eicher Pro 1049, which is one of its most successful products in the light and medium range. Eicher also introduced another CNG variant – Eicher Pro 1059 – in the 5 tonne LCV category. These new additions are aimed to capture the last mile delivery segment of customers in the green corridor of the Delhi-NCR region.
The development is also in line with the Clean Fuel Corridor being created by the government across the Northern belt.
The brand new CNG range is powered by a fuel efficient state-of-the-art E483 4 Cylinder 2 V CNG engine with long oil drain interval and ease of service and maintenance. The Eicher Pro 1049, ideal for intra city distribution applications and last mile connectivity, has had a successful run in the last two years. The Eicher Pro 1049 comes with the longest cargo body (10ft) & highest payload (2.5 tonne) in the sub 5 tonne segment, offering great value to the customer, with benefits of both a pickup vehicle and a truck. Pro 1049 also has the best-in-class fuel tank capacity of 170 litres which translates to longer trip distances; and low wait times at CNG stations due to the smart dual fuel filling valve (an industry first) that is compatible with all CNG stations. The CNG version is the most relevant upgrade for customers and city transporters who need best-in-class space, payload, service interval, power and pick-up with the lowest maintenance – an opportunity to grow their business and increase profitability.
Moreover, the Eicher Pro 1059 CNG version with 12ft and 14ft cargo body lengths has been introduced to address critical city applications such as voluminous cargo. Both Pro 1049 and Pro 1059 CNG vehicles have been designed to ensure convenient and effortless loading and unloading, easy maintenance and longer service intervals, safety of goods and superior uptime.
The two CNG trucks have been introduced in the Delhi, Haryana and UP markets, and will be available across India in various cargo body options, right from 10ft to 14ft.
According to Shyam Maller, executive VP, light & medium duty trucks and buses, VE Commercial Vehicles, “The light and medium duty segment in the commercial vehicle industry, especially in the sub 5 tonne category has great potential to grow as it addresses the critical last mile connectivity and distribution network in rural, semi-urban & urban areas. We have been successful in garnering a 26% share in this category, and have the most comprehensive CNG range in the LMD segment. Last year, we sold close to 3,000 units and recorded a growth of close to 80%. Delhi NCR has benefited immensely from the policy thrust to harness inexpensive and clean technologies like CNG, and presents a great opportunity for us to grow further. Our new CNG range in the LCV category underlines our commitment towards clean technology and sustainability, hence driving ‘green profitability’ and meeting the needs of the end customers.”
Commenting on the new range, he said, “The new Eicher Pro 1000 CNG versions are a perfect solution for customers who demand best-in-class rated payload, high-fuel efficiency, superior uptime, lower maintenance cost for transport operator, enabling faster turnaround time. Aligning with the business ambitions of the customers and providing lifetime profitability in the segment, the new CNG variants offer exciting new features and an engaging purchase experience to be an economic, friendly choice for customers.”