The sixth edition of bauma CONEXPO marked the end of 2024. It spotlighted the rollout of the next-generation construction equipment vehicles and ancillaries at an unprecedented scale, writes Richa Tyagi.
India’s construction equipment industry is experiencing significant growth, fuelled by rapid infrastructure development, urbanisation, and expanding mining activities. The sixth edition of bauma CONEXPO INDIA 2024 served as a pivotal platform, uniting key stakeholders from both demand and supply sides at the India Expo Mart, Greater Noida, Delhi NCR, from December 11-14, 2024. This year’s event witnessed a strong global presence, reflecting India’s rising prominence in infrastructure development and the supporting ecosystem.
Dimitrov Krishnan, Chairman, bauma CONEXPO INDIA 2024 and Managing Director, Volvo Construction Equipment said, “This edition of bauma CONEXPO INDIA underscored the industry’s role as a driver of change, emphasising smarter, more resilient infrastructure solutions. By championing advanced technologies, skill development, and sustainability, the trade fair has provided a powerful blueprint for the future.”
The exhibition featured over 800 participants from India and abroad, spread across a vast 135,000 sq. m.. It attracted over 75,000 visitors from over 100 countries, showcasing the sector’s dynamism and growth potential supported by key associations including the Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers Association (ICEMA), Builders Association of India (BAI), Construction Equipment Rental Association (CERA), Committee for European Construction Equipment (CECE), Spanish Manufacturers Association of Construction and Mining Equipment (ANMOPYC), Cranes Owners Association of India (COAOI), Construction Federation of India (CFI), among others critical to this growth story.
In 2024, India’s construction and mining equipment sector experienced a 26 per cent Year-on-Year (YoY) increase in CEV sales, driven by strong domestic demand and strong export growth. This upward trend creates vast opportunities for innovation and product diversification, attracting both Indian and global manufacturers. However, it also highlighted challenges such as developing a robust ecosystem of component suppliers, skilled service providers, and advanced R&D infrastructure to be recognised as a global hub.
Driving India towards ‘Viksit Bharat’
The theme for this edition, “Banayenge Viksit Bharat,” highlights the event’s commitment to supporting India’s ambitious development goals. Recognising infrastructure as a cornerstone of a thriving and modern nation, the trade fair showcased innovations from global leaders and Indian pioneers alike, all geared towards advancing India’s goal of becoming a USD five trillion economy. To amplify the significance of this vision, Olympic stalwart and ace Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was brought on board as the ambassador for this edition. The sportsman’s resilience and determination are said to reflect the industry’s unwavering commitment to progress and sustainability.
The vision for the CEV industry was highlighted by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari at the inauguration ceremony. In his keynote address, Gadkari outlined his vision for India’s infrastructure development, emphasising sustainable technologies and innovative practices. He stated, “The construction equipment industry is one of the most important contributors to the economy, generating significant revenue through GST for both the state and central governments.” Admitting to this playing a vital role in strengthening the Indian economy as an invaluable contributor to the manufacturing GDP, he hailed the industry as vital for economic growth and development.
With India developing infrastructure of international standards, with a strong focus on critical sectors including waterways and transport, Gadkari lauded the public-private partnerships being mobilised through government policies and budget initiatives. “In the road sector alone, we have planned projects worth rupees five lakh crore annually, with a current pipeline of projects valued at Rs.70 lakh crore. Our goal is to reduce construction costs without compromising quality,” he expressed.
Alternate approach
A major challenge is that much of the machinery and equipment used in the industry relies on fossil fuels. With fossil fuel imports costing Rs.22 lakh crore, this poses a significant economic and environmental challenge. Air pollution is a major concern for sustainable development against the backdrop of several cities like Delhi and Pune enforcing GRAP restrictions. “Our government is actively working on promoting alternative fuels and biofuels. This effort has become a success story, and India has now established a Global Alliance for Alternative Fuels and Biofuels under the G20 framework. I am glad to see the industry moving in the right direction toward sustainable and eco-friendly practices,” he further said.
India is the world’s third-largest construction equipment market, with an industry size of Rs.80,000 crore and an annual Total Industry Volume (TIV) of 1.35 lakh units. In 2024, domestic sales are expected to reach 1.23 lakh units, reflecting an impressive YoY growth of 26 per cent. Exports have also been significant, with over 12,000 units valued at Rs. 6,700 crore. Additionally, market investments in this sector are estimated at Rs.32,000 crore. It generates employment for 30 lakh people. “Looking ahead, construction equipment sales are projected to double, reaching 2.5 lakh units by 2030. Our vision is to transform India into a global manufacturing and export hub for construction equipment,” averred Gadkari.
Gadkari urged industry players to make substantial investments in R&D to ensure long-term success and global competitiveness.
