Ashok Leyland has announced recently the opening of its new assembly plant in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Built over a period of 15 months, the plant is spread over an area of 37 acres. The plant is a strategic joint collaboration and a tie-up between Ashok Leyland and IFAD Autos Limited, Bangladesh.
Speaking about the expansion plans, Mr. Vinod K. Dasari, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Ashok Leyland Ltd. said, “With a comprehensive product portfolio, Ashok Leyland is working towards a renewed thrust in the international markets, with network expansion and dedicated products. Bangladesh is an important market for Ashok Leyland. With the inauguration of this new plant, together with the robust presence of IFAD Autos, we expect to make significant inroads into this region.”
Mr. Taskeen Ahmed, Managing Director IFAD Autos Ltd. said, “Bangladesh is a country that is developing very quickly. In such a scenario, Ashok Leyland vehicles will prove to be a boon for the country’s infrastructure. We look forward to forging a strong relationship with Ashok Leyland, as we have done in the past.”
This announcement comes on the back of the company’s vision to strengthen its overseas presence. With a capacity to roll out 600-800 all range of vehicles each month, the plant is equipped with state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment and assembly lines. It will also be facilitated with a bodybuilding and vehicle testing facility, which will become functional in the next two years. In addition, a canteen and dormitory for workers and employees to stay will ensure the well-being of the team.
Bangladesh has been a good traditional market for the Indian automobile sector and in view of the future growth potential, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) had organised the Indo-Bangla Automotive Show 2017 from the 2nd to the 4th of February. At the show, Ashok Leyland displayed a range of its products suitable for this market.
Ashok Leyland vehicles are currently available across the country, about 21 numbers. IFAD owned area offices and its 12 dealers are currently spread throughout the country to focus on sustainable growth in business and market share.