Dr. V Sumantran has stepped down from the Vice Chairman post in Hinduja Automotive Ltd, the holding
company of Ashok Leyland effective March 31, 2014. Dr. Sumantran has also
stepped down from his position on the Board of Ashok Leyland Ltd. However, he
will continue as advisor to the Hinduja Group. According to an official
communication from the Hinduja group, Dr. Sumantran will pursue his interests
in academia, research and consulting.
Dr. Sumantran had overseen the LCV business of Ashok Leyland, through
their Joint-Venture with Nissan. During his tenure the company had a new range
of products including the successful Dost commercial vehicle and the passenger
vehicle Stile. Around the 12th Auto Expo 2014, the company had
launched the Partner LCV truck and MiTR LCV Bus.
Dheeraj Hinduja, Co-Chairman, Hinduja Automotive Ltd said: ''Dr.
Sumantran has played a key role in expanding Ashok Leyland's product range and
new businesses and in creating a strong partnership with Nissan. I have greatly
valued his vast experience, knowledge and his advice over the past several
years. I wish him all success in his new pursuits.''
Dr. Sumantran said: ''When I had joined the Board, getting Ashok
Leyland into the LCV business was a major objective. Now, with the launch of
the Partner and Mitr, we have seen completion of the first phase of our
cooperation with Nissan. This was a suitable juncture for me to look to
pursuing other interests, including some work with academia, research and
consulting. I have the privilege to work with a phenomenally motivated and
accomplished team, supportive share-holders and highly experienced Board
colleagues and management. I wish them every success in the years ahead.''