Daimler India Commercial Vehicles launched its new BharatBenz Construction and Mining range, comprising HX and Torqshift series models, targeting India's rapidly expanding construction and mining equipment sector that is projected to grow from $16 billion to $45 billion by 2030.
The launch comes as India's mining and construction equipment sector experiences significant momentum. According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, the sector is expected to reach Rs. 3,83,850 crore (US$ 45 billion) by 2030, representing a 19% compound annual growth rate. India is projected to become the third-largest construction market globally, following China and the United States, by 2025.
The new range underwent extensive validation through real-world trials involving more than 150 trucks deployed across India's demanding construction and mining sites. These trials demonstrated improvements in uptime, operational efficiency, and profitability before full-scale production commenced.
Satyakam Arya, Managing Director and CEO of Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, "India's construction and mining sector continues to be one of our strongest business pillars, powering the next phase of national development. We're seeing a decisive shift as large contractors invest in owned assets for better control and long-term returns. Many fleets are 8-10 years old and reaching the end-of-life, creating a major replacement cycle. Our extensive customer trials with 150+ trucks have validated the real-world performance and profitability impact these vehicles deliver."
The expanded portfolio addresses a market shift where large contractors increasingly invest in owned assets rather than relying on rental equipment, driven by the need for better operational control and long-term returns. This trend coincides with fleet modernization requirements as many existing vehicles approach end-of-life status.
Comprehensive Product Range
The BharatBenz Construction and Mining lineup encompasses three distinct categories designed for specific applications. The HX series includes the 2828C HX and 3532C HX models, engineered for extreme durability and productivity. These vehicles offer two power configurations: 280 horsepower with 1100 Newton-meters of torque and 320 horsepower with 1250 Newton-meters of torque.
Key features of the HX series include Hill Hold Assist technology, unitized front axle bearings, wind deflectors, and advanced driver state monitoring systems. The vehicles achieve high gradeability capabilities, with the 2828C model capable of climbing grades up to 60 percent and the 3532C model handling grades up to 54 percent while carrying full loads.
The specialized Torqshift series, comprising 2832CM and 3532CM variants, incorporates automated manual transmission technology designed for mining applications. This series delivers enhanced fuel efficiency, faster turnaround times, and improved operator comfort for demanding mining operations.
For ready-mix concrete applications, the 2828C RMC variant features a 9 cubic meter capacity and utilizes the OM 926 BSVI OBD-II engine generating 280 horsepower and 1100 Newton-meters of torque.
Pradeep Kumar Thimmaiyan, President and Chief Technology Officer at Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, "We designed the HX by listening to customers. Priority for vehicles with higher payload capacities, faster TAT and fleet managers demanding lower maintenance costs. Every component re-design addresses real customer challenges. We've prioritized driver safety with full EU ECE R29-03 cabin compliance and best-in-class safety features."
Market Context and Infrastructure Development
The launch aligns with India's significant infrastructure development initiatives. The Indian government is working towards expanding the national highway network to 200,000 kilometers by 2025 with an investment of $350 billion. This massive infrastructure push creates substantial demand for heavy-duty construction and mining equipment.
India's construction equipment market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 8.9 percent from 2022 to 2028, reaching over $8.7 billion by 2028 from $5.2 billion in 2022. This growth trajectory reflects the sustained demand for construction equipment across various segments.
The mining sector also contributes to equipment demand. India's underground mining equipment market is projected to grow from $7.4 billion in 2023 to an estimated $13.5 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.68 percent.
Rajiv Chaturvedi, President and Chief Business Officer at Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, "Fleet operators increasingly demand maximum uptime and swift maintenance solutions. The HX range helps operators minimize project delays and optimize operations. We're seeing strong demand for factory-fitted features—GPS, hill start assist and driver comfort amenities. Also, safety innovations like reverse cameras and driver state monitoring are becoming customer priorities."
Distribution and Service Infrastructure
The expanded portfolio will be available through BharatBenz's network of 385 dealer touchpoints across India. The company supports this distribution network with comprehensive service infrastructure, including 15,000-hour annual maintenance contracts designed to enhance operational reliability.
An advanced uptime center integrates diagnostic technology with specialized technical expertise to deliver predictive maintenance solutions. The center leverages data analytics and real-time vehicle monitoring to enable fleet operators to maintain optimal vehicle performance while reducing unexpected service interruptions.
The comprehensive feature set of the HX range includes unitized bearing systems at the front axle to reduce maintenance requirements and extend service life. Inter-axle and inter-wheel differential lock systems provide superior traction control for challenging terrain navigation. Bolster bogie suspension with shock absorbers enhances load capacity, stability, and ride comfort for heavy-duty applications.
Transmission options include G131 and G131HD configurations with nine forward gears plus one reverse, featuring synchromesh technology. The heavy-duty variant is available for extreme applications requiring additional durability.
The new range incorporates enhanced aerodynamics through wind deflector systems, contributing to improved fuel economy. Better approach angles and improved ground clearance optimize the vehicles for mining operations and challenging terrain navigation.
BharatBenz has established its position as a partner in India's construction and mining sectors, with vehicles contributing to major infrastructure projects nationwide.