Sany India
SANY India unveiled its latest innovations at the expo under the theme ‘Chariots of Development,’ highlighting its commitment to supporting India’s infrastructure growth and the vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. SANY India showcased how advanced machinery can enhance productivity for engineers, operators, and technicians, contributing to the nation’s sustainable progress. Speaking at the fair, Sanjay Saxena, COO of Sales, Marketing & Customer Support at SANY Heavy Industry India Pvt. Ltd., stated, “Our theme, ‘Chariots of Development,’ highlights the critical role of construction equipment in India’s journey towards development. We are dedicated to delivering innovative, sustainable solutions that incorporate advanced technologies, fuel-efficient systems, and electric equipment. Bauma Conexpo 2024 provides a platform to display our latest offerings and reaffirm our commitment to India’s development goals.” At Bauma Conexpo 2024, SANY India unveiled a lineup of cutting-edge products tailored to meet the demands of modern construction projects. Key highlights included cranes featuring hybrid power modes and smart systems, multifunction piling rigs recognised for their precision and efficiency, and excavators designed to deliver high performance, safety, and operator comfort. The company also showcased aerial work platforms with advanced safety features and digital management systems, reinforcing its focus on innovation and operational excellence. The product lineup included the Electric Reach Stacker SRSC45E3, the BS-V Truck Crane STC600T5P, and the STC600T5P CEV Stage V, among others.
Mahindra Construction Equipment (MCE)
Mahindra Construction Equipment (MCE) launched its advanced CEV5 series of construction equipment, which includes updated models of the EarthMaster Backhoe Loader and RoadMaster Motor Grader. These machines come with more powerful engines and higher torque that comply with CEV5 emission standards. The CEV5 range is designed to address various construction and infrastructure requirements as per Dr Venkat Srinivas, Business Head – Trucks and Bus, and Construction Equipment at Mahindra & Mahindra Group. The EarthMaster SX and SXe Backhoe Loaders, powered by 74 HP engines, deliver versatility for a wide range of construction tasks. The lineup also features the RoadMaster G100 Motor Grader with a 102 hp engine (G90 is available too but not shown), offering increased efficiency in road construction projects. Additionally, the newly introduced RoadMaster G80 Motor Grader is tailored for smaller contractors, providing an easy transition from manual grading to mechanised solutions, ensuring improved precision and productivity. All CEV5 models are equipped with Mahindra IMAXX telematics, a state-of-the-art technology aimed at improving fleet management, enhancing safety, and reducing ownership costs. Alongside the CEV5 range, Mahindra displayed a variety of high-performance products from its construction and transportation portfolio including the BLAZO X Tipper range with the BLAZO X 48 CLS 10×4 and BLAZO X m-DURA, celebrated for their efficiency and durability. The FURIO 10 Fuel Bowser and the BLAZO X 28 Transit Mixer were also on show.
Tata Motors
Tata Motors presented a diverse range of advanced aggregates at the expo. These included CPCB IV+ compliant gensets with power capacities ranging from 25kVA to 125kVA, CEV BS V emission-compliant industrial engines with power outputs from 55-138hp, as well as live axles, trailer axles, and components. These solutions are claimed to have been tailored to meet the evolving demands of material handling, construction equipment, industrial applications, and logistics sectors, offering enhanced efficiency and durability. According to Vikram Agrawal, Head – of Spares and Non-Vehicular Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, these new aggregates are developed through extensive customer feedback. “We are expanding our portfolio to address India’s evolving needs – delivering power solutions with gensets, enabling infrastructure with CEV BS V emission-compliant industrial engines and live axles, and strengthening logistics with trailer axles and components,” he mentioned.
LiuGong India
LiuGong India showcased its Electric Wheel Loader 838TE, setting a new benchmark in sustainable construction solutions. This zero-emission machine combines advanced technology and precision engineering to deliver maximum efficiency, superior performance, and unmatched power, tailored for the demands of modern job sites. Key specifications of the 838TE include an LFP battery with a rated storage energy of 193 kWh, an operating weight of 12.9-tonne, and a payload rating of 3.8-tonne. It features a standard bucket size of 2.4 cu. M., a bucket breakout force of 125 kN, and a standard dump clearance of 2,950 mm, making it a powerful and reliable choice for diverse construction needs. LiuGong unveiled the 908E excavator, equipped with a Yanmar engine delivering a gross power of 62 hp. It features a bucket capacity of 0.32 cubic meters, a digging depth of 4030 mm, and an operating weight of 7.5-tonne (7500 kg). The company also showcased the 915E excavator, powered by a Cummins engine with a gross power of 100 hp and an operating weight of 13.8-tonne (13,800 kg).
