Report - Maruti Y9T LCV to have a payload capacity of 1 tonne

Launches in early 2015.

The upcoming Maruti Y9T (codename), the company's first attempt at the Light Commercial Vehicle segment, will have a payload capacity of 1 tonne, Mr. RC Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. (MSIL), told PTI.

The payload capacity puts the Y9T head to head with the Tata Super Ace and right in between the Ace which has a payload capacity of up to 850 kg and the Ashok Leyland Dost which can (officially) carry up to 1.25 tonne.

The Maruti LCV which has been spotted testing in India without disguise derives its design from the old JDM Suzuki Futura pickup. The dimensions of the loading bay are comparable to that of its intended rivals.

The cargo carrier will be powered by Maruti Suzuki's first homegrown diesel engine, a 800 cc two-cylinder unit. Maruti would also offer the Y9T with a CNG engine.

The 800 cc diesel engine in question will also be featured in the automaker's passenger vehicles starting with the Celerio. A diesel Celerio was spied earlier suggesting that it would closely follow the LCV to dealers.

Also read: Maruti's upcoming compact SUVs to be offered with petrol, CNG and diesel engines

The Maruti Y9T is expected to be launched early next year.

Competitors: Tata Ace, Tata Super Ace, Mahindra Maxximo, Ashok Leyland Dost

Expected Price: INR 4 - 5 lakhs, ex-showroom

Launch Date: Early 2015