CHENNAI: Ashok Leyland, the flagship of the Hinduja Group, and John Deere announced their entry into the construction equipment business through their 50:50 joint venture, with the launch of their first product, the 435 Backhoe Loader. The products will be marketed under the brand Leyland Dheere.
Announcing this at a press conference here on Tuesday, V Sumantran, Chairman, Ashok Leyland John Deere Construction Equipment Company said, “John Deere brings in their advanced technical knowhow, while Ashok Leyland lends indepth knowledge of the Indian market, proven expertise in manufacturing, sourcing and distribution, to this strategic partnership.’’ “The first product from this combine – the Leyland- Deere 435 Backhoe Loader (BHL) – has been designed to transform the nature of the construction equipment business in India as well as re-define the way construction equipment products are perceived and used,’’ he added.
The backhoe loader is rugged in structure, powered by an Ashok Leyland engine of proven pedigree from the ‘H’-Series platform and replete with USPs like power shift transmission, best in class cabin with larger space and higher visibility, higher breakout forces and greater dig depths.
The 435 BHL is being manufactured at Leyland Deere’s brand new facility at Gummdipoondi, 50 km from Chennai.