View source for Ashok Leyland

{{short description|Indian multinational automotive company}}
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2018}}
{{advert|date=December 2021}}
{{Infobox company
| name = Ashok Leyland Limited
| logo = Ashok  Leyland logo.svg
| logo_size = 220px
| image = ALCOB Ashok Leyland Corporate Building in Guindy, Chennai.jpg
| image_size = 250px
| image_caption = Ashok Leyland's headquarters in [[Chennai]], India
| type = [[Public company|Public]]
| traded_as = {{plainlist|
*{{BSE|500477}}
*{{NSE|ASHOKLEY}}}}
| ISIN = INE208A01029
| industry = [[Automotive]] 
| products = {{unbulleted list 
 | [[Automobile]] 
 | [[Commercial vehicle]]s
 | [[Engine]]s  
}}
| services = Vehicle financing 
| area_served = Worldwide
| revenue = {{decrease}} {{INRConvert|22059|c}} (2020)<ref name="Financials">{{cite web|url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/india/stockpricequote/autolcvshcvs/ashokleyland/AL|title=Ashok Leyland Ltd. Financial Statements |website=moneycontrol.com}}</ref>
| operating_income = {{decrease}} {{INRConvert|2537|c}} (2020)<ref name="Financials"/>
| net_income = {{decrease}} {{INRConvert|456|c}} (2020)<ref name="Financials"/>
| assets = {{decrease}} {{INRConvert|38126|c}} (2020)<ref name="Financials"/>
| equity = {{decrease}} {{INRConvert|7469|c}} (2020)<ref name="Financials"/>
| num_employees = 11,463 (2020)<ref name="Financials"/> 
| parent = [[Hinduja Group]] 51.54%
| subsid = {{Unbulleted list|Albonair GmbH|Global TVS Bus Body Builders Limited|[[Optare]]|Hinduja Leyland Finance|Hinduja Tech|Lanka Ashok Leyland<ref name="LAL">{{cite web |url=http://www.lal.lk |title=Lanka Ashok Leyland |publisher=Lanka Ashok Leyland}}</ref>}}
| website = {{URL|http://www.ashokleyland.com}}
| foundation = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1948|09|07}}
| location = [[Chennai]], [[Tamil Nadu]], India
}}

'''Ashok Leyland''' is an Indian [[Multinational corporation|multinational]] [[automotive]] manufacturer, headquartered in [[Chennai]]. It is owned by the [[Hinduja Group]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Who are the Hinduja brothers|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/who-sri-gopi-hinduja-brothers-10372393|access-date=8 May 2017|publisher=The Mirror|date=7 May 2017}}</ref> It was founded in 1948 as Ashok Motors and became Ashok Leyland in the year 1955.{{cn|date=July 2021}} Ashok Leyland is the second-largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles in India, the third-largest manufacturer of buses in the world,<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-02-04|title=How Ashok Leyland became world's third largest bus manufacturer|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/auto/car-news/ashok-leyland-worlds-third-largest-bus-manufacturer-electric-buses-ashok-leyland-sales-2019/1855250/|access-date=2020-10-15|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US}}</ref> and the tenth-largest manufacturers of trucks.

With the corporate office located in Chennai, its manufacturing facilities are in Ennore (Tamil Nadu), Bhandara (Maharashtra), two in Hosur (Tamil Nadu), Alwar (Rajasthan) and Pantnagar (Uttarakhand).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ashok Leyland Ltd India, Map of Ashok Leyland Motor Plants|url=https://business.mapsofindia.com/commercial-vehicles-industry/ashok-leyland.html|access-date=2020-10-15|website=business.mapsofindia.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Ashok Leyland Pantnagar {{!}} Perkins|url=https://www.perkins.com/en_GB/products/sectors/electric-power/ep-case-studies/ashok-leyland-pantnagar.html|access-date=2020-10-15|website=perkins.com}}</ref> Ashok Leyland also has overseas manufacturing units with a bus manufacturing facility in Ras Al Khaimah (UAE), one at Leeds, United Kingdom and a joint venture with the Alteams Group for the manufacture of high-press die-casting extruded aluminum components for the automotive and telecommunications sectors.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Ashok Leyland Ltd.|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/company/ashok-leyland-31/information/company-history|access-date=2020-10-15}}</ref> Operating nine plants, Ashok Leyland also makes spare parts and engines for industrial and marine applications.

Ashok Leyland has a product range from 1T GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) to 55T GTW (Gross Trailer Weight) in trucks, 9 to 80-seater buses, vehicles for defense and special applications, and diesel engines for industrial, genset and marine applications.<ref>{{Cite web|title=About Us |website=Ashok Leyland |url=https://www.ashokleyland.com/en/about-us |access-date=2020-10-15}}</ref> In 2019, Ashok Leyland claimed to be in the top 10 global commercial vehicle makers.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Ashok Leyland eyes top 10 CV slot with organisational rejig|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/auto/auto-news/ashok-leyland-rings-in-top-order-organisational-change/articleshow/69890798.cms?from=mdr|access-date=2020-10-15}}</ref> It sold approximately 140,000 vehicles (M&HCV and LCV) in FY 2016. It is the second largest commercial vehicle company in India in the medium and heavy commercial vehicle (M&HCV) segment, with a market share of 32.1% (FY 2016). With passenger transportation options ranging from 10 seaters to 74 seaters (M&HCV = LCV), Ashok Leyland is a market leader in the bus segment. In the trucks segment Ashok Leyland primarily concentrates on the 16 to 25-ton range and has a presence in the 7.5 to 49 ton range.

