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Vol No: 3 Issue No: 1 January-February 2022 | USD 25 | INR 400

E-MOBILITY: THE PRESENT AND FUTURE Sustainable, Zero Polluting And Innovative

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Vol No: 3 Issue No: 1 January-February 2022 | USD 25 | INR 400

E-MOBILITY: THE PRESENT AND FUTURE Sustainable, Zero Polluting And Innovative

CONTENT

Vol No: 3 | Issue No: 1 | January-February 2022

2 | MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022

7

EDITORIAL

8

TOP MOVES

10

16

22

- John Loudermilk Is Birla Carbon CEO - Ranjit Nambiar Appointed Uno Minda CEO; PC Jayan Appointed CTO - Christian Levin Is Traton Group CEO - Shubhranshu Singh Is Tata Motors Marketing VP - Berndt Buchmann Appointed Director Of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India - Alfred Lee Is Schaeffler Asia Pacific President Industrial - Christian Päschel Is Varroc Lighting Systems CEO - Mohit Dhar Jayal Is Royal Enfield Chief Brand Officer

TWO-WHEELERS

- Bajaj F250 And N250 - TVS Jupiter 125 - New KTM RC 125

CARS

- MG Astor - 2021 Audi E-Tron 55 Quattro - 2021 Volvo S60

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

- Rosenbauer RT Electric Fire Truck - 21 Tata Motors CVs - Ashok Leyland Ultra-Low-Floor Bus

30

42

58

62

COMPONENTS

- CVs And BEVs To Drive Sona BLW Growth - Igus India Seeks Higher Share Of Auto Business - Tata Steel Eyes Strong Growth - Pricol Evaluates Multiple Opportunities - Castrol Continues Brand Investment - SSS Springs And Daewon To Make Metro And Automotive Car Seats - TVS Diodes And ADL From TDK

64

AROUND THE WORLD

- TEC Equipment Fontana First Volvo EV Certified Dealer - Rimac Concept_One Takes Centre Stage - Mercedes-Benz Citan II - Smart And Versatile Ford Ranger - DAF’S New Generation XF, XG And XG+ Win The 2022 ITOY Award - 100 Years Of Maybach Automotive Manufacturing - Spiralling Demand For RVs - Pininfarina Battista

COVER STORY

- E-Mobility: The Present And Future - E-Ashwa Is Expanding Its Market Reach - The Bengal E-Rickshaws - E-Mobility And Intercity Transport - Kolkata Police Seeks Electric Four-Wheelers

INTERVIEW

- Sohinder Gill, Director General, Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV), and CEO, Hero Electric.

- Ramanathan Srinivasan, Managing Director, Automotive Testing Systems (ATS)

INDUSTRY TALK

- COP26 Commitments: Auto Industry Impact

DISCLAIMER: Views expressed in Articles / Columns / Technical papers are personal and not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher. While every care has been taken during production, the Publisher does not accept any liability for errors that may have occurred.

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EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL A Decade Of EDITORIAL New Possibilities EDITORIAL A A Decade Decade Of Of New New Possibilities Possibilities A t the outset may I wish you all a very Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Challenging A A Times Ahead

The decade that went by was one of the most chaotic for the automotive industry in t the outset mayacross I wish you all a very Happy and Prosperous Newand Year.new mobility, India, and even the world.

Transition to new technologies t the of outset may I wish you all a very Happygrowth, and Prosperous New Year. the impact slowdown in theyou national economic with issues likeYear. liquidity crunch tThe thedecade outset may I wish all a very Happy and Prosperous New that went by was one of the most chaotic for the automotive industry in and fallThe in demand, were among the major factors that battered Indian industry.

The impact decade that went by was one of the most chaotic for the automotive industry in India, and even the world.

Transition tochaotic new technologies and newindustry mobility,in The decade thatacross went by was one ofdepended the most for the automotive on individual companies across the world on their robustness and ability to India,ofand even across the world.economic Transitiongrowth, to new technologies and new mobility, the impact slowdown in the national with issues like liquidity crunch India, emerging and even across the world.

Transitionthe to new andreduce new mobility, understand requirements, to economic compress ‘timetechnologies to market’ and the impact of slowdown inamong the national growth, with issues like liquidity crunch andimpact fall in demand, werein the major factorsgrowth, that battered Indianlike industry.

The impact the of slowdown the national economic with issues liquidity crunch cost. and fall in demand, were among the major factors that battered Indian industry.

The impact on individual companies their robustness and ability to and fall in demand, were across among the the world major depended factors thatonbattered Indian industry.

The impact on individual companies acrosshigh the world depended on their robustness and ability to understand emerging requirements, to compress the ‘time to market’ and reduce The decade ahead will witness levels of obsolescence and disruptions at on individual companies across the world depended on their robustness and ability to understand emerging requirements, to compress the ‘time to market’ and reduce rappling with sales slowdown since 2019, the Indian auto industry clocked a sales cost. intervals shorter because of Digitalisation facilitated by Artificial Intelligence understand emerging requirements, to compress the ‘time to market’ and reduce cost. decline of 0.75 percent overall in November 2021 as per (AI), Human Machine Interface and Machine Learning. The trend of suppliers to a FADA report. The number cost.

The decade ahead will witness high levels of obsolescence and disruptions at of two-wheelers sold was 1,433,855 asthe compared to 1,444,762 units sold in November different industries producing new cars, which began in second half of the The decade ahead will witness high levelsfacilitated of obsolescence and Intelligence disruptions at shorter intervals because ofnumber Digitalisation by Artificial The decade ahead will witness high levels of obsolescence and disruptions at (a 19.44 percent decline) as 2020.

The four-wheelers sold was units last decade, would gather speed in of the coming years.

Sony, the240,234 entertainment shorter intervals because of Digitalisation facilitated by Artificial Intelligence (AI), Human Machine Interface andsale Machine Learning. trendIntelligence of suppliers to shorter intervals because ofthe facilitated byThe Artificial compared toDigitalisation the of 298,213 in November 2020. with the transitionCES to electronics major, stunned automotive world byunits presenting anofelectric carStarting at the recently-concluded (AI), Human Machine Interface andcars, Machine Learning.

The trend suppliers to different industries producing new which began inThe the second half ofthe themost (AI), Human Machine Interface and Machine Learning. trend of suppliers to BSVI in April 2020 (when the Covid-led disruption was severe) that that pushed the 2020 in Las Vegas, USA. Nobody expected such a move from Sony though there were rumours Samsung different industries producing newincars, which began in the second half of the last decade, would gather speed the years. in Sony, the entertainment different industries producing cars, which began second half series of the of vehicle price hikes have prices up by anew good 8 coming to 15 percent, a the near constant and decade, Apple were working vehicle-related projects. last would gatheronspeed in the coming years.

Sony, thean entertainment electronics major, stunned the automotive world by presenting electric carcosts at theand recently-concluded CES last decade, would gather speed in the coming Sony,tothe entertainment taken place.

These have been years. attributed a hike in input have aligned ironically electronics major, stunned the automotive world by presenting an electric car at the recently-concluded CES 2020 in Las major, Vegas, USA. Nobody expected such adid move Sony though there were rumours thatDespite Samsung Even traditional carstunned manufacturers and suppliers not from lag behind in developing AI-linked Atthe electronics the automotive world by presenting an electric car atofthe recently-concluded CES well almost with the series of fuel price hikes through much 2020 and technologies.

2021.

2020 in Las Vegas, USA. Nobody expected such a move from Sony though there were rumours that Samsung and Apple were working on vehicle-related projects.

CES 2020 had exciting exhibits from to technologies ready for of series production 2020 in LasAudi Vegas, USA. Nobody expected such a futuristic movetofrom Sony though there were rumours that Samsung recent duty cuts, fuelranging prices continue bevehicles at record levels.

A fresh round vehicle price and Apple were working ondefined vehicle-related projects. as well as technology that the brand’s digital experience of thelike future.

Global suppliers liketoContinental and were hikes working ontaken vehicle-related projects. has place January 2022.

They have, before, been attributed the rise EvenApple traditional car manufacturers and in suppliers did not lag behind in developing AI-linked technologies.

At and ZF are also in coming up with production-ready know-how for tomorrow. input costs Even traditional car manufacturers and suppliers did not lag behind in developing AI-linked technologies.

At CES 2020 Audi had exciting exhibits ranging from futuristic vehicles to technologies ready for series production Even traditional car manufacturers and suppliers did not lag behind in developing AI-linked technologies. At CES 2020 Audi had exciting exhibits ranging from futuristic vehicles to technologies ready for series production as well technology that defined theranging brand’s digital experience of the future. suppliers Continental With AI as taking vehicles from humans it isfrom easier for technology companies todaykept to build a like car by CES 2020 Audiover had exciting exhibits futuristic vehicles to technologies ready forwith series production A growing voice among the public is that the vehicle prices Global have up inflation as well as technology that defined the traditional brand’s digital experience of the future. that Global suppliers like Continental and ZF as aretechnology also coming up with production-ready know-how for tomorrow. justwell sourcing thebut major modules from suppliers.

Core technologies around their earnings haven’t.

The time has perhaps to ask if revolve a large section of the as that defined the brand’s digital experience of come the future.

Global suppliers likeInternal Continental and ZF are also coming uptransmission with production-ready know-how forto tomorrow.

Combustion engines andup arethat becoming irrelevant.

Markets with strong research and development population is finding out they are unable afford a new set of wheels they desire. and ZF are also coming with production-ready know-how for tomorrow.

With AI taking over vehicles from humans it is easier for technology companies today to build a car by facilities, multiplicity of startups and innovative automotive suppliers will have edge others.

So, are theyfrom giving up onittheir dreams and aspirations?

Arean they finding the interest With AI taking over vehicles humans is easier for technology companies today toover build a car by rates just sourcing major modules traditional suppliers.

Core technologies revolve around With AI takingthe over vehicles from from humans it is easier for technology companiesthat today to build a carInternal by high or the future so insecure that they would rather postpone their desire to buy a new just sourcing the major modules from traditional suppliers.

Core technologies that revolve around Internal Combustion and transmission are becoming irrelevant. strong research andthe development In this, Chinaengines is way ahead as it had the suppliers. emerging trends earlier with and equipped itself with relevant just sourcing the major modules fromrealized traditional Core Markets technologies that revolve around Internal motorcycle or car ofinnovative their choice?

The reason attributed to strong the dipresearch inover November 2021 Combustion engines and transmission are becoming irrelevant.

Markets with and development facilities, multiplicity of startups and automotive suppliers will have an edge others. technologiesengines and products for the new are mobility segment.

Though the Chinese presence in theand traditional Combustion and transmission becoming irrelevant. with strong research development auto of sales is semiconductor shortage andsuppliers the Markets subsequent shortfall.

Is the facilities, multiplicity startups andvery innovative automotive willcountries have production an in edge over others. vehicle manufacturing sector is not impressive compared to other theover top 3others. ranks, it has facilities, multiplicity of startups and innovative automotive suppliers will have an edge In this, China is rising way ahead as itorhad realized emerging trends earlierunable and equipped with the relevant inability difficulty of the a large swathe of public to buy aitself set of wheels of their leapfrogged toahead become a had powerhouse in all areas oftrends electricearlier vehicles.

Perhaps this is the reason for In this, Chinaahead is choice way as itthe realized the emerging and equipped itself with the relevant technologies and products for new mobility segment.

Though theIndian Chinese presence in the traditional alsoas contributing to the sales decline?

Are autos overpriced?

Are the taxes In this, China is way ahead it had realized the emerging trends earlier and equipped itself with the relevant the country toand invest heavilyfor in the newnew mobility, andsegment. not necessarily because the Chinese are passionate about technologies products mobility Though the Chinese presence in the traditional vehicle manufacturing sector isthe notnew verythey impressive compared other countries in the top 3 ranks, it has onproducts them sofor high?

Are costlier than Though their to counterparts in Europe, Australia and other technologies mobility segment. theIndia Chinese in the traditional preserving theand environment.

China’s domination in the Auto Expo in is anpresence indication its strategic plans vehicle manufacturing sector isacompared not very impressive compared to other countries in the topof ranks, it has leapfrogged ahead to become powerhouse in all areas of electric vehicles.

Perhaps this is33and the reason for markets whenis in totality, which includes specifications, taxes other costs? vehicle manufacturing sector not very impressive compared to other countries in the top ranks, it has for India. China is rushing in, where many Indian OEMs fear to tread.vehicles.

The expo will be this a strong platform the leapfrogged ahead to become a powerhouse in all areas of electric Perhaps is the reason for the country to invest heavily in anew mobility, and not necessarily because thePerhaps Chinesethis aremeet passionate about As the CO2 emission reduction challenge mounts and expectation to by the auto leapfrogged ahead toto become powerhouse in all areas of electric vehicles. is theitreason for Chinese companies showcase their EV prowess. the country to invest heavily in new mobility, and not necessarily because the Chinese are passionate about industry rises, the road ahead looking bumpy. virus strains likestrategic the Omicron preserving environment.

China’s domination the Autorather Expobecause in India New is indication its plans the countrythe to invest heavily in new mobility, andisin not necessarily theanChinese areof passionate about preserving the environment.

China’s domination in the Auto Expo in India is an will indication of its strategic plans are threatening to turn theIndian bumpy road ahead into an one seems. for India.

China is rushing in,China’s where many OEMs fear to tread.

Theeven expo be a strong platform the Happy Reading, preserving the environment. domination in the Auto Expo in India is anterrible indication ofit its strategic for plans for India.companies China is rushing in, where many Indian OEMs fear to tread. The expo will be a strong platform for the Chinese to showcase their EV prowess. for India. China Not is rushing in, where many Indian OEMs fear to tread. The expo will be a strong platform for the hope, the 3rd Chinese companies to to lose showcase their EV anniversary prowess. issue of Motoring Trends takes a 360-degree view of Chinese companies to showcase their EVitprowess. electromobility and how promises to overcome the CO2 emission challenge. It also looks Happy Reading, Happy Reading, Happy Reading,at how electric vehicle manufacturers are rewriting the rules that have influenced the working T Murrali of the auto industry for the last one century and affected its ability to stay profitable. The IC engine is not lost yet, but the electric powertrain is fast catching up with it.

Editor

G

T Murrali T Murrali Editor T Murrali Editor Editor

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Tel: +81 3-5645-8670,Email: shinichi.kato@rubberstation.com | South East Asia:508380, Dato’ Mohamed bin Abdul Hamid M: +60 19 350 3036 , E: mohamed.ishak181@gmail.com | Thailand: Shinichi Kato Of ce Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan. Tel: +81 3-5645-8670,Email: shinichi.kato@rubberstation.com | South East Asia: E: bobby.odhiambo@kingswaytyres.com Dato’ Mohamed Ishak bin Abdul Hamid M: +60 19 350Busgum 3036 , E:Co. mohamed.ishak181@gmail.com | Thailand: Email: mott@ Ms Somruetai Patana-anek (Mott), Managing Director, Ltd., Bangkok, Thailand, M: +66-1-8429105, Dato’ Mohamed Ishak bin Abdul Hamid M: +60 19 350 3036 , E: mohamed.ishak181@gmail.com | Thailand: Ms Somruetai|Sri Patana-anek Managing Director, Busgum Co. 772 Ltd.,972571, Bangkok, M: +66-1-8429105, Email: mott@ busgum.com Lanka: P(Mott), P Perera, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

M: +94 E: Thailand, ppperera1946@gmail.com | Middle East: Dubai, Ms Somruetai Patana-anekTRENDS (Mott), Managing Director, Busgum Co. Ltd., Bangkok, M: +66-1-8429105, Email: mott@ MOTORING JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2020E: Thailand, 7 busgum.com |Sri Lanka: PM: P Perera, Colombo, SriE:Lanka.

M: +94 772 972571, ppperera1946@gmail.com | Middle East: Dubai, UAE - Markose Chenthitta, +971 55 665 7729, markose101@hotmail.com busgum.com |Sri Lanka: TRENDS P P Perera, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

M: +94 772 972571, | Middle East: Dubai, MOTORING 2022 | MOTORING JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2020E: ppperera1946@gmail.com 7TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY UAE - Markose Chenthitta, M: +971 55 665 7729, E: markose101@hotmail.com MOTORING JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2020 7 UAE - Markose Chenthitta,TRENDS M: +971 55 665 7729, E: markose101@hotmail.com

7

TOP MOVES

John Loudermilk Is Birla Carbon CEO

B

irla Carbon has appointed John Loudermilk as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Loudermilk will lead all aspects of Birla Carbon, a leading global supplier of carbon black. To play a pivotal role in transforming the company, he brings with him deep insights into workings of global business and John Loudermilk understanding of the carbon black business. In his previous role as the COO of Birla Carbon, Loudermilk played a key part in shaping his organisation to be highly customer focused and innovative. Leading many recent initiatives, including the launch of the Continuatm brand of sustainable carbonaceous materials, Loudermilk is a seasoned leader in the chemicals industry with more than 30 years of experience, including 16 years in the carbon black business. MT

Christian Levin Is Traton Group CEO

C

hristian Levin has been appointed as President and CEO of Traton (SE) Group. He is also the President and CEO of Scania.

Succeeding Traton CEO Matthias Gründler, Levin will focus on transforming business into new technology areas and geographies, leveraging further synergies through Christian Levin modularisation and scalability. Helping the Traton Group to strengthen its strategy involving e-mobility, digitalisation and connectivity, Levin will push for sustainability as a key factor. Stressing on Navistar gaining ground in North America and continued investments in China, Levin will work to ensure that the strength, competence and business logic of each brand in the group is leveraged. Leading Traton into a sustainable future beyond conventional business models and ways of thinking, Levin will focus on stronger profitability and growth. MT

8 | MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022

Ranjit Nambiar Appointed Uno Minda CEO; PC Jayan Appointed CTO

M

inda Corporation Limited has appointed Ranjit Nambiar as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and PC Jayan as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for its Interior Ranjit Nambiar PC Jayan Plastic division (IPD) business.

With over three decades of experience and a proven track record in automotive interiors, Ranjit and Jayan will significantly contribute to the company’s commitment to technology innovation, operational excellence, customer centricity and speedy market responsiveness. They will be instrumental in the exploration of new possibilities and development opportunities in the area of automotive interiors, smart cockpit solutions, comfort and convenience, kinematics and light weighting. The two leaders will also focus on building a strong team to scale up the operations and develop future technologies. MT

Shubhranshu Singh Is Tata Motors Marketing VP

T

ata Motors has appointed Shubharnshu Singh as the Vice President of Marketing, CVBU. He will look after the domestic as well as the international business.

Based at Mumbai, Singh will report to company commercial vehicle business Executive Director and President.

Bringing with him long Shubhranshu Singh years of experience in the marketing of lifestyle products and automobiles, Singh has worked earlier as the Global Head of Marketing, Royal Enfield. Prior to that, he was the Executive Vice President and Marketing Head (Sports) at Star TV Network. He was also the Marketing Director – India and South Asia at Visa. MT

Berndt Buchmann Appointed Director Of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India

Š

koda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt Ltd has appointment Berndt A Buchmann as its Group Director – Aftersales & Vehicle Logistics. Reporting to Managing Director Gurpratap Boparai, Buchmann will supervise the aftersales plan of action and ensure a satisfied customer base.

Berndt Buchmann He will lead his team to achieve superior customer centricity by providing customers the best ownership experience. Leveraging holistic sectoral understanding and an experience in the field spanning over 25 years (in aftersales, service and parts operation as well as sales and marketing), Buchmann will play an important role in the company’s future endeavours.

Prior to this role, Buchmann held a position in Volkswagen Group Japan as Director – Group Aftersales and Head of VW Aftersales. He has worked extensively with organisations like VW Group AG, VW Group Russia & CIS, Groupe PSA and Audi AG. MT

Christian Päschel Is Varroc Lighting Systems CEO

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arroc Lighting Systems has appointed Christian Päschel as its CEO. Replacing Stephan Vedie, Päschel will leverage his extensive industry experience to help the company grow. Leading the company through a challenging period that includes the shortage of semiconductors and other manufacturing Christian Päschel components, he will particularly focus on process optimisation, digitalisation and investments to respond flexibly to customer needs and to strengthen the company’s position in lighting and electronics. Joining Varroc Lighting Systems from Hella, where he was a member of the Executive Board and Head of Sales in the Automotive Lighting Division, Päschel has over 20 years of experience in the automotive lighting and electronics sector. He has held senior management positions with a focus on strategic development and sales. MT

Alfred Lee Is Schaeffler Asia Pacific President Industrial

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chaeffler has recently appointed Alfred Lee as President Industrial Asia Pacific. He succeeds Martin Schreiber who has left Schaeffler.

Lee will spearhead the company’s growth across various industrial sectors in the Asia Pacific region, including twowheelers, off-road, rail, aerospace, raw materials, industrial automation, Alfred Lee power transmission and wind. With a strategic focus on industrial business involving significant investments into innovation and localising production in the region, Lee will play a role in the significant investments made by Schaeffler in the Asia Pacific region as a key member of its industrial team. Prior to joining Schaeffler, Alfred was the Vice President for Sales and Marketing at IMI Norgren. He brings with him 30 years of professional experience in the process and automation industry and has worked at organisations including ABB, Emerson Process Management and McDermott International. MT

Mohit Dhar Jayal Is Royal Enfield Chief Brand Officer

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oyal Enfield has appointed Mohit Dhar Jayal as its Chief Brand Officer (CBO).

In his role, Jayal will lead the creative and strategic thinking for brand and marketing functions to curate and further cement brand love and associations in the mind of the global consumer.

