Krishna Bhojkar, Partner, Bhojkar Consulting

Highly fuel-efficient and reliable, this indigenously developed, versatile engine will power Tata trucks in the 19–42 tonne range for multiple applications across categories.

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, introduced its technologically advanced engine, Turbotronn 2.0, to deliver a new benchmark of excellence in trucking. Highly fuel-efficient and reliable, this indigenously developed, versatile engine will power Tata trucks in the 19–42 tonne range for multiple applications across categories. Perfectly suited for rapidly growing e-commerce, logistics, parcel, and courier segments, the Turbotronn 2.0 engine is designed to address specific needs expressed by customers, offers an enhanced driving experience, and is engineered to deliver robust performance with the inherent benefit of lowering the total cost of ownership (TCO). It has been rigorously tested for over 30 lakh km and 70,000 cumulative hours across diverse duty cycles and harsh terrains. Fully compliant with the BS6 Phase 2 emission norms, the Turbotronn 2.0 is platform-agnostic, offered with the Signa, Ultra, LPT, and cowl platforms, and comes with a warranty of 6 years and 6 lakh km.

A 5-liter turbocharged diesel engine, the efficient and versatile Turbotronn 2.0 is offered in multiple states of tune ranging from 180–204 PS and engineered to offer a flatter torque curve in the range of 700–850 Nm for better drivability. With longer oil drains and service intervals of 1 lakh km, its distinctive attributes ensure more vehicle uptime to generate higher revenues.

Introducing the Turbotronn 2.0, Rajendra Petkar, President and Chief Technology Officer, Tata Motors, said, “The Turbotronn 2.0 is one of our most advanced internal combustion engines. Engineered with latest technologies, it enables trucks to cover longer distances in shorter time. Its robust performance and high fuel efficiency has set new industry benchmarks for trucking in India.”

As part of a reliability test, Tata Motors kicked off a 30-day endurance run with its Tata Ultra T.19, powered by the Turbotronn 2.0 engine. The goal was to conduct a continuous run on the Golden Quadrilateral, a vital national highway network connecting India’s metros, ensuring the highest standards of durability and efficiency. The Tata Ultra T.19 not only completed nine rounds of the Golden Quadrilateral successfully but also secured nine records in both the India Book of Records and the Asia Book of Records. These amazing achievements were made possible by the economical and dependable Turbotronn 2.0 engine-powered Tata Ultra T.19, which represents a key milestone in the commercial vehicle industry.

Sameer Jindal, Director, MG Motor India Pvt. Ltd.

Sandeep Chati, General Manager, Operations, Ford

Dr. S. Manivasagam, Head of Technology Services & Director, 3D Engineering

Arth Patel, CEO, TIREX Chargers

Sterling has diversified into EV components, securing the largest market share in India’s Motor Control Unit space. Mr Anish Agarwal, Director, Sterling G-take E mobility shares that with strategic expansion plans, Sterling aims for a prominent role in the evolving electric mobility landscape by 2030.

What common materials are used in manufacturing fasteners, and how does the choice of material affect their performance and durability? 
The fastener industry is expansive and versatile, finding applications in automotive manufacturing, consumer electronics, white goods industries, construction industry among others. Fastening solutions are crucial in joining components across various products, from mobile phones to washing machines. Currently, Sterling primarily focuses on automotive fasteners, utilizing low-carbon, medium-carbon, and alloy steels to meet the requirements of automotive OEMs. Fasteners are also crafted from stainless steel, aluminum, Inconel, and titanium. Still, the use of Inconel and titanium is more prevalent in the aerospace industry for advanced fastening solutions. In contrast, mild steel and stainless steel find greater application in the chemical, process and construction industries.

How do fasteners differ in their permanence in affixing objects together?  
A fastener selection involves carefully considering raw materials and heat treatment. These are crucial factors that directly impact the mechanical properties of the fastener. In any fastening solution, there is typically a male member, such as a bolt, and a female member, often a nut with internal threads. The specific mating part and vehicle application determines the choice of heat treatment and material. For instance, in the case of a wheel bolt destined for the hub or wheel of a passenger vehicle, the properties of the hub, including material, heat treatment, and even surface coating for rust prevention and friction properties, play a significant role in determining the characteristics of the fastener.

What environmental considerations are associated with the fasteners industry, especially concerning the production and disposal of these mechanical tools? 
Regarding manufacturing fasteners, two critical environmental considerations come into play. Firstly, there’s the issue of pollution associated with the production process, particularly water pollution resulting from electroplating, a common step in fastener manufacturing. Sterling addresses this concern by employing zero liquid discharge facilities, ensuring that all water is treated extensively before discharge. This commitment to zero liquid discharge is maintained through advanced effluent treatment plants, effectively eliminating water pollution from manufacturing.

Secondly, there’s a focus on the product itself and the need to impart rust-preventive qualities to the fastener. This involves processes like electroplating or coating to safeguard the fastener against corrosion during its operational lifespan within a vehicle. Sterling takes proactive measures to ensure their fasteners’ longevity and reliability in diverse applications.

In addition to these efforts, Sterling demonstrates environmental responsibility by harnessing solar power through solar panels on its rooftops. This sustainable approach allows the conversion of sunlight into electricity, helping to reduce both the company’s reliance on the conventional electricity grid and its overall carbon footprint. This initiative is particularly impactful for powering office spaces and administrative blocks during daylight hours.

How has technology and innovation influenced the design and manufacturing of fasteners in recent years? 
In fastener manufacturing, the core processes, like cold forging and thread rolling, have remained largely unchanged over the past two to three decades barring some improvements in the machine itself. These fundamental methods have stood the test of time. However, customer demands have driven notable shifts in the industry. There’s a growing emphasis on surface finishes that offer enhanced rust resistance and improved aesthetics. The need for sturdier fasteners with superior mechanical properties, achieved through advanced heat treatment, has also evolved.

While the fundamental nature of fasteners within the automotive sector has maintained a standard for the past two and a half decades, the landscape is changing. The rise of electrification and the pursuit of lightweight vehicles steer fasteners towards a more tubular and hollow design especially used in areas like battery packs and trays. This shift reflects the evolving demands of an industry increasingly embracing electrification and seeking innovative solutions for lighter and more efficient vehicles.

What industry standards does Sterling adhere to ensure fastener application quality and safety? 
Sterling specializes in crafting fasteners primarily based on the specifications and standards set by OEMs. For any OEM standard, the company adheres to the specific engineering guidelines and process control audit procedures outlined by the respective OEM. A substantial 90-95% of our business is dedicated to meeting these OEM customer standards.

In addition to OEM-specific standards, Sterling ensures that its standard fasteners comply with global regulations. When exporting fasteners to different regions, the company aligns with the specific standards applicable to that geography. For instance, when supplying fasteners to Europe, particularly Germany, we follow DIN standards, and for exports to other regions, compliance with ISO standards is the norm. This approach underscores our commitment to tailor our products to meet the diverse needs and requirements of the customer base for their applications and geographic locations.

Please share your insights on the performance of the auto component industry. 
The future of the auto component industry looks promising as it is closely intertwined with the growth of the automotive OEM sector. Projections indicate a positive trajectory for the next decade, with significant opportunities stemming from the continued expansion of India’s automotive and mobility landscape. India, being relatively under-penetrated in both two-wheelers and passenger vehicles, presents substantial room for growth over the next 10 to 20 years.

