Force Motors: Driving Innovation in Indian Automotive Manufacturing

Force Motors Ltd, previously known as Bajaj Tempo Motors, is a prominent Indian multinational automotive manufacturing company headquartered in Pune, Maharashtra, India. Founded in 1958 by N.K. Firodia, Force Motors is recognized for its pioneering work in the automotive industry and its diverse range of products. This article explores the rich history of Force Motors, its transformation into a major player in the automotive sector, and its impressive line of vehicles, including commercial vehicles, multi-utility vehicles, and sports utility vehicles.

A Legacy of Innovation

Force Motors was established through a joint venture between Bachraj Trading Ltd and Germany’s Tempo in 1958. Initially, the company was known for its iconic brands like Tempo, Matador, Minidor, and Traveller. Over the years, it has forged partnerships with renowned global manufacturers such as Daimler, ZF, Bosch, VW, Traton, and MAN, reflecting its commitment to innovation and growth.

The Tempo Matador: Pioneering Diesel Light Commercial Vehicles

One of the remarkable milestones in Force Motors’ history was the production of the Tempo Matador, India’s first diesel light commercial vehicle. This groundbreaking achievement set the stage for the company’s journey in manufacturing reliable and efficient commercial vehicles.

A Dynamic Partnership with Daimler

In 1971, the Firodia Group acquired a majority stake in Bajaj Tempo, marking the start of a successful collaboration. However, in 2001, Daimler-Benz, which had held a 16.8 percent stake in Bajaj Tempo, divested its shares due to limited synergy between the two companies. Despite this, Force Motors continued to thrive in the automotive industry.

Becoming Force Motors: A New Identity

In 2005, the company underwent a significant transformation and was renamed Force Motors, symbolizing its strength and innovation in the automotive sector. This change reflected the company’s evolving identity and growing influence in the industry.

Collaborating with MAN: Setting New Milestones

Force Motors reached new heights through technology sourcing agreements with MAN SE in 2003. These agreements led to the formation of MAN Force Trucks Pvt. Ltd, a joint venture dedicated to manufacturing heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs) with a wide range of gross vehicle weights (GVW) from 16t to 49t.

Innovating with In-House Design: The Traveller 26

In 2012, Force Motors unveiled the Traveller 26, a monocoque panel van designed entirely in-house. This innovative vehicle offered seating for 26 passengers and featured advanced safety features like ABS and EBD. The Traveller 26 demonstrated Force Motors’ commitment to creating high-quality and safe vehicles.

Engine Production for BMW and Mercedes

In 2015, Force Motors secured a contract with BMW to establish a new facility in Chennai dedicated to producing and testing engines and transmissions exclusively for BMW cars and SUVs manufactured in India. This facility has an impressive annual production capacity of up to 20,000 engines per year. Additionally, a new plant inaugurated in Pune in 2016 assembles and tests engines for all Mercedes cars and SUVs produced in India.

Joining Forces with Rolls-Royce Power Systems

In March 2018, Force Motors embarked on a significant joint venture with Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG to manufacture 10- and 12-cylinder Series 1600 engines, with power ranging from 545 hp to 1050 hp. These engines are intended for power generation and underfloor rail applications, showcasing Force Motors’ commitment to expanding its scope and capabilities.

The Diverse Product Range

Force Motors takes pride in its extensive product portfolio, including:

Light Commercial Vehicles

• Force Traveller range of vehicles, including Traveller 26, School Bus, Ambulance, Quick Response Vehicle, and Royale
• Force Monobus
• Force Urbania
• Matador (Discontinued)

Small Commercial Vehicles

• Shaktiman 200
• Shaktiman 400
• Tempo Hanseat (Discontinued)
• Tempo Excel (Discontinued)
• Minidor (Discontinued)

Multi Utility Vehicles

• All-new Force Trax, including Toofan, Cruiser, and Cruiser Deluxe
• Kargo King Grand
• Trax Delivery Van
• Trax Ambulance
• Citiline
• Trax Gama (Discontinued)
• Tempo Trax Judo (Discontinued)
• Tempo Trax Pickup (Discontinued)

Agricultural Vehicles

• Balwan Tractors
• Orchard Tractors
• Sanman Tractors
• Abhiman Tractors

Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs)

• Force One SUV (Discontinued)
• Force Gurkha

Force Motors, with a legacy spanning over six decades, has consistently driven innovation in the Indian automotive manufacturing sector. Its diverse range of vehicles, strong partnerships with global manufacturers, and its commitment to producing high-quality engines and transmissions have established it as a leading player in the industry. Force Motors continues to contribute to India’s