Tata Motors Unveils High-Torque AutoShift Mining Tippers

Tata Motors is strengthening its presence in India’s deep-mining sector with the launch of its Prima 3540.K AutoShift tipper, designed to meet the growing demands of high-torque, technology-intensive haulage operations. The unveiling took place at EXCON 2025, India’s premier construction and mining equipment exhibition, where the company showcased a range of solutions catering to mining, construction, and logistics needs.

India’s mining industry is increasingly shifting from shallow excavation to deeper pits in search of coal, iron ore, marble, and other critical minerals. This transition requires vehicles capable of handling heavier loads under more demanding operational conditions. “As mining operations move to deeper and steeper pits, the mechanical and operational requirements for vehicles change drastically,” said Rajesh Kaul, Vice President and Business Head – Trucks, Tata Motors Ltd. “Our focus is now on delivering high-performance, technologically dense solutions for these challenging environments.”

The Prima 3540.K AutoShift tipper is powered by a Cummins 8.5-litre engine delivering 375 hp and 1800 Nm of torque. It features a 12-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) and advanced safety systems, making it suitable for deep-mining haulage. Tata Motors has tested and validated these vehicles under real mining conditions, including operations in Odisha and other geographies.

The deep-mining push in India faces regulatory challenges. While global mining often extends to depths of up to 300 metres, Indian exploration typically remains limited to 50–100 metres due to lengthy permit approvals and environmental clearances, which can take four to five years. Recent amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and the Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 2024, aim to simplify procedures for certain categories, enabling access to deeper mineral deposits.

Industry projections highlight significant growth opportunities. According to Credence Research, India’s underground mining equipment market is expected to expand from $1.88 billion in 2023 to $3.33 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.53%, with the expansion concentrated in specific regions and sectors.

Alongside the Prima 3540.K AutoShift, Tata Motors also showcased several other tipper models and solutions at EXCON 2025:

• Prima E.28K: 28-tonne battery-electric tipper for shallow mining, bulk cargo, and port applications.
• Signa 2820.TK: 28-tonne CNG tipper ideal for construction operations.
• Signa 4832.TK: 48-tonne, 5-axle tipper with a 32 m³ load body for coal transport.
• Prima 3532.TK: 26 m³ load body targeted at construction aggregates.
• Prima E.55S: Battery-electric prime mover designed for logistics operations.

With these offerings, Tata Motors aims to address the evolving demands of India’s mining and construction sectors, combining high torque, advanced technology, and alternative energy solutions to support both deep and surface-level operations.