?TIPL has already tied up with Sitech, a distribution network for the most reliable and rugged construction technology systems available to the heavy and highway contractors today, says G V R Murthy, Joint Managing Director, TIPL, while sharing his views on the latest trends in the excavator market. Excerpts from the interview.

Tell us about the range offered by Caterpillar/TIPL.
TIPL offers a wide range of Caterpillar excavators to the Indian market ranging from 7T to 85T operating weight range. The machines are offered with various boom/stick/bucket options to suit different applications.

Brief us about the latest product and technology trends in the excavators market, please?
The latest technology machines have electronically controlled engines, electronic monitoring and control systems with automatic mode selection. They operate at higher pressures and hydraulic flows which result in better break out forces and faster cycle times as well as better fuel efficiency. The pressures of time-bound contracts with heavy penalties for delays have pushed the major contractors towards the more technologically sophisticated machines. Moreover, a large number of Indian contractors are now executing projects abroad and therefore require machines that are compliant with global emission and safety standards, which will encourage further enhancement of quality in the future.

Can you tell us about the features inbuilt to enhance productivity and fuel-efficiency in the Caterpillar/TIPL excavator range?
Caterpillar excavators offered by TIPL are the next-generation equipment. They are bumper-to-bumper designed for highest reliability and durability. In other words, this means that almost all components are manufactured in-house including engines under very stringent quality control measures. Everything comes with the world-class Caterpillar standard. They provide the highest productivity in its class due to effortless hydraulic controls, automatic climatic control with spacious cabin. Caterpillar lays lot of emphasis on operator comfort in order to increase operator efficiency. The engine and hydraulics are controlled through latest electronic controls with automatic mode selection. The machines operate at higher pressures and hydraulic flows which result in better breakout forces and faster cycle times as well as better fuel efficiency; lower cost per tonne of material moved. CAT excavators use CAT patented XT hoses which give a much longer life compared to what is being offered by the competition in the country.

Can you tell us your market share in excavators, and the growth envisaged?
In India, we have operated in the niche market for excavators, catering primarily to the key account customers. However, the focus is now shifting to the retail segment also and we plan to become a major player in the medium-size excavator market in the next four to five years.