The company has increased headcount at its Chennai plant by 600 and added a third shift, aiming to put its Chennai-based manufacturing plant at full capacity with both lines at three shifts by 2026.

Japanese auto major Nissan’s plans to turn around its Indian operations remain intact, and it is looking to increase headcount in the country despite the turbulence it is facing globally, according to a senior company official.

Frank Torres, Nissan India Operations President, said, “The company, which has increased headcount at its Chennai plant by 600 to add a third shift, does not foresee steps to cut 9,000 jobs and 20 percent production globally having an impact on India as long as it remains competitive in the market. Nissan is betting big on India, and the plans (for India) remain intact despite this global turbulence.”

Nissan is strengthening its production, and this initiative was supported with the addition of almost 600 new employments in its manufacturing plant in Chennai. Nissan has grown one full new shift. The company plans to put its Chennai-based manufacturing plant at full capacity with both lines at three shifts by 2026.“This move is to help the production shifts. We are expanding production very soon with two new models…this is despite the global action, which involves restructuring. We don’t forecast that the impact will be in India because our plans remain untouched. Of course, the key point for us is to keep being competitive. Because, in the end, this is what is considered most important inside Nissan.” Earlier in July this year, Nissan India announced that it is looking to introduce five models over the next 30 months as it looks to turn around its operations in the fast-growing Indian car market. The company has set a target of tripling its domestic and export volumes to 100,000 each per annum by the end of FY26.

The third shift at the Chennai plant started some weeks ago, as the company targets full capacity utilisation of the manufacturing plant. Nissan is now refurbishing one to adapt to new technology, such as EVs, ahead of the planned launch of an electric SUV.

“Increasing headcount is part of our commitment. We have committed to the Tamil Nadu government to grow our headcount next year based on the new investments, and we are well supported by the Tamil Nadu government.” Moreover, he said, the Renault-Nissan alliance had committed to more than 2,000 employment creations not just in manufacturing but also in other areas like R&D as part of their $600 million investment plan announced in 2023.

JK Tyre & Industries has introduced Off-the-Road (OTR) tires specifically designed for the mining sector at Bauma Conexpo 2024 India. The new offerings include 17.5-25 VEM 63 L5 for wheel loaders and 16.00-25 VEM 99D E3 for wide-body dump trucks.

Indium Corporation disclosed the global availability of CW-807RS, a new high-reliability, halide- and halogen-free flux-cored wire that improves wetting speeds and cycle times for electronics assembly and robot soldering applications.

CW-807RSis a no-clean formula designed to maximise the solderability of a halogen-free cored wire solder flux. It is an upgraded version of Indium Corporation’s CW-807 formula, which has been popular with electronics assemblers and other customers for many years. This new halogen-freeversion will provide improved wetting speeds and contains the company’s industry-leading spatter control technology.

Halogen-free CW-807RS delivers several benefits to users, including faster wetting speeds, Clear residues for electronics assemblers that use high (>385°C) tip temperatures and tend to experience charring and tip build-up and improve cycle times in robotic soldering applications.

Robert McKerrow, Product Manager for Flux-Cored Wire, Wave Solder Flux, and Bar Solder at Indium Corporation, said, “The improved wetting and spatter performance make CW-807RS an excellent no-clean, high-reliability flux-cored wire option for many of our customers, especially in robotic soldering applications. We’re excited to now offer this solution, combining cutting-edge innovation with proven technology to meet the needs of our customers.”

CW-807RS provides exceptional benefits in manual and robotic soldering applications requiring an “L” IPC classification and halogen-free wire, as well as in manual and robotic soldering applications requiring extra wetting power to achieve higher throughput while remaining halogen-free. Additionally, the spatter control technology within the flux produces an aesthetically pleasing board post-soldering by leaving minimal spattering and a clear to light-coloured residue.

The collaboration aims to contribute to India’s EV transition by delivering locally manufactured solutions. The partnership ensures that the chargers meet global standards while being tailored to the Indian market.

Delta Electronics India signed an MOU with ThunderPlus, a leading two-wheeler (2W) and three-wheeler (3W) electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions provider. Under the aforementioned agreement, Delta will provide advanced high-efficiency 4kW rectifier modules, made at its new large manufacturing site in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, to support ThunderPlus’ fast chargers for the low voltage market, specifically designed for 2W and 3W EVs.

Niranjan Nayak, Managing Director, Delta Electronics India, said, “Delta’s corporate mission is ‘To provide innovative, clean, and energy-efficient solutions for a better tomorrow’. Hence, our collaboration with Thunder Plus underscores Delta’s goal to contribute to India’s EV transition by delivering cutting-edge, locally manufactured solutions. Our fast-growing R&D capabilities in Bengaluru and manufacturing in Krishnagiri have been instrumental to this milestone.”

Manjula Girish, Business Head – EV Charging Infrastructure, Delta Electronics India, “Our 4kW rectifiers are a testament to Delta’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Engineered with high energy efficiency of up to 93% and manufactured at our state-of-the-art Krishnagiri facility, these rectifiers exemplify the synergy between cutting-edge technology and localized manufacturing. ThunderPlus’ decision to integrate our rectifiers into their EV chargers highlights the trust in Delta’s capability to deliver superior performance and value. This partnership is a significant step toward enabling robust and energy-efficient charging solutions for India’s growing EV ecosystem.” Rajeev YSR, CEO – Thunder Plus, highlighted, “This collaboration with Delta Electronics brings world-class technology to India’s low-voltage EV charging market. Our customizable chargers cater to the unique requirements of OEMs and end-users, ensuring efficient and seamless integration with their operations. Together, we are building the foundation for a robust and sustainable EV charging infrastructure in India.”

This endeavor brings together Delta’s technological expertise in power solutions and ThunderPlus’ market leadership in EV charging systems. The chargers, developed with Delta’s advanced 4kW rectifier modules featuring energy efficiency up to 93%, are customizable and designed to meet India’s diverse requirements, making them a game-changer for the local EV market.

India’s EV sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, with the adoption of 2W and 3W EVs driving much of the demand. This Make in India chargers are tailored to the low-voltage segment under this partnership we aim to reduce charging downtime, alleviate range anxiety, and boost the productivity of EV users.

Thunder Plus, a leading provider of EV charging solutions in India, has already on boarded OEMs in the 2W and 3W segments. These chargers are equipped with advanced co-branding opportunities, reflecting the synergy between both organizations. The partnership ensures that the chargers are developed to meet global standards while being tailored to the Indian market.

The automotive industry’s growth is powered by consumer demand, technological progress, and government support. Projections indicate market expansion in the coming years, with the industry expected to become the third-largest in the world by 2026. The focus would be on enhancing vehicle safety and performance. The development area is high-tensile strength sheets in the forming segment, offering superior safety and impact resistance.

High-tensile strength sheets have exceptional strength and durability, which is essential in automotive manufacturing. These sheets are designed to absorb and distribute impact energy during accidents, significantly improving passenger safety. The industry’s emphasis on lightweight yet robust materials makes high-tensile strength sheets an ideal choice.

High-tensile strength sheets prove excellent in various automotive applications, including body panels, chassis, and structural components. They offer enhanced strength-to-weight ratios, corrosion resistance, and fatigue durability for long-term reliability and safety. Manufacturers are adopting these materials to meet stringent safety standards and consumer expectations.

Trends and future requirements

The demand for high-tensile strength sheets is expected to rise as the automotive industry continues to innovate and prioritise safety. Future trends include higher-strength materials, improved formability, and advanced manufacturing techniques to produce complex shapes and components. Innovations such as hot stamping, where sheets are heated to high temperatures and then rapidly cooled in a die, are becoming more prevalent. This process increases the material’s strength and allows for the creation of intricate geometries.

Innovations in high-tensile strength sheet manufacturing and application

Advancements such as hot stamping and roll forming have efficiently produced high-tensile strength sheets with superior properties. Innovations in material science, including alloying elements and heat treatments, have further enhanced the performance of these sheets.

