Small Commercial Vehicles in India

The small commercial vehicle has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments in the overall commercial vehicle sector. The SCVs in India typically consist of mini-trucks and pickups ranging from the sub 1T mini trucks to 3.5T GVW Pickups. The mini-truck prices range between 1.53 lakhs to 7.5 lakhs, while the pickups start from 5.1 to 18.07 lakhs. Customers can choose from the widest product range based on the applications the vehicle is being used.

SCVs are primarily deployed into the last-mile deliveries and distribution right from the small business to the customer's doorsteps. These omnipresent mini trucks are a vital element of the overall logistics and transport industry in cities, towns and villages alike. What makes SCV critical into the supply chain is the compact size, small turning radius and easy maneuverability even in the most congested roads. Along with quick loading and unloading of shipments make them essential.

The SCVs have some of the most popular brands in India, including Ace gold, Jeeto, Super Carry, Intra V30, Alfa Load mini trucks and Dost+, Bolero Maxitruck Plus, Dost Strong pickups and among others.

The rapid growth in this segment prompted several Indian truck OEMs to strike this segment with compelling product offerings. Tata Motors pioneered this segment back in 2005 with the introduction of Ace, which gave birth to a vibrant SCV segment in India. The Ace mini trucks become a strong family of over ten different tracks. Another home-grown brand Mahindra &Mahindra (M&M), established itself in the segment with its iconic Bolero Pikup range. Tata Motors and M&M have emerged at the top player in the SCVs with innovative, value for money and suitable product portfolio.

Sensing an opportunity this growing segment, India's largest PV makers Maruti Suzuki, too, entered this burgeoning segment with its only CV, the Super Carry mini truck. So does Ashok Leyland, which has a Dost range of mini-trucks which become popular among small Indian transporters.