On July 22, Ashok Leyland and Nissan Motor Company rolled out their first product, the Ashok Leyland Dost, from the Hosur facility. The first production vehicle was symbolically driven out from the dedicated newly commissioned Light Commercial Vehicle line by Dr V Sumantran, executive vice-chairman, Hinduja Automotive Ltd. and chairman, Nissan Ashok Leyland Powertrain Ltd. and Dr Andy Palmer, executive vice-president, Nissan Motor Company Ltd & chairman, Ashok Leyland Nissan Vehicles Ltd. The commercial launch of the Dost is scheduled later this quarter through a new exclusive dealer network.

The Dost small commercial vehicle is designed for a payload of 1.25 tonnes and is equipped with a state-of-the-art 55hp, three-cylinder 1.5-litre CRDI engine which develops torque of 150Nm. Completing the powertrain package is a five-speed manual gearbox. The vehicle has a tight turning circle radius of 4.8 m, designed to easily negotiate both congested city roads and narrow rural lanes. The Euro-look cab is roomy, comfortable with superior ergonomics and incorporates an in-built safety structure. And the front transverse leaf suspension blends superior ride quality with high durability.

The Dost will be available in three versions with the top-end version featuring air-conditioning, power steering, dual-colour beige-gray trim and fabric seats. It will be available in white, beige and blue. The company says further details, including the price range, will be revealed closer to the commercial launch date.