Ashok Leyland and Hino Motors to renew partnership for Euro VI Engines

This relationship came to the force in 2003 with the launching of the ‘J series’ jointly developed engine range for India, but failed to be successful.

Chennai - Commercial vehicles manufacturer, Ashok Leyland Ltd of Chennai and Hino Motors Ltd of Hino-shi, Japan (a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation) have signed a Mutual Cooperation Agreement (MCA) for Hino to provide technical support inn development of Euro VI engines at Ashok Leyland’s engine plants in Hosur and Ennore, Tamil Nadu. The agreement also reciprocates in that it allows Hino to procure parts made in India through Ashok Leyland.

Cooperation between Hino and Ashok Leyland for engine production in India has a long history, dating back to 1986. This relationship came to the force in 2003 with the launching of the ‘J series’ jointly developed engine range for India, but failed to be successful.

Subsequently, Ashok Leyland pursued develop their own engine called Neptune to meet Euro-VI emissions standards; the Neptune 8-litre engine, which delivers 400hp at 1600nm torque was first displayed in January 2016 at Auto Expo, held in New Delhi fitted in a 4940 tractor unit.

Mr. Vinod K Dasari, managing director and CEO of Ashok Leyland, said: “We believe in long term partnerships, and have great respect for Hino Motors. This cooperation between our companies would be mutually beneficial and enable both of us to produce globally competitive products.”

Mr. Yoshio Shimo, president and CEO of Hino Motors Ltd said, “We believe this cooperation with Ashok Leyland takes advantage of the strengths that the two companies have cultivated.Hino will enhance its global competitiveness by utilizing Ashok Leyland's parts procurement capabilities in India.”