In the two-wheeler segment, sustained growth is anticipated until the end of the current decade, with projections reaching around 25-30 million units annually. However, the passenger vehicle sector is deemed boundless, drawing parallels with China’s remarkable growth. Experts foresee India’s capacity to produce 12 to 15 million cars annually over the next two decades. This expansion not only opens avenues for the auto component industry to serve existing needs but also creates opportunities for localization, especially in the case of electric vehicles, battery packs, fuel cell vehicles, hydrogen technology, and general automotive electronics. The evolving landscape presents a fertile ground for the Indian auto component industry to diversify and thrive.

What transformations are visible in the auto components sector- an integral part of the EV manufacturing supply chain?  
India’s EV manufacturing supply chain relies heavily on China, with some contributions from Korea and Japan. Despite notable strides in localizing components for two-wheeler electrification, particularly in motor control units where Sterling leads in India, several crucial sub-components within the EV supply chain, such as semiconductors, Mosfets, IGBT’s, sensors, remain dependent on imports.

While India can handle assembly processes by importing these essential components from countries like China, Taiwan, Korea, or Japan, true localization of electrification in India requires a shift toward producing these key sub-components domestically. This transformation is crucial for sustainable growth in the EV sector. Although the localization of these key subcomponents may take time, there is an anticipation that some of these critical components will be manufactured in India by the end of this decade. The Government of India is actively pursuing programs to promote the domestic production of semiconductors. However, the realization of these initiatives may take time due to the substantial capital investments involved, primarily feasible through joint ventures between Indian conglomerates and leading global players.

What role is expected of 3D printing for automotive component manufacturing? 
The concept of 3D printing has been in discussions for about the past 15 years. Its primary application lies in creating rapid prototypes and gaining traction in aerospace industries, where volumes are small and price points are better. However, the widespread use of 3D printing for large-scale, repetitive manufacturing is still a considerable distance away from full commercialization as we stand today.

Significant investments are being made in this sector, particularly in electrification and autonomous vehicles. The potential of 3D printing in the automotive industry has yet to reach a level where it competes with traditional mass production techniques such as castings, forgings, and injection moldings. While there is optimism that 3D printing could play a role in certain automotive applications in the future, it is seen as a technology that needs more time to become a mainstream choice for mass production in the industry.

How is the auto component sector influencing growth in both domestic and international markets? 
The auto component industry holds a significant position, contributing approximately 7 to 10% of India’s total GDP, which accounts for around 45 to 50% of the manufacturing GDP. This sector is a key indicator of the manufacturing health of the country. Looking at domestic prospects, there is substantial growth potential for passenger cars and two-wheelers over the next two decades.

On the global stage, opportunities have arisen for the Indian component industry to export internal combustion (IC) engine components to Europe and the US. As new IC engine development gradually phases out in these regions from 2027 onwards, India is poised to continue such production until at least 2032-35 and cater to the requirements in Europe in particular given the regulations to phase out IC Engines by 2035. This presents a window for supplying IC engine components not only to Europe but also to North America markets.

India stands to export electric two-wheelers to Southeast Asian nations like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines for electric vehicles. The advent of electrification has levelled the playing field, offering Indian companies an equal footing against global competitors, both established players and emerging startups.

How does Sterling contribute to the automotive components sector?
Initially established in 1980 as a manufacturer specializing in high-tensile fasteners for the automotive industry, our core business remains focused on serving OEMs across various vehicle segments. However, the company has strategically diversified its portfolio into EV components in the past four to five years. Sterling has gained a large market share in India’s Motor Control Unit space, marking a significant presence in the evolving electric mobility landscape. We plan to expand our footprint within the EV and electronic supply chains, ensuring relevance and a secure future in the industry by 2030.

Rohde & Schwarz’s radar target simulator, R&S RTS, a breakthrough in automotive radar, has successfully validated NXP® Semiconductors’ latest radar sensor reference design, showcasing its capability to simulate close-range objects electronically.

The radar target simulator R&S RTS, Rohde & Schwarz’ game-changing solution of automotive radar, in particular its ability to electronically simulate very close-range objects, has been used to verify the performance of NXP® Semiconductors’ next-generation radar sensor reference design. This collaboration enables the automotive industry to take another step forward in the development of automotive radar, the principal technology that enables advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving features.

Engineers from both companies conducted a comprehensive series of tests to verify the new sensor reference design which is based on a NXP’s 28 nm RFCMOS radar one-chip SoC (SAF85xx). The R&S RTS radar test system combines the R&S AREG800A automotive radar echo generator with the R&S QAT100 antenna mmW frontend, offering unique short-distance object simulation capabilities as well as superior RF performance and advanced signal processing with many advanced functions. This enables realistic tests of next generation automotive radar applications and brings automotive industry’s vision of fully autonomous driving one step closer.

NXP’s next generation automotive radar sensor reference design is enabled by the industry’s first 28 nm RFCMOS radar one-chip SoC family leveraging the R&S RTS radar test system. The radar sensor reference design can be used for short, medium and long-range radar applications to serve challenging NCAP (NCAP: New Car Assessment Program) safety requirements as well as comfort functions like highway pilot or urban pilot for the fast-growing segment of L2+ and L3 vehicles.

The R&S RTS is the only test system suitable for complete characterization of radar sensors and radar echo generation with object distances down to the airgap value of the radar under test. It combines the R&S AREG800A automotive radar echo generator as a backend and the R&S QAT100 antenna array or the R&S AREG8-81S as a frontend. The technically superior test solution is suitable for the whole automotive radar lifecycle including development lab, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), vehicle-in-the-loop (VIL), validation and production application requirements. The solution is also fully scalable and can emulate the most complex traffic scenarios for advanced driver assistance systems.

Adi Baumann, Senior Director ADAS R&D, at NXP Semiconductors says: “We have been collaborating closely and successfully with Rohde & Schwarz for many years on the verification of our automotive radar sensor reference designs. Rohde & Schwarz’ cutting-edge automotive radar test systems allows us high quality and highly efficient validation of our automotive radar products and proves outstanding performance of our radar one-chip. The level of experience, quality and support that Rohde & Schwarz provides to NXP is making a difference.”

Gerald Tietscher, Vice President Signal Generators, Power Supplies and Meters from Rohde & Schwarz says: “We are grateful for the collaboration with NXP to accelerate the deployment of advanced automotive radar sensors based on 28 nm automotive radar chips. They serve ever more challenging NCAP safety requirements and will help enable new safety applications. Our experience in automotive radar testing allows us to provide a best-in-class test solution for this radar sensor design based on the industry’s first 28 nm RFCMOS one-chip radar SoC.”

NXP will present the latest developments for radar including the automotive radar sensor reference design at CES 2024 trade show in Las Vegas from January 9 to 12, 2024, at booth CP18/19 in the West Hall.

With a joint investment of over USD 100 million (~ INR 850 crores) in phases, the cooperation will position India as the global manufacturing & sourcing hub for electric vehicles.

EKA Mobility, a leading electric vehicles & technology company based in India, announced a partnership with Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Japan) and VDL Groep (Netherlands). This strategic cooperation marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Indian automotive industry, propelling India toward becoming a global hub for sustainable transportation. The alliance is set to establish most cutting edge global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the region.

