Ashok Leyland, a giant in the commercial vehicle industry, introduces the Dost 1.5 Turbo Diesel pickup to southern Africa, offering unparalleled features in the entry-level pickup segment.

The Dost 1.5 Turbo diesel pickup is positioned to capture the attention of small businesses, farmers and fleet operators.

Boasting a 75-year legacy since 1948, Ashok Leyland is a $4.5b company. With a presence in 50 countries and nine manufacturing plants headquartered in Chennai, the company holds the fourth position globally in bus manufacturing and the 19th position in truck manufacturing.

The brand’s products are distributed through Export Trading Group Logistics. Heavier trucks and buses, including electric vehicles, will join the product line-up in the future.

The Dost is powered by a 1478cc three-cylinder turbocharged diesel common rail engine, producing 44kW and 158Nm. It features a short-geared five-speed full synchromesh manual transmission.

It will be available in three models: a chassis cab, fixed sides deck and drop sides deck. The ladder frame chassis with six cross members ensures sturdiness, and the robust suspension system delivers stability on uneven roads. The Dost’s long wheelbase of 2350mm, ground clearance of 177mm and various angles for approach, ramp over and departure make it versatile for both city and rural terrains.

Safety features include an absorption bar in the nose area, emergency locking retractor safety belts and vacuum-assisted hydraulic disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear, with load sensing and proportional valve for efficient braking.

Pricing starts at R229 999 and includes a five-year/500 000km warranty.

Source: Francois van Eeden / Brand Head: Ashok Leyland