?With strengthened component, world-class ZF axle and ZF transmission and Cummins engine, wheel loaders from LiuGong are easy to operate even under rough terrains, says Sunil Sapru, President, LiuGong India. Excerpts from the interview.

Could you tell us about the range offered by LiuGong in wheel loaders?
LiuGong being the global market leaders in wheel loaders, offers wheel loader variants from 1.5 to 10 tonne with bucket capacity ranging 0.78-6 cu m. In India, we have launched two models, CLG835 and CLG856, as of now. With strengthened component, world-class ZF axle and ZF transmission and Cummins engine, these machines are easy to operate even under rough terrains. They are ergonomically designed with fully air-conditioned cabins to make it durable and effective to use.

What are the major growth enablers for wheel loaders? What is the growth envisaged in this segment?
LiuGong is committed to enhancing the quality of work around the world. LiuGong has R&D centre in India to study various applications, product optimisation to its needs, focusing at economising the fuel efficiency and customised product to its needs. Booming infrastructure projects in India, time-bound contracts and deliverables in time, all these result in increased productivity, efficiency and sturdier products. Overall, we expect a growth of 25 per cent this year as we have plans to open new market and segments.

Tell us about the advanced features incorporated in wheel loaders.
LiuGong offers wheel loaders with advanced technical features, notably with the machines fitted with fuel-efficient Cummins engines capable of operating in extreme conditions with 20-25 per cent extra power. Added to this, the machines are fitted with ZF technology for transmission and axles improving its durability, reliability and efficiency. Our loaders have higher horse power which meets operation in adverse conditions and high altitudes and it also contains improvised hydraulic system from the US. LiuGong wheel loaders are equipped with ROPS/FOPS cabin, safety struts, audio visual alarm, adjustable steering wheel, electronic surveillance system etc. To provide higher cycle times, the machines are equipped with centralised automatic lubricating system; automatic bucket return to dig, automatic boom height kick control and above all, it provide complete safety to the operators with fatigue-free operations.

What is the existing manufacturing capacity for wheel loaders? Do you have plans for more investment?
Globally, LiuGong produces over 40,000 units of wheel loader annually, having extra manufacturing capacity in India with annual production of over 3,000 units. LiuGong is constantly considering expansion for its product lines and technology upgradation, and will make the announcement soon. LiuGong has plans to invest in upcoming projects and expansion with net investment of Rs 350 million within market demand and is ready to capitalise with additional production capacity and customised requirement.

How do you look at the competition in this segment? What differentiates LiuGong from the competition?
No doubt that competition in this segment is very intense with some more new entrants. LiuGong with strong commitment to its customers has developed trust with its long term strategy. LiuGong has always delivered the best value proposition to its customers and that sets us apart from our competitors. Being the top wheel loader manufacturer, we have developed state-of-the-art product line with various attachments sufficing multiple applications and customisation therefore enhancing the efficiency and value for money. The foremost factor that differentiates LiuGong from the competition is its image in the market. The products manufactured by us are most economical, sturdy in design, user-friendly and result-oriented as compared to other products in the market. This image has been a result of over 50 years of its experience within the product line. Moreover, our wheel loaders are ARAI-certified.

Tell us about LiuGong's strength in training and services?
LiuGong is vigorously conducting the operators training programmes at the site for the customers. We conduct classroom training and provide hands-on training at our Pitampura plant as well as at our training centre in Indore. We also provide modules, regular health checkups, customised services, spare recommendations, fleet maintenance contract and MARC contracts.

Are these products complying with emission norms Bharat Stage III?
Yes, our products comply with emission norms of Bharat Stage III and have already been rolled out in BC India 2011. However, BS III engines are customised according to Indian conditions and emission norms that maximise the fuel efficiency while enhancing the productivity cost.