Ashok Leyland, the main company under the Hinduja Group, plans to introduce six new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) weighing between 2 to 3.5 tonnes over the next year. This initiative aims to boost their LCV market share from the current 20% to 25%, according to a senior official.

Amandeep Singh, president of LCV, international operations, defense, and power solutions at Ashok Leyland, revealed, "We have six versions of the Dost lined up for this year. We'll be unveiling one model every other month, starting at the end of this month. These models will offer different payload capacities, incorporate various technologies, and cater to diverse volume needs."

Singh emphasized the company's goal of achieving a 25% market share in the short term, aiming for the next two years. He noted the market trend shifting towards vehicles in the 2-3.5 tonne range, which benefits Ashok Leyland. LCVs represent the largest sub-category within the light truck segment in India.

In India's light truck market, Mahindra & Mahindra holds a dominant position, especially in small commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of less than two tonnes, as well as those ranging from 2 to 3.5 tonnes. While Tata Motors remains the second-largest player in the overall LCV segment by volume, it has faced challenges from Ashok Leyland, particularly with the Dost and Bada Dost branded light trucks in the 2-3.5 tonne category. It's worth noting that Ashok Leyland doesn't currently compete in the sub-2 tonne segment, where Tata Motors sells the Ace branded small and light trucks.