Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN: Powerful, Reliable & Driver-Friendly Tractor-Trailer

The Indian heavy-duty trucking space is witnessing an exciting revival with the return of a legendary name. Ashok Leyland has brought back the iconic HIPPO badge with the launch of the Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN tractor-trailer. Known historically for strength, high payload capability, and rugged reliability, the HIPPO brand has always held a special place in India’s trucking history.

With the new HIPPO 5536 AN, Ashok Leyland has blended legacy toughness with modern engineering, making it a strong contender in today’s MHCV (Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicle) segment. Built on the advanced AVTR modular truck platform, this tractor-trailer is designed to meet the growing demands of long-haul logistics, industrial cargo movement, and heavy-duty applications across India.

Also Read: Ashok Leyland Revives TAURUS and HIPPO with Next-Generation Heavy-Duty Technology

Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN

The revived Ashok Leyland Hippo is not just a name revival; it is a completely re-engineered product built for modern logistics needs. The HIPPO 5536 AN comes in a 6x4 axle configuration, ideal for heavy trailer operations where power, torque, and durability are non-negotiable.

Ashok Leyland has developed this model keeping fleet owners, logistics companies, and long-haul operators in mind. The focus is clear - higher uptime, better fuel efficiency under load, improved driver comfort, and strong return on investment.

Top 5 Important Features of the New Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN

The Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN stands out because it combines proven heavy-duty engineering with modern technology. Below are its key highlights explained in detail.

1. A-Series 8-Litre Engine for Powerful and Reliable Performance

At the heart of the HIPPO 5536 AN is Ashok Leyland’s robust A-Series 8.0-litre, 6-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is tuned to deliver:

• Maximum Power: 360 HP

• Peak Torque: 1,600 Nm

This high torque output ensures strong pulling power, even when hauling fully loaded trailers on highways, flyovers, gradients, or uneven terrains. It helps fleet operators maintain consistent speed and productivity on long routes.

The engine is paired with a 430 mm air-assisted clutch and a 9-speed 15409 heavy-duty synchromesh gearbox, which together ensure smooth gear shifts, reduced driver fatigue, and better durability under continuous heavy-load operations.

Another practical addition is the rear-mounted heavy-duty air intake system with an elevated snorkel. By drawing cleaner and cooler air from a higher position, the system improves engine efficiency and offers better protection in dusty, industrial, or off-road environments.

2. Heavy-Duty Rear Bogie Suspension and Strong Chassis

Durability is a key expectation from any heavy tractor-trailer, and the Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN delivers on this front.

It features:

• A reinforced bolted-type chassis frame with 8 mm thickness, ensuring high structural strength

• Hub-reduction rear axle, designed for heavy torque transmission and long service life

This robust setup enables the truck to handle heavy payloads safely and consistently, making it suitable for demanding haulage tasks.

Suspension and Braking Setup

The suspension system is tuned for both load-bearing capability and ride comfort:

• Front: Parabolic leaf springs with shock absorbers

• Rear: Bogie suspension with rubber bolster

To improve vehicle stability, anti-roll bars are included, reducing body roll during sharp turns or sudden manoeuvres.

For braking, the truck is equipped with:

• Full air brakes

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

• ASA (Automatic Slack Adjuster)

These features ensure reliable braking performance, especially when the truck is fully loaded, enhancing safety on highways and downhill stretches.

3. Factory-Built Sleeper Cabin for Enhanced Driver Comfort

Long-haul operations demand better driver comfort, and Ashok Leyland has paid special attention to this aspect in the HIPPO 5536 AN.

The truck comes with a factory-built sleeper cabin, designed to reduce fatigue during long journeys. The cabin layout is ergonomic, allowing drivers to maintain better posture and comfort over extended driving hours.

Cabin Highlights

• Sleeper berth for rest during long trips

• HVAC provision (optional) for improved cabin climate control

• Practical storage spaces for personal items

The tiltable cabin is another major advantage. It allows the cabin to tilt forward, offering easy and quick access to the engine bay. This reduces maintenance time, improves serviceability, and ultimately increases vehicle uptime.