==History==
[[File:Ashok Leyland 2018 stampsheet of India.jpg|thumb|upright=2|A 2018 stamp sheet of India dedicated to the 70th anniversary of Ashok Leyland]]

===Ashok Motors===
Ashok Motors was founded in 1948 by Raghunandan Saran. He was an Indian freedom fighter from [[Punjab, India|Punjab]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/mp/2008/09/01/stories/2008090150830800.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080922095548/http://www.hindu.com/mp/2008/09/01/stories/2008090150830800.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=22 September 2008|title=Ashok Leyland-A pioneer's Diamond Jubilee|date=1 September 2008 |access-date=15 February 2014 |work=[[The Hindu]]|location=Chennai, India}}</ref> After Independence, he was persuaded by India's first Prime Minister [[Jawaharlal Nehru|Nehru]] to invest in a modern industrial venture. Ashok Motors was incorporated in 1948 as a company to assemble and manufacture [[Austin Motor Company|Austin]] cars from [[England]], and the company was named after the founder's only son, Ashok Saran. The company had its headquarters in Chennai, with the manufacturing plant in [[Chennai]]. The company was engaged in the assembly and distribution of [[Austin A40]] passenger cars in India.

===Under Leyland===
Raghunandan Saran had previously negotiated with [[Leyland Motors]] of England for assembly of commercial vehicles as he envisioned commercial vehicle were more in need at that time than were passenger cars. But unfortunately Raghunandan Saran died in a air crash shortly and the company under the Madras State Government and other shareholders finalised the deal for an investment and technology partner, thus, Leyland Motors joined in 1954 with equity participation, changing the name of the company to Ashok Leyland. Ashok Leyland then started manufacturing commercial vehicles. Under Leyland's management with British expatriate and Indian executives the company grew in strength to become one of India's foremost commercial vehicle manufacturers. Raghunandan family continued to be one of the major shareholders.

The collaboration ended sometime in 1975 but the holding of [[British Leyland]], now a major British auto conglomerate as a result of several mergers, agreed to assist in technology, which continued until the 1980s. After 1975, changes in management structures saw the company launch various vehicles in the Indian market, with many of these models continuing to this day with numerous upgrades over the years.

===Under Iveco and Hinduja partnership===
In 1987, the overseas holding by Land Rover Leyland International Holdings Limited (LRLIH) was taken over by a joint venture between the Hinduja Group, the Non-Resident Indian transnational group and [[Iveco]], part of the [[Fiat Chrysler Automobiles|Fiat Group]].<ref>[http://archive.commercialmotor.com/article/20th-august-1987/16/rover-to-quit-ashok Rover to quit Ashtok] ''[[Commercial Motor]]'' 20 August 1987 page 16</ref>

===Hinduja Group===
In 2007, the Hinduja Group also bought out Iveco's indirect stake in Ashok Leyland. The promoter shareholding now stands at 51%. Today the company is the flagship of the [[Hinduja Group]], a British-based and Indian originated trans-national [[Conglomerate (company)|conglomerate]].

Ashok Leyland launched India's first electric bus and Euro 6 compliant truck in 2016.<ref>{{Cite web|last=www.ETAuto.com|title=Auto Expo 2016: Ashok Leyland unveils India's first Euro VI compliant truck - ET Auto|url=http://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/commercial-vehicle/mhcv/auto-expo-2016-ashok-leyland-unveils-indias-first-euro-vi-compliant-truck/50836217|access-date=2020-10-15|website=ETAuto.com|language=en}}</ref>

In June 2020, Ashok Leyland launched its new range of modular trucks, AVTR.<ref>{{Cite web|last=www.ETAuto.com|title=Ashok Leyland launches AVTR range of BS-VI compliant modular trucks - ET Auto|url=https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/commercial-vehicle/mhcv/ashok-leyland-launches-avtr-range-of-bs-vi-compliant-modular-trucks/76190547|access-date=2020-10-15|website=ETAuto.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=www.ETAuto.com|title=Ashok Leyland delivers its modular AVTR trucks - ET Auto|url=https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/commercial-vehicle/mhcv/ashok-leyland-delivers-its-modular-avtr-trucks/77146872|access-date=2020-10-15|website=ETAuto.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Desk|first=HT Auto|date=2020-06-04|title=Ashok Leyland launches AVTR, its new range of modular trucks, in India|url=https://auto.hindustantimes.com/auto/news/ashok-leyland-launches-avtr-its-new-range-of-modular-trucks-in-india-41591252798691.html|access-date=2020-10-15|website=auto.hindustantimes.com|language=en}}</ref>

In September 2020, Ashok Leyland launched the Bada Dost based on its indigenously developed LCV platform called Phoenix.<ref>{{Cite news|others=Special Correspondent|date=2020-09-14|title=Ashok Leyland 'BADA DOST'|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/business/ashok-leyland-bada-dost/article32604023.ece|access-date=2020-10-15|issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=www.ETAuto.com|title=Ashok Leyland launches new LCV product Bada Dost at starting price of Rs 7.75 lakh - ET Auto|url=https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/commercial-vehicle/lcv/ashok-leyland-launches-new-lcv-bada-dost-at-starting-price-of-rs-7-75-lakh/78104805|access-date=2020-10-15|website=ETAuto.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-16|title=Ashok Leyland launches Bada Dost; new LCV packs BS-VI engine|url=https://www.zeebiz.com/automobile/news-ashok-leyland-launches-bada-dost-new-lcv-packs-bs-vi-engine-135310|access-date=2020-10-15|website=Zee Business}}</ref>
<ref>{{Cite web|last=www.ETAuto.com|title=Ashok Leyland lines up new products, aims to de-risk biz from future downturns - ET Auto|url=https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/commercial-vehicle/lcv/ashok-leyland-lines-up-new-products-aims-to-de-risk-biz-from-future-downturns/77894498|access-date=2020-10-15|website=ETAuto.com|language=en}}</ref>

