Premium Trucking ​​​​​​​

Helene Mellquist, Senior Vice President, Volvo Trucks International.

- Anirudh Raheja

Q. How do you look at the Indian truck market?

A. India is one of the most exciting markets that we have seen. It has good growth potential. Five years back, we penetrated the coal mining market. This was done through a 24x7 operation, and a close relationship on the service side. We have 8x4 trucks that go back and forth all the time. They deal with coal loading and unloading. We provide service support right next to the site. There are one or two mechanics depending upon the site. Efficient and extremely competitive in terms of business operations for the coal mine owners, we have got a strong foothold. We enjoy a strong position there. The market is however minuscule. The heavy duty truck market in India is just 2000 units. It climbs to 3000 units in a good year. Finding a foothold with the premium trucks that we offer, we are looking forward to a position where we can contribute. We do 1,200 units in the (Indian) market. Many things depend upon the legislature and the governments, and what they will do. While the government is investing a good deal in green energy, coal production will be doubled as India is already importing a lot of coal. It will be nice if the Indian coal is put to greater use. It will remain an area of growth for us.

Q. What is happening at the Hosakote plant?