Founded in 1948, Ashok Leyland has emerged as a cornerstone of the Indian automobile industry, celebrating 75 years of unparalleled innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence. We bring you a truly special feature commemorating the remarkable journey of Ashok Leyland with updates from the CV maker’s 75th Anniversary Celebrations held in Chennai in September, a timeline tracing the company’s historic 75-year journey, messages from different partners of the OEM including its suppliers, dealers and key fleet customers.
Ashok Leyland, established by Raghunandan Saran and S. Anantharamakrishnan, began as Ashok Motors and later merged with Leyland Motors to form Ashok Leyland Limited in 1954. Since its inception, the company has consistently demonstrated pioneering spirit and technological prowess, becoming a symbol of reliability and quality in the commercial vehicle sector.
Over the years, Ashok Leyland has achieved significant milestones, including the production of innovative vehicle models, expansion of its global footprint, and collaborations with international partners. Notable accomplishments include the development of electric and hybrid vehicles, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable transportation solutions.
With a presence in over 50 countries, Ashok Leyland has not only strengthened India’s automotive industry but has also made substantial contributions to the economies and communities it operates in globally. Through strategic partnerships and localized production, the company continues to drive economic growth and employment opportunities in various regions.
In response to the growing need for eco-friendly transportation, Ashok Leyland has prioritized sustainability through the development of electric and hybrid vehicles, biofuels, and efficient fuel technologies. The company’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint is evident in its adoption of green practices, making significant strides towards a more sustainable future.
Looking ahead, Ashok Leyland is poised for continued success, leveraging its decades of expertise and innovative spirit. The company’s future roadmap includes investments in research and development, exploring emerging technologies, and enhancing its product portfolio to meet the evolving needs of the market. By embracing digitalization and sustainable practices, Ashok Leyland aims to lead the way in shaping the future of mobility.
As Ashok Leyland celebrates its 75th anniversary, it stands as a testament to India’s industrial prowess and entrepreneurial spirit. The company’s legacy of innovation, global impact, and commitment to sustainability serve as inspiration for the entire automotive industry. With a clear vision for the future, Ashok Leyland continues to drive progress, setting new standards of excellence in the dynamic world of commercial vehicles.
75th Anniversary Celebrations
On the occasion of the company’s 75th Anniversary Celebrations, Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, unveiled the ground-breaking Electric Light Commercial Vehicles from Switch Mobility – the IeV Series, India’s first electric commercial vehicles in its category that aims to provide efficient and eco-friendly solutions for last mile transportation needs.
Ashok Leyland also showcased its new, 9-meter, Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Electric Bus developed for NTPC (National Thermal Power Corporation). This is India’s first fuel cell bus that will commercially ply on country’s roads. The company also exhibited the country’s first Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Truck, which was earlier launched in collaboration with Reliance Industries. This product is a proof of Ashok Leyland’s partnership approach to develop cutting-edge sustainable mobility solutions for long-distance transportation challenges.
Speaking on the occasion, Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of Ashok Leyland and Switch Mobility said, “Ashok Leyland’s 75-year journey is a story of transformation and innovation. As we celebrate this milestone, we look ahead to the future with excitement and determination and renew our pledge to further shape the future of the CV Industry. We have set our sights on pioneering sustainable transportation solutions and aim to support India’s economic development for years to come”.
Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland said, “Over the course of its remarkable journey, Ashok Leyland has consistently redefined industry standards, setting benchmarks for cutting-edge technology in its products and services, and partnering with marquee names in offering innovative, customer-centric solutions. Today we are proud to launch the IeV series from Switch Mobility and showcase pioneering technologies through the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Bus for NTPC, and the Hydrogen Engine Truck for Reliance. The 75th anniversary celebration is not just a reflection of the company’s history, but a testament to its determination to continue shaping the future of mobility.”
Mahesh Babu, Chief Executive Officer, SWITCH Mobility Ltd., said, “The launch of our SWITCH IeV Series electric vehicles is a defining moment for SWITCH, having established a strong reputation in the e-bus market. With the SWITCH iON Standard at its core, a versatile range of options, diverse charging solutions, exceptional performance, and operational ease as its hallmark, the SWITCH IeV Series is a testament of our dedication to driving positive change in the industry”.
As part of its 75th-anniversary celebrations, Ashok Leyland also undertook a new initiative – ‘Dream Drive’ – a journey across the length and breadth of the country, with 10 Ashok Leyland vehicles driven on five different routes, culminating at the company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plants on the day of its 75th Anniversary Celebrations. Through the ‘Dream Drive’, Ashok Leyland engaged with its extensive network of customers, dealers, suppliers, and other partners, establishing a direct connection with all its key stakeholders including drivers, mechanics, and financiers to pay gratitude for their contribution. ‘Manzil ka Safar’ with the iconic Stallion defence vehicles was another drive that travelled 4000+ kms from Kanyakumari to Leh to recognize its long-standing partnership with the Indian defence forces.
With a legacy rooted in innovation and a future driven by sustainability, Ashok Leyland stands poised to excel for generations to come. The company’s 75th anniversary celebration not only recognises its past successes but also foreshadows a time in the future when cutting-edge technology and environmental responsibilities converge seamlessly.