4. Standard and Optional Safety Features for Confident Driving

Safety is critical in heavy commercial vehicles, and the Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN comes equipped with several modern safety and driver-assist features.

Standard Safety Features

• Hill Start Assist, which prevents rollback on slopes

• Automatic Traction Control (ATC) for better grip in slippery or uneven conditions

These systems help drivers maintain control in challenging driving situations, improving both safety and confidence.

Optional Safety and Convenience Features

Fleet operators can further enhance safety by opting for:

• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

• Reverse camera

• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

These optional features support preventive maintenance, reduce accidents, and contribute to better overall fleet efficiency.

5. Optimised Dimensions and Turning Radius for Easy Manoeuvrability

Despite being a heavy-duty tractor-trailer, the HIPPO 5536 AN is designed for practical manoeuvrability.

Key specifications include:

• Front axle weight: 7,000 kg

• Rear axle weight: 21,000 kg

• Gross Combination Weight (GCW): 55,000 kg

• Wheelbase: 3,900 mm

The truck offers a turning circle diameter of 14.3 metres, making it easier to navigate highways, loading yards, and industrial zones without frequent multi-point turns.

Tyres and Fuel Capacity

• Tyres: 11R20 BGS HR Axle tyres with 20-inch heavy-duty rims

• Fuel tank capacity: 375 litres

• DEF tank capacity: 60 litres

This large fuel capacity supports long-distance operations with fewer refuelling stops, improving trip efficiency and reliability.

Also Read: Top 10 Electric Trucks in India 2026: Price, Range, & Payload

Key Specifications at a Glance

Applications of Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN

The Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN is designed for a wide range of heavy-duty applications, including:

• Bulk commodity transportation

• Industrial raw material movement

• Over-dimensional cargo (ODC)

• Long-haul logistics operations

• Infrastructure and construction support

Its strong engine, durable chassis, and driver-friendly design make it suitable for both national highways and challenging industrial routes.

Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN Price in India

Based on market expectations, the Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN price is likely to fall in the range of ₹40–45 lakh (ex-showroom). Actual Truck Price in India may vary depending on region, optional features, and fleet-specific configurations.

Competition in the MHCV Segment

The HIPPO 5536 AN enters a competitive space and will face strong rivals such as:

• Tata Signa 5530.S

• Tata Prima 5530.S

• Ashok Leyland 5525 6x4

• Mahindra Blazo X 55

• Eicher Pro 6055

Despite the competition, Ashok Leyland’s brand reputation, service network, and the legendary HIPPO legacy give it a solid advantage.

Can HIPPO 5536 AN Redefine the MHCV Segment?

With the launch of the Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN, the company has successfully reintroduced a legend tailored for modern logistics needs. Built for heavy-duty, long-distance haulage, this tractor-trailer offers a strong mix of power, durability, safety, and driver comfort.

Ashok Leyland claims improved operational efficiency and better return on investment, making it a promising option for fleet operators. If performance on the road matches its engineering promise, the HIPPO 5536 AN has the potential to set new benchmarks in the Indian MHCV market and strengthen Ashok Leyland’s position among leading Ashok Leyland trucks in India.

Also Read: New Tata Azura 710 in India: Complete Details, Features, Payload, Engine & Why It’s a Smart Cargo Truck Choice

CMV360 Says

The Ashok Leyland HIPPO 5536 AN is a powerful, reliable, and driver-friendly tractor-trailer designed for modern heavy-haul operations. With its robust 8-litre engine, durable chassis, advanced safety features, and comfortable sleeper cabin, it addresses the key needs of fleet operators in India. Offering strong payload capacity, efficient fuel usage, and excellent manoeuvrability, the HIPPO 5536 AN promises high uptime and better ROI. It has the potential to redefine the MHCV segment and strengthen Ashok Leyland’s market leadership.