AC norms bring chills to truck segment; to pinch pockets by up to 2%

Truck sales dipped in May 2025 as AC cabins became mandatory for all new medium and heavy vehicles, with OEMs backing the rule and fleet owners flagging cost and workforce concerns

India's trucking sector entered a transformative phase on Sunday as the government’s mandate requiring all new medium and heavy trucks to be equipped with air-conditioned driver cabins came into effect.

 

Commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturers have already introduced updated truck models complying with regulations, resulting in a price increase of around 2 per cent. While manufacturers emphasise long-term benefits like driver comfort and improved safety, fleet owners express concern about rising operational costs and a deepening shortage of skilled drivers.

 

The market reacted cautiously ahead of the mandate’s rollout. Retail truck sales dipped in May as buyers awaited clarity on the