Trucks are more than just a mode of transport in the Indian competitive market, they are also business assets. Resale value is one of the least considered factors but one of the critical variables for buying a used truck by fleet operators, logistics startups and independent truck owners. A truck with vibrant residual value after use guarantees business growth through increased ROI (return on investment), reduced lifecycle expenses and cash flow.
The investment consideration in a truck is 15 lakhs and the selling price when sold after 5 years was 8 lakhs. That is more than 50 percent value retention, which is not an easy task in most vehicle categories but is largely achievable with the right brand and care strategy. Here, we explain in detail about the best resale value trucks in India, identify the top truck brands, and help you understand what influences ROI on commercial trucks.
As a technique, it is important to know the forces that influence resale value to make a smart investment. These are the major driving factors:
Tata Motors is a leading player in the commercial vehicle business in India, both in the LCV and MHCV segments. Tata is a leader in the second-hand commercial vehicle market due to its vast product range, comprehensive service unit and its brand equity (which is extremely durable).
Resale Snapshot: A Tata truck with proper maintenance will sell at 55-60 percent of its original price even after 4-5 years.
The other leading brand with a commanding presence in the Heavy duty commercial vehicle is Ashok Leyland. With its history of being innovative, the brand produces trucks with new age iEGR (Intelligent Exhaust Gas Recirculation) which has a low emission and it keeps the green Catalog longer.
Robust chassis and drives for long-haul purposes
Pro Tip: Ashok Leyland truck holds 50 – 55% resale value after 4 – 5 years on the basis of usage and model.
Mahindra has a strong presence in the LCV and ICV segment and offers a range of feature-rich trucks that have a reputation for being fuel efficient, low maintenance and economical. Small companies, delivery startups and local transport companies consider this brand as one of their preferred choices.
Pro Tip: A Mahindra truck and a particular model for that matter, an LCV, will have a life of 45-55 per cent after 4-5 years.
Eicher Trucks is part of the VECV joint venture with Volvo and their trucks have gained a reputation for fuel efficiency and innovative design. Their Pro Series trucks are already making a name for themselves in the resale market, primarily in intra-city logistics setups and long-haul intermediate applications.
Pro Tip: Resale retention will be 40-50% over a 4-5 year period, and is likely to improve further as brand visibility increases.
By 2025, the Indian used truck market will have grown significantly and the market trends are likely to lean towards:
Do you want to sell your truck and earn a decent profit? Here are some pro tips:
| Brand | Segment Focus | Avg. 4-5 Year Resale Value |
| Tata Motors | MHCV + LCV | 55–60% |
| Ashok Leyland | MHCV | 50–55% |
| Mahindra & Mahindra | LCV | 45–55% |
| Eicher (VECV) | ICV + LCV | 40–50% |
When it comes to long-term investment and high resale value, Tata Motors is the leader in the segment. Ashok Leyland’s value for heavy-duty vehicles is stable. Mahindra has an edge in the fact that it delivers light-duty vehicles over short distances, and Eicher is a wise choice for those with a growing fleet and interested in efficiency.
Tata Motors, with its leading position across all segments and its build quality.
Generally, 4-5 years is the most suitable time between depreciation and uptime.
Absolutely, especially when acquired from reliable sources and kept in good condition.
Absolutely. Fuel-efficient brands (like Mahindra and Eicher) maintain good resale demand. Buying at resale value is not only a wise move for commercial fleet owners and entrepreneurs, but it is also a must. Make the right decision today to get better returns in the future.
