Eicher launch in Kolkata serves as a venue for Industry Panel discussion on topic “Behind the Wheel: Driver Productivity for Truck Uptime”

• Building on Eicher’s legacy of pioneering ‘Nayi Soch’ in trucking industry at launch of new Eicher Non-Stop Series of Heavy Duty Trucks in Kolkata
• Meaningful conversations with industry leaders to empower drivers and elevate their skills

29th February 2024, Kolkata: Eicher Trucks & Buses, a business unit of VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV), launched its Non-Stop Series of Heavy Duty Trucks in Kolkata. The event served as a platform for industry leaders to delve into strategies for enhancing driver productivity for ensuring truck uptime. The discussion, rooted in Eicher's ethos of 'Nayi Soch', addressed the driver -a key stakeholder in the rapidly transforming Indian Truck Industry.

The panel discussion "Behind the Wheel: Driver Productivity for Truck Uptime," witnessed insightful discussion from industry leaders highlighting proactive approaches of improving working conditions for drivers and empowering them. Held in the presence of Mr Vinod Aggarwal MD & CEO VECV, the expert panel comprised of Mr. Pramod K Gupta, MD, EFC Logistics, Mr. Sanjay Jain, CEO, Interstate Oil Carrier, Ms. Harinder Pal Kaur, Logistics Head, Northern Cargo Service and Mr. Ramesh Rajagopalan, EVP, Customer Service, Retail Excellence and Network Development VECV. The panel was moderated by Mr. Bhagwan K Bindiganavile, EVP, Strategic Planning, Brand and Communications, VECV.

Central to the discourse were the challenges encountered by truck drivers, the crucial role of OEMs and transport companies in their empowerment, technological advancements and regulatory support for enhancing driver safety in the commercial vehicle sector.

Setting the context, Mr. Bhagwan K Bindiganavile, EVP, Strategic Planning, Brand and Communication, said, “India's commercial vehicle sector is rapidly transforming and growing with the introduction of modern technologies, electrification, and alternate fuels to cater to logistics demands from an always-connected society. I am grateful to our panel for spotlighting the crucial role of drivers and strategies they are adopting to enhance safety and productivity in their operations.”

Emphasizing the significant role of drivers in the industry, Mr. Pramod K Gupta, MD, EFC Logistics, said, “In light of the evolving landscape, it's crucial to address the status of drivers. We must recognize the challenges they face, appreciate their resilience, and strive to improve their working conditions. Implementing incentive programs and advocating for driver welfare are essential steps to attract and retain talent in this vital profession.”

Mr. Sanjay Jain, CEO, Interstate Oil Carrier, added, “As a second-generation businessman in the transport industry, I've observed the critical role driver comfort and welfare programs play in improving the status quo. By prioritizing initiatives such as ergonomic cabin designs, access to essential amenities, and comprehensive welfare programs, we can enhance driver satisfaction and retention rates. These efforts not only contribute to a safer and more comfortable working environment but also foster a sense of respect and appreciation within the industry.”

Addressing the significance of ensuring driver comfort, Ms. Harinder Pal Kaur, Logistics Head, Northern Cargo Service, said “Driver productivity is as crucial as vehicle performance. The integration of predictive technology has substantially elevated overall driver productivity. As drivers drive more and longer, ensuring their comfort is paramount to securing safe and productive logistics. Effective fleet management tools provide smaller transportation businesses the possibility to ensure optimal operations and vehicle usage.”

Mr. Ramesh Rajagopalan, EVP, Customer Service, Retail Excellence and Network Development, added, “At the core of our mission lies driver-centric technology, elevating comfort, safety, and efficiency. Since 2020, our trucks have been equipped with cutting-edge features, including enhanced cabin amenities and intelligent driving information, all seamlessly integrated with My Eicher's app. Through Eicher's Uptime Center, we provide real-time support, effectively combating driver fatigue and ensuring safety and efficiency on the road. Our industry-first crash alert system underscores our commitment to prioritizing driver support and well-being in every aspect of our vehicle design and technology.”

The seminar saw active participation from the panellists, accompanied by a vibrant audience consisting of fleet operators, transportation experts, entrepreneurs, and logistics leaders from Kolkata and neighbouring regions.

Eicher Trucks & Buses was the first to recognize the increasing importance of maximizing fleet uptime through its 100% connected fleet and India’s first Uptime Centre in 2020, with 24X7 service support and remote diagnostics capabilities linked to its widely dispersed service network.