An established brand and Mohit Dhar Jayal advertising professional with several stellar campaigns to his credit, Jayal has been associated with Royal Enfield in the past and played a key role in designing the blueprint for the company’s modern brand identity as an external partner between 2004 and 2014. Responsible for creating and executing Royal Enfield’s brand strategy and further strengthening its image as a distinct, unique and aspirational global brand, Jayal will spearhead partnerships and collaborations with a diverse stakeholder universe. He will also be instrumental in the development of unique customer experience strategies. As a brand marketing professional, Jayal has to his credit successful campaigns for companies like IndiGo among others. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 9

TWO-WHEELERS

Bajaj F250 And N250 Bajaj Auto has launched two new motorcycles – F250 and N250 – under the Pulsar brand umbrella.

MT Bureau

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he Pulsar brand from Bajaj Auto has been a big uplifting force for the company. Existing for the last two decades, it has given the Indian market the ability to choose stylish and performance-oriented machines starting with the Pulsar 180 and the Pulsar 250. Many Pulsar models have emerged over time.

Some of them have done exceedingly well and some of them have not done so well. Adding to the Pulsar family, the F250 and N250 have entered the competitive quarter-litre segment. Of the two, the F250 is semi-faired while the N250 naked. If the N250 reminds of the early Pulsar 180 and 250, the F250 has acquired the semi-fairing design element of the 220F. The design lines of the F250 are sharp and a part of the bike’s feature list that includes a modern LED (DRL) headlamp. The F250 also is available with a windscreen and mirrors, according to the folks at Bajaj Auto.

With sides that consist of panels that display good fit and finish, and lines that exhibit a tilt towards smoother edges than at the front, the F250 is a bike that turns heads. The N250, in comparison, is not far behind either. Sporting the same fuel tank as the F250, it has aggressive tank extensions to offer. They help the bike acquire a muscular stance.

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Flaunting a robotic-looking triangular cluster that includes an LED projector headlamp (the running lamps are different), the rear panel design of the motorcycle seems inspired by that of the NS200. It is curvy towards the tail and provides room for a modern iteration of the Pulsar’s near iconic tail lamp design structure. A stubby exhaust adds to the bike’s attractive demeanour. As the most powerful Pulsars yet, the F250 and N250 also seem to employ some design elements that look inspired by the powerful and costlier Dominar 400.

Offering a mix of digital and analogue, the instrument cluster features a large RPM gauge, which looks nice.

The LCD reads out the gear position along with other basic information.

With no Bluetooth connectivity, the two motorcycles come with a USB charging point close to the handlebar.The handlebar of the F250 uses a raised clip-on. The N250, in comparison, has a conventional handlebar. In case of either bike, the riding position is upright and comfortable. The foot pegs are positioned such that they ensure a dash of sportiness, though. Powered by a new 24.5 bhp 249 cc singlecylinder oil-cooled petrol engine with a two-valve single overhead camshaft setup, the F250 and N250 boast of a

5-speed gearbox each. Both the bikes come with a slip and assist clutch as well. The chassis of both the bikes are new and designed to accommodate a monoshock suspension at the rear.

While this is the first time that a non-NS and non-RS Pulsar has got a rear monoshock suspension, the F250 and N250 are said to promise a significant upshift in handling and ride dynamics. The front suspension of either bike is made up of a 37 mm telescopic fork. It is conventional in design, to say the least. In terms of braking system, the two machines get a 300 mm diameter disc brake at the front. The rear consists of a 230 mm diameter disc. Equipped with a single-channel ABS, the kerb weight of the F250 is 164 kg and that of the N250 is 162 kg. The N250 costs INR 138,000 and the F250 costs INR 140,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi), respectively. Said to be the machines that will replace the Pulsar 220F over a period of time, the F250 and N250 signal a strategic change in terms of image and value at Bajaj Auto as far as the Pulsar brand is concerned.

The Pulsar NS and RS models will continue to be positioned wherever they are at the moment. They will also continue to sell at the same price-point more or less. MT

We enable the switch – to highly efficient electric drives.

Whether in a highly efficient combustion engine, an intelligent hybrid system or the very latest electric drive: BorgWarner is driving propulsion system solutions of today and tomorrow. With our electric product portfolio, we already cover virtually all fields of technology that are critical to electric vehicles, including electric motors, transmissions and power electronics, single or as complete eAxle module solutions, and thermal management. As a product leader in the field of propulsion systems, BorgWarner is paving the way for a clean, energy-efficient world.

borgwarner.com

TWO-WHEELERS

TVS Jupiter 125 TVS Jupiter 125 is made exciting by how it delivers value to its customers.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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rends, as they say, are unique in their own right and command a following over time. Those who have been riding a scooter will agree how cumbersome it is to alight and flip the seat open to refuel time and again. This is against the trend the TVS Jupiter is known to have established with

its fuel filler cap behind the seat.

Most other gearless petrol scooter manufacturers have followed suit.

Now the Jupiter brand is back with yet another trend, albeit in the form of best-in-class under-seat storage space offered by the Jupiter 125.

The under-seat storage space of this scooter is almost double of what

any gearless petrol scooter in India is capable of offering. The space is such that two full-face helmets can be stacked. As a city run-about or a vehicle that is used for mofussil or occasional inter-city travel, the significant jump in under-seat storage space is not only about the excitement of value addition, it is also reflective of a trend that is in the making.

Claimed to have been created by relocating the fuel tank (its capacity is 5-litre), the seemingly

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extraordinary under-seat storage space of the Jupiter 125 is about performance, practicality, convenience and ease of living. It is about providing exciting value without deviating much from the established brand image. Visually connecting well in appearance with the Jupiter 110, the new scooter distinguishes itself with some design details and a fair sprinkling of chrome. Featuring an LED front headlamp with DRL and a wider footboard that is spacious enough

to accommodate a full-size LPG cylinder, the scooter has a hook at the back of the front apron on either side. The fuel filler cap is now located in it. It is accessed by a multi-function key switch, which also releases the seat lock as well as the handle lock. Replete with a USB socket smartly placed over the right side of the key switch, and a storage pocket that can hold a phone, the Jupiter 125 has its under-seat storage space lit by a small LED lamp.

Flaunting alloy wheels and front disc brake, the Jupiter 125 offers an attractive dashboard that is a combination of an analogue speedometer and an LCD display for fuel, odo and clock reading. Using a tubular frame and metal body panels, the scooter displays good fit and finish. The paint quality is also quite good. The quality and tactile feel of the switchgear is also good. Powered by an 8 bhp, 124.8 cc single-cylinder forced air-cooled two-valve engine, the new scooter accelerates well and feels smooth in its power throw. If the Intelli-Go technology is TVS’ acronym for start/stop technology (where the engine is turned off while stopping at a red light, only to come to life again with the twist of the throttle and the holding of either brake levers), the Jupiter 125 also feels quite refined.

The start/stop tech should give it an advantage in terms of fuel-efficiency, especially in the face of the record high fuel prices, The new scooter, in terms of handling and ride, feels quite capable. In fact, ride and handling have been the high points of the Jupiter 110, and the 125 is no different.

A brief ride of the scooter revealed that it is agile and easy to pilot. It takes to the corners well with the tyres exhibiting good grip. Road irregularities are also tackled well and result in a confidence inspiring ride. Not the first 125 cc gearless petrol scooter to hit the road in India, the Jupiter 125 packs significant value with its engineering prowess.

It does that with its ability to

TVS Jupiter

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scooter with variomatic transmission (without gears, in layman terms), the TVS Jupiter was introduced in September 2013. It followed the Wego and a geared scooter the company – TVS Motor Company – launched many years ago. Positioned against market leader Honda Activa, the Jupiter was powered by a single-cylinder, four-stroke 7.8 bhp 110 cc forced aircooled petrol engine located under the seat and feeding the power through a variomatic transmission to the rear wheel.

Capable of doing 0 to 60 kmph in a little over 11 seconds, the scooter found a good foothold in the market even though it could not dislodge the Activa from the Number 1 position.

Sporting features like an ‘Econometer’ and promising a superior fuel efficiency of 49 kmpl, the Jupiter won many awards from automotive publications, including the scooter of the year award in 2014 from NDTV. In 2015, the Jupiter sprang a limited volume variant. This was inspired by the need to celebrate it being judged as the scooter of the year! Springing many special editions and variants such as the Jupiter ZX, Classic and Grande, the scooter crossed the 2.5-million-unit sales mark in July 2018, becoming the second most sold scooter in India. The TVS Jupiter 125 adds to the Jupiter range from TVS in response to the 125 cc models from Honda and Suzuki, the Activa 125 and Suzuki Access 125, respectively. MT

better address the needs of scooter users beyond the usual want for more performance and style. Taking into consideration what the other 125 cc offerings have to offer, the new scooter takes a different stance; a unique stance that is about offering best-in-class storage and other convenience features. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 13

TWO-WHEELERS

New KTM RC 125 India has got the second-generation KTM RC 125 with some interesting changes.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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f the RC 200 made a machine that was quite different and more engaging than the 200 Duke despite sharing a number of parts including the engine with the latter, the same experience extended to those who bought the first-generation RC 125. As a beginner’s sports bike, the RC 125 offered them not brute power delivery or pulse raising acceleration like the 390 cc big brother did, but an engaging sports bike that offered an opportunity to better at racing motorcycles – at honing the skills – and leverage the machine’s ability to deliver a humble throw of power in a smooth and linear manner. Presenting a unique riding experience over its adventureoriented sibling, the Duke 125, the first generation RC 125 stood with detailed changes under the flesh like the steering geometry and stateof-tune of the engine. The second-

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generation bike is subject to some more interesting changes – cosmetic as well as under the flesh.

Featuring more relaxed ergonomics than the first-generation machine, the new RC 125 gets clip-on handlebars whose height can be adjusted by as much as 10 mm.

Seat height is lower by 11 mm at 824 mm and ground clearance is up by 8 mm. It is now a fair 158 mm and bound to ensure that the RC 125 is more road-friendly in terms of negotiating the irregularities when it is not being used to ride on the track. The folding rear brake and gear shift levers are a very neat touch too. They are in keeping with the bike’s track-oriented nature. Sharper looking as a fully-faired sports bike over the earlier generation model, the new RC 125 boasts new wheels and brakes. The two changes have

resulted in a reduction of 4.4 kg in un-sprung mass. There’s roughly 3.4 kg weight reduction from wheels and 960g from the brakes! A few kg lighter thus, the second-generation RC 125 has also got a redesigned frame. It weighs 1.5 kg less. Both the RC 125 and RC 390 share the same frame.

Missing out on features found on the new RC 390 like adjustable suspension at both ends, a Supermoto ABS mode, cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, IMU and a bi-directional quick-shifter as an option, the humble little RC 125, as a beginner’s sports bike, gets an LED headlamp. It also gets a Bluetooth-enabled TFT display and a bolt-on rear subframe. The TFT display will feature KTM’s ‘My Ride’ system, allowing riders to control music playback and phone calls on the go. This feature is already seen on the 390 Duke and 390 Adventure.

In BS VI guise, the engine of the earlier RC 125 has been carried over and does 15 bhp of peak power at a high 9,250 rpm. Subject to some internal changes like revised mapping, the engine now develops marginally higher torque than the earlier generation model. With the lubrication systems said to have seen changes as well, the new RC 125 gets a larger air-box, which actually contributes to the increase in torque. The same treatment has been meted out to the new RC 390 as well. The air-flow of the engine has also been enhanced.

Retaining the earlier generation bike’s character to never get boring to ride, the new RC 125 is equipped with a 6-speed gearbox.

Using a WP APEX big piston USD fork at the front and a new WP APEX monoshock at the rear, the 2022 model gets new alloy wheels as well. Braking is taken care of by a 320 mm diameter front disc with a radially-mounted 4-piston calliper and a 230 mm diameter disc at the rear with a single-piston calliper. Whether a Supermotor dual-channel ABS, found on the new RC 390, will be extended to this bike is not clear yet. It may, at

the end of the day, not need it given its power rating and the ability to do a maximum speed of a little over 115 kmph on a long straight stretch and with an amount of patience.

Subject to an increase in tank capacity from 9.5-litre to 13.7 litre, the new RC 125 is priced upwards of INR 181,913 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The first-generation RC 125 was priced at INR 147,000 (exshowroom, Delhi). So the new bike marks a price increase roughly in the range of INR 30,000. The 2022 Yamaha 2022 R15 V4 is priced at INR 176,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi) in comparison. MT

KTM in India E

ntering India in 2008 with Bajaj Auto announcing that it will jointly develop two new 125 cc and 200 cc bikes for Europe and the Far East, KTM has had a strong run in the market. Appealing to the Indian youth, the brand has been successful in expanding its product range over time across two lines – one naked and adventure oriented, and the other with full-fairing and race track orientation. It was in January 2012 that Bajaj Auto launched the Duke 200 model in India. As of today, there are no less than six KTM motorcycles being sold in the country, the flagship being the KTM 390. If the Duke 125 and the race-track oriented RC 125 are at the beginner’s level, at the mid-level are the RC 200, Duke 200 and Duke 250 (with an adventure iteration too). The RC 390 and Duke 390 are at the top. All the bikes are made at the Bajaj Auto plant at Pune. With over 95 percent localisation, the assembly operation is engineered to be very lean and just-in-time (only 2 hours inventory is there at any time). Said to be popular because they scream outright performance, according to industry sources, the KTM brand in India has been a trendsetter in appealing to the youth looking for bikes that are about performance, style and fun.

The KTM bikes in India have also managed to create a niche for themselves as a premium European brand. So much so that Bajaj Auto could not resist the temptation of borrowing the engine of the 390 and making a number of changes to it. With those, the company went on to develop the Dominar 400 touring bike under its own brand name! Said to offer a fantastic performance to price ratio, the KTM brand of bikes in India are claimed to be instrumental in creating a newfound awareness among motorcyclists regarding power and torque. Also known to create awareness for quality and style, the KTM bikes, with their use of modern technology, have been successful in providing a feel of a robust and quality build. A motorcycling enthusiast mentioned that KTM bikes are unrivalled in their power output in the category. There are very few motorcycles today that offer as much fun as it is to ride a KTM. With Bajaj Auto owning 48 percent stake in KTM AG, Austria, through its wholly owned subsidiary Bajaj Auto International Holdings BV, the KTM brand in India is well instilled. It is also well recognised for the level of equipment its bikes offer. The Bybre disc brake callipers, for example, with 4 pistons and sintered brake. The ride-by-wire, the stylish Hella head lamp and the slipper clutch, for example. MT

MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 15

CARS

MG Astor Modularity and advanced engineering attributes make the MG Astor.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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he shift to electric vehicles is throwing some interesting developments in modularity, reverse engineering, materials etc. It is also providing a rare insight into data mining and the use of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) to shape up the future of automobiles. The new MG Astor SUV, for example, a petrolpowered brethren of the MG ZS electric SUV that was launched some two years ago, wears badges like ‘AI Inside’ with the ease with which a fashionista would opt for a revolutionary new design idea on the horizon. Flaunting ADAS technology badge as well, the Astor has a curious object on the top of the dashboard that draws attention.

It is placed where an idol of worship will be placed. An inkling of a robot at mischief? Yes, a robot that throws emojis at the driver and the occupants it is. Wish it could throw a clutch of information as well – like the time, temperature and some tarot reading for the occupants!

Positioned in a segment that has the Hyundai Creta and the Skoda Kushaq, the Astor offers a choice of two petrol engines – a 110 bhp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated unit and a 140 bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged unit. The naturally aspirated unit is mated to a 5-speed manual and 8-step CVT. The turbo unit is mated to a 6-speed torque convertor auto transmission. Offering no diesel engine option in a segment where most of its competitors offer one, the SUV, in terms of styling, flaunts an interesting celestial grille. It is central to the design theme and grabs attention. There is a sprinkling of chrome on the grille that Indian

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buyers will appreciate. Getting redesigned fog lamps housing as compared to that of the ZS EV, the vehicle also sports redesigned headlamps with LED DRLs. New 17inch diameter alloys mark the sides, and so do the disc brake callipers painted in red. Interesting looking tail lamps mark the rear. Lower down, the bumper has exhaust outlets in it. If the outer styling change – though minor, considering the fact that the Astor is more or less a petrol-powered sibling of ZS EV – is in line with what has been done to the model-line in the international markets, Astor gets an interior that feels quite upmarket and is interesting too.

Contributing to the interesting and upmarket look and feel of the cabin is the use of soft-touch materials and brushed aluminium inserts. It is the dashboard that first draws attention, and just for the robot at the top. The quality of it impresses, especially the round AC vents and the bigger 10.1inch touchscreen of the infotainment system. With a well-formed gear shifter adorning the centre console, the steering wheel, wrapped in

perforated leather, feels nice to hold. It is flattish at the bottom to give it a sporty look. If the Sangria Red dual-tone colour scheme looks a bit flashy or ‘over the top’ in the pictures, it is actually quite nice in real. For those who will still want another option, there are two more dual-tone colour schemes on offer – Iconic Ivory and Tuxedo Black.

Ergonomically well-engineered, the front seats of the Astor provide good comfort and support. They lend a comfortable yet commanding driving position. The rear occupants now sit better and more comfortable unlike in the ZS EV where the raised floor (to position the battery pack) makes for a slightly ‘knee-up’ posture. The rear occupants are treated to AC vents, dual USB ports and a flipdown armrest.

Featuring a large panoramic sunroof, auto climate control, rainsensing wipers, a 7.0-inch digital

resolution is good and the info is easy to read.

instrument cluster, 6-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, heated rearview outer mirrors, a level-2 ADAS suite (represented by the robot on the top of the dash, of course!) with connected car tech as a part, the Astor presents an interesting driving experience. Refraining from using Alexa or Google, the connected car tech surprisingly pulls info from the internet and understands voice commands in Hindi and English.

Voice commands in Hindi or English can be used to control vehicle functions like climate control. Over time, the connected car tech (it is a part of the ADAS suite) of the vehicle is set to get more functions and higher capabilities to boast of. The touchscreen looks nice and the layout is neat. It is laced with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The response to touch of the system is good. Two-finger commands like pinch-to-zoom take some getting used to. The screen

An exciting part of the level-2 autonomous technology that is also a part of the ADAS suite is features like geo-fencing and pre-cooling. A step ahead, and a digital key can be installed on the owner’s phone. With this done, the vehicle can be almost fully operated! There is no need of the physical key anymore unless the settings are lost. The level-2 ADAS suite employs a lidar setup to offer adaptive cruise control, lane change alert, blind spot-detect, rearcross traffic alert, collision warning and auto emergency braking with pedestrian detection, traffic sign detection, electronic parking brake, six airbags (on top-trim variant), speed-assist and auto high beam control. From behind the wheel, the Astor feels lighter and nimbler than the ZS EV. Making a positive impact, therefore, in terms of the dynamics, the vehicle responds well to direction changes and exhibits good stability as well as grip. The 215/55 R17 tyres on the top-trim variant contribute to the good dynamics the Astor displays. The other variants get 215/60 R16 tyres. With threesteps of power assist – from light to heavy – also contributing to the handling dynamics, the body roll through corners is well controlled.

It is closer to the limit that the tyres begin to squeal.

While the ADAS suite can be switched off, if it feels intrusive. The suspension of the Astor does feel

a bit soft at first. It, however, works well on the road with irregularities to tackle. Of the two, the turbocharged petrol unit displays a sense of urgency as the turbo spools at 2,800 rpm. The cutting-in of the turbo makes the vehicle feel quite enthusiastic and fast. The gearbox could have been a bit quicker.

Engage the Sport mode, however, and the gearbox tends to respond better. Things turn interesting and the Astor feels quicker and enjoyable. Lacking steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters, it performs well. Kickstarting the AI and IoT trend, which could be better read as level-2 autonomous, for its segment in India, the Astor gets disc brakes on all four wheels. The brake pedal has a long travel and feels soft. The braking performance, however, is good.

With many badges to flaunt over its skin like a tattoo enthusiast, the Astor impresses with its styling – that celestial grille especially.

Performing well, the 1.4 turbo petrol is the pick of the two units on offer.

The SUV exhibits the strong arm of technology well. The level-2 autonomous technology as part of the ADAS tech suite is quite apparent. While the top-trim variant is quite well-equipped, the Astor also impresses with its interior styling and use of materials. In a segment that is strong and growing, the Astor, priced upwards of INR 978,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi), feels capable and worthy of a look before deciding on which one in the segment to purchase. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 17

CARS

2021 Audi E-Tron 55 Quattro Audi’s 2021 E-Tron 55 Quattro strikes an interesting combination of performance and luxury.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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all it the changing face of German engineering or yet another step ahead in electric vehicle technology, the 2021 Audi E-Tron 55 Quattro strikes an interesting combination of performance and luxury. It competes with the likes of Jaguar I-Pace and Mercedes-Benz EQC and demonstrates European technology by providing a rare insight into the future of automobiles, controlled largely by regulations to reduce CO2 emissions and to achieve a zero-vision of safety. Measuring a shade less than the Q7 in length at 4.9m, the e-SUV may not look as big or as intimidating in the pictures, but in actual, its presence and proportions are evident at once. Equipped with air suspension that offers ride height adjustment and helps to achieve a high ground clearance, the vehicle, in terms of appearance and dynamics, is quite something. The styling of the E-Tron 55 Quattro is typically understated and in keeping with the tradition of Audi automobiles. Typical of most German automobiles, the e-SUV is clearly not flashy by any means.

It, in fact, resembles the Audi SUV family quite closely. Offering tricks like the projection of dancing light show with Audi and E-Tron

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logo on the wall when the doors are opened, the E-Tron refrains from any radical styling streak even as an electric vehicle. Sensible in its approach towards technology and German engineering prowess, it has a charging socket on either side to facilitate easy hooking of the charging cable. Built to high Audi standards, the E-Tron cabin is not immune to

the Audi standards of high quality and craftsmanship. So those who are familiar with an Audi car or an SUV will not feel unfamiliar or out of place in the E-Tron. Drawing attention is the floating gear selector. It is, in fact, a novelty. Considering the electric (or electronic) nature of the SUV, the E-Tron 55 Quattro has a dial which provides information about the performance in the all-digital instrument cluster. It is where a tachometer would typically be. The dial also relays information about the battery status, about energy regeneration, about the range, about the driving mode and is quite intuitive.

