Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG announced the launch of the all-new range of heavy-duty Rigid trucks from BharatBenz in the Indian market. The new range of Rigids, engineered for superior reliability, will be powered by an all-new BharatBenz BSVI-Stage2 6.7-litre diesel engine and will offer new payload applications such as bitumen, bulker, Petroleum, Oil & Lubricants (POL) in addition to a variety of existing payload applications. The all-new engine in new Rigid range is offered in two configurations with higher horsepower and torque – 250HP and 950Nm and 306HP and 1200Nm, which customers can choose from as per their application requirements.

Models in the all-new BharatBenz heavy-duty Rigid range will be available to customers needing 2826R (6x2), 3526R (8x2), 3832R (8x2), 4232R (10x2) and 4832R (10x2) configurations. 

Speaking at the launch, Sreeram Venkateswaran, President & Chief Business Officer of Daimler India Commercial Vehicles said, 'With the introduction of our all-new BharatBenz Rigids, we are committed to supporting the evolving needs of the Indian transportation sector. These trucks are not just tools, but reliable partners designed to navigate the dynamic world of logistics and transportation efficiently. Powered by the all-new 6D26 engine, these new trucks bring significant advancements in fuel efficiency and operational flexibility, which directly contribute to a lower total cost of ownership. These engines are specifically designed to handle substantial payloads efficiently, which allows for smoother shifts and high torque delivery at lower speeds. Available in multiple configurations, they offer not only enhanced acceleration but also class-leading peak and flat torque, resulting in maximized operational efficiency and improved driver comfort, reducing fatigue during extended hauls.”

Improved fuel efficiency: DICV has significantly advanced fuel economy in the latest BharatBenz Rigid heavy-duty trucks, equipped with the EFFI+ package and multi-drive mode functionality. The EFFI+ package introduces several key innovations including ‘Minimal Parked Regeneration’ to reduce unnecessary fuel burn during downtime; ‘Auto Green Band’, which automatically maintains engine speed within the optimal RPM range for efficiency; ‘Auto Idling Shutdown’, which cuts off the engine during prolonged idling to conserve fuel; and ‘Harsh Acceleration Control’, which limits acceleration rates to prevent fuel wastage.

Moreover, the Multi-drive mode feature allows drivers to select between various operating modes tailored to different load conditions, greatly enhancing efficiency during partial or no-load operations. These technologies, along with the advanced common rail injection system and Load Based Speed Control (LBSC), collectively optimise performance and maximize fuel efficiency, ensuring operational cost-effectiveness. 

Enhanced chassis for diverse applications: The newly engineered joggle frame chassis, constructed with riveted joints, lays a solid foundation for a wide range of applications. This advanced chassis design is deliberately crafted to support multiple new applications such as bitumen, bulker, and Petroleum Oil & Lubricants (POL) applications. The trucks are fitted with Parabolic-type, grease-free suspension.

Long-term reliability with 10 lakh km AMC: To support operational reliability, the trucks come with an attractive 10 lakh km Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC). This offer not only underscores DICV’s confidence in the durability of their products but also the company’s commitment to minimizing total cost of ownership in order to make customers successful. 

Staying ahead of the curve in truck safety: The new BharatBenz Rigids lead in truck safety, being fully compliant with stringent EU ECE R29-02 cabin safety norms. Aerodynamically designed AC cabins help sustain vehicle momentum, while comfortable sleeper berths support long-distance journeys. Advanced Driver State Monitoring systems, employing AI and computer vision, vigilantly prevent driver distraction and fatigue. Enhancements also include a more powerful engine brake system, boosting braking efficiency by 28 per cent, and reverse cameras to facilitate safer manoeuvrability.

Venkateswaran added, “Our trucks are tailored for diverse applications, capable of handling everything from urban deliveries to long-distance haulage. As the demand within the Indian market grows, our BharatBenz Rigid range is equipped to help businesses optimise their operations and enhance their productivity, ensuring our customers see real benefits in terms of cost-effectiveness and reliability.” 

The high value propositions that BharatBenz customers benefit from are industry-leading longer service intervals, best-in-industry manufacturer’s warranty, 48-hour service / repair uptime through its ‘Rakshana’ initiative, and fuel efficiency improvements. These and many more factors contribute to the excellent total cost of ownership that BharatBenz commercial vehicles deliver cumulatively.