VE Commercial Vehicles Limited (VECV) recently hosted a visit from Swedish Ambassador to India, Jan Thesleff, at their Pithampur manufacturing facilities. The visit highlighted the successful 16-year partnership between Eicher Motors Limited and Volvo Group, emphasising their joint venture's contribution to India's commercial vehicle sector and global manufacturing. Thesleff toured the facilities alongside other Swedish officials, witnessing VECV's advanced technology and sustainable manufacturing processes.

Success story of collaboration

Ambassador Thesleff underscored the strong economic ties between Sweden and India, citing VECV as a prime example of successful collaboration. He praised the joint venture's role in modernising India's commercial vehicle sector and providing Volvo Group with high-quality components manufactured in India.

“Currently, more than 280 Swedish companies operate in India, contributing to sectors ranging from automobiles and communications to healthcare and defense, directly generating over 240,000 jobs. The Eicher-Volvo joint venture exemplifies the strategic benefits of this partnership by harnessing the strengths of Sweden and India and fostering mutual growth and technological advancement. I am thoroughly impressed by the advanced technology products and sustainable manufacturing processes I witnessed today at VECV. Their remarkable achievements epitomise the shared innovation, growth, and sustainable development that Sweden-India partnership continues to deliver for the benefit of both nations," stated H.E. Jan Thesleff.

Vinod Aggarwal, VECV Managing Director & CEO expressed his honor in welcoming the Swedish delegation. He highlighted the joint venture's success in combining Volvo Group's technology with Eicher's market understanding, benefiting both entities. Aggarwal emphasised VECV's commitment to building on this success.

“We are honoured to welcome His Excellency Ambassador Jan Thesleff and the team from the Swedish Embassy to our Pithampur facility. Over the past 16 years, the VECV joint venture has not only driven the modernisation of India’s commercial vehicle sector but has also enabled Volvo Group to source world-class engines and components, made in India, for its global requirements. The success of this joint venture is rooted in the principles of trust, mutual respect, and win-win collaboration, combining Volvo Group's technology leadership with Eicher’s deep understanding of the Indian market. VECV looks forward to building on this success in the future,” Aggarwal.

16 year of collaboration

Established in 2008, the VECV joint venture has significantly impacted India's commercial vehicle market. VECV has consistently introduced vehicles with advanced technology adapted to local conditions, resulting in increased sales and market share across segments. This success is evident in the production of Volvo Group's 5 and 8-liter engines and transmission components.

The VE Powertrain plant at VECV, responsible for producing Euro 6 (BS VI) compliant engines since 2013, exemplifies India-Sweden collaboration. The plant has supplied engines to over 40 countries, demonstrating India's skilled workforce and VECV's adherence to global manufacturing standards.

Sustainable manufacturing practices

VECV prioritises sustainability through smart manufacturing practices. Their Bhopal plant, built on Industry 4.0 principles, integrates advanced technology to minimise environmental impact. VECV offers electric, CNG, and LNG-fueled trucks and buses under the Eicher and Volvo brands.

Eicher Pro E electric bus

The Eicher Pro E electric bus entered production in 2022, with deliveries of the 5.5-tonne Eicher Pro 2055 EV truck commencing in 2023. VECV also provides comprehensive fleet support through its 100% Connected Fleet and Uptime Center. The MyEicher app-based solution further enhances productivity and efficiency, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint.