Eicher Trucks & Buses launches AMT in its commercial vehicles

In an effort to offer better comfort for drivers and improved fuel-efficiency, Eicher Trucks & Buses has introduced AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) technology in its commercial vehicles. The new AMT technology is based on the OptiDrive technology that has been designed and developed by WABCO, which is known for Driveline Automation. The AMT will be used in the LMD and HD buses from 9T to 16T commercial vehicles as well as Medium Duty haulage trucks. The company will equip this technology on its other vehicles at a later stage.
WABCO’s OptiDrive AMT technology increases fuel economy and at the same time reduces emissions. This is for the first time in India that the trucks and buses will now be available with AMT gearbox, which automatically operates clutch actuation at an optimal speed and hence offers the convenience of an automatic at a much lower cost.
Jacques Esculier, WABCO Chairman & CEO said, “We are proud to further extend and deepen our partnership with VE Commercial Vehicles, particularly through WABCO’s OptiDrive™ modular automated manual transmission solution, a breakthrough technology for our industry. The award-winning OptiDrive™ for trucks and buses enables improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, as WABCO supports the leadership mission of VE Commercial Vehicles to continuously improve commercial transportation efficiency in India and other markets through technology, safety and environmental care.”
Commenting on this milestone development, Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VE Commercial Vehicles said, “It’s a matter of extreme pride for us to be one of the pioneers in introducing a break-through technology in the Indian CV industry. Eicher Vehicles are known for best fuel efficiency and the introduction of this technology will further enhance this advantage. Apart from fuel efficiency, this technology will also improve comfort, safety and efficiency that are the most critical aspects of driving these days.”
Esculier further added, “Our unique capability to design, develop and supply OptiDrive™ solutions in India for VE Commercial Vehicles’ latest light, medium and heavy-duty bus and truck platform further differentiates WABCO. In addition, we will continue to support this major customer through a range of advanced vehicle safety and efficiency technologies.”
In Phase I, the AMT technology will be introduced in the 20.15BS4 HD Bus, Pro Skyline – MIDI AMT and the Pro 3016 AMT. This will help the truck and bus drivers to focus on road and traffic conditions, without being concerned about the frequent gear shifts. All the new Pro series vehicles with AMT will be manufactured at the company’s manufacturing plant in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh. At the plant, Eicher also produces its 4.9T to 40T range of commercial vehicles.