This is one of the largest and most significant partnerships in the new mobility segment in India bringing together the strengths and expertise of three leading automotive conglomerates in Asia & Europe to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative electric mobility solutions globally. Under the cooperation, EKA Mobility, known for its cutting-edge electric vehicles and comprehensive EV ecosystem, will receive significant and strategic investments from Mitsui, a global trading and investment company with a rich history of contributing to industrial innovation, and technological support & equity partnership from VDL Groep, a leading Dutch technology and manufacturing company. The combined expertise and resources of the three entities will usher in a new era of sustainable transportation and manufacturing excellence.

In a strategic collaboration, Mitsui & Co., Ltd. is set to make substantial financial investments in EKA Mobility, a move designed to facilitate the scaling up of EKA’s manufacturing operations and broaden its product portfolio. The partnership extends beyond mere financial support, as Mitsui commits to offering assistance to EKA in exporting to specific emerging markets and in establishing robust systems and processes. Notably, VDL Bus & Coach, a subsidiary of VDL Groep and a pioneering force in electric buses and coaches in Europe, will play a pivotal role in the alliance. By transferring technology, VDL Bus & Coach aims to empower EKA Mobility in producing electric buses tailored for the Indian market, thereby contributing to technological leadership in the region.

This collaboration aligns seamlessly with the ‘Make in India’ initiative championed by the Indian government, underscoring a commitment to fostering local manufacturing and job creation. Beyond economic considerations, the partnership places a strong emphasis on sustainability, reflecting a shared dedication to environmentally conscious mobility solutions and a collective goal of reducing carbon footprints. In essence, this cooperation represents a multifaceted approach encompassing strategic investment, technological exchange, support for local manufacturing, and a steadfast commitment to sustainable practices, collectively contributing to the growth and advancement of EKA Mobility in the Indian market.

Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder & Chairman of EKA Mobility, expressed his views about the cooperation, stating, “This partnership with Mitsui and VDL Groep represents a significant step toward making India a global hub for electric vehicle manufacturing. We are proud to join forces with such distinguished partners who share our vision of sustainable, profitable & efficient transportation.”

Nobuyoshi Umezawa, GM of Mobility Business Division in Mitsui & Co. India: “Through the cooperation of EKA, VDL, and Mitsui, we aim to contribute to “Make in India” by leveraging EKA’s excellent engineering and local network, and VDL’s cutting-edge technological capabilities. Furthermore, we would like to utilize our Mitsui’s global network to promote exporting EKA’s competitive products to overseas markets and contribute to creating eco-friendly societies”.

Rolf-Jan Zweep, CEO VDL Bus & Coach: “We are delighted to partner with EKA Mobility and Mitsui. Although the basis of our high-quality development and manufacturing competences lie in north-western Europe, we see many opportunities in India, which is obviously a promising growth market. With this cooperation, we foresee especially many synergy benefits in the areas of procurement and development”. 

EKA Mobility is one of the commercial vehicle manufacturers approved under the Champion OEM Scheme & EV component manufacturing scheme of the Government of India’s Auto PLI policy. EKA is the only Indian company offering end-to-end design, manufacturing & technology of new energy vehicles from scratch in India. The company has set up a state-of-the-art research, development, engineering & innovation center in Pune, Maharashtra, and has significantly grown its order book, with more than 500 electric buses and 5000+ electric light commercial vehicle orders in the pipeline. All these vehicles will be completely designed & manufactured in India, at EKA’s proposed state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. In last two years, the company has introduced electric city bus, staff carrier & school bus, 9 meter hydrogen fuel-cell electric bus, and is now all set to enter the last mile delivery with its range of e-LCVs designed & customized to suit Indian customers and businesses.

Tata Motors sets new standards in comprehensive vehicle lifecycle management with its commercial vehicles, supported by the Sampoorna Seva 2.0 initiative, Fleet Edge digital solution, and 24×7 service network.

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, today unveiled its innovative and advanced range of future ready mobility solutions at EXCON 2023 – South Asia’s premier construction equipment exhibition. Embracing the theme ‘Moving India Forward’, the company reinforced its commitment to innovation, sustainability and excellence, serving the nation proudly. Tata Motors showcased its trucks and tippers engineered to perfectly suit the construction and infrastructure sectors, along with vehicles powered by green fuels, including Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) and battery electric. It also unveiled its wide range of aggregates, including engines designed for industrial equipment, axles and gensets.

Tata Motors made a significant stride in sustainable transportation with the commercial launch of its LNG-powered Tata Prima range of trucks and tippers, a pioneering achievement that includes the Tata Prima 5528.S LNG and India’s first LNG-powered tipper, the Tata Prima 3528.K LNG. Tata Motors also showcased the Tata Prima E.28K, a concept electric tipper, aligning with the company’s commitment to zero-emission technology solutions. These vehicles represent a significant breakthrough in the industry’s shift towards cleaner energy sources, reaffirming Tata Motors’ goal to achieve net-zero GHG emission by 2045.

Additionally, Tata Motors also unveiled a line-up of high-performance trucks, including the Tata Prima 2830.TK VX and Tata Signa 3530.TK VX, tailored for diverse construction applications. These vehicles are equipped with advanced features like cruise control, automatic traction control and pneumatically suspended driver seat, all aimed at elevating performance, comfort and safety standards for operators.This sets new benchmark in the industry, ushering in a new era of innovation and safety standards.

Unveiling Tata Motors’ EXCON 2023 pavilion, Rajesh Kaul, Vice President & Business Head – Trucks, Tata Motors, said, “EXCON 2023 serves as a monumental stage to showcase our superior technology and unwavering dedication to providing construction industry with solutions that transcend excellence. The launch of LNG-powered range of trucks and tippers echoes our determination to lead in innovation, aligning with the evolving needs of fleet owners who are ready to embark on a sustainable journey. As a customer-centric company, we understand that fleet owners demand more value in long-haul transportation and infrastructure sectors like construction and mining. We have also displayed our electric tipper concept, the Prima E.28K. Along with introducing the electric tipper, we will develop a holistic ecosystem to aid electric mobility in the construction segment. The new VX variants of the Prima and Signa, showcased at our pavilion, set new paradigms in the industry for safety, productivity and driver comfort.”

Tata Motors offers the widest commercial vehicle portfolio and has gone beyond mere BS6 Phase 2 compliance. The company has upgraded its vehicles bumper-to-bumper with more features, efficient powertrains and richer value-adds. Beyond buying the best-in-class Tata vehicles, fleet owners enjoy better fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, high vehicle uptime, real-time vehicle tracking and analytics for running their fleet efficiently.

Tata Motors commercial vehicles are complemented by a range of value-added services for comprehensive vehicle lifecycle management, through its Sampoorna Seva 2.0 initiative. With Fleet Edge – Tata Motors’ next-gen digital solution for optimal fleet management, which enables operators to further increase the uptime of its vehicles and reduce the total cost of ownership, and 24×7 support from India’s widest service network, Tata Motors continues to establish new benchmarks in holistic transportation solutions.

Shirish Kulkarni, Founder & MD, STROTA ConsulTech Pvt Ltd

E Rajiv, Executive Director – iACE, International Automotive Centre of Excellence

Mayank Verma, Deputy Director, International Services, National Productivity Council (NPC), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Official Media Partner

Automobile industry is observing the sustainability of this revival and are identifying the growth drivers that can create a positive momentum for the industrial outlook in 2021.

