By : Amit Gupta
Company : Tata Motors
Location : Indian market
Valuable contributors : SK Agarwal, Dr AK Jindal
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"The LPT 3723-10X4 vehicle was envisaged by Tata Motors as a market need to develop a new multi-axle rigid truck to provide the best operating economics and reduced payback period by creating a new platform in between the existing 31-tonne truck and 40/49 tonne tractor trailer segment. This is win-win situation for business and customer as revenue for both increases with this invention," says Amit Gupta
Turning the tide
Sixteen tonne (2 axle) and 25 tonne (3 axle) gross vehicle weight (GVW) vehicles were ruling the road. In 2007, the rated load regime was partially implemented in the country, and at the same time 31 tonne (4 axle) vehicles were launched in the country. Industry volumes of 31 tonne vehicles grew from negligible in 2007 to the highest in M& HCV category 2011. Hence, the 31 tonne truck has become the market leader over time, which triggered the innovation of even higher GVW vehicle on the rigid truck platform. While working out the operating economics, the 37 tonne (5 axle) truck showed the best operating economics. The rated load regime, which came into force recently, has increased the viability of the innovation in market.
In view of operating economics, two factors are most important in the Indian context i.e. fuel economy and tyre mileage. For tyre mileage, the number of tyres per ton of GVW/GCW should be least and it is the least for 37 Tonne - 5 Axle vehicle as 25T, 31T and 37T use 10, 12 and 14 tyres respectively. 40T and 49T tractors use 18 and 22 tyres respectively. Hence 37T- 5 Axle vehicle gives best tyre mileage. Although tyre life for the individual vehicle also plays an important role, which can be maximized by better design of steering system, these parameters are considered while vehicle design to yield best tyre life for each axle.
For fuel economy, fuel consumed per tonne of payload per km of running is the most important factor. By this factor, many fleet operators decide the freight charges. If the vehicle is loaded in onward and return journey then 31T -Rigid, 37T-Rigid and 40T-tractor trailer will yield more revenue by 40 percent, 70 percent and 50 percent respectively over 25T rigid vehicle. This shows that 37T is the best combination. Over and above this, the figures will be better for any vehicle with lift axle (e.g 3723) if vehicle is empty in return condition because of lift axle.
Key differentiators
Differentiators of TML 3723 rigid truck vis-a-vis internationally available 5 axle truck are numerous. The self-steered tag lift axle, which is unique globally, provides best manoeuvrability including turning circle diameter to any load and freedom of customisation. The balanced front tandem suspension provides better performance even with improperly distributed load, a better ride, and increased life of aggregates. The tag lift axle, suitable to Ackermann's geometry, is also unique in that it provides best tyre life, which in turn increases revenue of the operator.
Economic benefit
Since the market scenario is unfavourable to commercial vehicles, it will take some time for maturation of this product however project is envisaged as market leader in due course.
For a green world
As the product is designed to be best-in-class, it will consume less natural resources in terms of diesel and ultimately lead to less carbon emission. Reduced rubber consumption in view of higher tyre mileage will also help the environment.