In the ‘Dynamic’ mode, a drop in range is immediately relayed by the dial. Choose the ‘Range Extender’ mode and the dial indicates. Power drops and so does the power supply to the air-con. This mode is particularly useful when running low on charge and wanting to reach the nearest charging station. Spacious, comfortable and luxurious, the E-Tron is cleverly packaged. It offers the most comfortable backseat among its competitors despite the battery pack being located under the floor. With generous knee room and good under thigh support in supply, three can sit comfortably.

The high-positioned seats of the E-Tron offer a good view of the outside. Producing 355 bhp of peak power and 591 Nm of peak torque (in the boost mode, it goes to 402 bhp and 664 Nm, respectively), the vehicle is quick and highly capable.

It displays ferocious acceleration that is not surprising for a high-powered electric vehicle.

What is pleasantly surprising is the way in which it combines performance and luxury. Riding a strong torque curve that feels unrelenting and uninterrupted by any sense of gearing, the e-SUV easily does speed in excess of 150 kmph with consummate ease. In fact, it is in between 120 kmph and 170 kmph that the vehicle feels the most ferocious in its power and torque delivery. The Quattro AWD system helps in effectively distributing the power and torque to each of the four wheels to ensure a blistering performance that is well on par with the performance on conventional machines like the Q8. Exhibiting high quality of ride (it glides over bumps), the E-Tron, weighing 2,500 kg roughly, never ever makes the occupants feel less luxurious. High quality of insulation makes for a near silent ride. The amount of road noise that could filter in is almost nil. Riding on 20-inch diameter wheels and high-profile tyres, the e-SUV does not forego comfort. Compared to

much braking regeneration to do), the vehicle can have its range plummet faster than expected. In a city, it does a good job with good amount of regenerative braking thrown in.

the I-Pace or the EQC, the ride of the E-Tron is plusher.

Capable of raising itself (with the help of the air springs) to negotiate bad roads or to venture off the road, the E-Tron does not suffer from any ground clearance challenge. It is, therefore, well positioned to take on the Indian roads. For spirited driving, the dynamic mode is the right mode.

Engage it, and the e-SUV corners with impressive confidence. If the Quattro setup helps, the vehicle, with 50:50 weight distribution, behaves admirably well on the road. With the Quattro setup said to be a bit rear-wheel oriented (there is a motor each on the four wheels), the E-Tron nicely tackles a bend with enthusiasm – with plenty of grip and with confidence. It may not be overtly sporty in its behaviour (which, in fact, is a very interesting thing), but the e-SUV provides a range of between 250 and 400 km. This is dependent on the style of driving and the mode used. During high-speed drives with not much braking (so not

Aiding intercity travel with the kind of range on offer, the Audi dealerships in major cities will have a charger that the E-Tron owner or driver can access. The efficient and effective regeneration system, which can be adjusted with the paddles, does not lead to a feel of abrupt cut in power. Any deceleration feels natural even with the braking regeneration set to the highest. With a clear focus on a combination of performance and luxury, the E-Tron takes 8.5 hours to charge with a 11 kW charger that is supplied by Audi. There’s also a 22 kW wall box that cuts the charging time down to 4.5 hours. Employing a 95 kWh battery, the vehicle roughly incurs a running cost of INR 2 for every 1 km depending on the rate of electricity per unit in the respective area or region. Providing substantial saving in the area of operating costs as compared to similar-powered conventional SUVs, the E-Tron 55 Quattro is priced at a good INR 12 million to purchase! For those who can afford its price, there’s an electric SUV that is both exciting and technologically most advanced.

There’s an SUV that is luxurious and immensely exciting to pilot. MT

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CARS

2021 Volvo S60 The new Volvo S60 is an interesting luxury automobile.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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lmost identical in appearance to the bigger S90, the new (third-generation) Volvo S60 looks sharp and attractive. It flaunts an amount of chrome and is powered by a 190 bhp 2-litre turbo-petrol engine that does 300 Nm of maximum torque. The grille, ‘Thor’s hammer’ headlamps, a sharp chin and a long and elegant bonnet mark the frontal styling highlights. A well-defined greenhouse and a sharp shoulderline mark the sides. The rear styling is almost identical to that of the S90.

Measuring 4,761 mm in length, the new S60 is built on Volvo’s Scalable Platform Architecture. With a frontmounted transverse engine, the new car, with Euro NCAP 5-star rating, features Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology bits like adaptive cruise control, emergency braking and avoidance, lane-keeping assist and pilot assist.

The plush, roomy and comfortable cabin of the new S60 is typical Volvo flair.

It is high in quality. This is apparent from the trim (with a black colour scheme), the orthopaedically tested seats, and the plastic and

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chrome bits as well as the soft-touch material of the dashboard (set a bit higher but does not hamper visibility ahead). The chrome volume control knob and the chrome AC vent toggle buttons add to the cabin’s plush feel.

Featuring wireless charging, the icons on the touchscreen of the S60 (that works well and is sharp and clear) are small. Important adjustments like those to the four-zone climate control, like blower speed adjustment made using the icons, can require some getting used to. The rear seats (as comfortable as those at the front) come with ample leg room, are set low and make for a slightly ‘kneeup’ seating posture. The central transmission tunnel consumes space and makes it difficult for three to seat.

The large sunroof brightens up the rear and so does the digital air-con controls at the rear and a feature that pulls the front passenger seat ahead by the press of a switch on the touchscreen.

Ergonomically well engineered and easy to drive in the city as well as on the highway, the new S60 responds enthusiastically at low speeds. The engine, it is apparent at once, does not like being revved high. The autobox does feel the most enthusiastic unless the engagement of Dynamic mode. With the top speed limited electronically to 180 kmph, the new S60 is about relaxed motoring rather than being pushed through corners at speeds. The steering weighs up nicely and the car feels quite stable at high speeds. It inspires confidence. There is a stiff edge to its ride. Lending a big-car feel that is plush and comfortable, the new Volvo S60, with the safety edge of Volvo, is well equipped.

Priced at INR 4,509,000 (exshowroom) approximately, it presents good value. It sets the trend in its segment in terms of safety, solidity and comfort. MT

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Rosenbauer RT Electric Fire Truck Rosenbauer’s RT electric fire truck is evolutionary.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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hree Rosenbauer fire test trucks powered by Volvo Penta electric drivelines made news in 2020 by going on trial at Berlin, Amsterdam and Dubai. The crews of the vehicles were amazed at the battery capacity and the advantage offered in terms of not having a large diesel engine that would eat into the cabin space as

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well as the side panel storage space. Post an amount of testing, the fire trucks, termed as ‘Revolutionary Technology’ (RT) by its manufacturer, seem to have reached a stage where they could be ordered by municipalities around the world. A hint of this is had from the fact that Volvo Penta has started production of the bespoke electric drivelines

of the fire trucks at its Vara plant in Sweden. The development, according to Giorgio Paris, President, Volvo Penta Industrial, is in line with the ‘emob’ partnership announcement in 2019 with Rosenbauer.

Marking yet another milestone in Volvo Penta’s electrification journey, the start of bespoke

electric drivelines of the Rosenbauer fire trucks, according to Paris, is part of the growing demand for electric solutions in the market today. “Through collaboration and pilot projects such as this one, we aim to meet this demand and the expectations of the future,” he added. Adapting proven technology from Volvo Trucks, Volvo Buses and Volvo

Penta, the RT adheres to the need for a compact architecture.

An architecture that has been designed and developed by keeping in mind space utilisation requirements of the crew and equipment, and by keeping in mind the requirements of weight in terms of agility and take-off as well. Seeing Volvo Penta push its boundaries concerning electric

drivelines to new heights, the RT, unlike other Volvo Group EVs that might have two or sometimes three electric machines, has four.

The design is such that all the four electric machines have to be able to run simultaneously – two for propulsion, one for the range extender to provide extra battery power and one for electric power take-off. Making the entire

MOTORING MOTORING TRENDS TRENDS | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021 2022 | 23

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

concept cutting edge in terms of technology and equipped with the ability to support functional needs such as firefighters rotating the foam pump, the RT, it is no doubt, is quite evolutionary.

A new Active Cooling Unit It is an example of how electrification of fire trucks that need to flaunt compact dimensions is being successfully worked upon.

The bespoke Volvo Penta electric driveline of the RT includes a new Active Cooling Unit (ACU) developed by Volvo Penta in part collaboration with Rosenbauer.

The unit draws on a 600V system instead of the conventional 24V. The extra power allows it to not only cool the batteries but offer cooling capacity to the Rosenbauer vehicle as well. Reflecting changing design, development and manufacturing scenario in the automotive space, the RT and its electric driveline point at factors taken into consideration like exact application, usage, climate and operating environment. The ACU, for example, is manufactured at Volvo Penta’s Vara plant such that the driveline system is kitted (loaded with software and packed together)

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to ensure straightforward installation at the customer’s facility. It is a part of the strong working relationship developed with its customers over the years, according to Paris.

extender, can also be run on diesel as a hybrid when needed. This takes away any range limitations that may otherwise hamper the operation.

Working closely on different applications with its customers in an array of sectors in a stepwise approach that is reliable, safe and creates value, Volvo Penta, according to Paris, finds Rosenbauer RT’s bespoke electric driveline as part of a transformation trend towards more sustainable and new technology solutions. Pointing at legislation and customer’s changing moral principles as the key factors driving this transformation trend, Paris said that the RT’s success in real-world field tests and the start of production of the electric driveline are two milestones in Volvo Penta’s electrification journey that will continue to be reinforced through strong collaboration. With a charging capacity of up to 200 hp (150 kW), the RT can have its builtin batteries recharged in no time at all. Capable of operating as a pure electric and emission-free shortrange fire truck in big cities where its use could be quite frequent, the vehicle, due to the built-in range

Well-equipped ergonomically and tactically Charged with three-phase alternating current (11 kW or 22 kW) from a high voltage industrial socket without the need for a special adapter, the high-performance high-voltage batteries of the RTs are designed to provide sufficient output for external consumers.

Several external devices with a combined power consumption of up to 18 kW can be operated simultaneously via the power outlet. The engine is automatically deactivated in case of the fire truck coming to a standstill; the lighting and equipment are powered directly by the batteries, greatly reducing the noise level at the scene of the emergency – making it easier for the crew to work as well by reducing their stress levels and by benefiting nearby residents. With the batteries onboard the RT ensuring that no fuel is combusted while driving,

the fire truck also profits from lower centre of gravity and a more balanced axle load distribution. This gives unprecedented cornering stability and thus reduces the risk of accidents, courtesy the revolutionary driveline from Volvo Penta! With no other vehicle having comparable extinguishing and transport capacities capable of such compact dimensions or an equally small turning radius, according

to Rosenbauer sources, the RT offers both ergonomic and tactical advantages – for less physical strain on the emergency crews and for greater operational success.

Providing convenient entry and reduced strain when lifting, the fire truck also offers minimised removal heights. Equipped with an electric ladder lowering device, the vehicle has a variable rear loading space and deep equipment space.

Its pump room position has been moved forward to create additional equipment compartment with a low loading edge in the rear of the vehicle. The result of this is more storage space at a low height. The need to lift heavy equipment is considerably reduced.

Individually tailored to the intended operational scope such that the volumes of the water tanks range from 1,000 litres to 4,000 litres, and those of the foam

tanks range from 50 litres to 400 litres, the RT could be had with both normal and combined normal/ high pressure pumps. All available pumps can be operated either purely by means of the batterypowered electric motor or, especially in the case of longer operations, using the diesel-powered range extender. Designed to ensure the greatest

possible interaction between the crew members, the cockpit of the Rosenbauer RT has a ‘rotatable’ driver and commander seat. The crew cab is not spatially isolated from the cockpit either. This enables a conference seating arrangement for improved communication.

Eliminating the need for folddown steps, the fire truck has a distance of just 260 mm between the road surface and its cabin floor in operational mode. Entering or exiting the vehicle is easy.

Easy to use, safe and digitally active With the vehicle’s controls and firefighting equipment safer and easier to use, the Rosenbauer RT is intuitive, digital and networked. At the centre of its own communication system is an autonomous W-LAN network, permanent connection to the operations control centre and the EMEREC data centre. Even the integration of drones for aerial image-based analysis of an incident is possible. Also featuring intuitive, easy-to-use touchscreens apart from the conventional switches, the fire truck comes with a customisable actuation button that ensures maximum simplification. Drivers of Rosenbauer RT fire trucks have at their disposal a large number of assistance systems that help avoid accidents in difficult situations.

There are electronic rear view mirrors with a significantly increased field of vision. These mirrors also help to eliminate blind spots. A full view to the rear is had with an integrated rear-view camera and automatic object recognition. If the integrated high-performance LED strips with their powerful luminosity ensure shadowless illumination of the operating environment, the Rosenbauer RT fire truck also comes with cornering lights that make it easier to see pedestrians when driving. Digitally active, the vehicle, connected to the Rosenbauer EMEREC data centre connection, makes sure that its crew is continuously fed the necessary data, such as incident reports, building blueprints, camera images and more. The emergency crews can communicate both with one another and with the operations centre. With safety as the priority, the Rosenbauer RT is a fully networked vehicle. MT MOTORING MOTORING TRENDS TRENDS | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021 2022 | 25

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

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he ever-optimistic Indian CV industry is beginning to see its enthusiasm levels spike as travel and tourism activities gain force, schools re-open and freight rates show signs of rise along with an increase in truck utilisation. The fading second wave of Covid-19 and the festive sentiments seem to reflect from the announcement by Tata Motors to unveil 21 CVs. These include seven new vehicles in the M&HCV segment and consist of construction and infrastructure and cargo application trucks with higher fuel efficiency as the highlight.

Apart from the M&HCV segment trucks, the new unveiling includes five I&LCV segment offerings in the 4 to 18-tonne GVW with CNG powertrains, bigger loading spans and improved cabin comfort and utility to boast of. The new unveiling also includes four multi-use vehicles in the SCV segment that provide agility and a superior last-mile delivery proposition. On the bus side, there are five new vehicles that have made to the list of new unveiling. These include an electric bus with segment-first features and holistic solutions for passenger transportation.

Arranged under four key themes, namely building future ready infrastructure, consumption (e-commerce especially), increasing mobility (tour and travels, and school and staff), and greener and alternative fuels, the 21 CVs stem from the confidence that over one lakh BS VI CVs of the leading Indian CV maker are successfully plying on the road. They also stem from the confidence gained through repeat purchases and increasing market share, from an increase in agricultural, construction and infrastructure activities and from an improvement in trucking sentiment in the second quarter of the current fiscal. Girish Wagh, Executive Director, Tata Motors, expressed that the 21 CVs account for a comprehensive and carefully crafted range that reflects the commitment of Tata Motors towards the evolving needs of the Indian CV market.

Drawing attention to the migration of 45 percent of the CV volume to CNG, he mentioned, “We are aiming

26 | MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022

at a better second half of the current fiscal with 21 products born out of the finer understanding within CV segments. Other than the migration to gaseous fuels like CNG, demand for moving billions of km of cargo is growing. New and replacement

demand will increase and also in the area of electric CVs.”

The 21 CVs of 2021 Under the four key themes, Tata Motors unveiled the Prima 2830.K RMC (21-tonne GVW) transit mixer

21 Tata Motors CVs With an eye on the festive season, Tata Motors has unveiled 21 CVs. Bhushan Mhapralkar with an engine power take-off to reduce operating costs up to 11 percent. The CV maker also unveiled the Signa 4221.T (41-tonne GVW) tractor-head.

Promising higher fuel efficiency, it is powered by the 180 hp 5-litre Tata Turbotronn engine.

The Signa 5530.S (55-tonne GVW) 6x4 tractor-head unveiled promises enhanced performance in heavy-duty applications with faster turnaround time. Both the tractor-heads, according to Wagh, are aimed at the construction and infrastructure sector. The company unveiled Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Technology on the Signa 4625.S tractor-head and dubbed it as India’s first.

Girish Wagh

The Signa 3118.T 6x2 (31-tonne) rigid truck is projected as India’s first 10-wheeler with a 12.5-tonne twin-tyre lift axle. The company also unveiled the Signa 4623.S 4x2 tractor-head which offers flexibility across duty cycles and is powered by a 230 hp 5.6-litre Cummins BS VI engine mated to a 9-speed gearbox. The Signa 4021.S tractor-head, at the other end, is also about better operational efficiency. The Ultra T.18 SL is claimed to be the first 18-tonne GVW rigid truck with a sleeper cabin to offer best-in-class payload of 11.5-tonne and higher uptime.

Powered by a 100 PS, 3-litre diesel engine and offering a 6.4-tonne GVW, the Ultra T.6 comes with MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 27

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES bus based on the LPO 1822 front-engine bus chassis. It also unveiled a 15-seater Winger called the Winger 15S for tour and travel, and staff application. It is expected to complement the 21-seater Winger that was introduced recently in view of the schools reopening. The Winger 15S promises segment-first comfort features.

The Starbus 2200 series is aimed at school and staff application, whereas the Cityride Prime LPO 1315 bus (in 10.7 m and 11.5 m length), with a spacious passenger salon and wider gangway, is aimed at a variety of applications including intra-city, inter-city and mofussil travel.

a narrow 1.8 m wide day cab (and sleeping arrangement) and promises faster turnaround and ease of driving. The LPT 510, at the other end, offers a larger 10feet long loading bay on a shorter wheelbase for last-mile urban and mofussil deliveries. The LPT 709 G is a 4-wheel CNG truck with a full-forward day cabin and a GVW of 7.3-tonne. It is powered by an 85 PS, 3.8-litre CNG engine. The Tata 407G is also a CNG offering with a semi forward day cabin and a GVW of 5-tonne. The vehicle is powered by an 85 hp 3.8-litre CNG engine.

Application versatility, earnings and technology Tata Motors unveiled the lowest priced SCV in the form of Tata Ace Petrol CX. It is also available in cab chassis configuration. The Ace

28 | MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022

Petrol CX complements the Ace Gold Diesel Plus that promises increased mileage. The Intra V30 High Deck (HD) promises enhanced application versatility and higher earnings. The Winger Cargo is aimed at the growing needs of e-commerce distribution as a complete urban and semirural delivery solution. The leading Indian CV maker unveiled the 13.5 m long Magna inter-city luxury

The most interesting unveiling on the bus side turned out to be the Starbus EV. Termed as the Starbus 4/12 LE electric bus, it promises zero-emission urban mass mobility and adds to the 600 Tata e-buses that are already plying on the roads of nine cities in the country. Offering a low floor height of 400 mm, the 12m long electric bus reflects the modularity Tata Motors is building into its CV platforms. Apart from working on charging infrastructure and financing needs, the company, according to Wagh, is engineering platform commonality in terms of IC and EV architecture. Revealing that his company is working with IOCL for fuel-cell buses, a first in the country, Wagh said, “Alternative fuel vehicles offer TCO advantage and lower emissions.”

“Tata Motors has been at the forefront of electrification,” he added.

Rajendra Petkar, CTO -CVBU, Tata Motors, mentioned that on the technology front, the company is focusing on active and passive safety. It is fortifying the cabin and using better materials, including high strength lightweight steel and hot-stamped parts, to improve passive safety. It is working on ADAS and level 1 and level 2 autonomous technologies in the area of active safety.

“We will introduce these technologies in our products in the time to come,” Petkar concluded. MT

Ashok Leyland Ultra-Low-Floor Bus

Ashok Leyland has supplied 10 ultra-low-floor CNG tarmac coaches to IndiGo. MT Bureau

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shok Leyland recently delivered 10 ultra-low-floor BS VI CNG buses measuring 12 m in length to IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation) for operation at New Delhi Airport. Claiming to be the largest supplier of specialised tarmac buses to IndiGo, Ashok Leyland is known to have specially developed such a bus model range to meet the specific needs of airlines that use such vehicles. Said to be called as RLE SLF, the ultra-low-floor bus range developed by the CV maker conforms to the global standards laid down by the respective authorities for such buses. The 10 buses that Ashok Leyland has delivered are powered by a 216 hp, 5.6-litre ‘H’-Series CNG engine (mated to an automatic transmission) that employs the most advanced technology. Built to deliver superior safety, comfort and lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), the 10 ultra-low-floor tarmac buses (also described as ‘apron buses’ or ‘airside transfer buses’) are laced with a ‘kneeling’ suspension arrangement

that would allow the floor to be lowered almost to the road level to be accessible to wheelchair users or elder travellers.

Having a pneumatic suspension for superior ride comfort, the 10 tarmac buses supplied by the company are fitted with wide automatic doors for easy ingress and egress for travellers.

The buses are also equipped with ABS and a host of other safety and convenience features like innovative grab handles, LCD TVs for on-board advertisements, public announcement systems, flexible seating layout, luggage racks, LED-based passenger information system etc. They are spacious and comfortable and add to the existing fleet of Ashok Leyland tarmac buses that IndiGo has employed at various airports around the country, including Guwahati and Bangalore, to safely and comfortably transport its airline travellers from the plane to the terminal or vice versa.

Sanjeev Kumar, Head – M&HCV, Ashok Leyland, expressed, “IndiGo has been our long-term valued

customer and we are glad that we have delivered consistently to them on the performance of our vehicles.

These 12m ultra-low-floor BS VI CNG buses with automatic transmission and full air suspension are a part of our expanding alternative fuels products range and has been developed by our in-house R&D team who have introduced many industry leading innovations in the mobility space. We will continue to roll out more such innovative products and solutions in line with market demand, which will help us in our journey to achieve our vision of being top-10 CV makers in the world.”

