Ashok Leyland to expand 'DOST' range of models

Hinduja Group flagship Ashok Leyland would expand its highly popular 'Dost' range of light commercial vehicles during the current financial year besides expansion of its footprint into new overseas markets, a top company official has said.

The city-based heavy commercial vehicle maker recently rolled out two lakh units of light commercial vehicle 'Dost' produced from its Hosur plant.

"We will be showcasing new range of DOST models during the upcoming dealers global conference (on April 18). We have announced Rs 400 crore investment for developing new platform. We will be expanding DOST with new models," Ashok Leyland, Light Commercial Vehicle, President, Nitin Sethi told PTI.

The company witnessed a 37 per cent growth in sales of the light commercial vehicle in 2017-18 clocking 43,441 units which was highest ever registered by the company since it forayed in the light commercial vehicle segment in September 2011.

"Total capacity at our manufacturing unit in Hosur is 50,000 units. We will be expanding (it) as and when required. We have enough space at the Hosur plant (to expand)," he said.

Stating that the company would expand DOST with various models as there was huge opportunity in the light commercial vehicle market, he said, "for 2018-19, I am looking at a cautious forecast of 10-12 per cent growth."