• Hot Stamping: This process involves heating steel sheets to over 900°C before forming and quenching them in a die. The rapid cooling results in ultra-high-strength, making it ideal for a car’s A-pillars, B-pillars, and side door beams.
• Roll Forming: This continuous bending operation forms high-tensile strength sheets into desired shapes with high precision and minimal waste. It’s useful for long parts with uniform cross-sections, such as side impact beams.

Safety regulations in the automotive industry

Safety regulations in the automotive industry are becoming increasingly stringent. New norms enhance vehicle safety and reduce fatalities. These regulations mandate advanced materials and technologies to improve crashworthiness and protect passengers.

• Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program (BNVSAP): This program sets stringent crash test standards for vehicles sold in India. It includes frontal and side-impact tests, pedestrian protection, and child occupant protection. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is also working on several other safety regulations, such as introducing driver drowsiness detection systems, blind-spot detection systems, and lane departure warning systems.
• Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP): India is introducing its vehicle safety standards called the Bharat NCAP. This program will assign star ratings to vehicles based on their safety and sturdiness, similar to the Global NCAP and European NCAP programs. This initiative will enhance road and vehicle safety by encouraging manufacturers to incorporate advanced safety features.

Pedestrian Protection Regulations: These regulations require automakers to design vehicles that minimise pedestrian injury in the event of a collision. High-tensile strength sheets help achieve this by deforming in a controlled manner to absorb impact energy.

High-tensile strength sheets are crucial for meeting these safety requirements. Traditionally, automotive companies used sheets with tensile strengths of around 600 MPa, usually made from High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) steels. However, there has been a shift towards Partial Martensitic steels with tensile strengths ranging from 1000 to 1200 MPa. This change is driven by the need for materials that provide better impact resistance and safety during accidents. These high-tensile strength sheets are used for critical structural components such as A-pillars, B-pillars, and side door beams. Their ability to absorb and distribute impact energy makes vehicles safer for occupants and pedestrians.

Impact on the tooling industry

The shift towards high-tensile strength sheets necessitates changes in tool and die manufacturing. Conventional steels like D2 or 1.2379 are often inadequate for forming high-tensile strength sheets, leading to increased wear and reduced tool life. To address these challenges, the industry is moving towards powder metallurgical (PM) steels, which offer superior performance and durability.

Upgrading to PM steels provides better wear resistance, toughness, and thermal stability, enabling longer tool life and reduced maintenance. This transition enhances production efficiency and ensures consistent quality of formed parts.

Comparison between Conventional and PM Steels

When used with high-tensile strength sheets, conventional tool steels like D2 or 1.2379 are prone to wear and deformation, leading to frequent tool changes and downtime. In contrast, PM steels offer enhanced properties that are ideal for high-stress applications. They exhibit higher hardness, improved wear resistance, and better fatigue performance, making them suitable for the demanding conditions of automotive forming processes.

Benefits of using PM Steels

Using ESR/PM steels for tooling and dies offers several benefits, including:

• Increased tool life and reduced maintenance costs
• Enhanced precision and consistency in part production
• Improved overall productivity and efficiency
• Better quality of formed components, leading to improved vehicle safety and performance.

Conclusion

The automotive industry’s commitment to safety and performance drives the increased use of high-tensile strength sheets in the forming segment. These materials offer superior strength and impact resistance, aligning with the industry’s stringent safety regulations and evolving requirements. As manufacturers transition to high-tensile strength sheets, the need for advanced tool and die solutions becomes paramount. PM steels are crucial in meeting these demands, ensuring efficient production and high-quality components.

BOHLER provides advanced ESR/PM steels, such as BOHLER K340 ISODUR, K390PM, K490PM, and S390PM, for high-tensile strength sheets in automotive applications.

Tesla unveiled its long-awaited robotaxi at a Burbank, California, event. Production is expected to begin in 2026 and cost less than $30,000.

At an event in Burbank, California, Tesla CEO Elon Musk disclosed prototypes of the Cybercab, the company’s new robotaxi. Production is expected to begin in 2026, with the vehicle expected to cost less than $30,000. Musk arrived on stage in one of the prototypes, showcasing its futuristic design and predicting a shift in focus from low-priced mass-market cars to robotic vehicles. He also announced an autonomous van called Robovan that can carry up to 20 people and goods but did not reveal its price or production schedule.

Robotaxis, a technology developed by Elon Musk, could take years to establish due to safety and reliability issues. However, Musk claimed that autonomous cars could be 10 times safer than humans and drive five to 10 times longer. People can regain their time with autonomy despite challenges like inclement weather, complex intersections, and pedestrian behaviour.

Cybercab/Robotaxi

Tesla’s self-driving Cybercab will be priced under $30,000, which is lower than the current Model 3 Sedan’s starting price of $42,000. However, Tesla’s history of overpromising and underdelivering on vehicle pricing, such as the Cybertruck, raises questions about whether the Cybercab will meet its anticipated price, as potential buyers remain cautious based on past experiences with the company.

The Cybercab robotaxi, with gull-wing doors and limited seating for two, uses cameras and artificial intelligence for navigation. It avoids common competitor hardware and charging ports and uses inductive charging for convenience.

In addition to the Cybercab, Tesla revealed a Robovan concept, a larger autonomous vehicle capable of transporting up to 20 people. Both vehicles signal Tesla’s expansion into the market, with the Cybercab being a more affordable option for consumers seeking self-driving cars through the Tesla network.

The company also plans to create a fleet of self-driving Tesla taxis, which can be hailed via an app, and Tesla owners can list their vehicles as part-time taxis. According to reports, the Robotaxi model is a futuristic two-seater with butterfly doors. It targets established autonomous taxi services like Waymo and Cruise.

Advancements in the automotive industry also elevate Indians since it is a wide domain for manufacturers. Piyush Yenorkar from L’ATELIER24 shares, “As exciting as these developments are global, I’m keen to see how India will embrace this technology. Tesla has expressed interest in entering the Indian market, but the big question is—will Nitin Gadkari give the green light for Tesla’s operations here? India’s push towards electric vehicles could be a game-changer for the country’s auto industry, but we still await official decisions.” Many other news viewers share the same concerns. However, India is unlikely to have the same early adoption levels as the US, Europe and China for driverless vehicles due to the lack of infrastructure.

India has a large workforce in the taxi and logistics industries. This could lead to economic consequences, including the necessity for workforce retraining in the transportation sector. Bringing this technology to a country like India, with a population of 1.4 billion and a large workforce reliant on driving jobs, the stakes are high. Amit Singh from Wepsol shares, “Even if Tesla’s vision materialises in the West, countries like India may face greater economic and social impacts. Is the workforce ready for such a shift, or will this exacerbate unemployment?”

Challenges 

Tesla’s ambitious vision for autonomous transport faces challenges, including safety, which is crucial for full autonomy. Despite  AI and sensor technology advancements, concerns persist about the system’s ability to handle “edge cases.” Consistently making safe decisions is important for gaining regulatory approval and public trust, as autonomous vehicles must consistently navigate these unpredictable situations.

Tesla’s Cybercab’s target price of under $30,000 raises doubts among analysts about its ability to meet this goal without external financial support or manufacturing cost reductions. Regulatory challenges persist, with approval processes varying across regions, such as California, where stringent safety requirements could delay deployment and areas lacking a regulatory framework, making broad rollout difficult.

Continental Tires has been recognised as a Mercedes-Benz AG Preferred Partner in India since 2017, with the newly extended status valid through August 2025.

Continental Tires India reaffirms its dedication to customer-centric solutions and operational excellence through its sustained partnership with Mercedes-Benz AG. The seventh year of continuous status as a preferred partner for Mercedes Benz AG highlights Continental’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction in delivering premium solutions in India. The company also celebrates ongoing partnerships with Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia, Australia, and China, alongside newly awarded Preferred Partner status in South Korea and Japan, valid from September 2024 to August 2026.

“We are honoured to continue our strong partnership with Mercedes-Benz AG. This ongoing recognition as a Preferred Partner highlights our dedication to deliver innovative, high-quality tyre solutions in India that prioritise safety, comfort, and sustainability. We remain committed to supporting our customers with products that meet the highest standards of performance and reliability, helping them realise their business objectives,” says Samir Gupta, Head of Central Region – BA Tires APAC and Managing Director, Continental Tires India.