“Ashok Leyland has been our trusted partner for our domestic tarmac buses catering to our mobility needs. We are pleased to induct these CNG buses for our operations at the Delhi airport. This will further strengthen our relationship and we look forward to the continued performance, quality and service support delivered by Ashok Leyland,” mentioned the IndiGo spokesperson. MT

MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 29

COMPONENTS

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ollaborating with FutureSkills Prime, a MeitY-NASSCOM digital skilling initiative, with an aim to upskill its employees in the latest developments in digital technologies through industryrelevant and government recognised curriculum-based courses, Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd (Sona BLW) has recorded a 52 percent year-on-year revenue growth in the second quarter of the current fiscal at INR 5.86 billion. Attributing the rapid scale up of revenues to Battery

CVs And BEVs To Drive Sona BLW Growth Eyeing CVs and BEVs, Sona BLW is collaborating and upskilling.

Bhushan Mhapralkar Electric Vehicle (BEV) business, which recorded a growth of 143 percent year-on-year, Sona BLW, with a specialisation in manufacturing of automotive components and systems like differential assemblies, gears, conventional and micro-hybrid starter motors, BSG systems, electric vehicle traction motors and motor control units, has recorded an EBITDA of INR 1.54 billion with 24 percent year-onyear growth.

Collaborating with Israel-based IRP Nexus Group through its wholly owned subsidiary company Sona Comstar eDrive (Sona Comstar) to develop, manufacture and supply innovative technology for electric vehicles, the top tier automotive supplier has bagged orders that mark an expansion in its reach to the entire passenger car space, including small and mid-segment BEVs. Founded in 1995, with nine manufacturing and assembly facilities across India, US, Mexico and China, Sona BLW witnessed a rise in the number of programmes awarded to it from 17 to 20 across 11 different customers.

Catering to automotive OEMs like Ashok Leyland, CNH, Daimler, Escorts, Escorts Kubota, Geely, Jaguar Land Rover, John Deere, Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki,

30 | MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022

Renault-Nissan, Revolt Intellicorp, Ampere Vehicles, TAFE, Volvo Cars and VE Commercial Vehicles, Sona BLW has eight warehouses, of which five are located in India and three across US, Germany and Belgium.

Starting development and manufacture of magnetless drive motors and a suitable controller system for two- and three-wheelers in association with IRP Nexus Group for the global market, the company is charting its journey from components to sub-systems and systems in an effort to increase its market reach and revenues. Witnessing a revenue share increase from 18 percent in FY202021 to 24 percent in the first half of FY2021-22 as far as its differential assembly product line goes, the top tier automotive supplier is eyeing rising commercial vehicle demand as an additional growth lever. Catering to top tier automotive suppliers like Carraro, Dana, Jing-Jin Electric, Linamar and Maschio, Sona BLW, according to an industry source, is looking at investing about INR 9.5 billion in the next three years till 202324 to service its order book. As of

30 September 2021, the company’s order book stood at USD 2 billion.

Vivek Vikram Singh, Managing Director & Group CEO, Sona BLW, expressed that contribution from electric vehicles to the company’s revenue will increase year-on-year.

The potential is huge and policies are in favour of electric vehicles. Once the cost of batteries comes down, the market will tip.

Terming the second quarter of the current fiscal as the best quarter yet, Singh averred, “Our profitability and return ratios remain strong, despite the impact of sharply rising input prices. With three new BEV programmes awarded during the quarter, our net order book stands at USD 2 billion, of which 58.5 percent is contributed by electric vehicles.”

Engaged in the design, manufacture and supply of highly engineered, mission critical automotive systems and components to automotive OEMs, Sona BLW subsidiary Sona Comstar is putting an impetus on strong R&D, engineering and technological capabilities in precision forging, mechanical and electrical systems. It is also focusing on base and application software development amid shifting geo-political environment – also said to be the reason behind the company’s tie-up with IRP Nexus Group. Tapping new opportunities across automotive segments and markets, it is finding new ways to support its customers. The decision to develop and manufacture magnetless motors is one of them as it will help cut dependence on the cost of components in a motor like rare earth magnets. MT

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Igus India Seeks Higher Share Of Auto Business Witnessing a healthy growth in India, German ‘motion-plastics’ specialist Igus is seeking higher share of the auto business.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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resent in India since 1998, Igus India has roughly 10 percent of its business revenue coming from the auto industry. Its ‘motionplastics’ (plastic polymer moving parts and highly specialised lubes, in other words) are found in close to 90 percent of the vehicles in the country.

As a wholly owned subsidiary of Igus GmbH, (Cologne) Germany, the company is serving a wide variety of industrial and automotive customers ranging from a small workshop to a modern large-scale facility. Present at 15 locations in India with a welltrained sales and service workforce at hand, it is looking at exceeding the INR 1.6 billion revenue mark this year on the basis of a lot of new business, according to Deepak Paul, Managing Director, Igus India. Achieving 15 percent growth last year, which was also the year of much disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the company is especially optimistic

32 | MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022

about an increase in the demand for its products from the auto industry.

Already having crossed the INR 1 billion revenue mark in the first four months of this year, according to

Deepak Paul

Paul, Igus India has undertaken the expansion of its existing product customisation facility at Mahadevapura, Bangalore, by another 10,000 sq ft. It will set up

Santhosh K Jacob

(plastic) injection moulding machinery there by investing between INR 100 and 200 million. Catering to neighbouring export markets of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal, the company is working closely with auto manufacturers and suppliers to help reduce vehicle or module weight by replacing metal parts with robust plastic polymer ones. Revealing that an electric scooter coming out of Hosur (Tamil Nadu) has close to 16 suspension parts supplied by his company, Paul mentioned, “We are a tier-2 supplier and ship about 20 million parts every month to the auto industry.” Drawing attention to a curious-looking part on the desk, Paul quipped, “Apart from a large variety of polymer bearings, we also supply diverse automotive application parts that include those that combine metals like aluminium as well to the auto industry. This helps them reduce vehicle weight and in turn the CO2 emissions.”

Reinforcing its application capabilities in India, Igus GmbH has introduced 180 new products in 2021 globally.

With the product range of the company comprising products such as cable drag chains called E-ChainSystems, highly flexible chains called Chainflex, polymer bearings called ‘Iglidur’ and linear bearings and guide systems called ‘DryLin’, it is steadily increasing its

participation in e-mobility. It is playing a vital role as a contributor to the parent organisation’s research and development activity in Germany to develop new products. Paul said, “We are playing a vital part in noise reduction when it comes to electric

vehicles. Our polymers are of the compounded variety and we also supply specialised lubes.” Describing India as one of the key markets in the word for Igus GmbH, Paul averred, “We supply a large quantity of plain bearings, teflon coated bearings etc.

MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 33

COMPONENTS to the auto industry. We as a market occupy among the top 10 positions globally.” Achieving revenue of INR 1.18 billion last year, Igus India is witnessing a 60 percent growth, according to Santosh Jacob, Country Manager and Director, Igus India.

The story of Igus

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stablished in 1964 in a garage in Germany by Günter Blasé and his wife Margret, Igus GmbH got its first order from Pierburg. The duo needed an injection moulding machine to explore an idea to make a cone valve going into a carburettor in plastic. Undaunted, Blasé continued to explore until he finally got the result he was out to achieve. The plastic valve cone out of an injection moulding machine was a hit. Needless to say, a plastic moulding machine was acquired with much difficulty. More machines were added over time and the double garage in CologneMühlheim where Blasé started his work soon proved to be insufficient. In Bergisch Gladbach near Cologne, Blasé found a suitable building in the historic industrial area of Lochermühle. The new place provided the right impetus for Blasé to turn his venture into a company.

By 1979, Igus grew into a company that was recognised for its work in industrial plastics with the use of polymer compounds. The first parts catalogue was also published in the same year for energy chains. In 1983, Igus displayed an innovative plain polymer bearing, the ‘Iglidur’ G, at a fair in Germany. That turned out to be an inflection point for the company and gave it the scope to explore a diverse set of industries. In 1985, Igus took flight and established a subsidiary in US. It would help to grow faster.

In 1986, the company developed the first energy tube as a cable-friendly system for application in the woodworking and material-transportation industry. It would replace a system made of wood, which required periodic maintenance. To overcome the problem of poor cable quality leading to corkscrew effects, or to core rupture and loop formation in instances of acceleration, in large cycle numbers or high speeds, the company developed its first cable and named it Chainflex.

Publishing an electronic catalogue in 1991, Igus, in 1993, introduced harnessed energy chains that are ready for immediate installation. The same year, it introduced the ‘DryLin’ R shaft guide. Moving to a bigger factory in Cologne in 1994, the company launched self-adjusting bearings.

Entering the Chinese market in 1999, the ‘motion-plastics’ specialist developed a ‘Triflex’ energy chain in view of the growing automation in manufacturing. This would aid smooth function of the robots. In 2003, it introduced ‘DryLin’ W profile guides as sliding elements are completely lubrication and maintenance-free. Using high performance polymers, Igus introduced ‘Xiros’ ball bearings in 2008. Expanding its factory in 2009, the company began development of a low-cost robot arm in plastics. In 2010, it launched its own energy chain for rotating energy supply. A bar stock made of ‘Iglidur’ materials was also launched.

In 2011, ‘DryLin’ linear axes with drive and motor were launched. The Cologne factory was expanded for the second time in 2012. A ‘Smart’ car with 56 ‘Iglidur’ plain bearings was put on a world tour and visited India as well. It aroused much excitement in India as it was displayed at various locations in the country. Igus took to 3D printing in 2016. In 2019, the company launched the RBTX lean ‘Robotix’ platform for users and suppliers of low-cost robotics components. MT

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Of the opinion that their bearings provide four to five times improvement in wear rate and cost efficiency over a conventional bearing, Jacob remarked, “Our products used in motion systems offer the advantage of injection moulded plastics over conventional ABS plastics or of some other plastics variety.” Looking at accruing revenue of INR 260 million this year from the auto business, a 15 percent increase when compared to the INR 180 million revenue last year, Igus India is looking at supplying more and more plastic polymer parts as a replacement alternative to metal parts. Experiencing a strong online demand, the company is looking at bridging the INR 3 billion turnover mark in the next three to four years. Introducing 30 innovative products in India (out of the 180 product introduced globally) like new energy chain system, new DX1 and

DX2 higher load polymer bearing, e-spool flex (e-spool successor), 3D printed gear mechanism from injection moulded plastics, auto glide for industrial chain applications, polymer coating material where a polymer bearing cannot be applied, Chainflex box for cables, unique linear guides with unique materials and hybrid cable (SEW type), Igus India is confident of securing a higher share of business from the auto industry over time. Stephen Morena Simpson, International Group Development, Igus GmbH, said, “Igus products are manufactured in accordance with its guiding principle, which is ‘plastics for a longer life’.” “These products,” he added, “are designed to extend the service life of machines and applications and to eliminate maintenance and reduce (operating) costs.” MT

Tata Steel Eyes Strong Growth Tata Steel seeks growth as global steel market dynamics change.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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y weight, the typical passenger car consists of about 65 percent steel and iron. The steel used in car bodies is made with about 25 percent recycled steel. To cater to the demand of the auto industry in the manufacturing of cars and other vehicles types the world over, in 2020, the largest crude steel producer by production volume (in million metric tonnes) was China Baowu Group at 115.29 million metric tonnes. It was followed by Luxembourg-based ArcelorMittal at 78.46 million metric tonnes. The two other steel producers that made it into the top five were China-based HBIS Group and Shagang Group.

The recent energy crisis in China has, however, led to its three big steel producers observing stringent production cuts. The outcome of this is that China’s share in the world’s steel market is dropping. This is happening at the cost of Indian steel producers accelerating their growth and revising their production targets upwards. TV Narendran, Managing Director, Tata Steel Limited (Tata Steel), is known to have expressed that Chinese consumption will likely stay flat and consumption outside China will grow. He is also known to have mentioned that he is positive about the steel industry in India.

Said to be planning to grow its capacity by at least 35 to 40 million tonnes by 2030, Tata Steel is a leading steel producer in India.

It is also a supplier of steel to the auto industry. Considering setting up more ‘scrap’-based facilities in

the coming years with a capacity of at least a billion tonnes by 2025, the company supplies specialised products for the automotive segments such as micro-alloyed high strength steels, Interstitial Free (IF) steel and Galva Annealed steel for two-wheeler fuel tanks. Claiming to be the first domestic integrated supplier of hot-rolled high-strength steels and outer body panels for passenger vehicles, Tata Steel has a joint venture with NSSMC called JCAPCPL at its Kalinganagar plant to produce the next generation Advanced High Strength Steels (AHSS) in India. Reporting a consolidated net profit at INR 119.18 billion in the September quarter of FY2021-22, up 661 percent from the corresponding period last year, the company, according to Narendran, saw an increase in the sales volume in the automotive segment in the domestic market by 18 percent sequentially despite weaknesses due to chip shortage.

Delivering strong results across key geographies, including Europe where its subsidiary performed particularly well, Tata Steel is eyeing strong growth despite challenges like elevated coal prices and high energy costs. Tata Steel’s automotive customers in India include Tata Motors, Honda Cars India, Hyundai Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Eicher Tractors,

Ashok Leyland etc. Many of these clients were acquired with the acquisition and subsequent merger of Bhushan Steel Limited into the company. Bhushan Steel Limited was traditionally acknowledged as the largest manufacturer of auto grade steel in India. In view of the emission regulations, safety requirements and a rising preference for smaller and more fuel-efficient automobiles, the use of lighter and stronger grade of steel has been rising. The use of forging quality auto steel, which is lighter than conventional steel, is increasing in the auto industry the world over. Such auto steels are typically known to command a 40 to 50 percent premium over ordinary grades of hot-rolled (HR) coils. There is a bigger benefit in terms of cost for such specialised steel grades to be made locally in terms of logistics and duties, mentioned an industry expert. It is interesting to see Tata Steel looking at producing such grades and other types of special steel products to drive growth. It is particularly strong in auto grade steels in Europe, he informed. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 35

COMPONENTS

Pricol Evaluates Multiple Opportunities Pricol is evaluating multiple opportunities including collaborations among others to enhance its product portfolio.

MT Bureau

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valuating multiple opportunities to enhance its product portfolio and chart out a strong growth story, Coimbatore-based Pricol Limited (Pricol) has reported INR 3.76 billion standalone revenue from operations for the second quarter of FY2021-22 as against the revenue of INR 3.72 billion in the last fiscal.

Focusing on the creation of a strong order book and to achieve higher operational efficiency as well as cash flow, Tier 1 automotive supplier clocked an operational EBITDA of INR 463.5 million for the July-September 2021 quarter as compared to the operational EBITDA of INR 544.2 million for the corresponding quarter last fiscal. Investing in next-generation technology, Pricol is keen to increase its product portfolio in view of the strong growth it would bring by being able to tap new segments and opportunities.

Clocking a PBT at INR 203.3 million for the second quarter of FY202122 as compared to a PBT of INR 198.3 million in the second quarter of FY2021-22, the company is also focusing on debt reduction to achieve strong growth and sustainability over the long term. Announcing a total income of INR 6.96 billion for the first half of the current fiscal ending 30 September 2021 as against a total income of INR 5.04 billion in the corresponding period in the last

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fiscal, the Tier 1 automotive supplier is continuing to maintain its operational efficiency to navigate through the challenges the auto industry has faced, according to Vikram Mohan, Managing Director, Pricol. Stating that the nationwide lockdown during the second wave of Covid-19 and severe semi-conductor shortages globally impacted revenue and profitability in the first quarter, Mohan said that the focus was to be debt-free even at a lower level of production and demand.

Said to be driving a shift in its strategy to beef up the product line with a decrease in its dependence on semiconductors in view of the fact that the shortage of chips has continued, the company is gradually building up its overseas business.

With less dependence of chips, the products that Pricol is leveraging to build its overseas business include complex geometry pumps for oil, fuel and water, and for stationary engines and heavy equipment engines including those that find use in the mining and construction sectors. Claimed to cater to export clients such as Caterpillar, Polaris, Polar, Generac etc., the company is confident of securing significant boosting in earnings from the exports

business. Looking at improving its bottom line in the next two to three years, the Tier 1 automotive supplier is said to get 60 percent of its revenue from Driver Information System (DIS). Pricol is said to be the largest two-wheeler DIS provider globally by volume. It is claimed to be the fourth largest in the commercial vehicle and off-road vehicle space as well.

Entering into a strategic alliance with human-machine interface (HMI) tool provider Candera in August 2021, Pricol is said to be eyeing a significant expansion of its product portfolio in areas that it is already operating in and also in areas that it thinks are of strategic importance. Areas like wash/wipe systems, for example. The second joint venture that the company is pursuing is known to be OEM driven and with an eye on the growing Indian auto market. Keeping a close tab on the rising pace of disruption in electronics, Pricol, hoping that the price and margins in DIS will go up a good deal, is also looking at a strong growth rebound in the long term.

It is at the point of a strong growth rebound that the company is keen to further diversify its product portfolio and do capex, it is clear. MT

build as well as continue engagement with the biker community with its high-performance synthetic range of Castrol Power1 Ultimate two-wheeler engine oil range, the company has been emphasising on safety of its people and community since the outbreak of the pandemic. Pursuing its strategic priorities along with the protection of financial health of the business, it is ensuring that the Covid-19 safety processes and guidelines laid out by the government are strictly adhered to. Conducting vaccination camps for its plant staff to enable the smooth operation of its manufacturing facilities, the oil and lubes major recently celebrated 25 years of safe and successful functioning of its Silvassa plant.

Castrol Continues Brand Investment Continued investment in brands is yielding good returns for Castrol.

Team Motoring Trends

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eporting a standalone total income of INR 10.8 billion for the quarter ended 30 September 2021 (up 19.79 percent as compared to a standalone total income of INR 9.02 billion in the previous quarter), Castrol India Limited (CIL) is continuing to invest in brands on the basis of a positive outcome, which is yielding it good returns. Clocking net profit after tax of INR 1.85 billion for the quarter ended 30 September 2021, the company has been successful in maintaining the momentum it has built over the last few quarters. It has, in fact, benefitted from increased marketing and advertising spends in an effort to support value delivery to customers and reinforce brand salience. This, despite the effect of Covid-19-led disruptions and a subsequent negative effect on demand.

Witnessing a significant change in market dynamics, including muted demand and a sharp rise in input costs owing to the Covid-19 second wave, the company has made timely pricing interventions and continues to do so. Besides this, CIL is also

exploring options with two-wheeler electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers for development of EV fluids. Sandeep Sangwan, Managing Director, CIL, said, “With the automotive sector rapidly gearing up for electric mobility in the passenger vehicle segment, we are exploring options with two-wheeler electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers for development of EV fluids. At the same time, we continue supplying EV fluids to two of the top OEMs in India.”

Kicking off the fourth edition of the ‘Castrol Super Mechanic Contest’, a national platform for independent auto mechanics to showcase their talent, upskill themselves with the latest technologies and win the title of ‘Castrol Super Mechanic’, the company, in collaboration with Jiobp, has launched a new concept of Castrol Express Oil change outlets, which offer quick oil change service for consumers on-the-go. This is predominantly at the retail sales outlet level and designed to deliver quick and reliable service brand experience to consumers.

Leveraging digital platforms to

The Silvassa plant of the company is one of the most modern units in the country. It produces oils and lubes for OEMs as well as the aftermarket. Recognised by British Business Group Delhi (BBG) for its work with the trucker and mechanic communities recently, CIL continued its efforts in the area of upskilling the mechanics and encouraging them through the ‘Castrol Eklavya’ award despite the Covid-19-led disruptions.

The company also continued to run the ‘Castrol Sarathi Mitra’ programme for holistic development of truck drivers and to offer them sustained livelihoods. Looking to restart the expansion of its vehicle products business in collaboration with 3M as normalcy returns, CIL is eyeing a pie of the vehicle care products aftermarket in India. It has been working to participate in the shampoo, glass cleaner, cream wax, dashboard and tyre dressers space in the Indian automotive aftermarket. Emphasising on the creation of co-branded service products and brand vehicle servicing workshops in association with 3M to gather added value, the oil and lubes major is seeing its volume growth led largely by the automotive segment at roughly 80 percent. Catering to the needs of the industrial and some other sectors, it is seeing close to 65 percent of the volumes coming from personal mobility. The rest is had from commercial vehicles and other vehicle segments under automotive.

CIL’s association with 3M dates back to 2019. MT

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COMPONENTS

SSS Springs And Daewon To Make Metro And Automotive Car Seats With a plan to make metro car seats – and later, automotive seats – in India, SSS Springs and Daewon have entered into a JV agreement.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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tumpp Schuele and Somappa Springs (SSS Springs) has inked a 60:40 joint venture agreement with Daewon to produce metro, bus and car seats at a new factory in Sriperumbudur, Chennai.

The Joint Venture (JV) – Daewon’s first anywhere in the world – will entail an investment of around USD 25 million in two phases and over the next three years. In the first phase, an investment of INR 200 million will be done. In the second phase, an investment of INR 1.5 billion will be done.

Through a 30,000 square feet plant at Sriperumbudur, the joint venture, termed as Machani Ramesh Engineering (MRE) by Satish Machani, Chairman and Managing Director, SSS Springs, will service a significant order bagged from a global transportation major to supply seating systems for India’s metro projects. To employ around 50 people in the first phase, with the number rising to 500 permanent and contract

employees in the next phase, MRE is confident of its participation in the many metro car projects in India as well as abroad.

38 | MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 Photo credit: Frakorea

Stating that MRE is already having an order for 700 metro cars, and is pitching for another order of 500 metro cars out of its Sriperumbudur factory, Machani mentioned, “The JV with Daewon is to anchor our entry into seat modules for the highgrowth metro and railway sector in India, and automotive thereafter.

