Marking a new beginning in its Make-in-India initiative, Volvo Penta formally unveiled its 5-litre and 8-litre engines manufactured for the first time in India, at a new dedicated production line at the VE Powertrain (VEPT) plant. The product unveiling was done by Pinaki Niyogy, Vice President, Manufacturing and Engineering, TIL, and Parminder Singh Gabri, Director - Sales, Putzmeister Concrete Machines, the two major customers of Volvo Penta.    

Following the inauguration of the exclusive Volvo Penta production line at its manufacturing base in Pithampur in Madhya Pradesh, customers are now taking delivery of 5- and 8-litre engines being produced in India.

?This is a momentous time for us,? said Jonas Nilsson, Head of Volvo Penta in India. ?Although we have supplied engines and products to India for two decades, to have them actually produced here for the first time and delivered to customers, is a progressive step. We are ready for whatever the market needs ? we are producing premium quality engines made in India, for Indian customers.?

The VEPT plant was launched in 2013 by VE Commercial Vehicles, as a joint venture between the Volvo Group and Eicher Motors. A production line was created exclusively for the manufacture of Volvo Penta engines. Its 5- and 8-litre engines are certified for Bharat Stage III emissions standards. Both ranges can be used for a variety of applications such as construction equipment, agricultural and forestry machinery, crushers and screens, pumps and cranes.

?Indian OEMs can take advantage of our high quality and technologically advanced products, for an increasing number of applications,? said Giorgio Paris, President, Region EM & APAC, Volvo Penta AB. ?We provide global aftermarket support, so OEMs can be assured that they can manufacture and trade in both the domestic and export markets.?

Speaking on the occasion, Peter Hertinge, Senior Vice President, Global Operations and Quality, Volvo Penta AB, said, ?The logistical benefits we?ve seen in other markets can now be found in India. Shorter lead times and a simplified process of planning and delivery, will enable our customers to have incremental sales in a growing market, whilst maintaining operational efficiency. It?s a win-win situation.?