E-Mobility+ February Issue 2021

F E B R U A R Y

POWERING

SMART,

ELECTRIC,

EFFICIENT

|

V O L U M E

3

|

I S S U E 3

MOBILITY

AUTOMATED

EV MANUFACTURING PROCESS: IS INDIA FULLY READY YET? CURRENT EV MANUFACTURING INFRASTRUCTURE IN INDIA:

EVOLUTION, CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

SPECIAL FEATUTRE

T R E N D I N G

www.emobilityplus.com

2 0 2 1

THE E-MOBILITY

PIONEERS SHARE THEIR SUCCESS MANTRA

CONT INSIGHTS WHAT IS THE ROLE OF REAL-TIME DATA AND PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS IN HELPING EV MANUFACTURERS TAKE INFORMED AND IMPROVED DECISIONS?

30

PERSPECTIVES

19 24 33

CURRENT EV MANUFACTURING INFRASTRUCTURE IN INDIA: EVOLUTION, CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

PLI SCHEME: HOW CAN IT PLAY A CRITICAL ROLE IN BOOSTING THE EV MANUFACTURING SECTOR?

AUTOMATED EV MANUFACTURING PROCESS: IS INDIA FULLY READY YET?

ADVERTISE IN EMOBILITY+ MAGAZINE To book your advertising pages or to showcase your products and services in EMobility+, reach out to our team and explore powerful branding options. Reach out to 2000+ readers from the mobility sector.

Smriti Singh Kishor Shetty advertise@firstviewgroup.com

TENT POLICY DEBEIEF

INDIA NEWS

06

08

IN CONVERSATION

14

17 VIVEK GOSAIN,

SANDEEP BANGIA

General Manager, Manufacturing Engineering, M G Motors

Head - EV & Home Automation, Tata Power

31 KARTHIKEYAN SANTHARAM Director, Relux Electric

SPECIAL FEATURE

36

EDITIORIAL

THE E-MOBILITY PIONEERS SHARE THEIR SUCCESS MANTRA The Achievements of E-Mobility Leaders Gets Recognized at EV Manufacturing & Design Show 2021 Awards Ceremony

ADVERTISING

ADVERTORIALS

Sangita Shetty

Smriti Singh

Sanjana Kamble

Ashwini Chikkodi

Kishor Shetty

Sadhana Shenvekar

editorial@firstviewgroup.com

advertise@firstviewgroup.com

publishing@firstviewgroup.com

DESIGNING

CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION

PUBLISHING

Neha Barangali

Sadhana Shevnekar

Firstview Media

design@firstviewgroup.com

subscribe@firstviewgroup.com

Ventures Pvt. Ltd.

Powering Smart, Electric, Efficient Mobility

EMOBILITY+

YES, I WISH TO SUBSCRIBE TO EMOBILITY+ MAGAZINE

SUBCRIPTION FORM SUBSCRIPTION PERIOD

SUBSCRIPTION AMOUNT

BASIC PLAN 1 YEAR

INR 2500

PRO PLAN 1 YEAR

INR 9999

SELECT

NAME: DESIGNATION: COMPANY NAME: TYPE OF ACTIVITY: ADDRESS: CITY:

STATE:

PIN CODE:

MOBILE:

EMAIL ID:

WEBSITE:

PAYMENT DETAILS:

DATED:

CHEQUE / DD NO.:

DRAW ON:

FOR RUPEES:

In favour of FirstView Media Ventures Pvt. Ltd. The Payment Should be made in the favour of FirstView Media Ventures Pvt. Ltd. via cheque or DD (payable at Mumbai, India) to the address mentioned below.

FirstView Media Ventures Pvt. Ltd., Plot 82, Lane 5, Sec 8A, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India info@firstviewgroup.com Contact: Sadhana Shevnekar Email Id: sadhana@firstviewgroup.com Mobile: +91 8355982520

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

I have enclosed a cheque / DD no. for Rs.

along with this form. Or wire-transfer the amount to the following account:

FirstView Media Ventures Pvt. Ltd Account Holder: FIRSTVIEW MEDIA VENTURES PVT. LTD Name of the bank: Axis Bank Limited SWIFT CODE: AXISNBB386 ACCOUNT NO.: 911020047384733 RTGS / NEFT IFSC CODE: UTIB0001365

www.emobilityplus.com

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT WWW.EMOBILITYPLUS.COM OR SCAN

https://www.bryair.com/products-solutions/dryrooms/dry-rooms-lithium-battery-manufacturing/

https://www.bryair.com/products-solutions/dryrooms/dry-rooms-lithium-battery-manufacturing/

https://www.bryair.com/products-solutions/dryrooms/dry-rooms-lithium-battery-manufacturing/