In the next 10 years, India will be building the largest number of metros in the world, with over 50 cities from the current 10 cities with Metro. The JV will be addressing a market valued at more than USD 1.6 billion per annum.” Informing that the SSS Springs-Daewon JV marks the consummation of several years of partnering in the auto-components space with both the partners expecting to invest in excess of USD 25 million in phases in Sriperumbudur plant and an R&D unit that will develop India-focused products, Machani added, “MRE will export aggressively.” While the first export order to Romania is said to have already begun operation, the joint venture company will export directly as well as through its customers like Alstom.

to the Indian market. “Daewon has been very positive on the India story for a long period of time. We were looking to translate our global leadership in the seat modules business across rail and automotive segments to a sustainable long-term strategy for India,” he added. Hinting at an unstinted support of SSS springs to the joint venture and its efforts to achieve deeper localisation as well as faster growth, Machani said, “SSS Springs has been focused on indigenisation in key industries and sectors in the spirit of the larger AatmaNirbhar Bharat mission.”

With an early emphasis on localisation, starting at 60 percent and quickly going up to 80 percent, MRE, according to Herbert Kim, Corporate Director, Daewon, will bring the latest technologies in terms of lightweighting, design, ergonomics, safety and high-speed

Endurance Technologies Limited, Brakes India Private Limited, Gabriel India Limited, Toyota Industries Engine India Private Ltd and Tata Cummins Private Limited, has a capacity to convert 20,000 tonnes of steel into springs each year.

Producing springs ranging from

Established in 1960, SSS Springs, a part of MG Brothers Group which is into various businesses such as transportation, automotive dealerships, agriculture, real estate etc., specialises in the manufacture of coil springs, stabiliser bars, construction machinery recoil springs, engine valve springs among various other products. The company, catering to automotive clients like Maruti Suzuki India Limited, Hero MotoCorp Limited, Honda Cars India Limited, TVS Motor Company Limited, Bosch Limited,

0.15 mm wire diameter to 26 mm wire diameter for the automotive and various other industries the world over, SSS Springs has 10 manufacturing plants and over 4,000 varieties of springs to offer. In 2014, SSS Springs spun off its coil spring business into a joint venture with Japanese firm Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd (MSM) in 2014 and sold the business to its subsidiary Stumpp Schuele & Somappa Auto Suspension Systems Pvt Ltd apart from the sale of undisclosed stake in MSM. A single source for several products and models it caters to, according to a report by ICRA, SSS Springs is estimated to command a market share of around 30-35 percent along with other industry incumbents like NHK Springs Company Limited, Jamna Auto Industries Limited and Toyo Springs Limited. Also producing fuel injector springs, wire forms and hose springs, the company enjoys a healthy market position. Its revenues, as per the ICRA report, are derived such that passenger vehicles accounted for 64 percent of revenues in FY202021. Two-wheelers accounted for 20 percent of revenues in FY2020-21 and a small portion of about 4 percent was contributed by CVs in the same fiscal. The remaining 12 percent of the revenues was derived from other miscellaneous streams like defence, industrial application, aircrafts etc.

Investing in capacity expansions, partly funded through debt, SSS Springs enjoys a comfortable capital structure, according to the ICRA report. It is tackling challenges like declining margins smartly and mitigating risks by reducing its dependence on two-wheeler and passenger vehicle segments. Maintaining profitability even during the recent fiscals of revenue moderation, SSS Springs looks well-poised for a strong growth through joint ventures like MRE. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 39

COMPONENTS

TVS Diodes And ADL From TDK TDK Electronics has launched ADL, TVS Diodes and temperature sensors for DC connectors.

Rajni Jose

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n what is considered to be an important development as far as electronics (including electric vehicle electronics and battery tech) are concerned, TDK Electronics has launched Acoustic Data Link (ADL) for through-metal identification and energy transfer. The company has also launched ultra-small, highspeed TVS diodes for highly effective USB-C port ESD protection and high voltage resistant temperature sensor for DC connectors in xEV. Dr Michael Gebhart, Head of Concept Engineering, European Research and Development Centre, TDK Electronics, expressed, “Acoustic Data Link (ADL) is used for automated ID and log data, for monitoring and sensor tag and for transmitting through metal with NFC signals and through encapsulation for objects such as an electric car battery. While the former enables high automatisation, the latter helps with easy service monitoring.” “For sensor tags, ADL enables easy sensor system integration which further enables localised remote sensing,” Dr Gebhart added.

Used for controlling autonomous underwater vehicles and in the classification of vehicles, ADL works such that the ultrasonic waves transmit data and energy by penetrating metal. Piezoelectric material components convert electrical signals into mechanical vibrations to excite acoustic waves and vice versa. The TVS diodes, on the other hand, stand out because of their unique size. The TVS diodes play a decisive role in empowering

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developers with space-saving designs and other features in the specified USB-C connector format.

In the automotive space, TVS diodes are used to protect semiconductor components from high-voltage transients. Their p-n junctions have a larger cross-sectional area than those of a normal diode, allowing them to conduct large currents to ground without sustaining damage.

Dr Markus Wehring, Product Development, Temperature and Pressure Sensors Business Group, TDK Electronics, said, “The high voltage resistant temperature sensors for DC connectors in xEV work on the principle that high currents produce high temperature. On reaching a particular temperature deemed critical to the system, the sensor derates the applied power.” He drew attention to the sensor features which include dielectric strength of 5 kV DC at the sensor head, superior air to heated surface response time, operating temperature range of -40 degrees

Celsius to 150 degrees Celsius and customised mounting features to fix sensors in the connector among others. Pointing at the miniaturised high performance TVS diodes for ESD protection, Dr Oliver Dernovsek, Head of Business Unit Multilayer, TDK Generic Foundry Business Unit, Piezo & Protection Devices Business Group, said, “These diodes enable transfer of extremely high data rates of up to 40 Gbps and power levels of up to 100 watts via USB-C for fast charging.”

Since USB-C works with various data rates and voltages, different ESD components are required to offer adequate protection. USB-C requires up to 20 TVS diodes with various characteristics with regard to working voltage and capacitance requirements at the respective data rates. The range stands out from the competition, thanks to its high performance in compact designs of 400 x 200 µm2 and insertion heights of less than 100 µm. Customer-specific solutions, according to Dr Dernovsek, can also be implemented owing to TDK’s in-house design and process capabilities. The WLCSP 01005-SL design offered by TDK has dimensions of just 400 x 200 µm2. This is almost half when compared to a TVS diode of standard size. Other than TVS diodes, TDK has also developed multilayer varistors, such as the CeraDiode multilayer semiconductive ceramic components for the ESD protection of data, audio and video lines, ICs and I/O ports in electronic devices (including those found in automobiles).

CeraDiode is designed especially for the ESD protection of LED light sources. As an alternative to a siliconbased semiconductor protection device such as Zener and a TVS diode, CeraDiode offers distinct technical advantages. In many cases, it is a 1:1 drop-in replacement for semiconductor diodes. MT

COVER STORY

E-Mobility: The Present And Future E-mobility is reflecting the future of automotive technology as efforts to reduce emissions rise and the perception regarding autos changes.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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uite vocal about the adoption of electric vehicles, US President Joe Biden took a tyre-screeching electric Hummer SUV for a spin in November 2021. Before that, he promoted the e-Ford F-150 pickup truck.

Early to recognise the need to adopt electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions, US has been instrumental in presenting exciting EV companies like Tesla and Nikola to the world. Europe, at the other end, has been a fast catcher of EV technology. This is reflected by the efforts of companies like the Volkswagen Group, Daimler, Iveco (in collaboration with Nikola), DAF and others. India is witness to an EV story unravelling at the two- and three-wheeler level – at the public transport and commercial vehicle level rather than at the personal vehicle level. It is largely influenced by government policies and efforts of being self-reliant and sustainable by new generation manufacturers.

An entirely new ecosystem is in the making in India as far as EVs are concerned. Amid efforts to reduce carbon emissions – India

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accounts for 46 of the world’s 100 most polluted cities – through the development of electricity and other mediums like CNG, LNG, hydrogen, bio-fuels etc, the EV industry in India is deriving attention because of its promise to cut down the operating costs of a vehicle by a big margin over a fossil fuel-powered one.

Government schemes like availing an EV without a battery and choosing to buy it separately are making EVs look rosier in terms of their price parity with fossil fuel-

powered vehicles. With questions being asked regarding the operating range, price parity, local manufacture, local employment and the real cost-to-environment, the EV moment in India continues to gain steam.

Interesting research by American auto magazine ‘Car and Driver’ regarding the first three years of ownership of an electric vehicle like Hyundai Kona Electric and a gas-powered Mini in US has thrown some surprising anecdotes. The

Mini was just a shade cheaper to run than the Kona Electric, pointing at a fast-approaching parity between electric and IC engine vehicles. But then, a good number of IC engine vehicles continue to be sold the world over even now!

EVs versus IC engine vehicles Many markets around the world are springing EVs based on the same platform as an IC enginepowered alternative. Like the IC

engine vehicles, EVs too are as good as their support system – their supporting infrastructure.

Their cost to environment is hinged on the premise of how smart the grid is. How reliable and dependable is the source of

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COVER STORY

electricity production. A Wikipedia article – ‘Environmental aspects of the electric car’ – states that EVs have different environmental impacts compared to conventional IC engine vehicles in terms of production, emissions, (electric) energy source, battery production, operation and maintenance (including factors like vehicle weight, brake particulate emission due to brake regeneration and use of consumables like lubricants). The advantages the article underlines include elimination of harmful tailpipe emissions.

The disadvantages it underlines

include reliance on rare earth metals, increased particulate matter emission from tyres and brakes, manufacturing pollution and passive carbon emissions in certain cases.

Sulajja Firodia-Motwani, Founder & CEO, Kinetic Green Energy & Power Solutions Limited, expressed, “A large part of the automotive industry in India is set to turn electric in the next 15 years. It may have taken 50 years for the two-wheeler market (2nd largest in the world) and three-wheeler market (the world’s largest) in India to reach a certain

In India, the present and future e-mobility growth will involve light vehicles and public transport vehicles as 80 percent of the people use two-wheelers, three-wheelers and buses to commute.

Photo credit: Subhash Barolia/Flickr.

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stage, but it will now take less than 15 years to reach that stage because of EVs.” “It is logical to expect a 30-40 percent growth rate for EVs,” she added. Of the opinion that the Indian transportation sector is unique, Motwani remarked, “In India, e-mobility growth will involve light vehicles and public transport vehicles since 80 percent of the people use two-wheelers, threewheelers and buses to commute.”

She quipped that the intracity nature of such vehicles also makes it easier to electrify them.

Infrastructure, policies and market evolution The Union Government incentives in the form of FAME I and FAME II schemes and EV policies put into action by most states have been the key drivers of e-mobility in India for the last few years. The focus has been on early adoption of electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers and public transport vehicles like buses.

This is quite unlike other countries – advanced markets like Europe and US especially – where the focus has been on the adoption of personal vehicles as much as it has been on public transport vehicles. If the 10 to 15 percent price rise of IC engine vehicles because of BS VI emission regulations helped EVs progress in the area of price parity, the fall in battery prices also helped. The

announcement of a PLI scheme has laid emphasis on self-reliance. It has boosted the confidence of start-ups like Log9 Materials, an IIT Roorkee incubation, in exploring new battery chemistries. It has also encouraged organisations like IIT Madras to experiment with new means of electricity generation. It was largely successful in producing electricity with the use of salt water recently.

Stating that the Indian auto sector is at an inflection point, Motwani mentioned, “A new era of opportunities concerning EVs will led to the arrival of new technologies apart from attracting many existing players to diversify into the EV space.” “In the next 10 years, 50 to 60 percent of the Indian auto market is likely to go electric,” she added.

Defining the Indian auto industry as

material intensive, Dr Deb Mukherji, Managing Director, Omega Seiki Mobility Private Limited, averred, “Electrification of vehicles marks a profound change. It concerns the ecosystem and government policies.

It also concerns big technology transformation with a robust supply chain in place. Research institutions, academia and financial institutions will also have a role to play.” Omega Seiki recently introduced an electric cargo three-wheeler in association with Log9Materials. Its battery and charging technology promise 9x faster charging, 9x more battery life and 9x higher performance.

Technology and supply chain Growing interest for EVs in India is attracting investments in technology

and supply chain. According to Motwani, the significant fall in battery prices – it was roughly 750 kW per hour a decade ago compared to the current price of 150-100 kW per hour approximately – is indicative of how far the EV industry has come in terms of its technological evolution and supply chain architecture.

Explaining that governments the world over are also gaining confidence in EVs as a sustainable zero-emission mobility medium, she explained, “We decided to enter the three-wheeler segment when we started Kinetic Green because we found out that the CV operator understood the TCO concept better at that time. The battery cost was high and lead-acid battery technology was prevalent. The cost parity was miles away from where it is today.”

With the incentives and favourable policy initiatives helping price parity, the demand for electric twowheelers exceeds supply. With a focus on quality and localisation, Omega Seiki, according to Dr Mukherjee, is partnering with Sun Mobility for powertrain partner and with Exicom Tele-systems for batteries. Stating that the current chips-to-ships shortage is throwing a supply chain challenge and at the same time calling for a collaborative effort at the supply chain level, he averred, “There is also the need to do away with the concept of taking out existing IC engine powertrain and replacing it with an electric powertrain. The need is to design an

Lifecycle GHG emission of average medium-size gasoline (petrol) IC Engine Vehicles (ICEVs) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) registered in Europe, US, China and India in 2021. Photo credit: Georg Bieker/The International Council on Clean Transportation.

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COVER STORY

EV groundup. The need is to design it around the battery.” Bhushan J Shah, CEO, Mirakle 5 Automobiles Pvt Ltd, explained, “The FAME I scheme helped to change the perception about EVs. It enticed vendors.” Progress, however, has been slow, he added. “It is challenging even today to compete with Chinese vendors in the way they think and produce. They are ready to offer a part at differing price levels, whereas the Indian vendors ask to invest in moulds, the cost of which is often prohibitive,” quipped Shah.

Investments, efficiency and sustainability With EVs using fewer parts, many of which are bought out, Kinetic Green,

set up as a pure EV company in 2014, took advantage of the need to do away with huge investments, according to Motwani. “The company focussed on IP and on being asset light,” she remarked.

Leasing land to build vehicles and achieving a breakeven at 400 vehicles a month, Kinetic Green has been making good (EBITDA) profit by selling just 500 vehicles a month. Dr Mukherjee expressed, “To think out-of-the-box innovation is essential with EVs as computerson-wheels. With software and hardware involved, the challenge is to make them smart, to make them intelligent. This is certain to influence a big change in product concept and manufacturing.”

Of the opinion that efficiency

is the key, Dr Mukherjee said, “The very concept of energy and material consumption will change with EVs. The concept of product development will shrink to a few months. The role of OEMs concerning technology and brand will change. They will integrate IoT, AI, machine learning and other technologies like IT companies do. As an integration specialist, they will interact with suppliers. The current tier structure will get compressed into one with seamless communication.”

Stressing on the need to reduce cost and increase profit with rise in volume, Dr Mukherjee said that the EV industry is attracting billiondollar investments at the legacy company level and the level of a new generation company like Ola. A recent comment by Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares during an interaction with Reuters journalist Joe White that external pressure on automakers to accelerate the shift to electric vehicles potentially threatens jobs and vehicle quality as producers struggle to manage the higher costs of building EVs assumes importance.

In his interaction with White, Tavares also stated that automakers need time to test and ensure the working of the new technology. With safety emerging as an important factor, a growing voice in many markets including India is bundle advanced safety features like ADAS

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technologies among others in EVs. At the lighter end (two- and threewheelers), a concern regarding slow-speed electric vehicles is growing. A call for regulatory amendment to govern such vehicles is rising amid increasing use of advanced high-voltage technologies and chemistries requiring special engineering and servicing skills.

The way ahead Claimed to be moving in the right direction, the rise of e-mobility in India is hinged on some unique experiments in the area of battery chemistries and charging infrastructure among others.

Remarking that it is impossible in India to have ‘one size fits all’ kind of a solution, Dr Mukherjee said, “The

need will be to offer a swapping battery solution and fixed battery solution as per customer need. The scale of the market and geographies will call for various options to be offered.” With technology developments promising a fast increase in charge density and new opportunities in charging as well as extending the range of an EV, India is well-poised to convince private and personal vehicle users to make the shift. Amid the talk of renewable energy sources and smart grids, EVs are set to attract the younger generation that, according to Motwani, is ‘green’ conscious.

“Climate change is a serious issue for them and the advantage to easily customise an EV as a connected vehicle or an autonomous vehicle

will appeal to them much like a tablet does,” she added.

Pointing at Tesla’s USD 1 trillion market capital and it being described as the world’s most valuable company, Motwani averred, “The faster adoption of EVs in India will involve city vehicles like twowheelers, small cars etc. The ability to charge them at home will liberate their users of the need to go to a fuel station.” Underlining an urgent need to have a charging infrastructure at home, she added, “Government entities like DHI, MoRTH and Niti Aayog have been proactive. The Power Ministry should also push for (charging) infrastructure creation.

Connectors should be standardised and power distribution companies should be more involved.” Of the opinion that the need to recycle e-waste will spring a new industry altogether, Motwani said, “EVs in India are at an inflection point.”

This is perhaps aptly reflected by the fact that Kinetic Green has entered into an agreement with Sharda Motors to produce batteries. The Omega Seiki association with Log9 Materials for advanced battery technology is already known. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 47

COVER STORY

E-Ashwa Is Expanding Its Market Reach Specialising in electric two- and three-wheelers, e-Ashwa is aggressively expanding its dealer network.

Nithin Ramkumar

A

ggressively expanding its market reach with an exclusive and multi-brand dealership strategy, Ghaziabad-based e-Ashwa Automotive Private Limited (e-Ashwa) commissioned its 200th dealership on the eve of World EV Day 2021. It had opened its first dealership in August 2019 and the 100th store in June 2021. Breaching the 200-dealership mark, the company, established in 2018, through its efforts to increase its market reach, is in part reflecting the growth momentum of electric 2- and 3-wheelers in India. Like many other EV start-ups that have sprung in almost every corner of the country, e-Ashwa is offering a portfolio of electric passenger and cargo 3-wheelers, and electric passenger and cargo 2-wheelers. It is stressing on cost efficiency and reliability. It is, according to Vikas Gupta, Founder and CEO, e-Ashwa, wooing customers with no less than forty e-scooters, nine 3-wheelers and an e-motorcycle to choose

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from. Welcoming the entry of bigger players like Ola because of their ability to provide momentum to the EV industry, Gupta is of the opinion that his company is providing a comprehensive product portfolio to address a wide range of EV buyers and users.

Stating that the response to the products has been very good, Gupta announced, “The demand for our vehicles has almost always exceeded supply.” This may be pleasantly surprising, but the fact that the EV momentum in good measure owes its success to highly favourable government policies and incentive schemes cannot be denied. Focusing on offering low-margin products that are appreciated by the masses for their competitive pricing, e-Ashwa has also been concentrating on lower relative pricing of its EVs. In comparison to big players like Ola and Ather, it is eyeing cost sensitive mass-volume electric 2- and 3-wheeler

Vikas Gupta

segments. It is, therefore, not painting the town red with technology highlights like some premium EV players are doing. Quietly and diligently making efforts to increase its

market reach, e-Ashwa is fine-tuning its strategy to attract price conscious buyers that are willing to switch to a ‘low budget’ alternative to petrol or diesel two- and three-wheelers.

Conducive environment for EVs With the government policies towards EVs supporting e-Ashwa product pull and in turn helping the company to chart its growth strategy, the production unit at Ghaziabad, according to Gupta, has a capacity of 20,000 two-wheelers and 1,500 threewheelers. Having sold 23,000 twowheelers and 1,900 three-wheelers in the first two quarters of 2021, e-Ashwa commands a market share of three to five percent in the product segments that it is present in, added Gupta.

Claiming to have recorded a strong upward sales trajectory during the festive season in 2021, Gupta said, “Our stress on design modularity and thus sharing of components has us in good stead as far as competitive pricing of our products is concerned.”

Borrowing parts from the same bins has also helped the company to respond to market requirements quickly. E-Ashwa, according to Gupta, is an agile company when it comes to ‘time-to-market’. Interestingly, the e-Ashwa range of two- and threewheelers is backed by three battery technologies – lead acid, graphene and lithium-ion. With the battery cost of an EV accounting for a big chunk of the vehicle cost, the ability to offer three battery technologies has proved to be of much advantage to the company. According to Gupta, his company has been able to ensure low investment requirements.

Revealing that his company is in the process of setting up 10 new manufacturing units across 7 states in India and will subsequently become the largest EV producing company in the country with a monthly production capacity of around 15,000 units a month, Gupta averred, “The lack of any restriction on minimum order quantity is alluring. It is conducive to setting up of an assembly unit every 200 km.” “To set up an EV manufacturing plant in India is easy.

What is difficult is to expand due to rising competition. The future, it looks like, will be such that there is a new local EV manufacturer every 60 km as it is logistically difficult to tackle a market that is bigger than the one in the home region,” he added. With its

two-wheelers ranging from INR 45,000 to INR 100,000, and three-wheelers ranging from INR 140,000 to INR 150,000, the company is banking on an extremely price-competitive lithium-ion battery-powered twowheeler to provide a strong sales impetus. Of the opinion that the Indian market is mileage obsessed, Gupta explained, “Range anxiety is a factor that would matter a good deal and is of paramount importance.” “Our products offer a range of 70 km to 145 km on a single charge,” he added.