Indian automotive sector was under immense pressure throughout 2019, but the COVID-19 pandemic has adverse impacts on the automotive sector. The automotive sector is expecting to gain traction amidst the global slowdown. Moreover, with the government’s push towards adoption of EVs the industry watchers are observing the sustainability of this revival and are identifying the growth drivers that can create a positive momentum for the industrial outlook in 2021.

In 2020, the consumer’s perspective towards mobility.People who someday has preference towards shared mobility, have owned a vehicle. Reason being the pandemic and increasing safety concerns, the industry has been positively growing in India. Even the world is viewing this as an opportunity to encourage and increase the adoption rate of Electric and Hybrid vehicles by explaining them the benefits and offering them value-added services with the same.

Basic drivers of automotive sector

When we talk about the basic drivers, especially for EV, costing is one of the primary features. Electric vehicles are expensive as most of its components are imported. Smooth adoption of EV’s will remain to be challenges in India as the price sensitive Indian market would expect more of add-on services to the prescribed EV price.

Also, the range per kilowatt hour is something which we need to really look into and the charging infrastructure in India. As a manufacturer, it is essential to consider these aspects as we are trying to work on multiple areas like, battery’s weight. So, the weight inherently goes up and then you will have a lesser amount of range.

Secondly, what we are trying to look at is what could be the different types of batteries or fuel cells that you can use. It will be one very important thing. Shikhar Gupta, Assistant Director – Power and Mobility, EY India feels, “We must look at the complete ecosystem; the whole concept is the software on cars and hence, connected cars and the entire ecosystem behind needs to be very predominantly looked into and should have the vital set-up, which is going to be the need of the future and we know that it has to be done. We need to make an initiative, only then things will fall into their respective place and I am positively looking at it as a reality.

Volkswagen is trying to develop a technology called Volkswagen Industrial Automotive Cloud, where all the cars including those on road will be coupled with this cloud connectivity. With this, vehicle will have all latest updates into its system; further, it will connect to the entire digital ecosystem and its technology partners. Battery production is going to be one of the very important innovation in the industry. The world in 2030, especially Europe will have 55 percent of its total production requirements from EV vehicles, and India is aiming at having a minimum of 30 percent. But battery manufacturing remains to be the biggest challenge towards achieving the said target. Of course, we would need government’s support at a lot of places, like the subsidies, tax-cuts among the others; however, the government is already taking various initiatives to boost the industry and is trying to have increased EV adoption.

Shree Harsha, Marketing Director – India, DassaultSystemes Ltd., talks from the analytical perspective. The energy ecosystem as well as EV ecosystem will evolve eventually in the coming years. I would bring you to a different perspective with regards to the technology, and how these technologies were available for the exclusive club of the top 10 OEMs before. Today, they are available for startups too and these trends are going to transform the industry’s dynamics.

Also, shared mobility is one of the key trends that has positioned itself to a considerably significant place amid pandemic. But again, it has a great impact on the energy and the grid ecosystem. So, if you really see progressive OEMs or startups, they are looking at potential partnerships with this entire value chain.

India’s EV Vision

The entire idea for the EV right now, is to move from lead to lithium-ion. So, the primary requirement is going to be lithium, as lead was essential for the early market, but whatever cars you see in the market are based on lithium-Ion. Another critical facet today is, the unavailability of lithium-ion batteries in India. We are still largely dependent on the imports, either as an entire package, or in the form of individual components and then assemble them in India. In a nutshell, the cost of imports is going to be huge, also the drivers will be dependent on the battery imports and availability.

Global EV is expected to grow by 18 times in coming years

Looking at the Indian market, the industry is set to witness and exponential growth, especially in the 2-Wheeler, 3-Wheeler, and fleet segment, including auto rickshaws and shared mobility segments. A lot of investments are coming in to make EV as a viable option for passenger vehicles. Growth and trend are when people or industry talk about something that is yet to become a reality. We are expecting to attain 20 percent to 25 percent over the next 5-7 years. Once the mass tipping point and acceleration is reached, then the growth becomes exponential. Till then, the charging infrastructure rollouts and the total cost of ownerships will take the place.

Ecosystem evolution means with once the impacts are gone, only then the OEM could think of looking in a linear fashion; especially with regards of converting steel towards sheet metal from bodyweight processes perspective and putting them in place for final assembly, and putting all the components together where the valuation of OEMs will roughly be around 65 percent. Most of the work by then was done by suppliers out there. It’s time for us now to look at impact of charging infrastructure in the ecosystem around. The connectivity and IoT aspects of them along with the perspective of the public transportation and decentralisation of the energy system. This really brings an element of disruptions with the way businesses looked at; and the second element which is more from an operational perspective or from the consumer’s perspective, customers like us are expecting more customisations. It means, designing in any way and manufacturing anywhere is really happening and need to stop, or it need to expand more. So, this brings diversity in the frequency as an additional element of challenge while you’re doing your product strategy at the planning of 3rd or 5th year. This further adds to the element of technology of why digitalisation is needed. At a very broad level digitisation is applied in three levels in any automotive way message one is obviously from a product perspective.

The global Automotive Artificial Intelligence market was valued at USD 2916 Million in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 3607.5 Million by 2029, witnessing a CAGR of 3.6% during the forecast period 2023-2029.

Major Factors Driving the Growth of Automotive Artificial Intelligence Market:
The use of AI in the automotive sector heralds a new age by enabling businesses to monitor operations, boost digital results, and produce autonomous and semi-autonomous cars. The growing need for autonomous vehicles, the use of AI in traffic management, cutting-edge automotive technologies, and government efforts are the main drivers of the worldwide automotive AI market.

TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF AUTOMOTIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MARKET:
The frequency of traffic accidents may be decreased and road safety can be increased with the support of growing government programs for car and road safety, automotive technology, telematics, and artificial intelligence. For instance, gathering information on the number of cars on the road and the state of the roads. A mobile network and quick data transmission methods may also be available for real-time weather information and notifications. The Automotive Artificial Intelligence market is eventually accelerated by government efforts to reduce accidents and other similar endeavors.
The temperature, mirrors, and pulse rate may all be changed automatically when one of the car’s frequent users sits in the driver’s seat thanks to AI software in cars. While eye openness and head position enable the program to detect sleepiness and awaken the driver, even during an accident, AI software can assess the upper body position and deploy the airbags accordingly. Gesture recognition has evolved into a valuable tool for controlling infotainment while driving. This factor is expected to drive the growth of the Automotive Artificial Intelligence market.

AI can help drivers make better-navigating judgments by analyzing various road conditions. Modern AI-powered navigation systems, for instance, can suggest better routes based on data about nearby road closures, collisions, traffic jams, construction sites, and road conditions.

Modern AI automakers often utilize digital twins in their production plants to speed up the design process by testing the implications of various design decisions on the performance of the car. Engineers and designers may discover how their thoughts translate into vehicle performance by providing machine learning algorithms with historical and sensor data. Additionally, this technology aids in lowering the cost of prototyping-related testing. This factor is expected to drive the growth of the Automotive Artificial Intelligence market.

Following collisions, drivers can use the cameras on their smartphones to take pictures of their damaged cars, which AI and computer vision-based systems can use to analyze the damage. This expedites the review process and increases its objectivity. While some industry participants rely on third-party personal assistants like Alexa and Siri, some auto manufacturers have chosen to create their own cutting-edge voice-recognition software. These assistants have the ability to make calls, switch radio stations, inform the driver how much petrol is left in the tank, and adjust the temperature. These tools are also highly personalized, which is important since they might remember drivers’ preferences and make modifications based on the circumstance and prior user behavior. This factor is expected to drive the growth of the Automotive Artificial Intelligence market.

AUTOMOTIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MARKET SHARE
NVIDIA, Uber Technologies, Alphabet (Google), and other major international producers of automotive artificial intelligence (AI) are examples. The Top 3 businesses own a share of more than 40%.
The largest market is North America, with a market share of around 36%, followed by Europe and China, with respective market shares of about 35% and 26%.
View Full Report: https://reports.valuates.com

Automotive industry leaders discuss the visible growth in the automotive industry along with reaping the benefits of the emerging industrial trends with latest technologies.

Automation has been keying the industry to take leaps in automotive manufacturing. Adoption of indigenous manufacturing and latest technological innovations have nurtured the sector’s overall financial growth. However, with the invention of sophisticated technologies like automation, IIoT and 3D technology, among others, the Indian automotive industry is reaching new heights. With intensifying demand in the automotive industry, it is now imperative to have an uninterrupted supply.

Trends in automotive sector shifting with advanced automation
If you look at the history of automation in the automotive sector, the first areas that got automated were hazardous sectors like painting and welding. This has largely to do with reducing the hazards and number of people with a speed which is fairly well-settled now, as most of the painting/welding activities has been largely automated. The second aspect of automation is the line assembly and automation of assembly itself, where the product moves from station to station. On this note, Ramesh TK, CEO, Ace Micromatic Machine Tools Pvt. Ltd. says, “The work that needs to be done now is connectivity and data analytics. This data analytics is not from the market perspective, but from the management perspective, ratability or right from assembling and final dispatch; because they all come from the safety aspect, this is the area where automation is happening towards its end. We still need to have active involvement of automation in the designing perspective, as the designing remains to be a non-automated process largely. ”

The entire automotive system has been divided into subsystems, where you have transmission systems, cabin interiors, stylish dashboards and engines, among others. These systems are completely independent and easy to access. The design and tools that control the designs must be modular, as it supports the entire functionality of a vehicle. Babu further says, “With the mixture of modular tools and modular designs, we can obsolete the previous and existing car models quickly, whilst introducing the new car variants in minimum time frame. This further helps in rearranging the entire supply chain ecosystem for smooth delivery of new orders. This is the need of the hour and the entire automotive industry is transforming with this scheme in its own way.”

Automation also allows a common assembly line for different models to be managed by various sets of robots. The most important thing is to use a common assembly line for multiple models managed by different set of robots with least human intervention to ensure compatibility. The modular approach and common assembly line driven by tools and automation is helping the automotive industry to combat slowdown and ensure growth.
Elaborating on the capabilities of automation, Sameer Gandhi, MD, Omron Automation, India feels that the auto manufacturing sector is driven by varied KPIs like design and energy optimisation, finest asset utilisation, big data and analytics (connected supply chains and shop floors), worker and machine safety and zero-defect production, and has shown good adoption rates for varied automation technologies falling under the ambit of Industry 4.0, IoT and robotics.

One of the notable applications amongst these is the total traceability solution. It renders the ability to trace and verify the history, location, or application of an item by means of documented recorded identification. Having a close interface with IIoT, this solution holds lot of significance for the automotive industry.

Improving precision manufacturing
One of the major advantages of automation is that it is very durable with variability, which is not the case with humans. From the western perspective, automation is a basic necessity owing to the unavailability of required manpower. But India has surplus manpower, so automation has to be applied in ways where manpower is not affected.

Discussing the significance of the human factor, Ramesh asks if everything is mechanised, then what will people do and where will the PPP offer be applied? He says, “From the Indian perspective, we still have a large population that needs manufacturers to do certain manual content, which is the livelihood and also increases the PPP of our country. Whether it is the automation or mass manufacturing industry, the process of eliminating people must be stopped. In fact, we should update our manpower to automation. Everybody from the world is coming to India with the expectation to grow. We need to support that.”

However, according to Babu, “Precision in the automotive industry is driven by tools where human intervention has to be low. Different level of precision applies to different equipment. I would say that automation is a requirement born out of precision and human fatigue point of view.” With automation liberating some tasks, humans obtain more scope and freedom to focus more on higher-level and creative tasks that demand more complex skills, and for this a well-structured plan to evolve and upgrade their skill sets is also needed. Noting the same, Gandhi says, “Automation helps improve the precision and repeatability of a given task. But, the idea is to achieve the best harmony between humans and machines, between the power and precision of automation or robots and the problem-solving ability of humans to achieve greater productivity and achieve something which is beyond human capabilities.”

3D printing in automotive
3D printing is an absolutely different application with a different perspective, and today it is predominantly used for prototyping. It is said to be the best fit in certain areas, but it is yet to meet the requirements of the industry in terms of real application. 3D printing involves both design and manufacturing and is a different aspect of both, where an assembly or a component is completely resigned to a system.

Babu states, “We have executed several projects by redesigning fuel injection pump, hydraulic manifold, among others. Moreover, 3D printing has eased the assembling process by cutting down the requirement of 30 parts to almost 6. Still the composition of material and purchasing of adhesives and laser must comply with 3D printing standards to use them in an extended market. Predominantly, hydraulics used in block manifolds is delivered in 3D printing and in several automotives.”

To sum it up, usually, aftermarket and spares for automotive parts is a major market, while the repair market, especially for automobiles, is enormous. This is a market additive manufacturing, which is being added to the aftermarket for providing value-added services to consumers. Apart from these spares, especially for replacements in case of damage or fault, there is a budding market for customised components where consumers are also willing to pay a premium.

I think automotive designing still remains to be a non-automated process at large, and automation can reinstate designing with a single touch.
Ramesh TK, CEO, Ace Micromatic Machine Tools Pvt. Ltd.

Precision in the automotive industry is driven by tools where human intervention has to be low.
Sharadhi Babu, Chief Executive Officer, AXISCADES

The modular approach, automation, and common assembly line is helping the automotive industry to take leaps in industrial growth.
Sameer Gandhi, MD, Omron Automation, India

TS Govt to set up EV Automobile Centric Centre of Excellence at Zaheerabad which will be named after Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and will skill local youth for EV Industry job-ready.

KT Rama Rao, Minister for IT, Industries & Commerce, MA & UD, Govt of Telangana launches Telangana’s first plug-and-play EV Park and Two and Three Wheeler Electric Vehicles produced by Vayu Motors and Zero 21 in a function held at MG Automative’s EV Park in Zaheerabad.

EV (Electrical Vehicles) Park is the first of its kind in Telangana state. It has an incubation centre for EV startups which can leverage MG’s manufacturing capabilities & infrastructure. It is already incubating enterprises like Padmaja Greentech and Zero 21 Renewable Energy Solutions Pvt. Ltd. MG EV Park is interacting with a few other EV Start-ups to help launch their businesses and wants to be a catalyst in developing fossil-free transport solutions.

He also unveiled Two models of New Two Wheelers (Scooters), Low-Speed Retro and High-Speed Pace. Retro is a city speed scooter designed for Indian Conditions. With an LFP battery pack, developed with a smart BMS, Retro is a safe and robust product. The pace is a performance scooter, developed using highly reliable LFP battery pack architecture. With a top speed of 70 kmph, it is the most desirable scooter in terms of safety, design and reliability. These two EV Scooters are manufactured using safe and proven LFP (Lithium Ferro Phosphate), Battery Packs.

