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16
MOTORINDIA
l
January 2012
drive train optimization, configura-
tion and packaging has another five
patents.
U3723 – 10X2 Truck
The second innovation, which will
be on display at Auto Expo, which is
India’s first and possibly the world’s
first, is a 37 tonner, 10X2 truck on
a rigid chassis. The U3723 model, a
37 tonner with 230 hp engine, comes
with a 10X2 or 10X4 configuration.
In the current tonnage of rigid
trucks, there are the 4X2 with 16
tonne GVW, the 6X2 or 6X4 with
25 tonne GVW, the 8X2 or 8X4
with 31 tonne GVW and the Tractor
trailers. So beyond 31 tonnes GVW
its only Tractor trailers, with disad-
vantages in terms of maneuver-
ability.
Also with the
rated load re-
gime and non-
availability of
drivers, opera-
tors are looking
for higher ton-
nage vehicles,
and some still
prefer the rigid
chassis to a
tractor trailer. Hence the launch of
10X2.
The U3723 is a 37-tonne GVW
truck offering 27 tonne payload
compared to an 8X2 which offers
21.5 tonne payload. This offers
much better value per tonne km
compared to a 35 tonne tractor. It
also involves a much lower cost of
operation, faster turnaround time
and better maneuverability. The
U3723 also comes fitted with a lift
axle, the first time on an AL truck.
Optare Solo
The third new product to be dis-
played by AL at Auto Expo is a
low-floor, full-flat feeder bus from
the Optare stable. In July last, the
company acquired 26 per cent stake
in the UK-based Optare Inc. It has
recently increased its stake to 75.1
per cent. The Optare Solo, to be
showcased at Auto Expo, would
help explore the market in India for
feeder buses.
Bus industry (Auto Expo preview)
“We always have a big presence
at Auto Expo. This time we want
to showcase what we are ready to
produce and offer to the market.
We are going to showcase an In-
dian innovation which is the first
and best in the world. This year’s
Auto Expo theme is ‘Mobility for
All’ and these would be the right
products to be showcased”