Bharat Benz Torqshift tipper range wins bulk order for mining 

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, has introduced its BharatBenz heavy-duty truck (HDT) range equipped with the globally acclaimed 12-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) technology. The company has received a bulk order of 80 units for its 3532CM mining tippers from a single customer.

BharatBenz expanded its product portfolio with the introduction of the 'Torqshift' transmission. Adapted from Mercedes-Benz trucks, the AMT technology has been tested and proven in hundreds of thousands of Daimler Truck heavy-duty vehicles worldwide. The new transmission will feature in several BharatBenz models, including the 4032T, 5532TS, 5532T, 2832CM, and the flagship 3532CM.

Sreeram Venkateswaran, President and Chief Business Officer, DICV, stated: “Heavy-duty Construction and Mining (CM) trucks are one of our strengths, and we have considerable presence in this space. With the new 12-speed AMT in our CM portfolio, customers will see a significant benefit in productivity improvement and notable savings as the overall fleet efficiency will go up.” The deliveries for the 3532CM Bharat Benz Torqshift trucks have started, and vehicles are already being deployed in operations, he added.

He said the company plans to extend the AMT technology to Tractor Trailers (TT) as well, aiming to enhance productivity and road safety. “This is a segment we foresee growing steadily, and with road infrastructure rapidly shaping up, the BharatBenz Torqshift range will add a lot of value to our long-haul logistics customers. Our AMT technology delivers consistently on the total cost of ownership equation and is ideally engineered to suit Indian conditions.”

The Torqshift transmission is designed for smooth and jerk-free gear shifting, significantly faster shift times, and superior driving comfort. Its integration into the steering column enhances cabin ergonomics, reducing noise and heat for a more comfortable driving experience.

Pradeep Kumar Thimmaiyan, President and Chief Technology Officer, DICV said the 12-speed AMT is a big triumph for the company at India Product Engineering. “We achieved our goal to introduce this transmission in our BharatBenz portfolio after meticulous planning and adaptive engineering, ensuring minimal cost of development. This technology is designed to reduce driving stress, ensure faster turnaround, and deliver higher fuel efficiency. It minimises maintenance, improving the total cost of ownership for our customers.”

The Torqshift range caters to heavy-duty requirements in construction, mining, and long-haul operations. It offers a broader selection of gear ratios and higher input torque capacity, making it suitable for gross combination weights (GCW) ranging from 28 to 55 tonnes. The lightweight alloy housing enhances the power-to-weight ratio, while the elimination of synchromesh parts boosts reliability and reduces maintenance needs.

With features such as extended service intervals, fuel efficiency optimised for operational conditions, and powertrain protection systems, the Torqshift range lowers the total cost of ownership. The advanced shifting mechanism ensures smooth transitions across various driving modes, including auto, manual, power, and eco, promoting safety and comfort.