Four different models of Three Wheelers were launched under the brand name

A total of 4 vehicles shall be launched under the brand name Zero 021. This is first of its kind, indigenously designed and developed Fiber Reinforced Plastic 3 wheeler EV Passenger vehicles. The electric three-wheelers include Teer and Smart Mule-X. While the former is a high-speed passenger vehicle and the latter is a good carrier. Chargers for EVs were also launched for buses and four-wheelers, including fast chargers for buses and cars.

Speaking on the occasion KT Rama Rao congratulated the young entrepreneurs behind launches. The future of world transportation will be sustainable Mobility. It will be EV Mobility. The difference between conventional vehicles and electric vehicles is they are computers on wheels. They are battery-driven.

The automobile industry in the past was concentrated in a few pockets like Chennai and Pune. Now thanks to our futuristic EV policy, Zaheerabad is emerging as the hub for not just automobiles but also EV Vehicles. keeping this in mind and the demand for a skilled workforce, we will establish an Automobile Centric Centre of Excellence which will be named after former President of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, KTR announced. So that more localities will be automobile job-ready.

Earlier welcoming the gathering Amit Kamat said Telangana State’s EV Policy gave impetus to the Industry. He highlighted their journey in the state. We employ 1500 people. So far our plants in the state delivered 1.25 lakh buses and special coaches. Speaking about MG EV Park he said it is futuristic and will help many startups reduce the gestation period in their entrepreneurial journey in bringing out new automobile products. These two and three-wheeler Electric Vehicles unveiled were manufactured by two start-ups Padmaja Greentech founded by Amit Reddy. The three-wheelers are manufactured by Zero 021, a startup founded by Mr Rani Reddy, a US returned former with Tesla.

Padmaja Greentech, an Electrical Vehicles Company, which manufactures “Vayu Motors” brand EV Vehicles for the past four years. The launch was graced by Amit Mohan Kamat, MD of MG Group. A 26 years old MG Group is Bus Builder for Mercedes, Volvo, Mahindra, Eicher, Ashok Leyland and Scania.

The other guests include Mr. K.R. Suresh Reddy, Member of Rajya Sabha; Mr. Puvvada Ajay Kumar, Minister for Transport, Govt of TS; Mr. BB Patil, Mr. GallaJayadev, Members of Parliament; Mr. K. Manik Rao, MLA, Zaheerabad and Mr. Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary, IC & IT, Govt of TS. Mr. Rani Srinivas said, India has tremendous demand for commuter and logistics transportation which is effectively serviced by three-wheelers across various cities. However, there has not been much Innovation. We at Zero21 want to rapidly transform this segment and introduce features and services.

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced that it has decided to drastically restructure its automotive-equipment business in accordance with a resolution adopted at the company’s Executive Officers’ Meeting.

The restructure is designed to streamline decision-making in the business and accelerate the transformation of the company’s automotive-equipment business in the face of rapid changes in this industry, including the shift to connected, autonomous,  shared & service, and electric (CASE). Under the plan, Mitsubishi Electric now aims to spin off its automotive-equipment business in order to improve operational efficiency and restructure the business portfolio for greater profitability.
Last year, Mitsubishi Electric introduced a new Business Area structure to strengthen the company’s business portfolio by reorganizing it into business areas that have the delegated authority needed to act with speed and efficiency.

As a first major step in CASE-related businesses, including electrification and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), which have promising market potential and will require very high levels of investment, Mitsubishi Electric is seeking to collaborate with excellent partners that offer technological synergies. Focusing strategically on these fields and leveraging Mitsubishi Electric’s cutting-edge technologies is expected to put the automotive-equipment business on a stronger growth trajectory. Second, in fields where Mitsubishi Electric has competitive advantages, such as electric power-steering system products, strategies will focus on cost reduction and efficiency enhancement, reviewing business terms with customers, including to accelerate price shifting, and reallocating resources to the most profitable projects and models.

Third, Mitsubishi Electric plans to promptly discontinue problematic automotive-equipment businesses, such as car multimedia, in light of the anticipated difficulty in improving profitability, as well as other factors, in these businesses.

Details of the structural reforms and their specific effects will be disclosed as soon as they are finalized. The spinoff will take the form of a company split, but the specific method and other details have not yet been finalized. The exact timing also has not been determined, but the goal is to establish a new automotive-equipment company within one year from today. Information on these matters will be disclosed as soon as final determinations are made. Mitsubishi Electric expects the spinoff to have only a minor impact on its consolidated financial results

The global automotive software market is expected to grow significantly, with a projected CAGR of 18.13 percent until 2028.

According to a report published by Verified Market Research, the Automotive Software Market is experiencing continuous evolution and growth due to various factors and technological advancements. The market is witnessing a surge in demand driven by the increasing number of connected cars, innovative technologies for advanced user interfaces, and the growing use of electronic vehicle applications. Additionally, the rising popularity of electric vehicles and the adoption of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) contribute to the market’s expansion. The report projects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.13 percent for the market from 2021 to 2028, with an estimated value of USD 94.06 Billion by the end of the forecast period, compared to USD 24.98 Billion in 2020.

Adopting advanced technologies in passenger cars worldwide, especially autonomous driving and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, has created a strong demand for automotive software. This demand is further fueled by the impact of open-source platforms and standardization, which have led to cost reductions in application and firmware development, expanding the overall market. Automotive software is undergoing significant technological advancements, focusing on automotive infotainment systems, leading to intense competition based on the software or operating system used. Operating systems such as Windows CE, Android, Apple OS, QNX, and Linux-based OS are widely supported in vehicles.

Key growth drivers in the Automotive Software Market include:

• The adoption of ADAS features.
• The rapid integration of connected vehicles.
• Government initiatives to develop infrastructure for connected driving.

With features such as blind-spot detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and park assist, ADAS is expected to be the largest application segment during the forecast period.

The Asia-Pacific region holds the largest market share in the Automotive Software Market, primarily driven by the increasing demand for connected services in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. The tech-savvy population in these regions seeks safe and connected driving experiences, further boosting the market growth.

After a thorough and demanding evaluation process, Centrica has chosen TVS SCS as its preferred service partner to manage and transform its crucial supply chain operations.

TVS Supply Chain Solutions (TVS SCS) is a global supply chain solutions provider with an FY 23 revenue of over $1.2 bn. It is one of the largest and fastest growing integrated supply chain solutions providers in India according to the report titled ‘Logistics and Supply Chain Solutions Market in India’ prepared by Red Seer announced that it has secured a business deal from the iconic Centrica plc–an FTSE100 company with annual revenues of £34bn and UK’s leading energy services and solutions company that also operates British Gas -for their supply chain transformation. This deal is for 7 years plus option years.

After a rigorous evaluation process, Centrica found TVS SCS to be the right service partner to manage and transform its supply chain operations. TVS SCS, on its part, will provide its global supply chain expertise and offer a suite of its in-built, state-of-the-art proprietary IT systems –Msys – and automate the supply chain in line with Centrica’s business requirements. 