EV market in India Explaining that there are different types of commuters requiring different kinds of range per day (local commuters, for example, requiring a range of about 100 km and those commuters travelling beyond local limits requiring a range of about 160 km), Gupta said, “e-Ashwa is aiming at the former as it is the one with a larger buyer base across electric two- and three-wheeler segments.”

An interesting statistic on the e-Ashwa company website states that the automobile sector approximately accounts for 20 to 23 percent of the overall emissions, and road transport contributes to about 70 to 75 percent of the transport emissions. This is certainly subject to change as new concepts like shared mobility take hold. This is also subject to change as commuters prefer personal transport over public or shared mobility in a post pandemic era. To be precise, the market requirements are quite fluid and supporting EV growth owing to the promise of low operating costs. With efforts on to judge the proportion of commuters switching to personal mode of transport, e-Ashwa, according to Gupta, is exploring various ways to help its customers enjoy an efficient support system as far as service and charging infrastructure is concerned.

Of the belief that it is more economical to charge the vehicle at home for local commuting, Gupta explained that the in-house charger his company offers is paired with smart features which can be accessed through a smartphone.

The charger is considerably cheaper than other charging points in the market and can be set up at any strategic point too – for example, at places like grocery shops, paan shops etc. With dealers in 23 states and union territories, e-Ashwa is

keen to ramp up its production to 120,000 units per month. It is keen to do so through 62 small to midsized assembly units all over the country. It is open to the possibility of setting up charging infrastructure by exploring new ways to do it. With an eye on export to South Asian and African markets, the company is engineering a robust supply chain.

Keen to leverage the highly efficient industrial environment created by the PLI scheme, e-Ashwa is working on the supplier front with an aim to completely localise its EVs. The current aim is to increase localisation from 60 percent to 85 percent. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 49

COVER STORY

The Bengal E-Rickshaws E-rickshaws swarm the alleys of Kolkata and the region surrounding it as a new revolutionary means of road transport.

Gaurav Duttnandi

I

t is early morning at Nagerbazar, and e-rickshaws are swarming the area like bees. There is a reflection of a silent revolution concerning last-mile transport in the ‘City of Joy’ – often the phrase used to describe Kolkata. This phrase is perhaps derived from the famous 1985 novel of Dominique Lapierre by the same name. Signalling a significant shift from fossil fuel-powered auto rickshaws and human-pulled rickshaws, all of whom are described as ‘totos’ by the people of Kolkata and the region surrounding it, e-rickshaws are fast proliferating. They are serving an estimated population of 4.6 million inhabitants in the region. Coming to be looked upon as a preferred mode of transportation to travel shorter distances and past the narrow alleys criss-crossing the mega city and its suburbs, e-rickshaws have become a key part of the last-mile transport system because of their ability to be cost effective and environmentally friendly.

Steadily replacing the other and older means of last-mile transport in the region, e-rickshaws are said

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to number some 130,000 units, of which some 100,000 are registered with the regional transport offices. Stating that an e-rickshaw offers the benefit of earning extra due to its lower operating cost and fewer moving parts, a few e-rickshaw operators in Hooghly mentioned on the condition of anonymity that commuters prefer them for their silent ride. Bappa Gayen, a local e-rickshaw driver, added, “Since I started driving an electricrickshaw, my earnings have increased by 40 to 50 percent per month.

Earlier, I would make INR 5,000-6,000 a month and now I make INR 12,000-13,000 a month.” Stressing on less maintenance, he said, “I had to take my cycle-rickshaw to the service centre once a month to change the ball bearings, tyre tubes etc. In the case of the e-rickshaw, I have to take it just twice a year for service and maintenance.”

With organised players like Mahindra and Piaggio eyeing a share of the region’s e-rickshaw market through

a dealer network, Kolkata and the region surrounding it is a unique study in terms of a local e-rickshaw manufacturing industry. There are a number of units that assemble the electric machines.

Especially found in Barrackpore and some other suburbs of Kolkata, like Baghajatin, the local e-rickshaw manufacturing units could be termed as small and medium in scale. They

are said to produce e-rickshaws by procuring parts from China. Thriving on the premise of offering e-rickshaws at aggressive price points compared to what the organised players are able to, the local e-rickshaw manufacturers

are claimed to leverage the advantage of not having any baggage or legacy, and neither the need to invest in sustainable means of manufacture such as quality assurance and testing systems etc. “Of late, there has been an influx of e-rickshaw companies that import parts in the region. From Chinese imported parts, these companies assemble e-rickshaws and sell them under their own brand name. They also procure parts like lead-acid batteries and headlights from Indian companies, and especially tyres, since the import of these parts is banned.

So, Ralco and Ceat are some of the tyre manufacturers that they go to,” informed Soumen Guchait, an electric rickshaw dealer.

Building an e-rickshaw Built over a tubular chassis made of steel, e-rickshaws are light in weight to ensure an advantageous power-toweight ratio. With factors like better battery life and performance, the construction of e-rickshaws is simple and concentrated around the battery and electronic components like the

motor, controller, harness and the throttle. It is here that an amount of expertise and experience is invested to ensure good integration. As far as the tubular chassis is concerned, stress is on strength rather than finish. With low speeds of operation accounted for, not much attention is given to the dynamics and safety. A combination of aluminium, composite materials and low-density metals aids lightweight construction of the vehicle. The use of fibre-reinforced plastic has been growing over time due to its ability to be durable and non-conducting. It is also cheap and easy to repair.

Employing motors that produce 650-Watt and 1,250-Watt of power, the e-rickshaws sport mechanical drum brakes that could be best described as functional. With a majority of buyers opting for lead-acid batteries (varying from 80 to 120 Ampere-Hour) where initial acquisition costs is the criteria, the e-rickshaws also employ deep discharge batteries fitted in cars.

Catering to a highly price-sensitive market where buyers are often graduating from a cycle or handMOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 51

COVER STORY pulled rickshaw to an electric one, e-rickshaws have a certain ambiguity regarding their registration and tax structure. As automobiles, they seem to be in a grey area as far as these two factors are concerned. Efforts have been made to regulate them in the past, but the ambiguity persists to this day, according to an industry source. He informed that the policy regarding registration of e-rickshaws was not uniformly implemented across the country. Only a few states like Tripura have regularised e-rickshaws through municipal bylaws or through state legislation.

It was in March 2015 that the Indian Parliament passed an amendment to the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill, 2015, legalising the respective vehicle segment.

Exide new-age rickshaws With a good chunk of the e-rickshaw market in Kolkata and the region surrounding it claimed to be commanded by local e-rickshaw producers and assemblers, it is manufacturers like Exide Industries which are adding a different market flavour. The Kolkata-based battery major forayed into electric-vehicle segment in 2019 by announcing the launch of Exide Neo e-rickshaw. The company claimed that its e-rickshaw was a state-of-the-art machine that was also technologically advanced.

“The battery market for such vehicles is huge in the country. About 15 ICE batteries can be bought for the cost of one electric-rickshaw battery. It is the main component in an electricrickshaw. Hence, we understood the opportunity and jumped into the segment. We walk a step ahead of

other manufacturers as we offer a complete package to the customer by also taking care of warranty issues,” said Sudipto Roy, Public Relations Office, Exide Industries. It is the battery that is considered as the ‘engine’ of an electric vehicle. It is perhaps with this understanding that Exide entered the regional e-rickshaw market in 2019.

The battery major has been selling its e-rickshaws through dealers.

Many of these are said to be existing Exide battery dealers. Roy explained, “Batteries in e-rickshaw are majorly abused. The way it gives power to the motor or its post-drive handling reduces its life. The mechanics of an electric-rickshaw motor also hampers battery life. And the amount of warranty claims on batteries is high in the country. And the damage can only be minimised if there is a synergy between the technology that goes into making a vehicle and the battery. Hence, to take care of

this, we designed our own electricrickshaw keeping in mind battery efficiency.” Speaking on the drawback of major players, he said, “The organised sector is down in sales because of the cost. Our prices are high because we have to pay taxes which the unorganised companies do not.” The base variant of Exide Neo is INR 126,000 (ex-showroom).

The top variant with a number of bells and whistles is priced at INR 148,000 (ex-showroom). In comparison to the Exide Neo range, other indigenous manufacturing companies like Aahana eVehicles, Sumfonlauto Traders Pvt Ltd and Indo-wagen are offering their base models in the range of INR 140,000 (on-road) and INR 150,000 (on road).

Altigreen in the city Bangalore-based electric-vehicle manufacturer Altigreen has launched its e-rickshaw range in Kolkata in September 2021. It has delivered

Photo Credit Sheela Banerjee

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the vehicles to Mahindra Logistics Limited, according to a news report in ‘The Telegraph’. Operating in the B2B category and manufacturing as well as selling last-mile cargo delivery vehicles to companies in the transportation sector, the entry of Altigreen in the Kolkata e-rickshaw market is looked upon as yet another step towards lowering the carbon emissions in the city and the region surrounding it. It is also looked upon as the beginning of a revolution in the last-mile cargo space where such electric vehicles with zero emission and silent operation will replace existing fossil fuel-powered cargo

three-wheelers. “Our EV solutions are receiving an astounding response in Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai markets and our entry in the City of Joy will open doors of opportunity for us to expand operations in the east and widen our presence on the national map,” said Dr Amitabh Saran, CEO, Altigreen.

Pointing at the growing popularity of EVs among major e-commerce and FMCG players, Dr Saran said, “With the emergence of high-volume, lowweight categories like e-commerce, fruits, vegetables, medicines, white goods distribution, retail and others, there is a strong need to move out from diesel options in 3-wheeler and 4-wheeler segments to make ways for clean, efficient, reliable and low-cost EVs in intra-city commercial transportation.”

Debhasis Sen, Chairman, West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation, averred, “Kolkata

is working towards becoming a greener and smarter city and we have always encouraged electric vehicles, which also helps in reducing the carbon footprint. We welcome Altigreen to our city.” Of the opinion that electric vehicles are a preferred clean technology for the future of mobility, Rampraveen Swaminathan, MD and CEO, Mahindra Logistics, said, “As one of the first movers and as market leaders in the EV cargo space, Mahindra Logistics is developing an electric ecosystem for last-mile delivery, supporting both fulfilment and B2C logistics. Our partnership with Altigreen reiterates our commitment towards reducing carbon footprint very significantly while delivering efficient and costeffective supply chain solutions to our customers.”

As e-cargo three-wheelers proliferate in Kolkata and the region surrounding it, a new order is in the making as far as the last-mile public transport space goes. It is about a ‘greener’ future; it is about digitisation and a new social fabric as well. With efforts to retain the past and embrace the future in clear sight, it is essential that safety, security and harmony are not sacrificed for the ability to earn more. The ‘City of Joy’ is committed to retain its title. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 53

COVER STORY

E-Mobility And Intercity Transport E-Mobility is slowly and steadily defining the future of intercity transport.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

E

veyTrans Private Limited, a MEIL Group company, has announced an intercity bus service under the brand name ‘PuriBus’ between Mumbai and Pune. The Olectra electric bus that MEIL has pressed into service has a range of 350 km. Capable of seating 45 passengers, the e-bus offers convenience and comfort features such as television and infotainment system along with Wi-Fi. Each seat has an in-built USB charger. The launch of the MEIL ‘PuriBus’ comes within a few months of Pune-based Prasanna Purple Mobility Solutions announcing the launch an electric bus intercity service between Pune and Mumbai. The Prasanna e-bus can seat up to 43 people and is made by Mitra Mobility Solutions. It has a range of 300 km.

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Both the intercity e-buses are reflective of a significant shift in intercity transport mediums in India as well as the world over. In a postCovid-19 era, e-mobility is slowly and steadily defining the future of intercity transport, buoyed by factors like technological advancement, economic viability, rapid adoption and favourable policy regime. As the demand for buses resurfaces after a lull of over one year of Covid-19 pandemic-led disruption, e-buses are looked upon as a means to lower the operating costs in the wake of record high diesel prices. With migration to CNG already underway in the Indian bus market – though slower than in the truck market – to escape the burden of record fossil fuel prices, e-buses are coming to be looked upon as a viable economic

alternative despite their high initial acquisition costs.

Intercity electric bus travel Drawing attention to the speech of Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari at the launch of the Prasanna intercity e-bus at Pune, an industry source mentioned that efforts in the last 4-5 years have been to see the running of e-buses in large numbers on the country’s highways. He informed that various corporations, state government corporations and private operators are in the process of procuring or have procured some 10,000 electric buses in 2020. They are fast emerging as a viable mobility solution as normalcy returns and people begin travelling for business and pleasure, he added. With signs of

travel explosion apparent, a significant change in bus operations is in the making. Operators are evaluating their existing diesel bus fleet vis-à-vis alternative fuel solutions like CNG and e-mobility as petrol and diesel prices hit record highs. An amount of parity is fast emerging, claimed the source, in terms of the entire business lifecycle of an electric intercity bus versus a diesel-powered one on certain routes.

With bus makers like Tata Motors working on buses powered by plugin battery electric and fuel-cells, a distinct shift is anticipated in intercity and intracity travel mediums. Stating that a move towards gaseous fuels like CNG looks transitionary, the source explained that a big advantage intercity electric buses on busy routes like Mumbai-Pune or Delhi-Jaipur will offer is a silent and comfortable ride.

With the falling battery prices (they have come down to USD 150 kW per hour in the last five years and likely to fall further to USD 100 kW per hour) working in favour, an enhancement in travel range of e-buses is turning them attractive and viable. Most e-buses can now easily travel for 300 to 350 km on a single charge. By doing this, they are capable of sawing away at a big chunk of the operating costs associated with a similar capacity diesel-powered bus. Explaining that 60 to 65 percent of the operating cost of a diesel intercity bus constitutes fuel, the source said that technological developments and falling battery prices will not take much time to extend an intercity e-bus range to 750-800 km.

emerge along the above-mentioned corridors apart from those like Bangalore-Mysore and Delhi-Agra.

Their ability to be a sustainable, clean and zero-emissions mediums has them in good stead.

With India’s e-mobility push hinging on India-centric battery technology, electric intercity buses are also set to benefit from the efforts to generate power from renewable resources and technologies like battery swapping, which could extend their range to make them even more viable. Drawing attention to MAN’s e-bus breaking the 550 km barrier in a trial on 18 May 2021 in Munich under real-world conditions, a bus market observer from Germany and a former editor of Omnibus magazine mentioned that technology is already available where operators can charge their buses in the depot and do not have to invest in additional technology along the route.

They can do 300 km and 400 km runs without suffering range anxiety. In India, the road infrastructure as well as the bus technology is not yet at the level of Europe, or at the level the MAN’s flagship E-Lion intercity luxury bus.

public transport operator’s entire route – a distance totalling 284 km. Apart from rising costs, the developments in battery technology and electronics are helping extend the drive range.

The MAN E-Lion bus, for example, is claimed to use sophisticated highdensity battery technology that helps it to easily deliver a range in excess of 370 km on a single charge. To handle the technology that an electric bus would present will call for a driver who is well-versed with it and is capable of handling it. The German bus market observer said that driver training is a core element of a comprehensive overall e-mobility concept.

Stressing that the future of urban mobility is electric, making it essential that the driver is trained to handle an electric bus in terms of route profile, topography, number of stops and local climate conditions (ambient temperature changes), the observer drew attention to the fact that cold weather is known to temporarily reduce electric vehicle battery range. It can also increase the charging time considerably. Recent developments in lithium-ion battery technology have, however, ensured

Sustainability and zeroemission Stressing on the need for good quality buses, Gadkari, in his address at SIAT Expo 2021, said that there was a need to develop indigenous, cost-effective and import-substitutefree public transport in line with the improvement in road infrastructure.

He added that efforts are being made to develop sustainable substitutes such as aluminium-ion, zinc-ion and sodium-ion battery technology. With affordable and clean energy as one of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, e-buses are set to become a preferable medium of intercity transport in a matter of time.

As infrastructure improves (one of it being the development of charging infrastructure along the highways), intercity e-buses are poised to quickly

Technology and driver training The availability of technology that can enable a travel of 300 to 400 km without the need to charge along the route is encouraging.

Interestingly, the MAN e-bus trial is not the only example of an intercity e-bus achieving surprising results.

A 12 m long electric bus completed trial operation at Badajoz in Spain last year in challenging temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius. It ran for a full 16-hour shift and covered a local

that the battery pack stays warm and closer to the desired temperature with a cooling/heating system much like an IC engine cooling system.

At high temperatures, the battery is susceptible to early degradation.

Many electric vehicle manufacturers have therefore taken upon themselves to provide recurrent range reports that make it easy for them to monitor the effects of climate and temperature on their electric vehicle in terms of short-term fluctuations and long-term battery degradation. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 55

COVER STORY

A

fter arming the Kolkata city bus fleet with 93 electric buses, the West Bengal Government is said to be pushing its various departments to replace their ageing fleet with electric vehicles. While the main reason is the need to reduce CO2 emission, the other is an effort to reduce the operating costs of various government fleets in terms of achieving better efficiency and agility. As part of the move, Kolkata Police is claimed to be in the process of replacing its ageing All images are for representative purpose only

Kolkata Police Seeks Electric Four-Wheelers Kolkata Police is in the process of replacing its ageing fleet with 266 electric four-wheelers.

Gaurav Duttnandi vehicles with 266 electric ones.

A high ranking official mentioned on condition of anonymity that an agreement has been reached with Energy Efficient Service Limited (ESSL) to lease electric four-wheelers for a period of eight years. The agreement might be extended if all goes well, he added.

While the brand of electric vehicles ESSL will supply to Kolkata Police is not clear yet, it is expected that the force will be given electric four-wheelers from a leading Indian homegrown brand. It is also expected that the electric fourwheelers will be a mix of sedans and SUVs. Replacing ageing vehicles in the Kolkata Police fleet in a phased

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are provided. They also need to be supported by an efficient supporting infrastructure and service from the respective manufacturer or manufacturers.

Refraining from divulging the make or the model of electric vehicles the police force will be armed with, the official said that the date of their induction will be soon announced. Stating that the electric four-wheelers will be taken on lease, the official informed that their maintenance will be carried out by ESSL. The cost of the maintenance will also be borne by ESSL, he quipped. By leasing, the state government, according to the official, is looking at saving INR 50 million per year. The cumulative saving, he added, will be in the region of INR 400 million as per the contract tenure and post the payment of electricity charges towards battery charging. With the finer details of the proposal being worked upon at Nabanna, the administrative headquarters, according to another source at Lalbazar, the Kolkata police headquarters, the electric fourwheelers will be supported by the allocation of INR 80 million. The official announcement regarding the allocation of funds and its details,however, are yet to be announced by the government.

The figure of INR 80 million, therefore, is difficult to rely upon.

manner, the new electric ones will also help the government beat the rising operating costs of its departmental fleet due to high petrol and diesel price. With the price of petrol and diesel already well above the INR 100 per litre mark in the City of Joy, the move to include the electric vehicles seems to be happening at the right time.

Kolkata as the capital city of West Bengal is also facing a challenge of clean weather. A big chunk of the 9.34 million non-transport vehicles and around 1.01 million transport vehicles in the state are at home in Kolkata. The good part is that, of these, some 5,895 are petrol hybrid vehicles, 4,254 are diesel hybrid, 35,999 are electricrickshaws, 1,240 are electric two-wheelers, 93 are electric four-

wheelers, 93 are electric buses and 24 are electric-trucks. The push for government vehicles with zero tailpipe emission is being hailed by many in the state as a step in the right direction. The move by Kolkata Police to replace its ageing fleet with 266 electric four-wheelers should help improve the image of the state government, mentioned the official. He added that the Kolkata Police force is one of the biggest fleet owners in the state.

As policy makers, the switch was necessary and well-planned, he added.

With the vehicles to be replaced falling under the small vehicle category, it is natural of the state government to work with ESSL to ensure that the most modern technology electric vehicles

With the procedural work to seek 266 electric four-wheelers underway, a sense of enthusiasm is already taking shape with the promise of new, latest technology and reliable vehicles, said the official. He explained that the new vehicles will help the force to carry out its tasks more efficiently. He also drew attention to a directive of the Calcutta High Court regarding the unworthiness of vehicles older than 15 years and said that this is also one of the reasons why a decision to replace them with environmentally friendly vehicles has been taken. Along with the electric four-wheelers, plans are also being chalked out to install a high-speed charging infrastructure at six locations. The law enforcement department is also said to be drawing plans to replace its ageing two-wheeler fleet with electric two-wheelers. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 57

INTERVIEW

Q. How do you look at the Phase II of FAME II as well as the various state policy revisions?

They amount to an important and admirable decision of the government and will be instrumental in pushing the prices of electric 2-wheelers down – in pushing the prices of electric 2-wheelers closer to IC-engine ones and eliminating one of the biggest roadblocks concerning electric 2-wheeler prices. A city-speed electric scooter with a range of 100 km per charge now costs less than INR 60,000.

A high-speed scooter with an 80 km range now costs close to INR 100,000. Combined with important factors like low running cost, low maintenance and zero-emission, a substantial demand revival for EVs is assured. The time for mass adoption of electric vehicles has come. A mass awareness campaign and easy financing terms by public sector banks will help IC-engine vehicle users to transition to electric vehicles.

Q. Is India turning out to be a 2- and 3-wheeler electrification story?

Electric 2- and 3-wheelers have been the torchbearers. They will continue to lead the e-mobility discourse in India. As per the sales data, in the last 5 years, both the respective segments have seen a steep growth curve. This will continue in the future. Effective in addressing last-mile connectivity needs in semi-urban and rural areas, 2- and 3-wheelers have come to account for a major chuck of vehicular population, including a means for public transportation.

They have been largely responsible for generating large volumes of greenhouse gases, which lead to environmental degradation.

The electrification of 2- and 3-wheelers will help to lower the carbon footprint. It will also help to eventually build a greener economy.

