India’s most efficient 5-axle truck
Ashok Leyland has commercially launched the 5-axle 3718il, offering a payload of up to 25 tonnes that is the highest in rigid trucks, thereby making it one of the most efficient vehicles in its category. Feature-rich, the vehicle, in a 10×2 configuration, promises superior performance, durability and best-in-class operational efficiency.
A remarkable feature of the 3718il is its five axles – two steerable front axles, two rear axles and a self-steerable pusher lift axle at the middle that gives the vehicle better balance and greater efficiency in carrying heavy loads. The lift axle automatically lifts when the vehicle is running in an unloaded condition. This translates into additional fuel saving and enhanced tyre life.
The 3718il is also equipped with a user-friendly in-line fuel injection pump for higher mileage and lower maintenance cost and a 9-speed gearbox and is powered by a proven, fuel-efficient 180 hp ‘H’ series engine.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Vinod K. Dasari, Managing Director, Ashok Leyland, observed: “The 3718il has been carefully designed and engineered to meet a specific customer requirement for higher capacity rigid trucks that can carry more loads translating into better operational economics. With the rated payload regime gaining significant ground because of stricter implementation and the quantum of loads increasing, our 3718il is just the vehicle with enhanced load carrying capacity more economically to enhance our customers’ profitability. Our 3718il has been strategically positioned as a segment splitter: it will be attractive for the hitherto 31-tonne truck customers owing to its fuel efficiency and extra load carrying capacity, while the tractor trailer customers will find it attractive because of better manoeuvrability, lower operating and maintenance costs.”
The deep section frames of the 3718il ensures higher load carrying capacity, while a long loading span of 29.5 feet enables it to take loads of any density or dimension. Further, the 10×2 configuration makes for superior manoeuvrability compared to articulated trucks in varied load and operating conditions. The vehicle is best-suited for applications like market load, cement, coal and steel.
Customer service is on offer through Ashok Leyland’s robust network of over 430 full service centers positioned at every 75 km on all major highways across the country. Services offered include the unique TatkaAL promise, first launched by Ashok Leyland that ensures service within four hours on any major highway and restoration of vehicle within 48 hours. In the case of a delay, the company promises to pay a penalty of Rs. 1,000 a day to the customer.
Besides, the company offers annual maintenance contracts, three years’ extended warranty and two years’ extended service packages on its range of MAVs.