How ACE Balances Scale, Technology & Sustainability in India’s Construction Equipment Industry

Key Highlights:

• ACE expands green fleet with electric forklifts, CEV-V cranes.

• Developed defence-grade RTFLTs, securing major Army orders.

• Embeds IoT, telematics, and real-time diagnostics in machines.

• Faridabad plant powered by solar, promotes water reuse.

• Trains skilled manpower, exports to Asia, Africa, Latin America.

India’s construction equipment (CE) industry is rapidly evolving due to infrastructure growth, environmental regulations, and rising global expectations. Leading this change is Action Construction Equipment (ACE), a major player in cranes and lifting solutions. ACE is actively focusing on sustainability, advanced technology, and localized manufacturing to meet the sector’s growing demands responsibly.

Green Machines Are the Future

According to Manish Mathur, CEO of Cranes at ACE, sustainable machinery is no longer a luxury but a necessity. With stricter environmental regulations and the need for efficient solutions, ACE is expanding its eco-friendly product line. This includes electric forklifts, CEV-V compliant cranes, and the AX 124 Backhoe Loader, which features a TATA-sourced 74hp engine offering 15% higher fuel efficiency than previous BS-IV models.

This model also uses Carraro axle and transmission systems to ensure smooth torque on tough terrains. For ACE, sustainability means designing equipment that is both environmentally responsible and customer-focused in performance and cost-efficiency.

Defence-Grade Machinery Built in India

ACE has successfully adapted its engineering strengths to serve India’s defence sector. It has developed Rough Terrain Forklifts (RTFLTs) with four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and modular attachments, rigorously tested from Leh to Rajasthan.

Through collaboration with the Indian Army, ACE has developed 1–2 tonne RTFLTs from scratch and secured its largest-ever defence order. These machines are being deployed in missile systems, heavy recovery vehicles (in partnership with Ashok Leyland), and military logistics. By offering cost-effective and localized solutions, ACE has positioned itself as a strategic partner to India’s defence forces, not just a supplier.

Smart Technology at the Core

ACE is ahead of the curve in adopting Industry 4.0 technologies. Many of its cranes and high-performance machines are equipped with telematics, IoT systems, and real-time diagnostics. These features help in predictive maintenance, remote monitoring, and intelligent load management, ensuring higher safety and machine uptime.

Additional features like collision avoidance sensors, remote-control operation, and real-time data tracking have become standard. ACE is also developing digital twin technology, which enables virtual simulation of real-world operations, saving time and improving safety.

Scaling Sustainably at Faridabad Plant

At its Faridabad facility, ACE produces over 12,000 construction machines and 9,000 tractors annually. Despite large-scale production, sustainability remains central. The facility has a 1.8 MW solar plant, rainwater harvesting, and 40 acres of green zones. Treated water is reused for irrigation, and energy efficiency is a core part of the manufacturing process.

The shift to CEV-V compliant engines has significantly reduced harmful pollutants like NOx, while operator cabins meet ROPS and FOPS safety standards. These initiatives strengthen ACE’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) credentials and enhance its appeal in global markets.

Global Vision, Local Strength

As India rises to become the third-largest CE market globally, ACE is creating globally competitive machines through in-house design and engineering. Its products are now in demand across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

To support this global reach, ACE focuses on training skilled manpower. Its training center in Faridabad provides hands-on experience with equipment and digital tools for technicians, operators, and dealers. Additionally, partnerships with institutions like Shri Vishwakarma Skill University help ACE develop a future-ready workforce.

Also Read: Domestic Construction Equipment Sales Down 5% in Q1 FY26, Exports Surge 34%

CMV360 Says

ACE’s transformation from a volume-based manufacturer to a sustainability-driven engineering leader reflects the maturity of India’s CE industry. By integrating emission compliance, digital technology, and defence-grade quality, ACE is not just growing in India but also building a strong global brand.