==Partnerships==
===Hino Motors===
During the early 1980s Ashok Leyland entered into a collaboration with Japanese company [[Hino Motors]] from whom technology for the H-series engines was sourced. Many indigenous versions of the H-series engine were developed with 4 and 6 cylinders, and also conforming to BS2, BS3 & BS4 emission standards in India. Most current models of Ashok Leyland come with H-series engines. Japan entered into a Mutual Cooperation Agreement (MCA) on 27 November 2017 renewing their cooperative agreement that had started in 1986. According to the agreement Ashok Leyland will use Hino's engine technology for its [[Euro 6]] development and will support in the development of Hino's engine parts purchasing in India for global operation.<ref>[https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/auto/news/ashok-leyland-and-hino-motors-japan-to-renew-partnership-for-euro-vi-engines/articleshow/61818804.cms Ashok Leyland and Hino Motors (Japan) to renew partnership for Euro VI Engines]. ''The Economic Times'' (27 November 2017). Retrieved on 25 December 2018.</ref>

===Rosoboronexport & ELCOM===
Ashok Leyland Defence Systems (ALDS), Russia's [[Rosoboronexport]] and ELCOM Group have signed a cooperation agreement in defence business to provide tracked vehicles to [[Indian Armed Forces]]. The agreement was signed on the side lines of the International Military Technical Forum Army – 2017 held at [[Kubinka]], near [[Moscow]], on 25 August 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/ashok-leyland-arm-russian-company-defence-pact-elcom/article9848412.ece|title=Ashok Leyland arm, ELCOM ink defence pact with Russian firm|access-date=31 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hino-global.com/news_release/255.html|title=Hino Motors and Ashok Leyland have entered into a Mutual Cooperation Agreement – NEWS RELEASE LIST – HINO GLOBAL|website=hino-global.com|access-date=31 July 2018}}</ref>

===IIT Madras===
Ashok Leyland and [[Indian Institute of Technology Madras]] (IIT Madras) signed a memorandum of understanding, on 19 August 2017, for Ashok Leyland to sponsor the Centre of Battery Engineering (CoBE) at IIT Madras. As part of the agreement Ashok Leyland partnered with IIT Madras to carry out research and development (R&D) activities for strengthening battery engineering and related sub-parts, especially for electric vehicles.<ref>[http://www.ashokleyland.com/node/2057]{{Dead link|date=May 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/ashok-leyland-signs-mou-with-iit-madras-to-carry-r-d-activities-on-battery-engineering-for-ev-117082200455_1.html|title=Ashok Leyland and IIT Madras to research battery tech for electric vehicles|first=T. E.|last=Narasimhan|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=22 August 2017|access-date=31 July 2018|via=Business Standard}}</ref>

===Sun Mobility===
On 18 July 2017 Ashok Leyland announced the formation of an alliance with SUN Mobility, The global partnership aims to develop electric vehicles.<ref>[http://www.ashokleyland.com/node/2058]{{Dead link|date=May 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

===Iveco partnership===
In the late 1980s Iveco investment and partnership resulted in Ashok Leyland launching the 'Cargo' range of trucks based on European [[Ford Cargo]] trucks. The Cargo entered production in 1994, at Ashok Leyland's new plant in [[Hosur]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ashokleyland.com/historytxt.html|title=History: We cut our teeth on cars|publisher=Ashok Leyland|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011014031903/http://ashokleyland.com/hisbot.html|archive-date=14 October 2001}}</ref> These vehicles used Iveco engines and for the first time had factory-fitted cabs. Though the Cargo trucks are no longer in production and the use of Iveco engine was discontinued, the cab continues to be used on the Ecomet range of trucks as well as for several of Ashok Leyland's military vehicles.

The Cargo was originally introduced in {{convert|7|and|9|LT|kg|sigfig=2|abbr=on}} versions; later, heavier-duty models from {{convert|15|to|26|LT|kg|sigfig=3|abbr=on}} were progressively introduced.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ashokleyland.com/prodcargomain.html|title=Products: Cargo|publisher=Ashok Leyland|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011120081944/http://ashokleyland.com/prodcargomain.html|archive-date=20 November 2001}}</ref>

==Products==
<gallery>
Ashok Leyland Ecomet 912.jpg|Current generation Ashok Leyland eComet
BEST Bus Mumbai.jpg|Ashok Leyland Titan Double Decker bus of BEST, Mumbai
Nmmtabc.jpg|Ashok Leyland City Transit Bus in Navi Mumbai
Deluxe A.jpg|Ashok Leyland Inter-City Deluxe Bus operated by APSRTC
India Trip 2009.jpg|Ashok Leyland Tusker Twin Axle Lorry with custom built cabin, a regular sight on Indian highways
A lorry in Tamil Nadu.JPG|A 1980s-built short haul Ashok Leyland lorry in Tamil Nadu, still in operation
City Bus Hyd.jpg|A Telangana State Road Transport Corporation TSRTC city bus in Hyderabad
Ashok_Leyland_Tipper_Truck_726.jpg|Ashok Leyland Comet [[dump truck|tipper lorry]]
</gallery>

===Buses===
'''Current range'''
*MTC
*[[Ashok Leyland 12M|'''12M''']]: all applications (chassis only)
* 12M FESLF: City bus (integral)
*'''[[Ashok Leyland Viking|Viking]]''':   All applications (integral and chassis only)
* Cheetah: all applications (integral and chassis only)
* Eagle: All applications (integral and chassis only)
* Electric Bus: All applications (integral)
* Freedom: intercity bus (integral and chassis only)
* Hawk: All applications (integral and chassis only)
* Falcon: All applications (integral and chassis only)
* Hybus low floor: City and tarmac bus (integral)
* JanBus: City and tarmac bus (integral)

'''JanBus''' is the world's first single step front engine bus introduced by Ashok Leyland .