With the extension of its Preferred Partner status in Asia-Pacific market, Continental Tires is positioned to build stronger synergies with Indian customers by offering tailored tyre solutions and enhanced after-sales services. As a preferred partner with Mercedes-Benz AG, Continental gains access to advanced order and sales tools, allowing seamless integration with Mercedes-Benz AG’s network. Additionally, Continental Tires will also be involved in joint promotions and customer events to benefit and elevate the in-store retail experience for car owners.

On the product side, Continental Tires will equip the whole range of the MO (Mercedes Original) portfolio, from the A- to GLS-Class, with tyres tailored with stringent requirements and the highest standards, with zero compromise on safety and best fit to each vehicle model. These include the SportContact 6, EcoContact 6, EcoContact 6Q, PremiumContact 6, and SportContact 7.

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated preliminary sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.

Tire solutions from the Tires group sector make mobility safer, smarter, and more sustainable. Its premium portfolio encompasses car, truck, bus, two-wheel, and specialty tires as well as smart solutions and services for fleets and tire retailers. Continental delivers top performance for more than 150 years and is one of the world’s largest tire manufacturers. In fiscal 2023, the Tires group sector generated sales of 14 billion euros. Continental’s tire division employs more than 56,000 people worldwide and has 20 production and 16 development sites. 

MOTOTECH24 Pune was held on September 27, 2024, at the Novotel Hotel. Prominent industry leaders discussed methods to scale automotive manufacturing technologies and their outlook for the future in India.

MOTOTECH24 Pune Conference was on ‘Scaling Manufacturing Technologies for Automotive Industry.’

Pune is the largest auto hub in India, with more than 4000 manufacturing and ancillary units in the PimpriChinchwad region alone. It has been the Detroit of India, with many automobile companies from around the world manufacturing units in and around the city. So, MOTOTECH has set it as a permanent ground for its automotive event. MOTOTECH24 took place on September 27, 2024, at the Novotel Hotel in Pune, Maharashtra, marking the third edition of this prestigious conference. Building on the success of MOTOTECH 2023, this one-day event brought together industry experts to discuss and debate current technology trends and explore the future of the automotive manufacturing landscape in India. The event featured participation from various sectors, including Auto OEMs, Auto Part Manufacturers across Tier 1, 2, and 3, Machinery Tools & Accessories Manufacturers, Die & Mould Manufacturers, and Manufacturing Software Service Providers.

The event commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. Ajay Palkar, Shailendra Goswami, Prasad Nair, Radha Poptani, and Sagar Tamhane. Our Conference Chairman, Dr Ajay Palkar, Senior General Manager (HoD—Electrical & Electronics) Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt. Ltd., delivered the keynote address on how technology has revolutionised the automotive world. He addressed how the automotive sector changes customer preferences with increased technology integration. OEMs will face challenges in cost management as they integrate advanced hardware and software into vehicles. Still, collaboration with suppliers and technology partners will optimise the cost while keeping them up with the evolving demands. Commenting further, he emphasised how MotoTech 2024 as a platform addresses the automotive industry’s key challenges.

Shailendra Goswami, Chairman and Managing Director of Pushkaraj Group, was our Guest of Honour. His address focused on India’s rise as a global manufacturing hub, which is fuelled by the pursuit of advanced technologies in automotive manufacturing. He added, “Platforms like MotoTech bring together the industry leaders to talk about the innovation driving us toward a future where India leads the world in automotive excellence.

Conference co-chairman Joydeep Chatterjee, ESG Program Director and Quality FE Leader—India region, and Chief of MOTOTECH24 held at Pune MOTOTECH24 Pune was held on September 27, 2024, at the Novotel Hotel. Prominent industry leaders discussed methods to scale automotive manufacturing technologies and their outlook for the future in India. MOTOTECH24 Pune Conference was on ‘Scaling Manufacturing Technologies for Automotive Industry.’ October 2024 n 49 Staff—Integrated Supply Chain Cummins India Ltd. shared his views on sustainability as a source of competitive advantage. He added, “MOTOTECH 24 successfully united industry leaders to cover important topics like Industry 5. O and the green supply chain for propelling India’s journey towards innovation and sustainability.”

The conference featured a panel discussion on collaborative efforts for a greener automotive supply chain, moderated by Atul Jairaj, Partner at Deloitte India, along with panellist Vijay Kumar Jadhav, Lead Analyst: Process Excellence (Facilities, IT, SCM Opex & Digitalisation) at Eaton; Neelam Pandey Pathak, Founder & CEO of Social Bay Consulting; Sameer Walgude, Lead-Supplier 360/Vihaan at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.; Pravin Bobhate, Head SCM, GKN Driveline India Ltd. and Kuldeep Singh, Head – Strategic Sourcing & Supply Chain, Kinetic green.

Another panel discussion, the role of digitization & industry 4.0 in enhancing sustainability, was moderated by Shirish Kulkarni, Founder & MD of STROTA ConsulTech Pvt Ltd, with panellists Yogesh Umbarkar, Vice President of Mobility at Valtech Mobility; Kaustubh Deshpande, Founding Partner of Imoto; Gururaj Bengeri, Director of Presales and Digital Transformation Consulting at Siemens Digital Industry Software and Sanjay Warade, Sales Manager – OEM, Rockwell Automation.

The session has multiple technology submissions from Shah Qumer, Industry Leader – Environment Mobility, Omron Automation Pvt. Ltd.; Divyesh Kolwadkar, Sales Area Manager for the West Region at HMS Industrial Networks India Pvt. Ltd.; Rizwan Khan, Sales Manager – India at SupplyPoint Systems; Ravi Patil, General Manager – Rapid Prototyping at DesignTech Systems Pvt Ltd.; Akshatha Dayananda, Addwize Leader – Manager at Wipro 3D; Rujuta Jagtap, Executive Director of SAJ Test Plant Pvt. Ltd. and Ketan Jadhav, Partner at EAC International Consulting. We also had a Master Class Session on ‘The critical role of Electronics, Design & Manufacturing in the Automotive Industry by Nilesh Rathore, Electrification Quality, John Deere Enterprise & Engineering Center.

The conference featured a distinguished lineup of partners, with Omega Seiki Mobility as a special partner, OMRON Automation as the factory automation partner, and HMS Networks as the automation partner. Savy Electric Vehicles joined as the Electric Mobility Partner, TATA Tele Business Services as the Digital Transformation Partner, Supply Point as the Intelligent Inventory Partner, DesignTech as the 3D Printing Partner and LMI Technologies as the Associate Partner. Supporting partners included Compucare India and Universal Battery Solutions.

MOTOTECH 2024 in Pune was lauded as a mature version of the precedented MOTOTECH23, Pune, and MOTOTECH24 Gujarat. The delegates lauded the event for its crisp presentation and relevance to the automotive industry. On this foot, MOTOTECH25, Pune, will be an Expo along with a Conference to stir the automotive technology discussion even further.

Quote:

Dr Ajay Palkar, Senior General Manager (HoD – Electrical & Electronics)  Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt. Ltd.

” Sustainability is becoming equally important as cost management, and OEMs must balance competitiveness with eco-friendly practices. To bridge this gap, they must collaborate closely with suppliers and partners throughout the product lifecycle.”

Joydeep Chatterjee, ESG Program Director and Quality FE Leader – India region Chief of Staff – Integrated Supply Chain, Cummins India Ltd

“The future of the automotive industry is robust with interconnected systems that assure end-to-end transparency and real-time data accuracy. To develop affordable software solutions, government support is required, allowing MSMEs to innovate sustainably. Despite recession concerns, the industry will likely expand and adapt to sustainable automation.” 

Shailendra Goswami, Chairman and Managing Director, Pushkaraj Group

“True sustainability in the automotive industry comes from embracing green technologies, where EVs lead the way and hybrid solutions ensure flexibility. Our future lies in automation, digitisation, and robotics converging to create a smarter, greener, and more efficient manufacturing ecosystem.

