Ashok Leyland launches Bada Dost; new LCV packs BS-VI engine

Ashok Leyland has launched Bada Dost, a new addition to company's offering in the LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle) range. Bada Dost features customer-centric offerings on technology and driver comfort, while being contemporary and futuristic. The new LCV is equipped with BS-VI engine and comes in two variants, i4 and i3.

Company claims that the LCV offers a best-in-class payload capacity of 1,860 kg in i4 and 1,405 kg, in i3. BADA DOST is being launched initially in 7 states and will gradually be available pan-India over the next 3 months and is open for bookings and delivery through both, physical and digital platforms.

The ex-showroom prices (Mumbai) is Rs 7.75 Lacs & 7.95 lacs (i3 LS and LX) 7.79 & 7.99 lacs (i4 LS and LX).

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Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman, Ashok Leyland, said, “Today marks a milestone for us as we move towards our Vision of being amongst the Top 10 Global CV Makers. The new in-house developed platform is a key part of our long-term LCV strategy aimed at positioning AL as a serious and significant player in the segment. BADA DOST i3 and i4, the first two vehicles being launched on this new platform, along with other current offerings, close the gap in our LCV product portfolio."

The new range will be available in both right-hand-drive and left-hand-drive options, to cater the international markets more aggressively. Company also has plans to introducte of electric versions in some time.

Vipin Sondhi, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland, said, “LCV segment holds huge potential for us. The recovery of the CV industry is being led by this segment in the current market. With BADA DOST, we will now address an important part of this market which has tremendous promise. LCVs is one of our growth businesses accounting for about 40% of our sales volume in FY20, it continues to grow this year as well. With the new, robust BADA DOST product offering, we are sure to expand our family of customers worldwide who are looking for quality and profitability.”

The BADA DOST also features a first-in-segment 3-seater walkthrough cabin, foldable back rest and a collapsible hand-brake. The LCV also features dual tone dashboard and digital instrument cluster offering a premium car-like experience. The vehicle is equipped with power steering and customers also have an option of AC.

The company said that the new LCV platform is Made In India, Made For the World and once the situation is eased, exports will also start. Company will launch one new vehicle every 4 months on the new platform.

(By Daanish Anand)