* Lynx: All applications 
*'''Mitr''': metro feeder, school, staff (integral)

'''[[Ashok Leyland MiTR]]''' (or '''MiTR''') is a [[Minibus]] manufactured by Ashok Leyland in [[Joint venture]] with [[Nissan Motors India|Nissan]]. The vehicle was unveiled in January 2014 during the [[Auto Expo#12th Auto Expo 2014|12th Auto Expo 2014]] and was launched in July 2014.

* Oyster: All applications (integral and chassis only)
* 12M RE: City bus (integral)
* RESLF: City and tarmac bus (integral)
* REULE: City and tarmac bus (integral)
*'''Sunshine''': School bus (integral)
*'''Titan''': City bus (chassis only)

In 1968, production of the [[Leyland Titan (front engined double-decker)|Leyland Titan]] ceased in Britain, but was restarted by Ashok Leyland in India. The Titan PD3 chassis was modified, and a five-speed heavy duty constant-mesh gearbox was used together with the Ashok Leyland version of the O.680 engine. The Ashok Leyland Titan continued in production for many years.

'''Former range'''

* '''Comet'''

Early products included the [[Leyland Comet]] bus which was a passenger body built on a truck chassis sold in large numbers to many operators in India. By 1963, the Comet was operated by every state transport undertaking in India, and over 8,000 were in service. It was soon joined in production by a version of the [[Leyland Tiger (front-engined)|Leyland Tiger]].

* Panther
* Falcon

=== Trucks ===
'''Current range'''
*'''Boss'''

Boss is an intermediate commercial vehicle launched by Ashok Leyland. It is available in the range of 11T to 14T. The presently available models are:
* 1115
* 1215
* 1315
* 1415
*'''Ecomet'''
* 1015
* 1115
* 1215
* 1415
* 1615
*'''AVTR Modular Platform'''
* 1920
* 2820 6x2
* 2820 6x4
* 2825
* 3120 6x2 (To be launched soon)
* 3520 8x2 (Lift Axle/Twin Steer)
* 3525 8x4
* 4020
* 4120 8x2 (Double-Tire Lift Axle)
* 4220 10x2
* 4225 10x2
* 4620
* 4825 10x2
* 4825 10x4
* 5225
* 5425
* 5525 4x2
* 5525 6x4

'''Former range'''
* Beaver
* Rhino
* U-Truck
* Captain

===Light Vehicles===
'''Current range'''

* '''Dost'''

The Dost is a 1.25 ton light commercial vehicle (LCV) that is the first product to be launched by the Indian-Japanese commercial vehicle joint venture Ashok Leyland Nissan Vehicles. Dost is powered by a 58&nbsp;hp high-torque, 3-cylinder, turbo-charged common rail diesel engine and has a payload capacity of 1.25 tonnes. It is available in both BS3 and BS4 versions. The bodywork and some of the underpinnings relate to Nissan's [[Nissan Vanette#Second generation (C22; 1985–1994)|C22 Vanette]] of the 1980s; this is most visible in the door design. The LCV is produced in Ashok Leyland's Hosur plant in Tamil Nadu. The LCV is available in three versions. With the launch of Dost Ashok Leyland has now entered the Light Commercial Vehicle segment in India<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/article1582657.ece|title=Ashok Leyland enters LCV segment with Dost|publisher=The Hindu Business Line|access-date=29 May 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.moneylife.in/article/hinduja-ashok-leyland-introduces-the-user-friendly-dost-in-a-low-key-launch/18471.html|title=Ashok Leyland introduces the user-friendly Dost|publisher=Moneylife.in|access-date=29 May 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/ashok-leyland-dost-rolled-out/768748/2|title=Ashok Leyland DOST' rolled out|date=29 March 2011|publisher=Financialexpress.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029203050/http://www.financialexpress.com/news/ashok-leyland-dost-rolled-out/768748/2|archive-date=29 October 2013|url-status=dead|access-date=29 May 2012}}</ref><ref>[http://www.overdrive.in/story-news-general_news/ashok_leyland_dost_unveiled-40372-0.html Ashok Leyland Dost unveiled] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720083938/http://www.overdrive.in/story-news-general_news/ashok_leyland_dost_unveiled-40372-0.html|date=20 July 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-03-29/news/29357827_1_andy-palmer-ashok-leyland-nissan-jv-lcvs|title=Ashok Leyland-Nissan JV unveil first LCV model- Dost, targets below 3 tonne market|date=29 March 2011|access-date=29 May 2012|publisher=Articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com}}</ref>

*'''Guru'''
*'''Partner'''

'''Former range'''

'''Stile'''

[[File:Ashok_Leyland_STiLE.jpg|thumb|200px|Ashok Leyland STiLE light commercial vehicle]]
[[Ashok Leyland STiLE|STiLE]] is a [[multi-purpose vehicle]] which was manufactured by Ashok Leyland. The vehicle was unveiled during the 2012 [[Auto Expo]] and was launched in July 2013. STiLE was marketed as a "multi-purpose vehicle" for use as a hotel shuttle, [[taxi]], [[ambulance]], and [[panel van]], and in [[courier]] service. In May 2015, Ashok Leyland stopped production due to low demand.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ashok Leyland introduces STiLE|publisher=[[Business Standard]]|access-date=31 July 2018|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cd/ashok-leyland-introduces-the-stile-113071601035_1.html}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Ashok Leyland discontinues STiLE|publisher=[[NDTV]]|access-date=31 July 2018|url=https://www.carandbike.com/news/ashok-leyland-discontinues-the-stile-mpv-in-india-762700}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=STiLE features|publisher=Ashok Leyland website|access-date=31 July 2018|url=http://www.ashokleylandlcv.com/stile-features}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=STiLE variants|publisher=Ashok Leyland website|access-date=31 July 2018|url=http://www.ashokleylandlcv.com/stile%E2%80%93variants}}</ref>