As per our estimation, electric 2- and 2-wheelers will come to occupy 30 percent of the market capacity in the next five years. In fact, electric

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Sohinder Gill Director General, Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV), and CEO, Hero Electric.

3-wheelers could occupy 50 percent of the market capacity in the next five years.

Q. Isn’t India a highly fragmented market as far as EVs are concerned? Isn’t it an EV assembler’s market largely?

This was the story in the past.

With stringent guidelines in place, most electric vehicles are being manufactured in India. With e-mobility industry regulatory ecosystem in place, companies are complying with the set localisation parameters.

Q. What effect will the new PLI scheme have on the EV market in India? On the supply chain?

The PLI scheme will provide a conducive environment to build a sustainable ecosystem for green transportation across India. Policies, fiscal incentives and non-fiscal incentives are the three pillars that drive consumer sentiment. They

are the ones that are instrumental in the early adoption of new products in the market. The ACC and amendments to FAME in June 2021 have generated a positive consumer response. The same is envisioned on the rolling out of the PLI scheme. The latter holds the potential to garner the interest of potential investors, which would accelerate the creation and adoption of clean modes of transport pan-India. The INR 280 billion impetus will provide the initial push for the EV industry to grow holistically and to accelerate the adoption of EVs. It will also create lakhs of jobs in the Indian market. The PLI scheme is especially beneficial for established players and new entrants in the industry. Smaller players, in comparison, will have to actively compete to garner benefits from the incentives announced. From a longterm perspective, the move will help to boost local manufacture. It will aid to build a self-sustaining e-mobility industry framework.

2-wheelers, infrastructure is not a major challenge as compared to heavier and bigger electric vehicles.

They can be charged at home, office etc. The government is working towards the creation of a robust charging infrastructure to accelerate the adoption of EVs. The solar sector will provide the technical due diligence and support the charging infrastructure by grid assimilation (by Vehicle-to-Grid technology, for example). Clean energy will pave the way for Transport 2.0 Revolution.

Q. At what level do you see price parity coming in for EVs?

Q. What is the future of 2- and 3-wheeler EV manufacturers/ assemblers that have sprung up in every part of the country?

Aren’t they essentially fly-bynight operators risking industry reputation?

The EV and ancillary industry is vast. The impetus provided to EV players by the government and the rising supply-demand gap has inspired indigenous entrepreneurs/manufacturers in the e-mobility segment. The universal rule, however, is that quality thrives over quantity.

Formal players that offer good quality and sturdy vehicles will attain a competitive edge in the market. EV buyers are better aware about EVs today; therefore, the (fly-by-night) operators will not be able to sustain for long.

Q. What technological developments do you foresee in the Indian EV market?

Vehicle to Grid (V2G), wireless EV charging, new battery technology and AI-based fault detection systems are the technological developments that will help optimise EV industry operations in the long-term. New materials, like silicon carbide, have helped to increase the efficiency and power consumption of EVs. Other technical advancements such as high-voltage current protection, signal isolation and battery management technologies will also help to optimise EV performance.

Q. What kind of charging infrastructure development do you foresee?

The demand for EVs is growing every passing day. This will necessitate a corresponding increase in EV charging infrastructure. IC-engine vehicles have the appropriate infrastructure in India. A similar infrastructure is needed for EVs to ensure a positive outlook about them. For electric

Owing to the policies and subsidies rolled out by Central and State governments, 2-wheeler segments have become comparatively affordable for the Indian consumer.

In the long run, declining battery prices, a large manufacturing scale and well-planned government incentives will make e-vehicles even more affordable and accessible. Even though cars are still expensive, factors like rising consumer awareness, the promise of lower carbon footprint and rising fossil fuel prices will shape consumer sentiment. A positive shift towards alternative mobility options like e-vehicles will take place. In the next five to six years, EVs will come on par with ICengine vehicles.

Q. What kind of aftermarket for EVs do you see developing?

With faster adoption of electric 2-wheelers, it is likely that the 2-wheeler industry will turn fully electric over the next 10 to 15 years.

The potential for EV aftermarket therefore is huge. This will concern components like batteries for replacement – even powertrain parts and motor controllers.

Q. What kind of supply chain do you foresee in the EV space in India?

India’s local component market is becoming strong. The implementation of PLI and ACC schemes will lead to many players jumping on the EV bandwagon. This will strengthen the EV supply chain.

It will lead to localisation, innovation and local manufacture. This will also lead to capacity scale-up, which is critical for India to compete in the global EV industry. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 59

INTERVIEW

Q. EVs are a rapidly growing phenomenon the world over.

How is ATS tapping into their development in terms of a testing setup?

We already had setups like chassis dynamometer, ride and handling testing setup, performance testing setup etc. We have now set up a brand-new technical centre at Bengaluru which will focus on EVs starting with virtual validation, motor test bench, electric axle test bench, battery testing, structural testing etc.

Q. Is the development of EVs in India promising enough for ATS to set up a test facility and risk considerable investment?

We are looking at the OEMs and start-ups working in this field. We are looking at government incentives.

It does look promising as we look ahead.

Q. Is setting up a test lab for EV start-ups to address their needs such as testing, calibration, validation etc. an attractive proposition for the company?

It is looking very attractive in the long run and with our plans to venture into engineering services, a test setup will be extremely useful.

Q. Also, what about the need of EV manufacturers to simulate and validate among others –virtually as well as physically?

There are many start-ups in the need of virtual validation of their design.

They will be able to use ATS facility with the SIL and HIL setups. We have them at Chennai, Pune and Bengaluru.

Q. What is ATS as a testing systems supplier providing in the area of software and hardware for EV testing and calibration?

We are providing turnkey solutions concerning SIL, HIL, sensors, DAQ, test benches (imported and Indian made), motors, drives, automation, chassis dynamometers, actuators, controllers etc.

Q. What about the needs of EVs for climate calibration, for extensive field testing?

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We are installing climatic chambers in our test facility for component testing.

We are also looking at setting up a small test facility in Leh. Q. Is ATS looking at indulging in the entire testing span concerning EVs, from design and prototyping to homologation, as a testing systems supplier?

We are currently doing most of it in partnership with our collaborators.

We are also looking at starting new ventures in this domain in the next few months with an aim to become one of the leading companies in this field in India.

Q. How are EVs proving to be different from IC engine vehicles in terms of testing, calibration, validation etc. and in factors like duty cycles, dynamics, NVH,

integration, virtual benchmarking and more?

EVs require different setups when it comes to powertrain testing. It is about different motor specifications in connection with the dynamometers.

So, it is about factors like torque, rpm and mounting of fixtures on the test bench. Power analysers replace combustion analysers. In terms of ride and handling, we are able to use most of our existing setup. In the case of NVH, we already have setups from Head Acoustics and imc (Germany). The setup with IPG CarMaker/Motorcycle Maker supports both powertrain types and can therefore be used seamlessly.

Q. With EVs in the fray, how big is the automotive testing systems market in India (in USD terms) and the world?

Ramanathan Srinivasan Managing Director, Automotive Testing Systems (ATS)

be easier to implement in EVs with lesser number of components, but in either type of vehicles sensors, ECUs and control systems are required.

Q. How do you look at the future scenario concerning various testing systems – virtual and physical – panning out as the auto industry changes globally?

There is a rising trend towards virtual testing over physical testing.

The correlation between the two (physical and virtual testing) is helping in front loading and reducing the amount of testing that was physically done earlier. ATS is supporting such activities with its technical centre.

Q. How are you addressing the need for skilled manpower?

ATS has been recruiting youngsters and training them. As a new and interesting domain, there are a lot of youngsters waiting to enter and work.

Q. Concerning the testing of EVs, aren’t durability and safety important? How is ATS helping EV manufacturers to address these parameters as a testing systems supplier?

I am not sure in terms of actual numbers, but I estimate it to be of the order of about 20-30 million USD a year in India. It is very high in Europe, US or China.

Q. With challenges like Covid-19, has the automotive testing systems market kept up its growth momentum?

It is picking up now. It is slowly coming back to the level of turnover it used to have two years ago. We expect it to get better in 2022.

Q. Aren’t the intensifying regulatory frameworks influencing big automotive changes and in part changes in automotive testing systems?

Yes, new regulations have always played a part. They have in turn driven investments for testing infrastructure, making them imperative. Those who have not been able to invest in a testing infrastructure have outsourced their testing activities. In either case, the need for investing in testing systems has continued.

Q. With rising stress on CO2 emission reduction, what change does ATS anticipate as far as testing systems in areas like powertrain, dynamics, NVH, etc. are concerned?

We have been getting a lot of business in the last few years in the area of powertrain testing using alternate fuels. Virtual validation is increasing in a big way. It reduces the number of tests per model on a rig or on the test track. The increase in the number of models, their variants and a reduction in development times is making it necessary to adopt techniques like virtual validation.

Q. How does ATS look at development of high-tech suites like ADAS which could possibly make it easier for them to be included and validated in EVs than they are in IC engine vehicles?

ADAS can be implemented in both the type of vehicles. Its implementation in a country like ours with lakhs of different scenarios is a big challenge, though. It may

Durability and safety are extremely important. We get a lot of enquiries in these domains, especially from start-ups. We have a specialised team working in this domain, making measurements on the roads, test tracks, creating duty cycles and finally accommodating them into our durability lab for accelerated testing. We have collaborated with a few companies in UK who have supported us in creating customised test rigs with ‘Make in India’ initiatives.

Q. Does ATS see an increasing role of academia and industries in automotive testing and validation?

ATS is one of the first companies to tie up with a university for a modern technical centre many years ago.

ATS is actively working with many universities and supporting them in their research activities. It is expecting this trend to grow with successful start-ups in the country.

There are quite some initiatives from the Government of India in this area as well. The support to universities so that they can establish research facilities is a positive sign. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 61

INDUSTRY TALK

COP26 Commitments:

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he Executive Director of International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, described the 26th annual summit of ‘Conference Of the Parties’ (COP 26), with UK as the presiding country, as a big step forward in his tweet. He also mentioned in his tweet that much more is needed. The conference – where the Glasgow Climate Pact, a 10page document that lays out the groundwork for how the world will attempt to manage climate change and prevent its worst impact on humanity, was adopted – was held in Glasgow, UK within a short span of the world facing the Covid-19 pandemic. The timing of the conference, therefore, may not be the most ideal despite the urgency for enhanced commitments towards actionable climate goals. Global emissions are expected to increase by 16 percent by 2030 as compared to that of the 2010 levels. This will require a 45 percent reduction in current emission levels to achieve the intended goals. The COP26, dubbed as ‘the last chance for

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The burden of transition to a low carbon future will be more on industries.

Louis Rumao humanity’, marks the first time the governments have raised emission reduction targets sufficient to limit global warming to under two degrees Celsius in line with the Paris Agreement.

The slew of agreements and commitments touch a vast sphere of the climate crisis. From a pledge by more than 100 countries to end deforestation to a commitment by over 40 countries to phase out the use of coal and a pact to cut the world’s methane gas emissions by 30 percent, all by the end of the decade, these initiatives point to heightened urgency of the climate crisis. However, the world’s two largest coal producers cast a big shadow as stated commitments from India and China fell well below that of climate action needed to keep global warming in check. With

global temperatures on track to rise nearly three degrees Celsius, according to the UN, there is little room for error. Yet, there are no fines or penalties imposed for countries that don’t live up to their promises.

Enforcement is largely voluntary.

In the case of deforestation, critics point to a 2014 deforestation

agreement, however, is also notable for its absences. The US, China and Germany, which are the behemoths of the global car industry, have all declined to sign. Volkswagen and Toyota have also not put their names to the deal, along with BMW, which told the Financial Times that there was still ‘considerable uncertainty about the development of global infrastructure to support a complete shift to zero-emissions vehicles’.

Toyota said, “Although we refrain from joining the statement, we share the same spirit and determination to address climate change and remain open to engage and work with stakeholders. Toyota will continue to contribute by making the best efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.”

pledge as proof of the challenges of implementation. That agreement called for the practice to be halved by 2020 and eliminated altogether by 2030. Neither has been successful!

Speaking at the World Leaders Summit in Glasgow, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced plans to reach carbon neutrality by 2070, a significant promise for one of the last remaining holdouts to set net-zero emissions goals among major economies, but the date falls two decades beyond what scientists say is necessary to avert a climate catastrophe. Chinese Premier Xi’s two-page address echoed Modi’s criticism of advanced nations, asserting that ‘developed countries should not only do more themselves but should also provide support to help developing countries do better’. In reality, industries, not governments, will have to carry the bulk of an estimated USD 100 trillion transition to a low-carbon future.

Transportation industry to help Transport accounts for a fifth of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The International Energy Agency has said the sale of fossil fuel-powered cars will have to cease by 2035 if the world is to avoid surpassing dangerous global warming thresholds. The pressure to meet the initially set goals would be on transportation segment and will require ambitious targets for e-mobility, supported by development of rapidcharging infrastructure ahead of time to ensure a seamless transition to an emissions-free fleet. Twentyfour countries and a group of leading car manufacturers have committed to ending the era of fossil fuel-powered vehicles by 2040 or before in a major new commitment set at COP26. The agreement to sell only zero-emissions vehicles from 2035 onwards includes Canada, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Ireland and the UK. These countries have already agreed to phase out new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030.

Ford, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz are among the carmakers that have signed the accord, pledging to reach the goal by 2035 in leading markets, as have numerous cities and regional governments including New York, London, Barcelona and the Australian Capital Territory. The

Negotiators had hoped to announce a sweeping deal involving governments and car manufacturers that committed them to reaching 100 percent zero-emissions cars and vans by 2035. Not to be ignored, activists at the COP26 have called on governments to move away from all types of cars and instead transform cities and towns to become more amenable to

walking, cycling and taking public transport. More than one participant at the COP26 conference echoed the sentiment that ‘time is running out’. While a general agreement on that point seemed to be there, the question that remains is who pays for the task and how to go about it? It remains to be seen whether the monetary commitments made by the developed nations will be used effectively by the developing nations. Also, the non-binding nature and decades-long timeline of the agreements may not help in meeting the desired goals. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 63

AROUND THE WORLD

TEC Equipment Fontana First Volvo EV Certified Dealer TEC Equipment Fontana is the first Volvo EV certified dealer in North America.

Team Motoring Trends

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lectric truck population in North America is growing. Electric trucks are being offered by commercial vehicle manufacturers of all walks of life – by new age players like Tesla and Nikola and by well-established ones like Daimler and Volvo. To ensure successful proliferation, all of them are taking a lot of efforts to support them, to service them. Greensboro, North Carolinabased Volvo Trucks North America has announced that its largest West Coast dealership, TEC Equipment, has become the first Volvo EV certified dealer in North America. The South Californian Fontana branch has turned out to be the first location to be a certified electric vehicle dealership for Volvo’s VNR Electric heavy-duty Class 8 trucks. Its sales team has become the first such team to be fully trained to consult with customers that are considering investing in any of the Volvo VNR Electric model variant.

The Volvo VNR Electric truck range is available in a number of variations.

The TEC Equipment Fontana service team is also fully trained and equipped to safely perform battery-electric truck maintenance and repairs for trucks that are already operating. Peter Voorhoeve, President, Volvo Trucks North America, said, “Volvo Trucks’ Volvo EV certified dealer certification programme has helped us build a robust sales and service ecosystem required to support customers (across North America) with their zero-emission transportation goals.”

“The TEC Equipment Fontana is our first dealer group to achieve this certification as an integral partner in the innovative Volvo ‘LIGHTS’ project,” he added.

A Volvo certified uptime centre, TEC Equipment was instrumental in deploying the first Volvo VNR Electric model in North America. Collaborating

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with Volvo Trucks to implement a streamlined service philosophy as far as the VNR Electric trucks go, the dealership has been given the responsibility to maintain a stock of key parts and components for the respective electric zero-tailpipe emissions heavy-duty truck range

by Volvo Trucks North America.

This arrangement will help Volvo to minimise the service times of vehicles that are already operating. The arrangement will also help customers to clock maximum uptime. Supporting the Volvo VNR Electric truck range, which is designed to provide a sustainable transportation solution for local and regional distribution duties, for pickup and delivery of cargo and for distribution of food and beverage distribution, the sales team at TEC Equipment Fontana has been trained to help customers evaluate which routes might be the most ideal for electrification. The sales team has also been trained to help fleets to select the right VNR Electric configuration.

David Thomson, Founder and CEO, TEC Equipment, averred, “We’re proud to continue our partnership with Volvo Trucks. Our Fontana location has been the first to achieve the Volvo EV dealer certification.” Of the belief that the technicians of his company’s Fontana facility have gained valuable experience in maintaining the dealership’s own Volvo VNR Electric truck over the past one year, Thomson stated, “The technicians have also gained valuable experience by performing routine maintenance for several of our Southern California customers who are running VNR Electrics in the region.”

Announcing that the dealership is fully prepared to support fleets in Southern California that are operating Volvo VNR Electric trucks, Thompson said, “TEC Equipment’s technicians

have been given personal protective equipment for working with highvoltage systems.” In order to handle the high voltage electrics of the Volvo VNR Electric, the technicians at TEC Equipment have been well trained

by Volvo Trucks North America to exercise safety and precautions as they get down to work. This is in line with Volvo’s high safety and reliability standards and reflects the rigorous standards of the Volvo EV certified dealer programme. The programme has been designed to ensure technicians understand the proper safety procedures when servicing electric drivetrains and components.

Voorhoeve explained, “Through Volvo’s comprehensive EV certified dealer certification programme, Volvo Trucks and its dealerships are offering an end-to-end, holistic solution to bring battery-electric Class 8 trucks to the market at scale.” “In this direction, Volvo Trucks is preparing its national dealer network to partner with fleet customers to support the commercial deployment of Class 8 battery-electric trucks throughout North America and provide high-quality service that is synonymous with the brand,” he added.

Volvo Trucks North America is working to add more Volvo EV certified dealers to its existing network of nearly 300 authorised fullservice dealer touchpoints in North America as electric trucks find favour with fleets in the sub-continent. The company is providing complete transport solutions for professional and demanding customers in the form of a wide range of medium to heavy duty trucks. A part of the Volvo Group that assembles trucks in 13 countries, Volvo Trucks North America is working by adhering to the core values of quality, safety and environmental care. MT

Pristine Fontana, A Building, Flat No. 607, Behind Maratha Mandir, Bavdhan Khurd, Pune 411021. +91 - 98 9018 8926 ashish@zenmicrosystems.co.in www.zenmircrosystems.co.in

AROUND THE WORLD

Rimac Concept_One Takes Centre Stage Rimac Concept_One electric hypercar has found a place with some of the most celebrated machines.

MT Bureau

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tarting production in 2016, the Rimac Concept_One found many admirers as the first electric hypercar in the world.

Produced by Rimac Automobili in Croatia as the company’s first production model with a total output of 913 kW (1,224 hp) and an acceleration time of 0 to 100 kmph in 2.5 seconds, the vehicle has found a place among some of the most celebrated machines like the Bugatti Veyron and Koenigsegg Agera RS at the famous Petersen Automotive Museum, California (US). Considered to be at the centre stage of a phenomenon concerning cars that offer otherworldly performance and push the boundaries of performance that supercars are known for, the Concept-One at the Peterson Automotive Museum is displayed under the ‘Hypercars: The Allure of the Extreme’ exhibit.

Opening doors to the public on 4 December 2021, the exhibit is designed to showcase what

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hypercars stand for and why they continue to captivate the global automotive community. It is a part of the key exhibit area of the museum which is described as the world’s greatest automotive museum. The Peterson Automotive Museum houses one of the largest collections ever assembled, from all-time classics to modern-day racing cars and cutting-edge electric vehicles of the future. The Concept_One on display at the museum is the very first production sample ever produced by Rimac Automobili. It is owned by Paul Runge.

Built from the ground up and designed to showcase the potential of electric technology in the world of automotive performance, the Concept_One hypercar is considered as the one which pushed the boundaries of technology and electric powertrains to a new extreme. It offered an insight into how an EV platform could be transformed or leveraged to engineer a fast and exciting

automobile. Powered by four magnetic electric motors (one for each wheel), the vehicle produces 1,600 Nm of torque from 8,450 battery cells. Said to inspire the all-electric Nevera hypercar, the Concept_One continues to be a technological tour de force to this day and time. Its technological feature, the ‘All-Wheel Torque Vectoring’ and a quad-motor setup with 120 kWh battery, are considered among the most advanced even now. As the fastest accelerating production car, the Concept-One, according to Mate Rimac, CEO and Founder, Rimac Automobili, is a hypercar of the 21st century. It stands wheel-to-wheel with other iconic hypercars in one of the most prestigious automotive museums in the world and only eight were built. Of the opinion that the Concept_One is an absolutely crucial part of Rimac Automobili history, Rimac said, “We’ll always look back at Concept_One and feel proud of the electric revolution we helped to kickstart.” MT

Mercedes-Benz Citan II The Mercedes-Benz Citan II is drawing attention for more than one reason after its recent introduction.

Bhushan Mhapralkar

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haring the platform with Renault Kangoo II, the Mercedes-Benz Citan II is a typical panel van that is found in all of Europe and most other countries as well. Attracting attention in view of the new developments such as an announcement by Daimler AG to unwind the cross-shareholdings sans any effect on the industrial collaboration between itself and Renault, the van is powered by either a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine (with 90 hp or 110 hp) or a 114 hp 1.2-litre petrol turbo engine. Both are Renault engines and subtly indicate that the Citan II is more Renault than Mercedes-Benz. The Kangoo II is powered by a 1.5-litre

dCi turbodiesel engine that does 80 hp, 95 hp and 115 hp. In either guise, the transmission is a 6-speed manual unit. Different from the Kangoo II (Kangoo is also Renault’s van brand to spring a fully-electric ZE version, considered in UK as its first proper electric van) in terms of appearance, the Citan II has smooth lines along the surface and embellishments that make it look stylish. Park the two panel vans besides each other and the Citan looks different from the front and the rear. From the side, it looks rather similar to the Kangoo.