Ravi Viswanathan, Managing Director, TVS Supply Chain Solutions says, “The trust shown by Centrica (British Gas), to us through this deal demonstrates our capabilities and expertise in the world of supply chain solutions. I am sure this partnership with Centrica will add value to their energy services and solutions business, British Gas, through our tech-enabled supply chain solutions. We look forward to a fruitful and enduring collaboration that will benefit both the organisations and make a positive and lasting impact on the communities we serve.”

David House, Chief Operating Officer, British Gas, said, “We are delighted to be working in partnership with TVS SCS, a renowned leader in their field, as we embark on a transformative journey in our supply chain management. This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal moment for Centrica as we enhance our capabilities to deliver exceptional energy services and solutions to our valued customers. We are confident that TVS SCS’ solutions will enable us to create a seamless customer experience and drive operational efficiency. We look forward to a successful collaboration that will unlock new opportunities and drive growth.”

This transformational deal will enable Centrica to consolidate its logistics footprint through a new Centre of Excellence campus, supported by state-of-the-art automation; digital ordering and fulfilment; end-to-end visibility and planning; and a flexible final mile delivery and returns service.

TVS SCS, through its UK operations, manages Circa 3 million items per day for customers across automotive, beverage, defence, healthcare, rail, and utility sectors. These clients rely on TVS SCS’ ability to create and manage a resilient supply chain that actively mitigates the risk of supply from global disruptions. 

It offers a range of solutions, including consultancy, product data management, strategic purchasing, data analytics, inventory management, warehousing, and last-mile delivery. TVS SCS operates through 45 locations across the UK with around 3000 employees. 

The 63rd Annual Convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) places sustainable mobility at its forefront, featuring key insights and government initiatives for a greener automotive future.

Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the apex body representing leading automobile manufacturers of the country, commemorated its 63^rd Annual Convention deliberating on the way ahead for Sustainable Mobility.

On the Occasion of 63^rd SIAM Annual Convention Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi in his message mentioned that for over six decades SIAM has been serving the Nation admirably. He said India is the 5^th largest economy and is soon poised to reach top 3. Hon’ble Prime Minister also noted Indian Auto Industry’s efforts towards decarbonization through introduction of vehicles with wide range of powertrain technologies. By 2047, we aspire to realize the vision of building a sustainable, self-reliant, strong and developed India. 

The inaugural session, themed “Sustainable Mobility – The Way Ahead for Indian Automobile Industry”, Chief Guest, Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India commented, “In 2014, the global automobile sector was ranked 7th, but today, it has climbed to the 3rd position. The automotive sector serves as a growth engine for our nation, aligning perfectly with the honorable Prime Minister’s vision to elevate India from its current fifth largest economy in the world to third. Our ultimate goal is to become the world’s leading automobile hub.” He requested the auto industry to work on expeditiously increasing the share of green technologies, such as biofuels, electric and hydrogen. Higher use of biofuels will lead to aligning the auto industry’s approach with global biofuel alliance announced during the G20.

Guest of honor, Dr Mahendra Nath Pandey, Union Minister of Heavy Industries, Government of India said, “India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and reducing 1 billion tonnes of carbon emissions by 2030 aligns with the ambitious Amrit Kaal: Vision @ 2047.” He also announced that the Government of India has extended the PLI scheme by another year to enable the auto industry reap benefits of the incentives being provided for manufacturing advanced automotive technologies. 

During the session, Vinod Aggarwal, President of SIAM and Managing Director & CEO of Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd., underscored the imperative need for sustainable mobility to secure a better tomorrow. He mentioned, “Over the past two years, we’ve witnessed remarkable growth, with the industry’s current size standing at INR 12.46 lakh crores, including exports worth INR 3 lakh crores.” He highlighted the six pillars of sustainability on which the auto industry and SIAM is presently focussing with close association with Government of India viz. Javik Pahal (biofuel), Vidyutikaran (electrification), Gas Gatisheelta (gaseous fuels), Harit Hydrogen (Green Hydrogen), Chakriyata (Recycling) and finally Surakshit Safar (Safe Journey). He also mentioned the progress undertaken by the industry to increase its localisation content. 

Shailesh Chandra, Vice President of SIAM and Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “The Government’s commitment to the Amrit Kal vision 2027, along with the imperative to achieve net-zero emissions, sets the stage for a forward-looking India. We are witnessing a remarkable transition towards electric vehicles (EVs), aligning our industry with global benchmarks. SIAM has embarked on a proactive journey, with a strong focus on biofuels and a future centered around green energies. SIAM’s commitment not only resonates with India’s environmental goals but also underscores our dedication to saving lives on the road. Our collective commitment to sustainability is the path toward a safer, more holistic future that lies ahead for the country.”

Wardwizard Group, a prominent player in the electric vehicle industry, announces key leadership appointments for their flagship brand ‘Joy e-bike’ to drive growth and innovation in the EV sector.

Wardwizard Group, a renowned name in the industry, proudly announces the appointment of new leaders for their flagship electric vehicle brand ‘Joy e-bike’, to spearhead the organization’s growth and innovation in the dynamic electric vehicle (EV) industry.

Mr. Tejas A Mehta, a seasoned Chartered Accountant with over two decades of dynamic financial leadership, has taken on the pivotal position of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Wardwizard Group. Previously, he made significant contributions at BSE Limited and Trackpoint GPS Pvt. Ltd. Mr. Mehta brings a wealth of experience, vital in refining financial strategies, strengthening internal controls, and shaping corporate planning. His extensive capabilities across diverse financial operations will play a critical role in guiding Wardwizard Group toward heightened growth and financial excellence.

Creating a difference in production, Mr. Sanjay Sablok, the newly appointed President, Operations at Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Ltd, boasts an impressive three-decade-long career in operational excellence. An alumnus of Warwick University, UK, he held pivotal roles at Hero Motocorp, Tata Motors, and NEI Limited. He has extensive experience in production and operations management, with notable achievements including successfully establishing three greenfield plants for Tata Nano, relocating a plant from Singur to Sanand, and implementing World Class Quality (WCQ) practices across plants of Tata Motors’ while also serving as an Assessor for Tata Business Excellence Model (TBEM).

Speaking about the appointments, Mr. Yatin Gupte, Chairman and Managing Director, Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Ltd, said, “We are delighted to welcome these exceptional leaders to the WardWizard family. Their diverse experience and expertise, combined with our company’s values and vision, will help make a formidable team. Together, we will be accelerating our growth strategy, creating cutting-edge solutions, and solidifying our position as a driving force in the electric vehicle industry. We firmly believe in the power of leadership and innovation, and with this dynamic team, we are energized to achieve our ambitious goals, making sustainable mobility a reality. Collectively, we’re steering WardWizard towards new heights, driving excellence and pioneering the electric vehicle industry, setting a benchmark for clean and efficient transportation solutions.”

Mr. Tejas A Mehta, Chief Financial Officer, Wardwizard Group, said, ” I am deeply honoured to join Wardwizard Group, a pioneering organization in the industry. This role brings with it a wealth of opportunities and responsibilities for me to push EV expansion in the 

country. Wardwizard holds significant potential to facilitate the nation in realising its shift to green transportation. I am thrilled to embark on this new adventure and contribute to the broader vision of a sustainable future.

Mr. Sanjay Sablok, President, Operations at Wardwizard Innovations and Mobility Ltd, said, “It is an immense honor to join the ranks of Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Ltd., a pioneering force in the industry. This role not only signifies a wealth of opportunities but also a profound responsibility to propel the nation towards a sustainable future through the expansion of electric vehicles. Wardwizard, with its vast potential, stands as a catalyst for India’s transition to eco-friendly transportation. I am exhilarated to embark on this transformative journey, dedicated to realizing our collective vision of a cleaner, greener tomorrow.”