Krishna Bhojkar, Partner, Bhojkar Consulting

“The next few years will be important for the automotive sector, with technology driving the transformation. As we shift from traditional engines to electric and hybrid vehicles, we must focus on improving our charging infrastructure and exploring new business models.”

Neelam Pandey Pathak, Founder & CEO of Social Bay Consulting

“Empowering women in manufacturing requires mentorship, access to core roles, and growth opportunities. Inclusivity and sustainability can lead to a more innovative and equitable future for the industry.”

Pravin Bobhate, Head SCM GKN Driveline India Ltd.

“The automotive industry’s success is deeply tied to the efficiency and sustainability of its supply chain. As we optimise and innovate, we make the way for a greener and a resilient future.”

Sameer Walgude, Lead – Supplier 360 / Vihaan Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd

“Automotive sustainability is about more than just innovation; it’s about creating a strong supply chain network, adopting green technologies, and driving a long-term commitment to responsible manufacturing for a cleaner future.”

Kuldeep Singh, Head, Strategic Sourcing & Supply Chain 

“Collaboration in the supply chain is a commitment to sustainability that drives innovation and empowers a greener future for the automotive industry. It is much more than mere strategy making.”

Vijay Kumar Jadhav (Retd.) Lead Analyst: Process Excellence (Facilities, IT, SCM Opex & Digitalisation), Eaton

“Robust battery charging infrastructure will provide India with a sustainable and efficient automotive future. Only this will accelerate the adoption of EVs.”

Kaustubh Deshpande, Founding Partner, Imoto

“At Imoto, we believe that the future of mobility is understanding the desires of a younger population. As we launch our indigenous fast-charging vehicles, designed for functionality and aspiration, we aim to disrupt the EV industry with innovative products that resonate with diverse consumer needs.”

Gururaj Bengeri, Director, Presales and Digital Transformation Consulting, Siemens Digital Industry Software

“Traditional assembly is changing to cell-based systems, driven by new-age OEMs. This shift improves consumer experiences and meets Indian market demands for automobiles.”

Shirish Kulkarni, Founder & MD, STROTA ConsulTech Pvt Ltd

“As we adapt digital technologies and prioritise sustainability, manufacturers align their strategies with ESG principles. This shift will improve operational efficiencies while reducing our carbon footprint.”

Sanjay Warade, Sales Manager-OEM, Rockwell Automation

“Digitisation and Industry 4.0 are essential catalysts for sustainability. They enable smarter processes that reduce waste and drive efficiency in every aspect of manufacturing.”

Yogesh Umbarkar, Vice President – Mobility, Valtech Mobility

“Sustainability in mobility will be granted when prioritising green technologies and innovative solutions like AI while also investing in recycling and durable battery technologies that reduce our environmental footprint.”

Divyesh Kolwadkar, Sales Area Manager – West Region HMS Industrial Networks India Pvt. Ltd

“HMS Industrial Networks is assisting automotive data connectivity by integrating OT with IT. Our Defender product ensures secure data transfer without loss. As the Indian automotive sector expands, we support growth with our innovative IoT solutions.”

Shan Qumer, Industry Leader, Environmental Mobility, Omron Automation Pvt. Ltd.

“Automation and robotics in the automotive industry are a force that will upgrade efficiency and improve safety. We will have a smarter and innovative future in mobility.”

Nilesh Rathore Electrification Quality Lead, John Deere Enterprise Technology and Engineering Centre, Pune

“Driving innovation in the automotive industry hinges on the critical interplay of electronics, design, and manufacturing. With cutting-edge technologies, we can redefine mobility and create smarter, more sustainable vehicles for the future.”

Rizwan Khan, Sales Manager – India SupplyPoint Systems

“The future of the Indian manufacturing sector is bright and filled with potential. With a new generation of entrepreneurs eager to embrace cutting-edge technologies, India is poised to become a key player in the global automotive landscape, attracting attention from American and European markets.”

Ravi Patil, General Manager, Rapid Prototyping, DesignTech Systems Pvt. Ltd.

“3D printing is important in the automotive industry because it enables rapid prototyping, lowers production costs, and allows for unparalleled design customisation. This technology accelerates innovation and reshapes traditional manufacturing processes for a more agile future.”  

Akshatha Dayananda, Addwize Leader & Manager, Wipro 3D.

“3D printing empowers the creation with precision and sustainability. It reduces material waste, accelerates production cycles, and enables suitable solutions.” 

Rujuta Jagtap, Executive Director, SAJ Test Plant Pvt Ltd

“At SAJ, we leverage R&D-driven innovation to improve sustainable manufacturing. As India’s EV market matures, we believe universal government support is essential for balanced growth in the automotive sector.”

Ketan Jadhav, Partner, EAC International Consulting

“Localisation in green mobility presents both opportunities and challenges, as we strive to innovate while ensuring sustainable practices and meeting local market demands effectively.”

Atul Jairaj, Partner, Deloitte, India

The bigger picture suggests that manufacturers are responsible for sustainability, but that is a general perception. At Deloitte, we conduct a yearly consumer study that says 68% of consumers consider the green and sustainability aspects before purchasing a vehicle.

Binar Handling is helping automotive manufacturing with ergonomic lifting solutions that reduce physical strain and improve safety in manufacturing operations. They especially work to improve precision and smoothen the assembly processes for heavy and delicate vehicle components.

The automotive industry is constantly trying to improve efficiency, ensure worker safety, and maintain high levels of precision in production processes. As vehicles become more advanced, so does the complexity of their manufacturing. One of the key challenges automakers face is safely handling large, heavy, and intricate components on the assembly line. Schmalz, a leader in ergonomic lifting technology, offers a range of solutions designed to meet these challenges head-on, helping automotive manufacturers streamline processes and enhance productivity.

Modern automotive manufacturing handles engines, body panels, dashboards, and suspension systems, all presenting unique challenges. The repetitive lifting of heavy or awkward components can lead to physical strain and worker fatigue, often resulting in musculoskeletal injuries. These issues affect worker health and hamper their productivity, which reduces downtime and increases operational costs. Precision is needed when assembling high-value automotive components. Misalignment or damage during handling can compromise the quality of the final product. So, manufacturers have to adopt solutions for accuracy and safety.

Schmalz expanded its product portfolio with Binar Handling’s ergonomic lifting solutions, designed to meet the diverse needs of automotive production. The product range focuses on reducing physical strain, improving precision, and overall safety. The NEO 30 Control Handle improves Binar’s product line-up. This device converts subtle hand movements into precise lifting motions, allowing operators to control parts with minimal effort. NEO 30 is ideal for handling medium-sized components like exhaust systems, fuel tanks, and dashboards for automotive manufacturing. The NEO 30 improves safety and efficiency on the production floor by minimising operator fatigue and offering precise control.

The quick lift arm of Binar Handling provides a robust solution for larger and heavier components. This arm can lift 300 kg, creating workability for moving components like doors, hoods, windshields, and body panels. The manipulators allow for precise placement of components for accurate alignment during assembly. This is because they are designed to mimic the natural movement of the human arm. This is particularly important when installing large parts, as it reduces the risk of damage and improves the quality of the assembly process.

Binar Handling’s Quick Lift Rail Systems also offer a flexible solution for moving parts across the production line. These systems allow operators to transport large or heavy components along a rail structure, reducing the physical strain of manual handling. In automotive manufacturing, this is particularly useful for handling the bulkier parts of a vehicle, such as engines and transmissions, between stations. The Quick Lift Rail System facilitates the smooth transport of large parts while improving the efficiency of the assembly process and reducing the risk of injury.

Binar Handling offers an extensive range of customisable end effects. These tools are designed to handle automotive components using pneumatic, magnetic, mechanical, or vacuum-actuated systems. For example, vacuum end effectors are perfect for handling fragile parts like windshields and side windows, ensuring safe, accurate installation. Magnetic end effectors are ideal for metallic parts such as axles, brake discs, and suspension components. End effectors of Binar ensure that automotive manufacturers can tailor their lifting systems to the specific needs of each production stage.

