Tata Motors’ replacement of its 407 light commercial vehicle (LCV) is expected by the end of the current year. Codenamed Y1, the new 407 will be sold along the old Tata workhorse that has stood the test of time. Suppliers in the know say that work is ongoing on the new avatar, and on track.

According to R Ramakrishnan, VP, commercial vehicles, CV business, Tata Motors, the vehicle is still in demand. “The Ultra narrow cab (which was displayed at the recent Auto Expo) is the range that will succeed the 407. The existing one will be continued as long as customers want it.” He added that the new 407 will supersede the 407 and 709 range.

Two years ago, the 407 completed 25 years of its existence. The vehicle has received key upgrades of its engine and mileage along its journey, which helped consolidate its position in the market. An uptick in the CV sector will certainly help sales of the 407 which is an iconic product from the Tata stable. Tata Motors hopes to sell in the region of 2,000 units a month but company sources would not confirm this figure.

Photograph: The Iconic Tata 407 will soon have a 21st-century cousin.