CHENNAI:
Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer today commenced the ‘Manzil ka Safar’ Stallion Drive from Kanyakumari to Leh. This drive, started on the Kargil Vijay Diwas is a part of the celebrations to mark the momentous occasion of the company’s 75th year anniversary.
‘Manzil ka Safar’, a tribute to Ashok Leyland’s iconic Stallion range of vehicles and its association with the Indian armed forces, kicked off from the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari. The expedition will traverse through diverse terrains, challenging mountain passes, and breathtaking landscapes, culminating in the arduous region of Leh. The journey, will cover 4000 kilometers and will represent the endurance, power, and reliability that have become synonymous with Ashok Leyland vehicles.
Shenu Agarwal, MD and CEO, Ashok Leyland said, “As we commemorate our 75th anniversary, we set out on this journey in honor of the long-standing association with the Indian Armed Forces. The Stallion Drive from Kanyakumari to Leh embodies our commitment to the Indian army. We are proud of our association and we will continue to be relentless in our efforts to break barriers, overcome obstacles and be a trusted partner.”
Amandeep Singh, President LCV, International Operations, Defense & Power Solutions, Ashok Leyland said, “The drive from Kanyakumari to Leh is a symbolic journey of resilience, strength, and unshakable commitment. As Ashok Leyland embarks on the ‘Manzil ka Safar’ Stallion Drive, commemorating 75 years of excellence and our long association with the Indian Army, we forge ahead, embodying the spirit of progress and nation-building. This drive sums up our shared legacy, where the road signifies both, the path we travel and the unity that propels us forward. Let this journey stand as a testament to our firm dedication to serving the Indian Armed Forces.”
Over the years, Ashok Leyland has played a crucial role in meeting the mobility requirements of the Indian Army, providing them with reliable vehicles for various operations. The company’s unwavering commitment to supporting the defence forces is evident through its development of specialized vehicles tailored to meet the army’s unique demands.
Ashok Leyland and the Indian Army share a deep-rooted and enduring association that reflects a strong commitment on both sides. This association is built on Ashok Leyland’s steadfast dedication to meeting the mobility requirements of the Indian Army and exemplifies the company’s steadfast dedication to serving the nation’s defence needs.
During the drive, Ashok Leyland will engage with army veterans, automotive enthusiasts, the general public, and other stakeholders sharing stories of resilience, innovation, and the successful partnership with the Indian Army.
The Stallion Drive promises to be an unforgettable experience, encapsulating the spirit of Ashok Leyland’s journey.
The three Stallion trucks display the three terrains that the Stallion has championed for the Indian Army—forests, deserts, and mountains—as they travel over Indian roadways. The first truck will highlight the long-standing relationship of Ashok Leyland with the Indian Army over the years, while the second truck will pay tribute and salute the Kargil veterans, the third truck will salute the army’s brave hearts and showcase prestigious honors bestowed upon Indian Army personnel to recognize acts of exceptional bravery, valor, and sacrifice.
The Stallion forms the logistical backbone of the Indian Armed Forces, with over 75,000 Stallions used by the Indian Army. In the Kargil War of 1999, Stallion played a crucial role, by carrying battalions of troops to the frontline reliably. Furthermore, it transported the frontline with the essential supplies of ammunition and food.