==Subsidiary ventures==
===Construction equipment===
In June 2009 the company expanded into construction equipment segment, with a 50:50 joint venture with [[John Deere]]. It was floated as a separate entity under the name of Leyland – Deere Limited.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/07/15/stories/2009071550661400.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090719072320/http://www.hindu.com/2009/07/15/stories/2009071550661400.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 July 2009 |title=Leyland, John Deere complete JV formalities |date=15 July 2009 |access-date=29 May 2012 |work=[[The Hindu]] |location=Chennai, India}}</ref>

===Ashok Leyland Defence Systems===
[[File:Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ)'s Stallion Truck for the Indian Army.jpg|thumb|[[Vehicle Factory Jabalpur|Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ)]]'s Stallion 4X4 Truck for the Indian Army]]
[[File:Agni-II missile (Republic Day Parade 2004).jpeg|thumb|An Indian road-mobile launcher with a ballistic missile]]
[[File:STALLION KAVACH.JPG|thumb|Ashok Leyland's Stallion Kavach 4X4 Mine Protection Armoured Vehicle]]

[[Ashok Leyland Defence Systems]] (ALDS) is a newly floated company by the Hinduja Group. Ashok Leyland holds 26 percent in Ashok Leyland Defence Systems (ALDS). The company designs and develops defence logistics and tactical vehicles, defence communication and other systems.<ref>[http://www.financialexpress.com/news/ashok-leyland-defence-arm-ties-up-with-kraussmaffei/753566/1] [http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-01-11/news/28427239_1_defence-business-defence-sector-defence-equipment], Ashok Leyland Defence Systems</ref> Ashok Leyland is the largest supplier of logistics vehicles to the Indian Army. It has supplied over 60,000 of its [[Ashok Leyland Stallion|Stallion]] vehicles, all manufactured at the [[Vehicle Factory Jabalpur|Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ)]].<ref>Ashok Leyland largest supplier of logistics vehicles to Indian Army. Over 60,000 Stallions.{{cite web|url=http://www.indiandefence.com/forums/f32/ashok-leyland-defence-kmw-develop-advanced-defence-systems-4664/ |title=Archived copy |access-date=11 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713025001/http://www.indiandefence.com/forums/f32/ashok-leyland-defence-kmw-develop-advanced-defence-systems-4664/ |archive-date=13 July 2011 }}</ref>

==International operations and exports==
[[File:Ashok Leyland 3518iL Tractor New 2014.JPG|thumb|A new Ashok Leyland 3518iL chassis unit for custom built cab and load body]]
Exports of commercial vehicles contribute to a seven percent share of Ashok Leyland's total revenues.<ref name="auto">{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/Ashok-Leyland-to-focus-on-exports/article14503111.ece|title=Ashok Leyland to focus on exports|first=N.|last=Anand|newspaper=The Hindu|date=23 July 2016|access-date=31 July 2018|via=www.thehindu.com}}</ref>

The company has a presence in SAARC countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal, and in the Middle East countries where it exports 3600–4000 units a year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://autopartsasia.in/2016/09/26/ashok-leyland-explores-export-markets-new-products/|title=Ashok Leyland Explores Export Markets With New Products – Auto Parts Asia|date=26 September 2016|access-date=31 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180731213102/https://autopartsasia.in/2016/09/26/ashok-leyland-explores-export-markets-new-products/|archive-date=31 July 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> The company has an assembly unit, mainly for buses, in Ras Al Khaimah in UAE to cater to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states.<ref name="mydigitalfc.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.mydigitalfc.com/news/ashok-leyland-eyes-global-expansion-503|title=- mydigitalfc|website=mydigitalfc.com|access-date=31 July 2018}}</ref> This unit currently assembles 4000 units, which the company plans to increase to 6000 units.<ref name="auto"/>

Ashok Leyland exports medium and heavy commercial vehicles to the [[Gulf Cooperation Council]] (GCC) Member States like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, [[Commonwealth of Independent States]] (CIS) countries like Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine, East And West Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Indonesia and Malaysia.<ref name="mydigitalfc.com"/> Every year Ashok Leyland exports about 12000 trucks to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.{{Citation needed|date=December 2018}}

On 11 June 2012, Ashok Leyland supplied 100 Falcon buses to Ghana for $7.6 million (about {{INR}}420&nbsp;million).<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/article3514562.ece | title=Ashok Leyland supplies 100 buses to Ghana for $7.6 million | date=11 June 2012}}</ref> Ashok Leyland was awarded the first overseas order worth $6 million for its vestibule buses from [[Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation]] (BRTC).<ref>{{cite news| url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Ashok-Leyland-bags-first-overseas-order-for-vestibule-buses/articleshow/13865526.cms | title=Ashok Leyland bags first overseas order for vestibule buses | date=6 June 2012 | work=The Times Of India}}</ref>

===Lanka Ashok Leyland===
[[File:LANKA ASHOK LEYLAND BUS OPERATED BY JANADHI TRAVELS AT BENTOTA BUS STATION BOUND FOR GALLE SRI LANKA JAN 2013 (8580307998).jpg|thumb|A Lanka Ashok Leyland bus in Sri Lanka in 2013]]
[[Lanka Ashok Leyland]] (LAL) in [[Sri Lanka]] was formed in 1982 and started its operations in 1983 as a joint venture between Lanka Leyland Ltd (a wholly owned company of the Government of Sri Lanka) and Ashok Leyland Ltd India. LAL imports commercial vehicles in both knock down kits and fully built, and carries out assembly operations, repair and service, and body building on chassis.<ref>[http://www.lal.lk/ Welcome to Lanka Ashok Leyland]. Lal.lk. Retrieved on 16 July 2013.</ref>

===Avia===
In October 2006, Ashok Leyland bought a large stake in the Czech-based [[Avia]], later renaming as Avia Ashok Leyland Motors s.r.o., to gain entry into the European market. However, the prolonged recession in Europe forced them to shut down the Czech operations in 2013.