Of the two, the Citan II scores better in styling. It stands out and is definitely better-looking van of

the two. In terms of the interiors, both the vans are just as nice as their car counterparts, albeit toned down to fit the need for durability and comfort. The Kangoo II offers a spacious cabin compared to the other. Its cabin, however, feels a bit dated than that of the Citan II. Of the two, the Citan II feels more refined.

While the Citan II presents up to 3.8 cu m loading space and up to 800 kg payloads, it is the Kangoo II that offers superior loading space (of up to 4.6 cu m) for a small van.

Not to lose heart, the Citan II can fit a Euro pallet between the arches!

So, both the vans offer a classleading loading bay, the credit of which should go to Renault as the platform is originally its. Interestingly, the Kangoo II was judged the International Van of the Year (IVOTY) 2022 by a jury of 24 European journalists. It was recognised, along with the new Mercedes-Benz Citan II, as the best LCV out of the 14 lightduty vehicles introduced over the past 12 months. MT MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 67

AROUND THE WORLD

Smart And Versatile Ford Ranger Ford has unveiled the most smart and versatile Ranger pick-up truck ever.

MT Bureau

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big bold face is the drawing element of the next-generation Ranger pick-up truck that Ford recently unveiled. It is both interesting and dominating. Reflective of the technological and other advancements the new vehicle will pack, making it desirable for loyal Ford and Ranger customers, the new pick-up truck will be powered by either a single-turbo or a bi-turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine.

It will continue to share the platform with the Everest/Endeavour SUV. The proven single-turbo engine will come in two different performance levels and deliver power, torque and fuel economy, which is important to small business owners or commercial vehicle fleets. The more sophisticated bi-turbo engine will offer performance to those who desire a pick-up truck that is more lifestyle oriented and fits their need for adventure or similar such desires.

Touted as the smartest and the most versatile Ranger ever, the new pick-up truck will be made at the Ford Motor Company’s facility in Thailand along

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with the Everest/Endeavour SUV. An investment of USD 900 million has gone into the modernisation of the plant and will lead to the creation of 1,250 new jobs. To be available with a choice of two four-wheel drive systems (an electronic shift-onthe-fly system or an advanced new full-time four-wheel drive system with a reassuring setand-forget mode designed for capability when and where customers need it), the next-generation Ranger is a far cry from the one it replaces.

The one that the new pick-up replaces was actually the one that was instrumental in changing the Ranger’s perception to a large extent. It was highly appreciated for its capabilities and also for the Everest/Endeavour SUV that it sprang. In the case of the new vehicles, the engineers moved the front wheels forward by 50 mm for a better approach angle. They also moved the wheels outboard for better off-road articulation.

The rear suspension dampers were shifted outboard of the frame rails to

give drivers and passengers a better ride both on- and off-road. Taking into account the fact that a pick-up truck will often be carrying heavy cargo for work, or will be taking the business user’s family out for dinner, the engineers took efforts to ensure a good balance between ride and handling and load carrying capacity.

The project led by Ford’s Product Development Centre in Australia concentrated on making the vehicles the toughest and most capable ever.

Graham Pearson, Ranger Vehicle Programme Director, mentioned, “Our team put it through one of the most exhaustive global testing schedules we’ve ever developed and would not

modem. A part of the plush interior – with the dual purpose of work and play in mind – is a short-throw e-shifter. “Customers overwhelmingly liked the e-shifter. They liked the fact that it looked higher-tech and that it was intuitive to use,” said Tran.

rest until we were satisfied that it was Built Ford Tough.” The Australian product development centre was supported by an international team of dedicated designers and engineers from around the globe to help incorporate the very latest in Ford technology, capability and safety.

They were also supported to engineer and test the Ranger to Ford’s toughest standards.

To go with the rugged external appearance of the pick-up truck, the development team at Ford focused in detail on the ‘form-and-function’ part.

They conducted more than 5,000 interviews and dozens of customer workshops to understand how customers used their pick-ups and what they wanted and expected in the new Ranger. Incorporating ‘form’ features like matrix LED headlights and taillights designed in harmony with the signature graphics on the front, the development team concentrated

on the inside on providing a car-like cabin by using premium soft-touch materials and prominent portraitstyle centre touchscreen with Ford’s signature SYNC 4 connectivity and entertainment system. Max Tran, Chief Designer for Ranger, said, “Customers told us the Ranger needs to look tough and needs to inspire confidence. They were very clear in what the Ranger should be, both in the way it looks, and the way it makes them feel.”

Beneath the new bodywork, the next-generation Ranger gets an upgraded chassis with a hydroformed front-end structure to create more space in the engine bay for the new V6 engine.

The design and engineering of the chassis of the vehicle has been done such that it is future-proof for other propulsion technologies.

Easy to park in tight urban spaces or to assist when negotiating particularly tricky terrain, the new Ranger has its SYNC infotainment system screen linked to a 360-degree camera. In addition, it will also offer its users the ability to control its new exterior zone lighting system via the touchscreen or the FordPass app such that they don’t have to work, camp or do anything in the dark. An attention to futureproof the Ranger has ensured that the vehicle will accept Ford power-up wireless software updates, thanks to the embedded FordPass Connect

With clever storage and useful features (places to store phone or charge it wirelessly, a large centre console bin to stash things, door pockets designed to carry more, a wide dash that conceals an upper glovebox and storage bins under and behind the rear seats) to offer, the next-generation Ranger pick-up truck is subject to some very unique functional elements like an integrated side-step behind the rear tyres. It will help to create a strong, more stable way for vehicle users to access the (cargo) box, according to Tran. “When we met with our customers and observed how they climbed up to the load box, we saw a big improvement opportunity,” said Anthony Hall, Ranger Vehicle Engineering Manager.

“There were people stepping on the tyre and then going over the side of the truck or hoisting themselves onto the open tailgate,” he added. To protect the truck bed from scratches and from the users’ knees from kneeling on hard steel surface, Ford incorporated a new, tough plasticmoulded bedliner in the new Ranger.

It also factored in extra cargo tie down points – on strong steel tube rails – to ensure convenient load securing.

Durable, flexible load box caps around the sides of the box and across the tailgate were developed to conceal structural attachment points for canopies and other aftermarket accessories. The new cargo management system designed with dividers to hold various sized items – like timber or toolboxes – adds to the versatility of the vehicle. Its users can create smaller compartments to store objects, which would otherwise have to go in the cab, using a system of ultra-strong spring-loaded cleats that clip into rails bolted to each side of the cargo box. The tailgate can also double as a mobile work bench with an integrated ruler and clamp pockets to measure, grip and cut building materials. Last but not the least, off-road recovery is made easier with prominent dual recovery hooks in the front bumper. MT

MOTORING TRENDS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2022 | 69

AROUND THE WORLD

DAF’S New Generation XF, XG And XG+ Win The 2022 ITOY Award

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ith a winning score of 150 votes, the Dutch long-haul heavy-duty truck range in the form of DAF XF, XG and XG+ has won the prestigious International Truck of the Year (ITOY) 2022 award. Fighting off the challenge posed by Iveco’s recently-launched T-Way construction series and Mercedes-Benz’s batteryelectric eActros (second generation), the DAF range was voted as the winner by a jury of 24 commercial vehicle editors and senior journalists, representing 24 major trucking magazines from throughout Europe.

The award was handed over to Harry Wolters, President, DAF Trucks, during the press day of the Solutrans Commercial Vehicle and Bodybuilder Show in Lyon, France. The 2022 Truck Innovation Award for DAF XF Hydrogen (a hydrogen prototype heavy-duty truck) was also presented to Wolters at the same time by the ITOY consortium.

As per the ITOY consortium, the ‘International Truck of the Year’ award is presented every year to a truck introduced into the market in the previous 12 months and which has made the most significant contribution to road transport efficiency. This judgement relies on several critical criteria, including technological innovation, comfort, safety, driveability, fuel economy, environmental ‘footprint’ and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). In the case of the new DAF range, the Dutch CV maker took full advantage of the

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The DAF New Generation heavy-duty truck range has fought off stiff competition to win the ITOY award.

MT Bureau European Union’s new mass and dimension regulations. It created a truck range that dramatically improves aerodynamics, active and passive safety, fuel efficiency and driver comfort. The ITOY jury members were impressed by the excellent visibility the vehicle provided, courtesy a large, curved windscreen, side windows, low beltlines and the kerb-view window.

Apart from these features, the jury also liked the digital vision system that replaces the traditional rear mirrors and the new corner view camera which offers excellent all-around visibility and protects vulnerable road users.

The jury also appreciated the performance of the Paccar MX-11 and MX-13 engines that power this truck range and are mated with a TraXon automated gearbox and advanced features such as predictive cruise control with extended eco-roll functionalities. Gianenrico Griffini, Chairman, ITOY, said, “DAF has delivered a high-tech heavy-duty truck range that sets a new benchmark in the truck industry. It is futureoriented and represents a complete platform for new generations of alternative drivelines.” While the DAF XF, XG and XG+ have bagged the prestigious ITOY 2022 award, the DAF XF Hydrogen prototype truck

has won the 2022 Truck Innovation Award on the basis of the enormous technological change and energy transition it has come to reflect.

Praised by the 25 member ITOY jury for its handling characteristics, seamless acceleration and userfriendly human-machine interface (HMI) as well, the hydrogen prototype truck provides a rare insight into the innovations that are finding their way into trucks in view of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing safety as well as comfort.

The HMI found in the hydrogen prototype truck is a feature that is also found on the DAF’s New Generation range, which has also been designed for future zero-emission powertrains. The 25 member ITOY jury, appreciating DAF’s innovative approach to alternative propulsion and energy transition that takes advantage of the dynamic qualities of the internal combustion engine while ensuring zero CO2 emissions from the tailpipe, was also much impressed by the innovative hydrogen combustion solution the prototype offers as an alternative to other zero tailpipe emission technologies. With a winning score of 92 votes, DAF’s XF Hydrogen fought off the competition from Mercedes-Benz’s GenH2 Truck, a fuel cell-powered long-haul vehicle. MT

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State of the art Skid Trailer and its towing vehicle procured from Dufournier Industries, France, allows us to introduce Wet Grip Testing Facilities as per Stage II of AIS 142:2019. It will soon be available at IRMRA, South Centre, Chennai after getting NABL Accreditation in Jan 2022.

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100 Years Of Maybach Automotive Manufacturing Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the ‘Edition 100’ to commemorate 100 years of Maybach automotive manufacturing.

MT Bureau

T

he credo of Wilhelm and Karl Maybach at the beginning of the 20th century was ‘What is good must also be beautiful’.

The father and son were regarded as gifted designers, trailblazers of automotive luxury and pioneers in matters of style. With a simplesounding formula, they created highly complex things that were perfection and craftsmanship paired

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with innovation, both technically and in terms of workmanship. At the IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the Mercedes-Maybach ‘Concept EQS’, the first fully electric series model that will be available from 2023. The e-SUV concept vehicle is based on the modular architecture for luxury and executive class electric vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and takes

the exclusivity of Maybach brand into the emission-free future. The near-production concept vehicle’s features are typical of a Maybach automobile – the elaborate two-tone paint finish, for example. Highly innovative with its drive technology, the concept vehicle marks a step towards a significantly more progressive way of presenting the brand.

Flaunting Maybach pinstripes at the front and rear, the ‘Concept EQS’ interior makes an emotional and stylish statement. It is befitting the interior of a luxury yacht or a plane and reflective of the brand’s exclusiveness. With the limited production avatar of ‘Concept EQS’ set to join the current line of Mercedes-Maybach ultra-luxury autos, albeit in a ‘production’ version that should differ somewhat, excitement was built at the IAA Mobility 2021 by the unveiling of

the ‘Edition 100’ car (based on the S-Class) that truly marks the 100th anniversary of Maybach automotive manufacturing as well. An SUV based on the GLS platform was also shown. Only 100 units of each will be made. With the ‘Edition 100’ brand logo inscription on the C-pillar, the S-Classbased ‘special’ car will be powered by a massively powerful 612 hp V12 engine and will offer noiseinsulated first-class rear compartment with Burmester 4D surround sound system, heat and massage functions for the seats and high-tech screens for infotainment.

Compared to the longwheelbase version of the S-Class, this model is 18 cm more long in its wheelbase.

It is also equipped with an all-wheel drive system, a first on such a car from the German automaker.

The GLS platform-based SUV, at the other end, is powered by a 557 hp V8 engine. Flaunting a sporty appearance, the vehicle is 33 cm taller than the conventional GLS. Offering a uniquely generous interior with 1.10m legroom and air suspension, the SUV has its interior soundproofed and adorned with the finest leather. There are electrically extendable running boards that ensure maximum comfort when getting in and out. Featuring forged wheels, the Mercedes-Maybach SUV is hand-painted (also the ‘Edition 100’) in a two-tone colour combination. There is a long list of accessories too on offer in both the

vehicles, including a car cover with the iconic double ‘M’ logo as well as a fine handmade case made of soft crystal white or black leather in file size – to store keys and papers. In keeping with the anniversary edition, Mercedes-Maybach’s long-standing partners are also designing strictly limited special series. Licensing partner Maybach Icons of Luxury, for example, is offering a diamondstudded fountain pen from the Maybach Peak collection. Silver and yacht manufacturer Robbe & Berking is offering a champagne flute with a specially created engraving. The ‘Edition 100’ will be available at dealers in the first markets from the beginning of 2022, with other markets following in the course of the year.

Taking over Maybach Motorenbau GmbH in 1960 after the death of Karl Maybach, Mercedes-Benz (and its parent company Daimler AG) revived the brand in 2002. It positioned it as an independent brand and introduced the legendary Maybach 57 and Maybach 62 as well as the Maybach 62 Landaulet at the beginning of 2013.

The three automobiles were based on an extensively modified S-Class platform and reflected automotive excellence. Like the Maybachs that Wilhelm and Karl Maybach built during their time, these three vehicles were the technological epitome of their time. Over time, the performance of these three vehicles went down in the face of competition from Rolls Royce and Bentley. In November 2011, Daimler’s CEO Dieter Zetsche announced that the Maybach-brand would cease to exist in 2012. The Maybach-limousines were still being sold up to the year 2013, but after that, the name ‘Maybach’ would not be used anymore. Much to the surprise of most, in November 2014, Daimler announced the revival of the Maybach name as a sub-brand of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, positioned as an upscale version akin to the more sporty Mercedes-AMG subbrand. MT

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Spiralling Demand For RVs Growth in domestic travel in Australia has led to spiralling demand for Recreational Vehicles (RVs).

Adam Gosling

W

hilst there are Covid battles going on around the globe, some jurisdictions have implemented lockdowns where citizens are not permitted to travel outside specific areas. Whilst international travel has fallen away, domestic local travel has been the replacement for the travel junkies needing another hit.

Interestingly, this has led to a partial recovery for some tourism operators who have been starved of international visitors though many domestic travellers book online and self-drive. Locals have been taking to the roads in ever increasing numbers seeking to escape or enjoy an adventure away from their daily lives.

The sidebar to this has been the market-driven forces acting upon

any recreational vehicles. Wait times for new 4-wheel drives have blown out, combined with the demand and shortage of computer chips.

Delivery for many is now in the realm of 6 to 9 months after the date of order/purchase. The outcome from this has been the increase in prices of such vehicles. Some are now commanding more than the purchase price paid only 12 months ago.

For other recreational vehicles such as caravans or camper trailers, the wait is just as long in many cases. I spoke with one family pulling a new caravan. They had travelled across the country to collect a new caravan as it was available immediately. A 6,000-kilometre trip prior to the actual holiday trip was not less torturous.

A close colleague ordered an off-road camper trailer in early Q4 2020. Delivery was suggested to be months, which was, at that stage, an acceptable period. Due to material shortages at the offshore manufacturing plant, delivery was delayed. Then critical shipping dates were missed again due to the manufacturing delays, compounding the actual delivery date. The suppliers and manufacturers of such trailers have been starting to refuse accepting new orders as they cannot even remotely indicate a delivery date. Such has been the demand from locals not able to travel internationally, that manufacturers have been pushed hard.

When considering the local tourism trade, so many of these businesses rely upon international travellers to fill the beds and pack out the restaurants at destinations. Whilst the absence of such visitors could be thought to affect the tourismrelated businesses, many are finding they are booked out for months ahead by eager domestic travellers.

With numerous variations in the design of camper trailers and caravans, many manufacturers are reporting ever extending order books, which is great for the local industries. However, this comes with a proviso just as the automotive industry is finding that it is difficult to meet the demand. Demand is

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great to have only if you can get the products needed to complete the construction. Ask any automotive builder about silicon chips and they will more than likely spit out chips but not of the silicon variant.

Many vehicle repairers and service agents are finding that they are being swamped by many inexperienced travellers partially or even totally unprepared for the different conditions they are used to in the cities. Just because you can buy a fresh lettuce or have Wi-Fi on demand, or be able to purchase goods at any hour of the day, doesn’t mean the same facilities are available when travelling

well outside of the city or regional towns. Adequate preparation for remote travelling is paramount.

Having others knowing where you are travelling to – including your expected arrivals – is also important for personal safety.

The Covid-19 pandemic is teaching us a lot, including that our supply lines have to be a lot more robust and not so reliant upon single suppliers for the critical components used. The ‘just in time’ philosophy of manufacturing has left many in dire straits. Some reporting indicates that many vehicles are parked up waiting for the electronic modules to be

acquired and fitted before the vehicle can be shipped.

So, whilst the recreational markets are enjoying some successes during the new world experience of Covid-19, many are still struggling.

With both international and domestic travel either still restricted or just opening up, our leisure pursuits as well as corporate travel is going to be different from the past. Let’s hope that the people and industries in this arena can survive the fallout from Covid.

How we learn from these experiences is going to be the key to a fruitful future. Do we blindly push ahead or do we take stock of the collective learnings and seek the improvements we understand could be available? At this time, leadership is ever so critical.

We have all sort of opinions on how the various political ‘masters’ have performed during the Covid crisis.

I don’t think we will see the fruits of their endeavours for quite some time.

The question then remains whether the fruits will be palatable at all to our various communities. Take care, remember your risk assessments and travel safe. MT The author of this article heads a company in Australia that is into provision of equipment and services for all vehicle users, from everyday recreational to commercial drivers, on-road transport and even giant mining vehicles.

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Pininfarina Battista By delivering its pioneering pure-electric Battista hyper GT, Automobili Pininfarina is taking a significant step yet.

Team Motoring Trends

F

ounded by Battista ‘Pinin’ Farina in 1930 and acquired by the Mahindra Group in December 2015 for about Euro 168 million, Automobili Pininfarina has built bodies for Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Isotta Fraschini, Hispano-Suiza, Fiat, Cadillac and Rolls-Royce.

Establishing itself firmly by the end of 1945 as an Italian designer of automobiles with the Cisitalia 202 Coupé and battling the post-World War II geopolitical situation where Italy received severe sanctions, Automobili Pininfarina found a place of honour at the Museum of Modern Art with the landmark presentation of “Eight Automobiles” in 1951. Drawing US attention to its design prowess with the Nash-Healey roadster of 1952, the design powerhouse also tried its hand at building limited run car bodies like that the of Cadillac Eldorado Brougham of 1959 and the beautiful Cadillac Allante of the 80s. Associating with Ferrari in 1951, Pininfarina has to its credit the design of 1973 Ferrari Dino 308GT4 and the 2013 LaFerrari among many others.

Credited of having designed the exceedingly beautiful Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider, Pininfarnia changed its name to what it is today with the consent of the Italian Government in 1961. It was more of formalising it than anything else. Investing in expanding its scope and abilities

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at both the ends – at designing and at manufacturing, Automobili Pininfarina set up Pininfarina Sverige AB in Uddevalla, Sweden, in 2003 as Joint Venture (JV) between itself and Volvo Cars for a new Volvo convertible – the C70 – that would be sold in Europe and the United States.

Incurring losses starting from 2008 that forced a search for investors and a subsequent dilution of stake by the Battista Pininfarina’s heirs, Pininfarina returned to black in 2013 by reporting a net profit of Euro 32 million and an operating loss of Euro 8.2 million. This was credited to debt restructuring arranged the preceding year.

philosophy, with aerodynamic enhancements and tailored detailing providing a uniquely dynamic personality, the Battista hyper GT and Battista Anniversario, according to Per Svantesson, CEO, Automobili Pininfarina, are about a beautiful and sustainable future of luxury.

“Marking 90 years of Pininfarina design heritage, they are about immense dynamic performance,” he added.

With a rich history in designing not just automobiles but also various other product designs like a train, bus and a bicycle, Automobili Pininfarina took yet another significant step ahead by delivering its pioneering pure-electric Battista hyper GT – the first productionspec example as part of a series of exciting experiences curated for its clients during the Monterey Car Week held in August 2021. Debuting on Californian roads, the car along with the Battista Anniversario, which premiered as a tribute to the life and work of design icon Battista ‘Pinin’ Farina, created quite a furore. Representing the pinnacle of Automobili Pininfarina’s Pura design

Judged as the ‘Electric Dream Car’ by an experienced panel, including Electrifying.com Founder Ginny Buckley and fellow TV presenters and journalists Nicki Shields and Tom Ford, the Battista hyper GT is claimed to be the most powerful car ever designed and built in Italy. Said to be faster than a current Formula 1 race car in its 0 -100 kmph sub-two second sprint, the car does 1,900 hp of power and 2,300 Nm of torque.

Combining extreme engineering and technology in zero emissions, pure electric package. No more than 150 Battistas will be hand-crafted in Italy and allocated equally between the regions of North America, Europe and Middle East/Asia. MT

RNI No. MAHENG/2020/80332