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

Key Highlights

• Iconic TAURUS and HIPPO brands reintroduced with modern technology.

• Powered by 360 hp A-Series 8.0-litre engines with 1,600 Nm torque.

• Designed for mining, infrastructure, and heavy-duty haulage.

• Built on the AVTR modular platform with multiple configurations.

• Focus on higher uptime, driver comfort, and better profitability.

Ashok Leyland has officially brought back two of its most iconic heavy commercial vehicle brands – TAURUS and HIPPO. Known for their rugged build and long-standing reliability, these legendary nameplates have been reintroduced with modern engineering and next-generation technology to meet the growing needs of India’s infrastructure-led economy.

TAURUS has returned as Ashok Leyland’s high-horsepower tipper range, while HIPPO now anchors the company’s heavy-duty tractor portfolio. The revival blends decades of legacy with advanced features aimed at higher productivity, better fuel efficiency, improved uptime, and enhanced driver comfort.

Grand Launch in New Delhi

The new TAURUS and HIPPO range was unveiled at a launch event in New Delhi by Mr. Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director and CEO, Ashok Leyland, in the presence of Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, President – MHCV, and Ms. Madhavi Deshmukh, National Sales Head. The event was attended by customers, dealers, and members of the media.

Both ranges are built on Ashok Leyland’s AVTR modular truck platform, offering multiple configurations and feature options to suit different applications. Bookings and deliveries have now started across Ashok Leyland dealerships in India.

Built for India’s Heavy-Duty Needs

Speaking at the launch, Shenu Agarwal said that the revived TAURUS and HIPPO trucks are purpose-built for demanding applications such as mining, infrastructure, and construction. He highlighted that the vehicles are powered by Ashok Leyland’s A-Series 6-cylinder engines, offering industry-leading power and torque. These engines are designed to deliver unmatched durability, faster turnaround times, higher productivity, and long-term reliability.

Adding to this, Sanjeev Kumar explained that TAURUS and HIPPO are more than just product names. They are brands that earned the trust of generations of Indian transporters. With tippers and tractors being among the fastest-growing segments in the MHCV industry, these vehicles must operate reliably in harsh terrains and extreme conditions. The new range focuses on ease of operation, reduced driver fatigue, improved component life, and higher uptime, directly helping fleet owners improve profitability.

A Legacy Reborn

The comeback of TAURUS and HIPPO carries deep historical significance in India’s commercial vehicle space.

HIPPO, widely used from the 1980s to the early 2000s, became a benchmark heavy hauler of its time. Known for its heavy-duty aggregates, strong structure, and dependable performance, it earned a reputation as a true workhorse across multiple applications.

TAURUS, on the other hand, holds a special place as India’s first multi-axle truck. Its consistent performance in high-load and tough operating conditions made it a preferred choice for heavy-duty operations nationwide. Even today, multi-axle tippers are often generically called “TAURUS” by fleet operators, highlighting the brand’s lasting impact and recall in the industry.

Next-Generation Performance and Engineering

The latest TAURUS and HIPPO range builds on this strong legacy while introducing modern engineering and advanced technology. Both ranges are powered by an 8.0-litre A-Series six-cylinder engine that produces 360 hp and a peak torque of 1,600 Nm. This ensures strong pulling power, better fuel efficiency, and reliable performance in demanding environments.

Reinforced chassis construction, heavy-duty drivetrains, and improved vehicle stability are designed to deliver durability and consistent output while enhancing driver comfort. The upgrades also help reduce maintenance needs and improve lifecycle economics for fleet operators.

TAURUS is developed for large-scale infrastructure projects and mining operations, where sustained high-output performance is critical. HIPPO is designed for heavy-duty tractor applications, including the transportation of bulk commodities, industrial raw materials, and over-dimensional cargo.

Key Features of Ashok Leyland TAURUS

The new TAURUS tipper range comes with several heavy-duty and productivity-focused features:

It is powered by an A-Series six-cylinder 8.0-litre engine delivering 360 hp with a best-in-class torque of 1,600 Nm over a wider rpm range. A 430 mm diameter clutch and heavy-duty 9S 15409 synchromesh gearbox ensure smooth and reliable power delivery.

The vehicle features a rear-mounted heavy-duty air intake system with elevated snorkel height, a tilt-able TAURUS day cabin for improved safety and ride comfort, a heavy-duty propeller shaft, and a hub reduction rear axle. The industry-best 9 mm thick heavy-duty frame adds strength and durability.

For better stability, it comes with a 10-tonne zero-drop front axle with unitised bearing, front parabolic leaf springs with shock absorbers and anti-roll bar, and a rear bogie suspension with rubber bolster and anti-roll bar. Enhanced oil drain intervals help reduce maintenance costs, while standard features such as hill start assist and automatic traction control improve safety and ease of operation.

TAURUS Load Body Options

The TAURUS range offers multiple load body configurations:

• 6×4: 16 m³ box, 18 m³ box, 16 m³ rock body

• 8×4: 23 m³ box, 26 m³ box, 19 m³ rock body

Key Features of Ashok Leyland HIPPO

The HIPPO tractor range is also powered by the A-Series six-cylinder 8.0-litre engine delivering 360 hp and 1,600 Nm of torque. It features the same 430 mm clutch and heavy-duty 9S 15409 synchromesh gearbox for reliable heavy-duty performance.

HIPPO comes with a rear-mounted heavy-duty air intake system, a tilt-able sleeper cabin for better ride comfort and safety, and a heavy-duty propeller shaft. The 8 mm thick heavy-duty frame and hub reduction rear axle ensure strength under heavy loads.

Suspension duties are handled by front parabolic leaf springs with shock absorbers and an anti-roll bar, and a rear bogie suspension with a rubber bolster and an anti-roll bar for the 6×4 tractor variant. Standard safety features include hill start assist and automatic traction control.

Optional features available on HIPPO include a tyre pressure monitoring system, reverse camera, and advanced driver assistance systems, further enhancing safety and driver confidence.

Focus on Profitability and Uptime

With improved cabin comfort, stronger drivetrains, and faster turnaround times, the new TAURUS and HIPPO range is designed to deliver higher uptime, better operational efficiency, and improved profitability for fleet owners. Ashok Leyland’s focus on customer-centric innovation and operational excellence is clearly reflected in the revival of these legendary brands.

By combining proven ruggedness with modern technology, Ashok Leyland aims to strengthen its position in the heavy commercial vehicle segment and support India’s growing infrastructure and logistics needs.

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CMV360 Says

The revival of Ashok Leyland’s TAURUS and HIPPO marks a strong return of two legendary heavy-duty truck brands, now upgraded with next-generation technology. Built for mining, construction, and infrastructure needs, the new range focuses on higher power, better durability, improved driver comfort, and lower operating costs. With modern engines, robust design, and advanced safety features, TAURUS and HIPPO aim to deliver higher uptime and profitability for Indian fleet operators.