Ashok Leyland in pact with Belgian company

Belgium-based Wabco, a global technology leader, has entered into a supply agreement with commercial vehicles manufacturer Ashok Leyland. The agreement is for development of transmission automation technology and the long term supply of automated manual transmission systems from 2010 through 2015.

Wabco will supply its new OptiDrive modular AMT system, an automation technology, to Ashok Leyland. The company will be the first manufacturer of commercial vehicles in India to adopt OptiDrive system in volume production, according to a Wabco statement. Both the companies did not disclose the value of the agreement.

“This agreement with Ashok Leyland is Wabco’s first new major contract since taking control of Wabco-TVS in India two months ago, further leveraging the well-anchored leading position of Wabco-TVS in the local market and our ability to provide maximum value for customers,” said P Kaniappan, director, Wabco-TVS (India) Ltd.

Depending on the driver’s preference, the OptiDrive system can change gears in full automatic mode or as initiated by the driver.

“By partnering with Wabco, we can continue to create value in the marketplace while strengthening our commitment to innovation,” said R Seshasayee, managing director, Ashok Leyland Ltd, in the release.