Driving Deep into the BharatBenz 5532: A Heavy Hauler with Muscle & Thought

When you hear “5532,” think of a heavyweight champion built for long hauls, heavy loads, and demanding jobs. BharatBenz’s 5532T family (available in 4×2, 6×4, and HR variants) is designed to carry serious freight, especially when paired with trailers or used in tipper configurations. But it’s not just brute force — there’s a method to its engineering, with a legacy of German-Daimler DNA translated into rugged Indian roads.

Powertrain & Performance

Under the hood of the 5532 is the OM 926 six-cylinder engine (7,200 cc displacement) — a proven workhorse. In its BS-VI variant, it delivers 236 kW (around 320 HP) and churns out a hefty 1,250 Nm of torque in the 1,200-1,600 rpm band.

That torque allows the truck to carry massive loads. For the 6×4 version, the gross vehicle weight (GVW) climbs up to 55,000 kg, provided a suitable three-axle trailer is used.

Mated to this engine is a mechanical, 9-speed G131 gearbox (9 forward + 1 reverse), which gives the driver a good spread of ratios to manage both heavy loads and highway speeds.

Chassis, Dimensions & Build

• Suspension: The 5532T is built tough. The 6×4 uses a bogie rear suspension (ideal for very heavy trailer loads), while the 4×2 model has a semi-elliptical leaf spring setup with auxiliary springs.
• Frame: Ladder frame with solid cross-members (288 mm × 70 mm × 9 mm) gives enough structural rigidity for demanding loads.
• Dimensions (6×4): Wheelbase ~3,975 mm, overall length ~6,935 mm, ground clearance ~255 mm.
• Fuel & Fluids: Comes with a 455 L fuel tank and a 60 L AdBlue tank in the 6×4 version — volume that allows endurance over long routes.
• Brakes & Safety: Dual-line pneumatic foot brakes with ABS, and a pneumatically operated parking brake for security under heavy loads.

Cabin & Comfort

One of the standout features is its sleeper cabin, which makes this beast viable for long-haul runs. The steering is power-assisted hydraulic — not surprising for a truck this size, but it helps reduce driver fatigue.

The electrical system is 24V, backed by a 120Ah battery, which is quite standard for heavy-duty commercial trucks.

On-Road Behavior & Capability

• Gradeability (6×4): The 5532T can handle slopes up to 28.4% in this variant — which is very useful in hilly terrain or for loaded climbs.
• Turning Radius (4×2): The 4×2 variant has a turning circle diameter (TCD) of ~13.1 m, which is decent for a truck of its size.
• Speed: Top geared speed is around 80 km/h, which is typical for a heavy tractor-trailer setup.

Pros: Why Operators Might Love It

1. High Payload Capability: With a GVW of 55 tonnes (with right trailer), the 5532 can pull very large loads — ideal for goods transport or heavy cargo.
2. Torque Powerhouse: The 1,250 Nm torque band gives strong pulling power, especially in low-speed, high-load scenarios.
3. Fuel & Range: Big fuel + AdBlue tanks help it run long without needing frequent refuels, making it well-suited for long-haul operations.
4. Driver Comfort (Sleeper Cab): The sleeper cabin is a major plus if the truck is used for overnight or multi-day journeys.
5. Durable Suspension & Frame: Built for rugged duty cycles — thanks to its ladder frame and suspension setup, it’s not lightweight in build.

Cons / Trade-Offs: What to Watch Out For

• Cost of Ownership: Fuel consumption under heavy load is going to be significant; TCO (total cost of ownership) needs careful planning.
• Maneuverability: For very tight urban yards or congested city zones, the truck’s long wheelbase and size might be a challenge.
• Driver Requirement: Handling a 9-speed manual with such a heavy load requires experienced, skilled drivers.
• Maintenance Load: Large engine, big frame, heavy duty parts — maintenance is likely to be costlier relative to lighter commercial trucks.
• Infrastructure Dependence: While not electric, running such a heavy vehicle efficiently requires reliable refuelling/servicing infrastructure.

Ideal Use Cases

Here’s where the BharatBenz 5532 really shines:

• Trailers / Long-Haul Freight: Perfect for big freight companies transporting heavy goods across regions.
• Construction & Mining: When configured as a tipper, its power and rugged build make it suitable for mining or construction-site duties.
• Logistic Fleets: Those who run mix-heavy operations and need a dependable tractor-unit will find it useful.

Final Take: Is the 5532 Worth It?

If you’re in the market for a heavy-duty tractor or tipper that needs to carry large loads over long distances, the BharatBenz 5532 is a very compelling choice. It brings a strong mix of power, reliability, and endurance — and benefits from being part of the Daimler-technology lineage too.

That said, it’s not a niche vehicle for light job work or very short urban delivery. It’s built to haul, made for duty cycles that demand stamina. So for fleet owners willing to invest in skill, fuel, and maintenance — the 5532 delivers performance that’s well-aligned to its ambition.