===Optare===
[[File:Blazefield Starship Versa.jpg|thumb|An [[Optare Versa]] parked outside [[Optare]]'s [[Sherburn-in-Elmet]] factory]]
In 2010 Ashok Leyland acquired a 26% stake in the British bus manufacturer [[Optare]],<ref>[http://www.ashokleyland.com/press-releases-list/2010]</ref><ref>[http://www.automotiveworld.com/analysis/83128-india-uk-ashok-leyland-takes-26-stake-in-optare/ Ashtok Leyland takes 26% stake in Optare] ''Automotive World'' 30 July 2010</ref> a company that was originally based on the premises of a former British Leyland subsidiary [[Charles H Roe]] before moving to the new purpose built factory in 2011 in [[Sherburn-in-Elmet]].<ref>[http://www.transportnewsbrief.co.uk/bus-and-coach/optares-efficient-new-uk-bus-production-plant/ Optare's efficient new UK bus production plant] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202194147/http://www.transportnewsbrief.co.uk/bus-and-coach/optares-efficient-new-uk-bus-production-plant/ |date=2 December 2014 }} ''Transport News Brief'' 16 December 2013</ref> In 2017, Ashok Leyland acquired a further 72.31% stake in Optare increasing its overall stake to 98.31%.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.optare.com/news/2017/12/1/ashok-leyland-increases-stake-in-optare|title=Ashok Leyland increases stake in Optare|date=December 2017|access-date=31 July 2018}}</ref>

==Technology==
[[File:Rail bus manufacturd by sri lankan railway engineers.jpg|thumb|Ashok Leyland [[railbus]] manufactured by [[Sri Lanka Railways]] engineers]]
It was the first in India to introduce multi-axled trucks, full air brakes and innovations like the rear engine and articulated buses. In 1997, the company launched the country's first CNG bus, and in 2002 developed the first hybrid electric vehicle.
[[File:Mobile health clinic with arr.jpg|thumb|A Rural Mobile health clinic built on Ashok Leyland's e-comet truck]]

In the 1980s and 1990s, Ashok Leyland with various Tamil Nadu Transport Corporation, notably Cholan Roadways Corporation based in Trichripally, experimented with low pollutant emission based on the CNG technology. In 2002 it developed the first hybrid electric vehicle. Ashok Leyland has also launched a mobile emission clinic that operates on highways and at entry points to New Delhi. The clinic checks vehicles for emission levels, recommends remedies and offers tips on maintenance and care.

===Hythane engines===
Ashok Leyland has also developed [[hythane]] engines in association with the Australian company Eden Energy. Ashok Leyland developed a 6-cylinder, {{convert|6|L|cuin|adj=on}} {{convert|92|kW|hp|abbr=on}} BS-4 engine which uses hythane (H-CNG,) which is a blend of natural gas and around 20% of hydrogen. A 4-cylinder {{convert|4|L|cuin|adj=on}} {{convert|63|kW|hp|abbr=on}} engine is also being developed for H-CNG blend in a joint R&D program with MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy) and Indian Oil Corporation.

===CNG engines===
The CNG concept is operational, with more than 5,500 of the technology's vehicles running around Delhi. The company is also already discussing the wide-scale use of hythane engines with the Indian government.

===Hybrid technology===
====Plugin Hybrid Bus====
In the Auto Expo 2010 at Delhi, Ashok Leyland launched India's first plug-in CNG hybrid bus, HYBUS. The hybrid bus offered 20–30% fuel saving over conventional buses powered by internal combustion engine, and were more eco-friendly than regular CNG buses, as a result of its hybrid technology that combined conventional CNG engine with electric propulsion system. The propulsion system was powered by lithium-ion battery.

The other useful features of the bus included ultra-low entry at 390mm with kneeling option, noise-free rear engine, front and rear air suspensions and retractable ramp for wheel-chair entry. Some innovative pedestrian safety concepts were also introduced in the bus, like the sound and light alerts while the bus moves, a camera-assisted reversing aid for the driver and night time highlighters near the tail lights.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/press-releases/ashok-leyland-hybus-india-s-first-plug-in-cng-hybrid-bus-at-cwg-2010-110100100114_1.html|title=Ashok Leyland HYBUS – India's first Plug-in CNG Hybrid bus at CWG 2010|last=Announcement|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=1 October 2010|access-date=31 July 2018|via=Business Standard}}</ref>

====Non-plugin Hybrid Bus====
At the Delhi Auto Expo 2016, Ashok Leyland introduced an advanced non-plugin version of HYBUS. It is claimed to be India's first non-plugin series hybrid bus. The bus uses ultra-capacitors to store energy, a feature that improves power density and fuel efficiency, because energy is stored electrostatically and does not involve chemical reactions. The ultra-capacitors are claimed to be 4–5 times more durable than conventional lithium-ion batteries.