One of Binar’s standout products is the Ergo Glass End Effectors, designed for handling delicate glass components. These vacuumbased tools securely grip windshields, rear windows, and other glass parts, reducing the risk of damage during installation. In the automotive sector, where precision and care are essential for fitting glass components, the Ergo Glass End Effectors offer a safe and efficient solution that enhances the quality of the final assembly.

Safety is at the core of all Binar Handling products. Their ergonomic lifting systems have advanced control features that prevent human error and ensure that heavy loads are handled safely. The control handles include sensors that detect hand movements, while built-in auto-balance features ensure that parts remain stable during lifting. In addition, critical components are monitored for redundancy, reducing the risk of equipment failure.

Binar Handling’s ergonomic lifting systems are safe. The rotating swivel built into their lifting devices lets signal cables, airlines, and wire ropes remain tangle-free, reducing wear and extending the life of the equipment. This smooth operation minimises downtime and makes production continuous, helping automotive manufacturers meet tight production schedules.

What sets Binar Handling apart is the flexibility and adaptability of its products. Binar’s systems can be tailored to fit the specific needs of any automotive manufacturing process, with over 6,000 customisable end effectors and a wide range of modular lifting solutions. Whether lifting heavy chassis components or handling delicate electronics, Binar’s ergonomic solutions integrate seamlessly into existing workflows.

In conclusion, Binar Handling’s ergonomic lifting solutions provide automotive manufacturers with the tools they need to overcome the challenges of modern vehicle production. They reduce physical strain, improve precision and safety, help manufacturers streamline their operations, and improve overall productivity

The new plant at Ludhiana will enable Linde India to meet the growing demand for medical oxygen, industrial oxygen, nitrogen and argon from a wide range of customers across healthcare, semiconductor, steel, metals, pharmaceutical, paper, automotive and manufacturing.

Linde India commissioned a new 250 metric tonnes per day air separation unit (ASU) at Ludhiana, Punjab. This is Linde India’s second merchant plant in northern India, the other is at at Selaqui, Uttarakhand. The new ASU more than doubles Linde India’s total merchant capacity in the region.

The new plant at Ludhiana will enable Linde India to meet the growing demand for medical oxygen, industrial oxygen, nitrogen and argon from a wide range of customers across healthcare, semiconductor, steel, metals, pharmaceutical, paper, automotive and manufacturing. The new ASU, located inside the Hi-Tech Cycle Valley Park at Dhanansu, will also serve other industries in the neighbourhood through a gas pipeline network.“

Industrial gases play a vital role across almost every sector in India,” said Abhijit Banerjee, Managing Director, Linde India. “As India’s economy continues to expand and diversify, we are proud to support traditional end markets, such as metals, manufacturing and mining, along with new growth segments, such as electronics, space research, defence, healthcare and solar energy. Linde’s products, technology and people are helping to make our customers more productive and sustainable.”

”Linde India’s investment in Ludhiana aligns with our strategy to consolidate our network in high-growth regions. Punjab is the epicentre for multiple sectors and the Government of Punjab supported this investment through its “Invest Punjab” initiative. This plant is another step towards making the region self-reliant for industrial gases.”

The global automotive hydraulics system market is expected to grow by 2.9 percent CAGR from $45.1 billion in 2024 to $55.1 billion by 2031, driven by advancements in electro-hydraulic systems, regenerative braking technology, and lightweight composite materials.

Automotive hydraulics has been a cornerstone of vehicle design for decades. This technology, which controls a number of vital functions such as braking, steering, and suspension, is important for vehicle safety, comfort, and performance. The automobile sector is facing substantial transition as a result of sustainability, electrification, and the push for self-driving cars, which are reshaping hydraulic systems in novel ways caused by technological advancements and market trends.

Persistence Market Research predicts a 2.9 percent CAGR growth in the global automotive hydraulics system market from $45.1 billion in 2024 to $55.1 billion by 2031, highlighting the industry’s importance in the transition to electric and autonomous vehicles. This blog will explore future trends in automotive hydraulics, focussing on innovations driving this sector forward.

Hydraulics in modern automobiles

Hydroelectric systems in vehicles utilise fluid mechanics principles, utilising pressurised fluids like oil to generate mechanical movement or force. Traditionally, hydraulics have been integral to vehicle braking systems (hydraulic brakes), steering (power steering), and suspension systems, providing smoother rides and better handling. As vehicles advance, the demands on hydraulic systems are evolving.

The future of automotive hydraulics will involve innovation to address challenges such as weight, power consumption, and environmental impact while maintaining the efficiency and reliability of hydraulic systems.

Key innovations in automotive hydraulics

Electro-hydraulic systems, a cutting-edge advancement in automotive hydraulics, combine the precision of electronics with the power of hydraulics, showcasing the integration of electrical components. Electro-hydraulic systems combine electronics with hydraulics, reducing power consumption and improving response time. They are used in advanced braking systems, active suspension, and steering systems, offering precise control, reduced weight, and improved fuel efficiency. These hybrid systems are already being used in advanced braking systems.

As electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) gain market share, regenerative braking technology is becoming increasingly common. While traditional hydraulic braking systems convert kinetic energy into heat, regenerative braking systems capture that energy and store it for later use. Some systems combine both hydraulic and electric components, creating a regenerative hydraulic braking system that can significantly extend battery life in EVs and reduce fuel consumption in conventional vehicles.

Companies are prioritising the development of hydraulic systems that can be integrated with electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, requiring advanced braking systems beyond traditional hydraulics.

Hydraulic systems are essential in vehicle suspension, alongside braking and steering. The future of automotive suspension technology is moving towards active suspension systems that dynamically adjust based on road conditions and driving behaviour, using electro-hydraulics for smoother rides and better handling.

Innovations like active body control (ABC) systems, which use high-pressure hydraulic systems controlled by electronic sensors, allow for real-time suspension adjustments. These systems provide better cornering and stability, making driving safer and more comfortable.

The rise of autonomous vehicles presents new challenges for traditional hydraulic systems, as these vehicles rely on sensors and algorithms for precise, real-time adjustments to braking, steering, and suspension. Electro-hydraulic systems offer a solution, allowing for faster, more accurate control over vehicle functions. As AVs require more automated braking and steering interventions, electro-hydraulic systems will likely play a key role in enabling these technologies.

Lighter, more efficient materials

The future of automotive design is focussing on weight reduction, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). Advancements in material science enable manufacturers to create lighter, more efficient hydraulic components without compromising strength or performance.

The development of lightweight composite materials for hydraulic systems, such as high-strength polymers and advanced alloys, reduces the overall weight of vehicles, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions. These lighter hydraulic systems are important for electric vehicles, which balance the weight of heavy batteries with the need for efficiency.

Sustainability and environmental considerations

As the world shifts toward greener technologies, automotive hydraulic systems are under pressure to become more environmentally friendly. The use of hydraulic fluids, which are often petroleum-based, has raised concerns about environmental pollution and disposal. This is pushing manufacturers to innovate with biodegradable hydraulic fluids and eco-friendly systems.

The next generation of hydraulic systems is expected to incorporate improved sealing technologies and leak detection systems to address the common issue of hydraulic system leakage, which leads to fluid loss and environmental contamination.

Additionally, hydraulic systems are increasingly being designed with sustainability in mind, using materials that are easier to recycle and reducing energy consumption during operation. The move toward electrification also supports this trend, as electro-hydraulic systems tend to be more energy-efficient than traditional fully hydraulic ones.

Market landscape

The steady growth in the automotive hydraulics market, projected to reach US$55.1 billion by 2031, reflects the continued demand for hydraulic systems across various vehicle categories. Although electric vehicles and autonomous vehicles are gaining momentum, traditional hydraulic systems will still be relevant for a considerable time, especially in commercial vehicles, off-road vehicles, and heavy-duty trucks that rely on robust hydraulic components for performance.

However, future market trends will see significant changes in product development and design, with increased demand for advanced electro-hydraulic systems, regenerative braking technologies, and lightweight components, aligning with global fuel efficiency and emissions reduction.

Conclusion

The future of automotive hydraulics is one of innovation and adaptation. As the automotive industry embraces electrification, autonomy, and sustainability, hydraulic systems will evolve to meet new demands while maintaining their core advantages of power, precision, and reliability. Electro-hydraulics, regenerative braking, active suspension, and eco-friendly hydraulic systems are just a few of the trends shaping this transformation.

