The Hindu Business Line : AC driver-cabins in trucks: The trend is catching up

Mumbai, Jan. 22 The technological sophistication in trucks triggered by increased competition is having an unlikely end-beneficiary — the driver. The entry of global players and a new truck-maker, and advancements made by domestic majors have lent trucks not only a sophisticated look but also a passenger-car like interior. Moreover, major truck manufacturers are offering air-conditioned cabins — a welcome luxury for the hard-working driver.

Productivity, safety

According to industry sources, around 10,000 trucks with AC driver-cabins are plying on Indian roads. “Air-conditioned cabins give better driver productivity. The comfortable environment for the driver provides safety also. But when compared to the total number of trucks on the road, AC cabin trucks have a minuscule presence. The trend is at a nascent stage,” said Mr R. Ramakrishnan, Head of Sales and Marketing, Medium & Heavy Trucks, Tata Motors. The company has been offering AC cabin trucks for three years now.

Tata Motors’ new 49-tonne tractor on the Novus platform comes with an AC cabin, while it offers the option in three other variants, including the multi-axis tipper 2516.

Volvo set the trend

The credit for introducing AC-cabin fitted trucks in India goes to Volvo. All Volvo trucks come with standard air-conditioned driver cabins.

“Ten years back, when we first launched such trucks, there were queries why you should put driver in AC cabins. But that is an old story. The situation is changing now,” said the official spokesperson of Volvo. The company has sold around 4,500 trucks and has registered steady growth.

Mining, petroleum sectors

Other than inter-State cargo movement, the high-tonnage AC cabin trucks are used in mining and petroleum sectors.

“Drivers are in short supply. AC cabins ensure driver retention and productivity.

“They do not need that much of rest in such cabins. And the trucks run 20,000 km more every year,” said Mr R.C. Mangal, Senior Vice-President, Asia Motor Works (AMW).

The company, which is just three years into truck making, sold 3,000 trucks with standard AC cabins.

Driver comforts

Ashok Leyland also offers AC cabins as an option on a few variants. “In truck manufacturing, we should give great importance for driver comforts. He is an important part of the industry chain and can make or mar our product,” said Mr R.N. Rao, Special Director Sales and Service, Ashok Leyland.

The marginal increase in price and fuel consumption is compensated by the productivity and safety, claim manufacturers. Trucks with AC driver-cabins are priced between Rs 18 lakh and Rs 35 lakh.

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