HYBUS is powered by an H-Series 6-cylinder diesel (BS IV compliant) engine that is not used to drive the vehicle ahead, but to charge the ultra-capacitors that powers the 150&nbsp;kW electric motor. Automatic start-stop is used to decrease the overall engine idling time. The bus can restart using the stored energy when the engine is off. The fuel-efficiency of the engine thus increases and NVH (Noise-vibration-harshness) levels decrease.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wagenclub.com/2016/02/ashok-leyland-hybus-hybrid-bus-tech-spec-review.html|title=Ashok Leyland HYBUS Hybrid Bus – 2016 Auto Expo – WagenClub|date=6 February 2016|access-date=31 July 2018}}</ref>

The buses and trucks are set to feature a new electronic shift-by-wire transmission technology as well as electronic-controlled engine management for greater fuel efficiency. Ashok Leyland focuses on improving fuel efficiency without affecting automotive power, and the vehicles will have a 5% improvement on fuel efficiency. Ashok Leyland is also developing electric batteries and bio-fuel modes.

===Electric Technology===
In 2016 the company launched the country's first indigenously produced fully electric bus, called Circuit. The bus is a zero-emission vehicle that can run 120&nbsp;km on a single charge, and has an alert system that can signal if the bus is low on power.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://commercialvehicle.in/circuit-from-ashok-leyland|title=Circuit from Ashok Leyland – Commercial Vehicle Magazine in India – Upcoming Truck, Trailer, Tractor & Buses|date=14 December 2016|access-date=31 July 2018}}</ref> The bus will be introduced under the National Electric Mobility Plan with an aim of 20% penetration of electric or hybrid vehicles by 2020.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/auto/news/commercial-vehicle/ashok-leyland-unveils-indias-first-indigenous-electric-bus/articleshow/54894000.cms|title=Ashok Leyland unveils India's first indigenous electric bus|first=Shilpa|last=Elizabeth|date=20 October 2016|access-date=31 July 2018|newspaper=The Economic Times}}</ref>

===Euro 6 Truck===
AT the Delhi Auto Expo 2016, the company showcased its first indigenously produced Euro 6 truck 4940. The truck is powered by the company's flagship range of engine, Neptune, which is an 8l engine that produces 400&nbsp;hp and 1600Nm of torque. The truck is designed to meet Euro 6 norms.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autocarpro.in/news-national/ashok-leyland-products-auto-expo-10349|title=Ashok Leyland shows four new products at Auto Expo|website=autocarpro.in|access-date=31 July 2018}}</ref>

===iEGR===
In 2017, the company showcased iEGR (intelligent [[exhaust gas recirculation]]) technology for its trucks and buses to meet BS-IV emission standards. The technology also promises other advantages like better fuel efficiency than BS-III trucks, and power transmission up to 400 HP.<ref>[http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/ashok-leyland-showcases-tech-to-upgrade-vehicles-to-meet-bsiv-fuel-norms/article9657209.ece Ashok Leyland showcases tech to upgrade vehicles to meet BS-IV fuel norms]. ''The Hindu BusinessLine'' (21 April 2017). Retrieved on 25 December 2018.</ref>

===iBUS===
Ashok Leyland announced iBUS in the beginning of 2008, as part of the future for the country's increasingly traffic-clogged major cities. Its Rs 60-lakh iBus is a feature-filled, low-floor concept bus for the metros revealed during the Auto Expo 2008 in India. This low-floored iBus will have the first of its kind features, including anti-lock braking system, electronic engine management and passenger infotainment. The executive class has an airline like ambiance with wide LCD screens, reading lights, audio speakers and, for the first time, Internet on the move. A GPS system enables vehicle tracking and display of dynamic route information on LCD screens, which can also support infotainment packages including live data and news. The bus will probably be equipped with an engine from the new Neptune family, which Ashok Leyland also introduced at this exhibition, which is ready for the BS4/Euro 4 emission regulations and can be upgraded to Euro 5.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/News/auto/Rs-60-lakh-iBus-from-Ashok-Leyland/268361/Article1-268357.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100405220529/http://www.hindustantimes.com/News/auto/Rs-60-lakh-iBus-from-Ashok-Leyland/268361/Article1-268357.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 April 2010 |title=Rs 60 lakh iBus from Ashok Leyland |publisher=Hindustantimes.com |date=9 January 2008 |access-date=29 May 2012}}</ref> The ibus of Ashok leyland have hybrid technology

==Financials==
[[File:ALCOB Ashok Leyland Corporate Building in Guindy, Chennai.jpg|thumb|Ashok Leyland Corporate Building in Guindy, Chennai]]

The company has maintained its profitable track record for 60 years. The annual revenue of the company was US$3.2 billion in 2016–17. Selling 140,457 light, medium, heavy vehicles in 2016–17, Ashok Leyland was one of India's largest exporters of medium and heavy duty trucks.{{citation needed|date=June 2014}} It is also one of the largest private sector employers in India, with about 12,000 employees working in 9 factories and offices spread across the globe.

In 2013–14, the company posted a very modest profit after tax of {{INRConvert|29|m}} which was made possible after the selling of real estate and other surplus land and related assets. The company did not declare any dividends for the financial year 2013–14, which is also a first in its 60-year history.

==Facilities==
===Manufacturing units===
====India====
[[File:Ashok Leyland Goa 4-7-2008 2-01-06 PM.JPG|thumb|Ashok Leyland factory]]
* [[Ennore]], [[Tamil Nadu]] in North [[Chennai]] (established 1948) – trucks, buses, engines, axles etc.
* [[Hosur]], Tamil Nadu in [[Krishnagiri District]] (established 1980) – three adjacent plants (Hosur-1, Hosur-2, CPPS) for trucks, special vehicles and power units
* [[Alwar]], [[Rajasthan]] (established 1982) – bus manufacturing unit
* [[Bhandara]], [[Maharashtra]] (established 1982) – gearbox unit
* [[Pantnagar]], [[Uttarakhand]] (etsb. 2010) – 75,000 annual capacity greenfield unit for new generation platforms and cabs
* Sengadu Village, [[Kanchipuram District]] in Tamil Nadu (etsb. 2008) – technical and production facility for Ashok Leyland Defence Systems; another separate technical center for Nissan Ashok Leyland vehicles
* Mallavalli Village, [[Vijayawada]], [[Andhra Pradesh]] (Estd 2021) – Bus manufacturing Unit, This is a complete green facility.