The automotive hydraulics market, set to grow at a steady 2.9 percent CAGR, presents a promising future for the next generation of vehicles, making it important for manufacturers and suppliers to stay ahead of trends and invest in new materials, technologies, and design solutions.

The agreement aims to accelerate hydrogen adoption, contribute to hydrogen technology advancement, and create synergies between Hyundai’s fuel cell technology and Škoda Group’s mobility products and projects.

Hyundai Motor Company and Škoda Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on establishing a hydrogen mobility ecosystem. The agreement was signed during the Korea-Czech Republic Business Summit in Prague by Ken Ken Ramírez and Petr Novotný.

Ken Ramírez, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Commercial Vehicle and Hydrogen Business at Hyundai Motor Company, said, “Our partnership with Škoda Group aims to accelerate hydrogen adoption, which would contribute to the advancement of hydrogen technology and carbon neutrality across global markets, including the Czech Republic. Together with Škoda Group, we strive to lead the rapidly growing hydrogen businesses by creating positive synergies between our fuel cell technology and Škoda Group’s mobility products and projects.”

The MOU covers studies on the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell systems and technologies, studies on the adoption of energy-efficient solutions for mobility projects and products, and exploring hydrogen ecosystem and value chain opportunities beyond mobility.

Both parties share the view that hydrogen will be a key pillar for a sustainable society, starting with mobility. As part of the MOU, the parties will explore the possibility that Hyundai would share its fuel cell system and technology, contributing to the acceleration of eco-friendly mobility across global markets where Škoda Group operates, including the Czech Republic.

Petr Novotný, CEO of Škoda Group, said, “We believe that hydrogen, alongside energy-efficient solutions, will play an essential role in transforming mobility for a more sustainable future. Our collaboration with Hyundai Motor Company aims at enabling us to look beyond national borders and explore wider markets where these technologies can have a larger impact. By working together, we can bring innovative, eco-friendly solutions to the global mobility ecosystem, advancing cleaner energy in the areas where it’s needed most.”

Hyundai Motor Company and Škoda Group will also conduct feasibility studies for fuel cell system applications for diverse utilisation beyond mobility. Leveraging its global expertise and insights in operating various hydrogen applications in both mobility and energy sectors, Hyundai is poised to play a pivotal role in aiding the energy transition. Hyundai Motor Group is fostering a hydrogen society through its HTWO business brand, which encompasses all its businesses and affiliates, facilitating the entire hydrogen value chain.

Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czechoslovakia (HMMC) in Nošovice, established in 2008, has an annual manufacturing capacity of 350,000 vehicles. Considered one of the most modern car manufacturers in Europe, the manufacturing plant was also the largest foreign investment in the Czech Republic.

Nilesh Rathore, Electrification Quality Lead, John Deere Enterprise Technology and Engineering Center, Pune

Kuldeep Singh, Head – Strategic Sourcing & Supply Chain, Kinetic Green

The push-pull drivers enable 6 W of power delivery at up to 90% efficiency in a small, SOT package.

Nexperia introduced the NXF6501-Q100, NXF6505A-Q100, and NXF6505B-Q100. These are AEC-Q100 qualified, push-pull transformer drivers that enable the design of small, low-noise, and low-EMI isolated power supplies for a range of automotive applications like traction inverters and motor control, DC-DC converters, battery management systems and on-board chargers in electric vehicles (EV). These transformer drivers are also suitable for use in industrial applications like telecommunications, medical applications, instrumentation and industrial automation equipment, solar inverters, energy meters, and programmable logic controllers (PLC).

The NXF650x(A/B)-Q100 series can drive low-profile, center-tapped transformers from a 2.25 V to 5.5 V power supply with high output current (1.2 A at 5 V) and high efficiency (up to 90%). To enable small form factor designs, the devices have a 440 kHz (NXF6501 and NXF6505B) or 160 kHz (NXF6505A) internal oscillator and a gate drive circuit that produces complementary output signals to drive internal ground-referenced n-channel power switches. Alternatively, a clock signal can be applied externally to the NXF6505A and NXF6505B to enable precise control of switching harmonics or enable synchronization of multiple NFX6505x(A/B) -Q100 devices. Additionally, the NXF650x(A/B)-Q100 series employs slew rate control and spread-spectrum clocking (SSC) to deliver ultra-low noise and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

The NXF650x(A/B)-Q100 series also includes a comprehensive range of internal protection features such as over-current protection (1.7 A) with hiccup mode, under-voltage lockout, thermal shutdown, and break-before-make circuitry to ensure safe operation. Additionally, these transformer drivers have a soft-start (~5 ms) feature that prevents high inrush currents during power-up with large load capacitors. Lastly, these devices have fail-safe inputs that prevent back-powering of the local power supply and eliminate the need for power sequence management.

These devices are available in compact industry-standard footprints like the 5-pin SOT8098 (TSOT5) and 6-pin SOT8061 (TSOT6) package and safely operate in ambient temperatures ranging between -55 °C and 125 °C. 

Sanjay Warade, Sales Manager-OEM, Rockwell Automation

Pravin Bobhate, Head SCM, GKN Driveline India Ltd.

Akshatha Dayananda, Addwize Leader – Manager, Wipro 3D

Ford will use the manufacturing plant to focus on exports for global markets. 

Ford has submitted a Letter of Intent (LOI) to the Government of Tamil Nadu, confirming its intention to utilise the Chennai plant for manufacturing and export. The announcement follows a meeting between Ford leadership and the Honorable Chief Minister of the Government of Tamil Nadu as part of his visit to the United States. This strategic move will see the facility repurposed to focus primarily on manufacturing for export to global markets, as part of the company’s ambitious Ford+ growth plan.

“We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Tamil Nadu Government as we explored different options for the Chennai plant,” said Kay Hart, President, Ford International Markets Group. “This step aims to underscore our ongoing commitment to India as we intend to leverage the manufacturing expertise available in Tamil Nadu to serve new global markets.”

Further information about the type of manufacturing and other details will be disclosed in due course.

Ford had halted its manufacturing in 2021, and the recent announcement reaffirms Ford’s commitment to India as a critical market for the company’s global operations. Ford currently employs 12,000 individuals in Global Business Operations in Tamil Nadu, a number expected to grow by 2,500-3,000 jobs within the next three years. Combined with the engine manufacturing operations in Sanand, India represents Ford’s second-largest salaried workforce worldwide.

JSW MG Motor India is transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs). The company aims to have EVs account for nearly 50% of its total sales in 2024.

JSW MG Motor India ( A joint venture between MG Motor and JSW Group) intends to move away from conventional internal combustion engine vehicles as it focuses on new energy vehicles for the future, said the company Director Parth Jindal.

The company launched its electric crossover utility vehicle ‘MG Windsor’, the first launch after JSW Group invested in MG Motor India. It has set a target to introduce a new car every four to six months and is eyeing over 50 per cent of its total sales from electric vehicles in 2024.

The group wants to bank on the new energy vehicles (NEVs). Jindal said, “So, whether that is strong hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or battery electric vehicles, these will be the cornerstone of MG. The traditional ICE (internal combustion engine), as we call it, without even a mild hybrid option, is something that we want to do away with. We are not very keen on bringing that into the country.”

However, Jindal said, “For certain models, if the technology has not developed, we may take those calls. It is not that MG will never bring it (ICE), but as much as we can avoid it, we would like to avoid (it).”

On the prospect of EVs, JSW MG Motor India CEO Emeritus, Rajeev Chaba said at present, EVs account for 35 per cent of the company’s total sales.

“We have five cars right now and Windsor is the sixth — a total of three EVs and three ICE vehicles. In the first seven months of this year, our EV sales volumes have grown 52 per cent,” Chaba said.He said, “With Windsor coming in, EVs should be more than 50 per cent of our sales.”

JSW MG Motor India has not announced the ex-showroom price of the Windsor but it is offering it at a vehicle price of Rs 9.99 lakh plus Rs 3.5/km for battery. The company has introduced an ownership plan through a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) offering and claimed that owning the Windsor, a full-size capable electric CUV, will be at the price equivalent of a manual engine-based compact SUV.