Under Mr. Mehta’s capable leadership and financial expertise, Wardwizard Group is poised to strengthen its financial operations, guide strategic decision-making, and further its commitment to promoting a cleaner and more sustainable future for India’s mobility sector. Additionally, with the introduction of Mr. Sanjay Sablok, who brings a wealth of experience and proficiency to the team, will play a pivotal role in enhancing the company’s operational efficiency and leading growth initiatives.

Murata’s LLC series sets new standards in automotive capacitors, offering the world’s smallest 1µF capacitance with low ESL and ESR. These advanced components enhance circuit performance for ADAS applications.

Murata has extended their lead in the manufacture of multi-layer ceramic capacitors for automotive applications with the release of their LLC series. The components feature a reversed termination for low ESL and are in a world’s-first 0.18mm profile package. Footprint is just 0.5 x 1.0mm for 1µF capacitance making the parts the smallest in the market.

The LLC series uses Murata’s proprietary thin-layer forming and high-precision lamination technology, along with advanced material atomization and homogenization techniques to achieve about 20% reduction in component height compared with existing parts. This opens up the potential to more-easily fit the capacitors on the back-side of circuit boards, even amongst solder ball terminations, locating the parts in optimum positions for decoupling of processor power rails, close to the die. This in turn allows fewer capacitors to be used, saving cost, and increasing system reliability.

Along with their low ESR, the reduction in ESL achieved reduces the high-frequency impedance of the capacitors. This improves circuit performance to meet the requirements of modern, low-voltage, compute-intensive applications such as automotive advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

The automotive-grade LLC series complies with AEC-Q200 requirements, passing the 1000 temperature cycle test and temperature/humidity endurance test of 85°C at 80-85% humidity for 1000 hours.

Valeo and Qualcomm Technologies have joined forces to explore innovations for India’s 2-wheeler and 3-wheeler markets. Their collaboration aims to enhance safety and provide connected digital experiences for riders.

Valeo and Qualcomm Technologies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore opportunities to work together to innovate for the 2-wheeler and 3-wheeler segments in India. These collaborative efforts are an extension of the two companies’ long-term working relationship to deliver advanced computing units for telematics and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for software-defined vehicles (SDVs). 

In addition to helping deliver enhanced safety to 2-wheelers and 3-wheelers, the companies will leverage their rich and complementary portfolios to accelerate the adoption of cloud-connected digital services, leading to greater safety and an always-connected digital experience for riders. They will couple Snapdragon® Digital Chassis™ solutions for 2-wheelers and new vehicle classes from Qualcomm Technologies with Valeo technologies for display, telematics and sensors as well as the Group’s software expertise to develop a comprehensive solution that includes embedded cellular modems, connected displays, driver assistance features and connected clusters. 

These new features will enable riders to remain focused on the road while connected in real time to their favorite smartphone applications, navigation systems or cloud-based entertainment. Connectivity will also enhance the safety of the vehicle and the passengers on and off the road with real time traffic and potential risk on the road information as well as with software and cybersecurity updates and tracking monitoring of the 2- and 3-wheelers 

In India, 2-wheelers and 3-wheelers are fast-growing markets. Valeo and Qualcomm Technologies acknowledge the importance and value of the Indian ecosystem and market, with the presence of strong India-based players that are expanding abroad. The extended collaboration intends to leverage the strong local R&D presence of the two companies and the local manufacturing capabilities of Valeo. By working together, the companies expect to offer OEMs complete solutions based on the best-in-class automotive technologies. 

“We are excited to extend our work with Qualcomm Technologies to 2-wheelers and 3-wheelers. It is an important new step forward in our long-lasting collaboration. Valeo’s engineering and manufacturing presence in India coupled with Snapdragon Digital Chassis solutions for 2-wheelers and new vehicle classes will allow us to locally design, develop and produce a new generation of a connected display matching to local requirements, and serve our local customers thus contributing to making mobility in India safer and more connected,” said Marc Vrecko, President of Valeo’s Comfort and Driving Assistance Systems Business Group. 

“For many years, Qualcomm Technologies has worked with Valeo to anticipate the needs of OEMs and deliver ADAS and advanced telematics systems to their vehicles. We are pleased to extend our collaboration endeavors to accelerate the digital transformation of the dynamic 2-wheeler and 3-wheeler markets in India by offering rider solutions with advanced safety features and highly personalized and safe user experiences,” said Nakul Duggal, senior vice president and general manager, automotive & cloud computing, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

Having a local proximity is key to efficiently support customers in the design of complex systems for higher safety and enrich the riders’ digital experience. Valeo’s presence in India started 25 years ago to support Automotive OEMs and develop local technologies. Valeo now has more than 6500 employees including 3.200 engineers, 8 production sites and a global R&D center. Valeo India HQ is located in Chennai.

Tata Motors delivers the first batch of cutting-edge Ultra EV electric buses to Srinagar, marking a step towards sustainable public transport for Srinagar and Jammu Smart City projects.

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, has announced the delivery of the first batch of state-of-the-art Ultra EV air-conditioned electric buses to Srinagar Smart City Limited. This delivery marks the initial step in a larger order to supply, maintain, and operate 100 electric buses in Srinagar and 100 electric buses in Jammu for a 12-year period as part of the Jammu and Srinagar Smart City projects. The collaboration is part of the Housing and Urban Development Department’s initiative to establish an environmentally and financially sustainable public transport network for Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.

The zero-emission electric buses are built on a next-generation architecture, featuring cutting-edge technology and advanced battery systems. They are designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and convenient intra-city commute across Srinagar, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable urban mobility solution.

Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, lauded the initiative and highlighted the transformative impact of the electric buses on the city’s public transport system. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the support in making the project a reality.

Shri Prashant Goyal, Principal Secretary of the Housing & Urban Development Department, J&K, emphasized the significance of the project in improving the last-mile passenger transport system in Srinagar, easing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable urban development.

Shri Athar Aamir Khan, CEO of Srinagar Smart City Ltd, stated that the project marked a massive transformation in public transport in Srinagar and would decongest the city while providing reliable, affordable, and comfortable public transport options.

Mr. Asim Kumar Mukhopadhyay, Chairman of TML Smart City Mobility Solutions (J&K) Pvt Ltd, expressed his excitement about Tata Motors’ role in providing transformative, eco-friendly, and emission-free transport solutions for the region. He emphasized the company’s commitment to safer, smarter, and greener mobility solutions.

Tata Motors has a strong track record in supplying electric buses across India, with more than 1,000 electric buses deployed in various cities, collectively covering over 9.6 crore kilometers and maintaining an uptime of over 95%. The Tata Ultra EV sets new standards for urban city commuting, offering low energy consumption, operational efficiency, and advanced safety and comfort features.

The project reflects the commitment to cleaner public transport and contributes to the development of sustainable transportation solutions for urban passenger needs.

Mr. Sunil Pawar, Industry Business Consultant, Dassault Systemes

Bhavesh Mehta, Head – Sales, OMRON Automation

Prem Aruliah John, Business Head – Metrology Solutions, Blue Star Engineering & Electronics Limited

Shirish Joshi, Automotive Industry Expert, Ex Skoda VW, Tata Motors, General Motors