The Leyland Deere JV announced its entry with the launch of its 435 backhoe loader.

The joint venture between John Deere and Ashok Leyland has introduced its first product, the 435 backhoe loader, which the JV claims to re-define the way construction equipment products are perceived and used. "The Leyland Deere 435 backhoe loader (BHL) has been designed to re-define the way construction equipment products are perceived and used. It will deliver superior value to the ever-evolving construction equipment customer by addressing the critical considerations of lower operating cost, higher productivity and greater uptime. It 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," says Dr V Sumantran, Chairman, Ashok Leyland John Deere Construction Equipment Company, and Executive Vice-Chairman, Hinduja Automotive.

He further adds, "This JV marks a marriage of experience with expertise, global vision with local relevance, technological leadership with market presence. Cognizant of India's huge appetite for construction and infrastructure development, we are well-placed and well-equipped to tap the huge potential that exists. While we seek to redefine the benchmarks with our first offering, we are well on our way to both extending our range with additional products as well as scaling up our operations beyond this start."

Michael J Mack, President, Worldwide Construction and Forestry Division, Deere & Co, said, "Our first product represents a triumph for the joint venture in terms of collaborative development. We have used our intimate knowledge of ground realities and specific customer requirements as touch stones while engineering the product which, we believe, will be well-accepted in the Indian market. The single-minded focus, constancy of purpose and perfect understanding between the partners have all held the joint venture in good stead and positions us well for the exciting journey ahead."

Dr Sumantran says, "To ensure that customers get higher uptime, the Leyland Deere 435 BHL will be supported by an innovative customer care package called the C.A.R.E. Programme which will be delivered through the efficient Leyland Deere channel network. The C.A.R.E. Programme will include an extended warranty of one year after the first year of warranty, committed restoration time for the equipment and regular and periodic engineer visits to the customer during warranty period and also an insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh for the customer's operator."

The products will be marketed under the brand Leyland Deere. The new brand symbolises the joining of two strong partners, each bringing to the association of their unique individual strengths and competencies. John Deere brings in their advanced technical knowhow and vast experience in the global construction equipment space while Ashok Leyland lends in-depth knowledge of the Indian market, proven expertise in manufacturing, sourcing and distribution, to this strategic partnership.

The 435 BHL is being manufactured at Leyland Deere's brand new facility at Gummidipoondi, near Chennai. This facility incorporates globally-benchmarked manufacturing processes like robotic welding, CNC cutting, state-of-the-art paint shop to ensure the highest standards of product reliability and durability supported by international standard quality processes and systems.

The products will be marketed under the brand Leyland Deere. The new brand symbolises the joining of two strong partners, each bringing to the association of their unique individual strengths and competencies.