The Windsor is powered by a 38 kWh Li-ion battery pack and has a range of 331 km under standard conditions on a single charge. It can be charged in 40 minutes at any DC fast charge. On the localisation level of Windsor, Chaba said, “It starts at a lower level, but in the next 12 to 18 months, we intend to make it to around 80 per cent”.

Bookings of Windsor will start on October 3 and deliveries from October 12 onwards, the company said.

Last year in November, China’s largest automaker SAIC Motor inked a joint venture (JV) agreement with the JSW Group to accelerate the transformation and growth of MG Motor in India. Under the new structure, JSW picked up a 35 per cent stake in the JV, Indian Financial Institutions (IFI) 8 per cent, dealers of MG Motor 3 per cent and 5 per cent earmarked for company employees. The remaining 49 per cent is with SAIC.

The JC has set an ambitious target to sell one million units of passenger electric vehicles in India by 2030 when the total market is expected to be 10 million units annually.

Cabinet approves PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme with an outlay of ₹.10,900 crore over two years.

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) for the implementation of a scheme titled ‘PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme’ for the promotion of electric mobility in the country.  The scheme has an outlay of Rs 10,900 crore over two years.

The major components of the scheme include Subsidies/Demand incentives worth Rs.3,679 crore provided to incentivise e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, e-trucks and other emerging EVs. The scheme will support 24.79 lakh e-2Ws, 3.16 lakh e-3Ws, and 14,028 e-buses.

MHI has introduced e-vouchers for EV buyers to avail of demand incentives under the scheme. 

The scheme allocates Rs.500 crore for the deployment of e-ambulances. This is a new initiative to promote e-ambulance for comfortable patient transport. The performance and safety standards of e-ambulances will be formulated in consultation with MoHFW, MoRTH and other relevant stakeholders.

Rs.4,391 crore has been provided to procure 14,028 e-buses by STUs/public transport agencies. CESL will carry out demand aggregation in nine cities with populations exceeding 4 million, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Surat, Bangalore, Pune, and Hyderabad. Intercity and Interstate e-buses will also be supported in consultation with states.
The trucks are a major contributor to air pollution. Rs.500 crore has been allocated incentives for e-trucks. Incentives will be given to those scrapping certificate holders from MoRTH-approved vehicle scrapping centres (RVSF).

The scheme addresses the range anxiety of EV buyers by promoting the installation of electric vehicle public charging stations (EVPCS). These EVPCS shall be installed in the selected cities with high EV penetration and on designated highways. The scheme proposes the installation of 22,100 fast chargers for e-4 Ws, 1800 fast chargers for e-buses and 48,400 fast chargers for e-2W/3Ws.

Given the growing EV ecosystem in the country, the test agencies of MHI will be modernised to deal with the new and emerging technologies to promote green mobility.

The scheme promotes mass mobility by supporting means of public transportation.  The primary objective of the PM E-DRIVE scheme is to expedite the adoption of EVs by providing upfront incentives for their purchase, as well as by facilitating the establishment of essential charging infrastructure for EVs. The PM E-DRIVE scheme aims to promote EVs to reduce the environmental impact of transportation and improve air quality.
The government is raising its Aatmanirbhar Bharat slogan by incorporating a phased manufacturing programme (PMP) which encourages domestic manufacturing and strengthening of the EV supply chain.

This initiative of Govt. of India aims to address concerns regarding environmental pollution, and fuel security and promote sustainable transportation solutions. This scheme along with its PMP, shall spur investment in the EV sector and associated supply chain while creating employment opportunities. 

Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND) has introduced a suite of new products and solutions at the Electronica India exhibition, aimed at enhancing performance, safety, and reliability in India’s automotive and industrial ecosystems.

The Industrial Devices Division (INDD) of Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), a leading diversified technology company, introduced an innovative suite of new products and solutions addressing the automotive and industrial ecosystems at the Electronica India exhibition. It includes the Cooling Fan Motor for Motorcycles & Scooters, 6-in-1 Sensor for vehicle stability & control, Cooling Fan for heat dissipation, Ultrasonic Gas-Flow Measurement Unit, and MEGTRON-8, a Multi-Layer Circuit Board Material.These solutions have been designed to cater to India’s evolving industrial and automotive industries, contributing significantly towards enhancing performance, safety, and reliability. The five new solutions were launched by Manish Sharma, Chairman, Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), in the presence of Tadashi Chiba, MD&CEO, PLSIND; Narayan Kumar, Divisional Director, INDD, PLSIND; and other delegates. 

Manish Sharma, Chairman, Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), said, “India’s electronics industry is one of the key cornerstones for India’s economic growth, and industrial devices play a pivotal role in driving this development. At Panasonic, we are proud to contribute to India’s manufacturing economy through our diversified range of electronics, electromechanical devices, and energy solutions. Our industrial enterprise solutions utilise new-age technologies enabled with Japanese trust (technology) that are helping OEMs address some of the critical challenges, enabling them to innovate and gain a competitive advantage. We at Panasonic are committed to supporting India’s manufacturing growth journey and thus contributing to the overall development.”

Narayan Kumar, Divisional Director, Industrial Devices Division (INDD), Panasonic Life Solutions India, said, “A major share of India’s economic landscape is dominated by the automotive and industrial ecosystems. As a committed enabler for our customers, we at Panasonic Industrial Devices Division (INDD) believe in offering new technology devices and solutions that are designed to cater to the unique needs of our customers. Be it optimum performance, efficiency, or reliability, all the solutions are enabled with new-age technology that helps improve the product quality, increase productivity, and thus save costs.”

The new Cooling Fan Motor is a lightweight, durable, and high-heat-resistant flat-coreless motor designed for two-wheelers, offering effective engine cooling and improved fuel efficiency in the radiator motor line-up. It features a unique single-bearing structure, equipped with a constant-load brush spring to optimise performance and extend its lifespan to an impressive 3,000 hours—three times longer than current models.

Application: This motor is designed for reliable operation in submerged conditions, providing versatility and durability. Its thin profile ensures effective cooling performance, making it an ideal solution for premium two-wheelers.

The 6-in-1 6DoF Inertial Sensor, introduced in India, measures vehicle acceleration and angular rate across three axes, providing critical information for enhanced vehicle safety and stability, and will be showcased at the Electronica India exhibition. These sensors adhere rigorously to the ISO 26262 Functional Safety Standards, including the Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL-D), reflecting their robustness and dependability in mission-critical applications.

Application:  Vehicle safety, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Autonomous driving applications, and Vehicle-to-X (V2X) communication to name a few.With the trend of increasing heat output from the engines, there are an increasing number of cases where the small fans do not have enough air volume. The new cooling fan is equipped with a unique hydrodynamic bearing and is designed to operate across a wide temperature range. This fan delivers exceptional performance even under harsh conditions. It maintains quiet operation while enduring shocks and vibrations due to Panasonic’s proprietary precision machining technology and CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) technology.

Application: LED Head Lamp, ADAS, Infotainment, Cluster, DC-DC Converter, 5G/Customer Premise Equipment. This fan is suited for critical applications such as ADAS-related ECUs, LED headlamps, and 5G devices, ensuring optimal thermal management in electronics operating between -40°C to 95°C.

The ultrasonic gas flow measurement units are ultrasonic measurement units for application in smart gas meters. It provides high accuracy (up to ± 1.5%) over a long period of time, is compact and modular, and allows for easy integration. Additionally, these meters are compatible with multiple gases, such as air, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, helium, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, argon, etc. With a measurement range of up to 7.2 m3/hour, these are already popular in European countries for smart gas meter installations. Additional features such as a shut-off valve and seismic sensor further enhance its utility, making it an indispensable tool in modern gas metering applications.

Application: Smart Gas Meter installations

Under the Electronic Materials range, INDD introduced Multi-Layer Circuit Board Materials (MEGTRON-8), best known for the industry’s lowest transmission loss, resulting in reduced power consumption. The new materials support 800 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) used for next-generation high-speed communication networking equipment such as routers, switches, optical transmission equipment, servers, AI servers, etc. The MEGTRON 8 series contributes to a larger capacity and offers about a 30% (28 GHz) improvement in transmission loss compared to its earlier version, MEGTRON 7.