====Europe====
* [[Sherburn-in-Elmet]], England – [[Optare]] Bus

====Middle East====
* [[Ras Al Khaimah]], [[UAE]] [established 2011] – bus manufacturing facility – joint venture between Ashok Leyland and [[Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone|Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)]] in UAE.

===Technical Centre===
Ashok Leyland's Technical Centre, at Vellivoyalchavadi (VVC) in the outskirts of North Chennai near [[Minjur]], is a state-of-the-art product development facility, that apart from modern test tracks and component test labs, also houses India's one and only six poster testing equipment.

===Former manufacturing units===
* [[Letnany]] in [[Prague]], [[Czech Republic|Czech]] – [[Avia]] plant, closed in 2013

== Philanthropy ==
[[File:Hinduja Hospital's mobile clinic.jpg|thumb|[[Hinduja National Hospital]]'s mobile clinics built on Ashok Leyland platforms]]
Ashok Leyland, flagship of the Hinduja Group, has CSR programs in environment, health, education and infrastructure.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Road To School - Ashok Leyland Corporate - Ashok Leyland|url=https://www.ashokleyland.com/en/community/road-to-school|access-date=2020-10-15|website=ashokleyland.com}}</ref> In 2015-16, Ashok Leyland partnered with Learning Links Foundation, an NGO, to develop and provide a holistic program, consisting of educational and health improvements, to the children in India who drop out of school due to lack of infrastructure, poor financial and living conditions that make it difficult for them to pursue education and improve their standard of living.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ashok Leyland leading the way in Corporate Social Responsibility|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/aug/03/ashok-leyland-leading-the-way-in-corporate-social-responsibility-2013237.html|access-date=2020-10-15|website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> The Road to School program began with 36 schools in Shoolagiri and [[Anchetty]] in Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu, and has now reached 714 schools impacting more than 55,000 students in government primary and upper primary schools.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Bureau|first=R. M.|title=Ashok Leyland's Road to School initiative adds 178 more schools in Tamil Nadu|url=https://ruralmarketing.in/industry/education/ashok-leylands-road-to-school-initiative-adds-178-more-schools-in-tamil-nadu|access-date=2020-10-15|website=ruralmarketing.in|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|title=Road To School – The Road Not Taken|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/csr-compendium-touching-lives-2016/initiative/road-to-school-the-road-not-taken/articleshow/56098776.cms|access-date=2020-10-15}}</ref>

In 2019, in partnership with the Akshaya Patra Foundation, Ashok Leyland launched the Breakfast Program that benefitted 7,800 students in 70 Government schools in Shoolagiri and Thally Block. The program was aimed to provide hot and nutritious breakfast to the school children. The program is also aimed at bringing social equality among the children belonging to remote villages.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ashok Leyland Launches Breakfast Programme at Hosur {{!}} Akshaya Patra|url=https://www.akshayapatra.org/ashok-leyland-launches-breakfast-programme-for-government-school-students|access-date=2020-10-15|website=akshayapatra.org}}</ref>

=== iCare ===
In 2020, in wake of the pandemic, COVID-19, Hinduja Foundation launched the ‘iCare: Volunteer from Home’ initiative which was aimed at reaching out to the underprivileged children across the nation and provide online education. Under this initiative, employees of the Hinduja Group Companies, including Ashok Leyland and others, interacted with the students and their families to engage them in a range of activities through technology based online and offline interactive modes. The iCare initiative spanned over the states of Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-03|title=Hinduja Foundation launches 'iCare'|url=https://thenewsstrike.com/hinduja-foundation-launches-icare/|access-date=2020-10-15|website=The News Strike|language=en-US}}</ref>

==Awards and recognition==
*In 2019, the company was awarded the AON Best Employers for India award.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ashok Leyland Awarded Aon's Best Employer in India for 2019 – Motorindia|url=https://www.motorindiaonline.in/corporate/ashok-leyland-awarded-aons-best-employer-in-india-for-2019/|access-date=2020-10-15|language=en-US}}</ref>

*In 2019, Ashok Leyland was ranked as 34th best brand in India by Interbrand.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Interbrand|title=Interbrand unveils 2019 Best Indian Brands: Celebrates Brave Growth amidst Change - Newsroom|url=https://www.interbrand.com/newsroom/interbrand-unveils-2019-best-indian-brands-celebrates-brave-growth-amidst-change/|access-date=2020-10-15|website=Interbrand|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Ashok Leyland|url=https://www.ibef.org/industry/india-automobiles/showcase/ashok-leyland|access-date=2020-10-16|website=ibef.org}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[British Leyland]]
* [[Leyland Motors]]

==References==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

==External links==
{{commons category|Ashok Leyland}}
*{{Official website}}
*[https://lal.lk/ Lanka Leyland Official site]

{{Automotive industry in India}}
{{Nifty 200 companies}}

[[Category:Ashok Leyland| ]]
[[Category:Indian companies established in 1948]]
[[Category:John Deere]]
[[Category:Companies based in Chennai]]
[[Category:Vehicle manufacturing companies established in 1948]]
[[Category:Holding companies established in 1948]]
[[Category:Indian brands]]
[[Category:India–United Kingdom relations]]
[[Category:Companies listed on the National Stock Exchange of India]]
[[Category:Companies listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange]]