Trucking industry is now in a better position to face competition. The road transport sector, roughly estimated at US$12 bn, dominated the logistic industry. The improved road infrastructure is already showing visible effect on the freight transported. This resulted in rapid growth in trucking segment. However, there is no reliable information available on the volume of freight carried by the road transport. Similarly, information on the number of trucks in operation, capacity build-in, and its utilizations are also not available. It is, therefore, very difficult to determine the demand for Commercial Vehicles (CVs). This paper has developed a methodology for projecting the demand for trucks. The demand projection is based on forecasting billion tons freight movement by correlating it with IIP and agriculture growth. The replacement demand for CVs is also estimated which is based on a survey of the transporters. This study also provides year-wise requirement of CVs during the Eleventh Plan period.

For more than a decade Indian economy has opened new dynamism and opportunities for every sector, especially automobiles which have shown robust growth and that boosted overall economy. The reforms implemented so far have helped India to attain 8% or more growth in GDP. India is also being looked upon as the prime business destination for many global level auto players. India is the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer, the second largest two-wheeler and tractor manufacturer, the fifth largest commercial vehicle manufacturer and has the fourth largest car market in Asia. India has huge potential for commercial vehicles that transport billions of people and freight. However, to retain and sustain this growth, high priority areas of investment, such as infrastructure and roads need more stable reforms.

There has been a significant progress in the transport sector since independence and there has been heavy investment in this sector. There is a need for heavy investment in this sector to bring the desired improvement in the system. The problems in the railways, roads and ports sectors create a greater threat to the economic growth of the country. There is a tremendous need to expand the highway road network to ensure smooth transportation of goods and people. The development of inland waterways and the capacity of major, medium and minor ports should be increased. The participation of the private groups will improve the things without burdening the government.

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