Application: Networking equipment (Routers, Switches, Optical Transmission Equipment, Servers, AI Servers, etc.)

The Industrial Devices Division (INDD) showcased their comprehensive range of Automotive, Industrial, and Telecom ICT devices at electronica 2024.

Shailesh Chandra previously served as the Vice President of SIAM, and succeeds Vinod Aggarwal, Managing Director & CEO of Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd.  

The Executive Committee of Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the apex body representing the country’s leading automobile manufacturers, elected Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, as its new President for 2024-25.
The new office bearers were elected during the Executive Committee Meeting. The members of SIAM also elected Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland Ltd., as the Vice President of SIAM for 2024-25.  Satyakam Arya, CEO & MD, of Daimler India Commercial Vehicles was elected as the Treasurer of SIAM for 2024-25.

The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) is an apex national body representing all major vehicle and vehicular engine manufacturers in India. SIAM recently concluded its 64th Annual Convention focused on “Aatmanirbhar in automobile supply chain & leveraging India’s potential in global Markets.

Ravi Patil, General Manager – Rapid Prototyping, DesignTech Systems Pvt Ltd

The 64th Annual Convention of SIAM focused on “Sustainable Mobility Journey towards Viksit Bharat,” with industry leaders and policymakers discussing sustainable mobility’s role in achieving India’s Viksit Bharat goals by 2047.

The 64th Annual Convention of Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) focused on the “Sustainable Mobility Journey towards Viksit Bharat” with industry stalwarts and policymakers discussing the role of sustainable mobility in achieving Viksit Bharat goals by 2047.

The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, emphasised on the need for the Automobile sector to set an example for others to follow and said, “The road ahead demands that our progress is rapid while also being sustainable. Working on greener and cleaner mobility is a vital step in this direction”.

Chief Guest, Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, highlighted the Government’s initiatives and vision for sustainable transportation, stating, “The automobile industry plays a pivotal role in realising the Prime Minister’s vision of transforming India into a 5 trillion-dollar economy and elevating it to the third largest economy globally. Our ambition is to extend it as the number one auto manufacturing industry worldwide. As we target a carbon-neutral status by 2070, innovation and sustainable practices in the auto sector are crucial.”

Guest of Honour, Mr. H. D. Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, Government of India, spoke on the critical importance of industrial growth aligned with sustainability goals. He remarked, “Enhanced by our Prime Minister’s sustainability pledges in Glasgow and robust Make in India initiatives, we are aggressively promoting electric mobility. Government policies are geared to fuel this transition, fostering a conducive environment for industry growth and sustainable development.”

Vinod Aggarwal, President of SIAM and Managing Director & CEO of Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd., highlighted the automobile industry’s role in driving sustainable mobility. He stated, “The automobile industry is keeping pace and setting the standards for sustainable growth. Contributing 6.8% to the GDP and witnessing an impressive 12.5% growth last year alone, the industry’s turnover has soared to ₹20 lakh crore. As we look towards ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, SIAM’s commitment to decarbonisation and safety is steadfast. With initiatives like the FAME program fuelling a 90% growth in EVs Passenger Vehicles, along with Ethanol and Gaseous fuels we are steering towards cleaner, greener mobility.”

Shailesh Chandra, Vice President of SIAM and Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., emphasised the need for a collective effort to accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility. He said, “The government’s strong commitment to sustainable mobility and the constant support from the ministries have facilitated the industry’s transitioning to sustainable mobility. We are fully aligned with the government’s vision of ensuring sustainable, safe, and affordable transport solutions, and achieving net carbon-zero in future.”

Rajesh Menon, Director General, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), was also present during the session. He highlighted SIAM’s various initiatives and commitment towards sustainable mobility.

Rizwan Khan, Sales Manager – India, SupplyPoint Systems

BMW and Toyota to jointly develop the next generation of fuel cell technology. Aim to launch first-ever series production fuel cell vehicle in 2028.

BMW plans to launch its first-ever series production fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028, thereby offering customers an additional all-electric powertrain option with zero local emissions in a BMW. The BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation are pooling their innovative strength and their technological capabilities to bring a new generation of fuel cell powertrain technology to the roads.

The BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation will jointly develop the powertrain system for passenger vehicles, with the core fuel cell technology (the individual third-generation fuel cells) creating synergies for both commercial and passenger vehicle applications. The result of this collaborative effort will be utilized in individual models from both BMW and Toyota and will expand the range of FCEV options available to customers, bringing the vision of hydrogen mobility one step closer to reality. Customers can expect the BMW and Toyota FCEV models to maintain their distinct brand identities and characteristics, providing them with individual FCEV options to choose from. Realising synergies and amalgamating the total volume of powertrain units by collaborating on development and procurement promises to drive down the costs of fuel cell technology.

Hydrogen is recognised as a promising future energy carrier for global decarbonisation. It acts as an effective storage medium for renewable energy sources, helping to balance supply and demand and enabling a more stable and reliable integration of renewables into the energy grid. Hydrogen is the missing piece for completing the electric mobility puzzle where battery-electric drive systems are not an optimal solution.

After successfully testing the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet worldwide, the BMW Group is now preparing for production of vehicles with hydrogen drive systems in 2028 on the basis of the jointly developed next-generation powertrain technology. The series production models will be integrated into BMW’s existing portfolio, i.e. BMW will offer an existing model in an additional hydrogen fuel cell drive system variant. As FCEV technology is another electric vehicle technology, the BMW Group explicitly views it as complementing the drive technology used by battery electric vehicles (BEV) and next to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and internal combustion engines (ICE).

The pathway to realising the full potential of hydrogen mobility includes its use in commercial vehicles and the establishment of a refuelling infrastructure for all mobility applications, including hydrogen-powered passenger vehicles. Both companies are encouraging sustainable hydrogen supply by creating demand and working closely with companies that are building low-carbon hydrogen production, distribution, and refuelling facilities.

The BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation are advocating the creation of a conducive framework by governments and investors to facilitate the early-stage penetration of hydrogen mobility and ensure its economic viability. The aim is to establish the FCEV market as an additional pillar alongside other powertrain technologies. The collaboration seeks regional or local projects to further drive the development of hydrogen infrastructure through collaborative initiatives.

Rujuta Jagtap, Executive Director, SAJ Test Plant Pvt Ltd

FAME-3 scheme will replace EMPS or Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 which is set to expire at the end of September.

The EV sale has come to a stalemate if compared with the last year, which has raised severe concerns for the manufacturing industry. To accelerate the adoption, the Government has announced that FAME -3 or the third phase of the Faster Adoption & Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme will be rolled out within two months. The decision is part of the government’s initiative to boost EV adoption across the country.

Speaking at the National Conference on Electric Mobility organised by ASSOCHAM, Union Minister for Heavy Industries- HD Kumaraswamy said, “The third iteration of the Faster Adoption & Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme will be rolled out within two months. We are taking a comprehensive approach to boost EV ecosystem and I call upon all stakeholders to join hands towards making India a global leader in electric mobility and towards our vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’.”

The FAME-3 scheme will replace EMPS or Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024. It will expire at the end of the current month-September. It was initially planned for a temporary 4-month period and later extended for another 2 months. This was primarily done to continue giving additional incentives to electric two- and three-wheeler players and there was an outlay of about Rs 1500 crore.

The EMPS 2024 scheme gained prominence following the expiration of FAME 2 in March this year. FAME 2 was initially launched in 2019 with a three-year term ending in 2022, but it was extended until March 2024. The two-year extension also came with an additional allocation of Rs 1,500 crore. The original outlay for FAME 2 in 2019 was Rs 10,000 crore, aimed at supporting 10 lakh electric two-wheelers, 5 lakh electric three-wheelers, 55,000 passenger cars, and 7,000 electric buses.

Neelam Pandey Pathak, Founder & CEO, Social Bay Consulting

Ketan Jadhav, Partner, EAC International Consulting