Action Construction Equipment (ACE)
Action Construction Equipment Ltd. (ACE) showcased the BS-V(CE-V) AX124 backhoe loader. Powered by a TATA 74 hp engine, this machine features a bold new design with a striking grille, a bonnet, and a premium cabin. It is designed to increase productivity and lower operation costs. The new backhoe loader consumes 15 per cent more fuel compared to its predecessors, but its output per litre of fuel has risen by 15 per cent. It is thus a solution ideal for companies that seek cost-effectiveness at the cost of performance levels. According to Sorab Agarwal, Executive Director at ACE, the BS-V(CE-V) AX124 Backhoe Loader is built to redefine efficiency and performance in the construction sector. This advanced machine offers 15 per cent improved fuel efficiency and 15 per cent higher output per litre of fuel, striking a perfect balance between performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. These features mark a significant step forward in delivering modern, high-performance equipment that is competitively priced to meet the industry’s evolving needs.
Schwing Stetter India
Schwing Stetter India set a target of 20 per cent revenue growth for 2025 during its participation as the only full range player. V.G. Sakthikumar, Chairman and Managing Director, remarked, “The enthusiastic response to our new concrete mixers, pumps, plants, earth-moving equipment, road machinery, specialised machines, and mining equipment, along with the significant orders received, solidifies SSI’s standing as a leading provider of reliable and efficient construction solutions in India. With the addition of crushers, we now cover all five major segments in the CE industry.” The company presented over 45 advanced machines that constituted 25 per cent of new products, along with newly launched crushers in the material handling category and up. The new products included XE215i Excavator for the construction, mining, and heavy equipment sectors. It also showcased the new concrete pump, a boom pump, and range of self-loading mixtures in the lineup.
JK Tyre
JK Tyre & Industries launched its latest range of OTR tyres specifically designed for the mining industry. The new tyre models introduced include the 17.5-25 VEM 63 L5 for wheel loaders, 16.00-25 VEM 99D E3 for wide-body dump trucks, 12.00-24 VEM SMOOTH L5S for load haul dumpers, 300-15 JET LIFT for forklifts, and 10/75-15.3 MPT117 for self-loading concrete mixers. Speaking at the launch, Anuj Kathuria, President (India), JK Tyre & Industries, said, “JK Tyre has consistently driven innovation in the OTR tyre sector, offering robust solutions that enhance productivity in challenging environments. Our latest OTR tyres are built to withstand tough conditions, providing superior durability and efficiency for mining machinery. We remain committed to advancing tyre technology and setting new industry standards.”
Apollo Tyres
Apollo Tyres Ltd. introduced the Apollo Terra Pro 1045, a steel-belted radial tyre designed for backhoe loaders. It also brought in the Apollo Terra MPT 1, an all-steel radial tyre developed for defence applications and multipurpose trucks. The Apollo Terra Pro 1045 is India’s first steel-belted radial tyre tailored for backhoe loaders, designed to perform under tough conditions. Its tread pattern incorporates multiple biting edges and self-cleaning capabilities, ensuring reduced slippage in both wet and dry conditions. The radial construction, combined with a stable hexagonal block design, contributes to lower rolling resistance, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. The Apollo Terra is claimed to have been engineered for self-loading machines, mobile concrete mixers, and compact wheel loaders, featuring an S-shaped tread pattern and open shoulder grooves, delivering enhanced traction and self-cleaning in both forward and reverse directions. The Apollo Terra SS-5, is designed for heavy-duty applications in skid steer machines and features a flatter tread profile for optimal load distribution. The Apollo Terra MT, developed for 60 to 70-tonne dumper trucks, offers increased durability and superior performance as per company claims.
Allison Transmission
At bauma, Allison Transmission introduced the TerraTran, a fully automatic transmission specifically designed for the mining sector. As an enhanced variant of the 4000 Series, the TerraTran offers increased horsepower, torque, and GVW capacity, providing improved drivability, gradability, and manoeuvrability in demanding conditions. It features an input power range of 650 hp and an input torque range of 2800 Nm. Additionally, Allison showcased other advanced products, including the 4800 WBD, another fully automatic transmission with an input power range of 605 hp and an input torque range of 2508 Nm for transporting coal, precious metals, aggregate and other applications.
CEAT Specialty
CEAT Specialty unveiled the MINEMAX X3, a tyre range tailored to meet the rigorous demands of the mining sector, along with the I-Tyre, equipped with technology for real-time performance monitoring. Other offerings included the ROCK XL R 21 and LXLM31 radial tyres, designed for earthmovers and cranes, featuring a cut-resistant compound for tough conditions. CEAT Specialty also showcased its solid tyres for forklifts, providing operational comfort and reduced downtime. Key products include the ELEVETA X3 forklift tyre with deep, non-directional treads and reinforced sidewall protection; the LOAD XL backhoe loader tyre, designed for durability and heat resistance in challenging terrains; the ROCK XL mining tyre with self-cleaning lugs, robust casing, and cut-resistant compounds; and the PORT PRO RX TL 40PR E4, a tyre engineered for port applications with deep treads, heat-resistant materials, and strong bead construction to handle heavy loads.
