Dr V Sumantran steps down from role as vice-chairman of Hinduja Automotive

Dr V Sumantran, executive vice-chairman of Hinduja Automotive Ltd, the holding company of Ashok Leyland, is to step down from the Board, effective from March 31, 2014. Dr Sumantran has also stepped down from his position on the Board of Ashok Leyland Ltd. However, he will continue as advisor to the Hinduja Group, while he pursues his interests in academia, research and consulting.

Dr Sumantran, among many responsibilities, had overseen the LCV business of Ashok Leyland, through its joint venture with Nissan Motor Co. Over the past few years, Ashok Leyland had launched a new range of products including the Dost small commercial vehicle, the Stile and most recently, the Partner LCV truck and MiTR LCV Bus launched nationally at the Auto Expo last month.

Dheeraj Hinduja, co-chairman, Hinduja Automotive, said: ''Dr Sumantran has played a key role in expanding Ashok Leyland's product range and new businesses and in creating a strong partnership with Nissan. I have greatly valued his vast experience, knowledge and his advice over the past several years. I wish him all success in his new pursuits.''

Dr Sumantran said: ''When I had joined the Board, getting Ashok Leyland into the LCV business was a major objective. Now, with the launch of the Partner and Mitr, we have seen completion of the first phase of our cooperation with Nissan. This was a suitable juncture for me to look to pursuing other interests, including some work with academia, research and consulting. I have the privilege to work with a phenomenally motivated and accomplished team, supportive shareholders and highly experienced Board colleagues and management. I wish them every success in the years ahead.''

In a recent interview with Autocar Professional, Dr Sumantran had outlined Ashok Leyland’s plans for targeting the defence sector, growing the LCV business and exports.  

Also see: Interview with Dr V Sumantran

http://www.autocarpro.in/ap/interview/5070/interview-dr-sumantran