Ashok Leyland has reintroduced two of its legacy heavy-duty truck brands – TAURUS and HIPPO. Revived for contemporary applications, TAURUS returns as the company’s high-horsepower tipper range, while HIPPO anchors the tractor portfolio. The reintroduction marks the comeback of two nameplates historically associated with ruggedness and reliability, now re-engineered with next-generation technology to address the evolving requirements of India’s infrastructure-led economy.
The vehicles were 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, along with customers, dealers and members of the media.
Engineered for higher productivity, improved uptime, better fuel efficiency and enhanced driver comfort, the new TAURUS and HIPPO range aims to deliver improved lifecycle economics and higher profitability for fleet operators. Built on Ashok Leyland’s AVTR modular truck platform, the range offers multiple configurations and feature options to suit varied applications. Both TAURUS and HIPPO are now open for bookings and deliveries across Ashok Leyland dealerships in India.
Addressing the media, Shenu Agarwal, said, “TAURUS and HIPPO are purpose-built for heavy-duty requirements of mining, infrastructure, and construction applications. The new truck range is powered by Ashok Leyland’s A-Series 6-cylinder engines, now with industry-leading peak torque and power, delivering unmatched durability and reliability, higher productivity and faster turnaround times.”
Sanjeev Kumar, added, “HIPPO and TAURUS aren’t just product names; they are legends that earned the trust of generations of Indian transporters. These names became synonymous with heavy-duty performance across Indian highways and mining sites, and that’s the legacy we’re building upon. Tippers and tractors are among the fastest-growing segments in the MHCV industry, playing a critical role in India’s infrastructure growth. Operating in harsh terrains and extreme conditions, these vehicles demand superior reliability, robustness, and driver comfort. The new TAURUS and HIPPO combine that legendary ruggedness with cutting-edge technology. We have significantly enhanced ease of operation, reduced driver fatigue, and improved component life. Features such as higher drivetrain durability and faster turnaround times will directly translate into higher uptime and better profitability for our customers. This launch underscores our commitment to customer-centric innovation and operational excellence.”
A legacy reborn
The TAURUS and HIPPO nameplates carry decades of operational history and customer trust. HIPPO, which saw widespread adoption from the 1980s through the early 2000s, established itself as a benchmark heavy hauler of its time. Known for its heavy-duty aggregates, the platform earned a reputation for reliability, ruggedness, power and structural sturdiness, becoming a dependable workhorse for fleet owners across applications.
TAURUS, meanwhile, is widely recognised as India’s first multi-axle truck and went on to define benchmarks for heavy-duty operations. Its consistent performance in demanding conditions made it a preferred choice for high-load applications across the country. Even today, multi-axle tippers are often generically referred to as “TAURUS” by fleet operators – underlining the enduring recall and impact of the brand within the commercial vehicle industry.
Next-generation performance
The latest TAURUS and HIPPO range builds on this legacy while integrating modern engineering and advanced technology. Powered by an 8.0-litre A-Series six-cylinder engine, the new range delivers 360 hp and a peak torque of 1,600 Nm. Reinforced chassis construction, heavy-duty drivetrains and enhanced vehicle stability are aimed at ensuring durability and consistent performance in demanding operating conditions, while also improving driver comfort.
TAURUS has been developed for large-scale infrastructure projects and challenging mining environments, combining its established tipper heritage with upgraded systems for sustained high-output operations. HIPPO, positioned for heavy-duty tractor applications, is designed for bulk commodities, industrial raw materials and over-dimensional cargo transportation. Improvements in cabin comfort, drivetrain durability and turnaround times are expected to translate into higher uptime, operational efficiency and improved lifecycle economics for fleet operators.
Key features – TAURUS
– A-Series, six-cylinder 8.0-litre engine delivering 360 hp
– Best-in-class torque of 1,600 Nm over a wider rpm range
– 430 mm diameter clutch
– Heavy-duty 9S 15409 synchromesh gearbox
– Rear-mounted heavy-duty air intake system with elevated snorkel height
– Tilt-able TAURUS day cabin for improved ride comfort and safety
– Heavy-duty propeller shaft
– Heavy-duty hub reduction rear axle
– Industry-best heavy-duty 9 mm thick frame
– 10-tonne zero-drop front axle with unitised bearing
– Front parabolic leaf springs with shock absorber and anti-roll bar
– Rear bogie suspension with rubber bolster and anti-roll bar
– Enhanced oil drain intervals
– Standard features include hill start assist and automatic traction control
Load body options
6×4 – 16 m³ box, 18 m³ box, 16 m³ rock
8×4 – 23 m³ box, 26 m³ box, 19 m³ rock
Key features – HIPPO
– A-Series, six-cylinder 8.0-litre engine delivering 360 hp
– Best-in-class torque of 1,600 Nm over a wider rpm range
– 430 mm diameter clutch
– Heavy-duty 9S 15409 synchromesh gearbox
– Rear-mounted heavy-duty air intake system with elevated snorkel height
– Tilt-able HIPPO sleeper cabin for improved ride comfort and safety
– Heavy-duty propeller shaft
– Heavy-duty frame with 8 mm thickness
– Heavy-duty hub reduction rear axle
– Front parabolic leaf springs with shock absorber and anti-roll bar
– Rear bogie suspension with rubber bolster and anti-roll bar (for 6×4 tractor)
– Standard features include hill start assist and automatic traction control
– Optional features include tyre pressure monitoring system, reverse camera and advanced driver assistance systems