EMOBILITY+ INDIA

POLICYDEBRIEF

GOVERNMENT: CENTRAL

Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari Approves The Proposal For ‘Green Tax’ For Older, Polluting Vehicles In a statement issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has approved a proposal to levy a 'green tax' on old vehicles which are polluting the environment in a bid to protect the environment and curb pollution. Under the scheme, transport vehicles older than eight years could be charged green tax at the time of renewal of fitness certificate at the rate of 10 to 25 per cent of road tax. Vehicles like strong hybrids, electric vehicles and those running on alternate fuels like CNG, ethanol and LPG will be exempted while the revenue collected through the green tax will be utilised for tackling pollution.

Apart from strong hybrids, electric vehicles and alternate fuels like CNG, ethanol, LPG etc, vehicles used in farming, such as tractor, harvester and tiller will be exempted from the tax also.

Scrappage Policy To Come Into Effect From April 2022 For Govt & PSU Vehicles The Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari approved the policy of scrapping of Government department and PSU vehicles older than 15-years. This will be effective from April 1, 2022. The auto industry has been awaiting this policy since July 26, 2019, when the government proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act to allow scrapping of vehicles older than 15 years in a bid to speed up the adoption of electric vehicles.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

RMI and NITI Aayog report: India EV Finance Industry Expected To Reach Rs 3.7Lakh Crore In 2030 As per a latest study released by NITI Aayog and Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), India's transition to EVs will require a cumulative capital investment of USD 266 billion (Rs 19.7 lakh crore) in EVs, charging infrastructure, and batteries over the next decade. The report 'Mobilising Finance for EVs in India' identifies a market size of $50 billion (Rs 3.7 lakh crore) for the financing of EVs in 2030 about 80 percent of the current size of India's retail vehicle finance industry, estimated to be worth about Rs 4.5 lakh crore (USD 60 billion) today.NITI Aayog and Rocky Mountain Institute have identified a toolkit of 10 solutions that financial institutions such as banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), as well as industry and government can adopt in catalysing the required capital.

Budget 2021: EV Sector Highlights The Vehicle scrappage policy which was much awaited has finally been announced in the Budget 2021 delivered by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This scheme will apply to private vehicles above the age of 20 years and commercial vehicles above the age of 15 years.

Apart from the EV sector, some key highlights for the renewable energy sector are as follows: Duties on imported solar inverters increased from 5% to 20% and on solar lanterns from 5% to 15% to support domestic manufacturing in the solar sector.

Allocation of Rs 1000 Crore to SECI Rs 1500 Crore allotted to IREDA National Hydrogen Mission to be launched for hydrogen generation from Green Power Sources

PG 6

EMOBILITY+ INDIA

POLICYDEBRIEF

GOVERNMENT: STATE

Andaman Lt Governor Flags Off Electric Buses; Will Curb Pollution on Island The Honourable Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral (Retd.) D K Joshi, flagged-off fleet of electric buses. The project for 40 electric buses is being executed by NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited(NVVN Limited), a 100% subsidiary of NTPC Limited. In addition to the above project, NVVN has emerged as a successful bidder for providing turnkey solutions for 90 electric buses in Bengaluru under the Smart City project.These buses will provide last mile connectivity to NAMMA Metro network.

Big Push To Electric Vehicles From UP CM UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath has given a major push to electric vehicles and e-rickshaws by saying that this technology needs to be given more importance over conventional fuel like petrol and diesel. The CM proposed an exemption in road tax and registration fees in order to promote electric vehicles during a review of electric vehicles by the department of infrastructure and industrial development. Assessing the proposed amendments to the Uttar Pradesh Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Policy-2019, the CM said that since electric vehicle manufacturing was an emerging sector, it was necessary to liberalise the policy and encourage mega investments.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

Delhi Transport Minister: Delhi To Set Up EV Charging Stations Every 3 kms At a global summit, Delhi Transport Minister Mr. Kailash Gahlot detailed the electric vehicle (EV) policy and said that the Delhi government has aimed to set up EV charging stations within every 3 kms distance in the city. At the global event organised by World Bank and WRI Ross Center, Gahlot said in a virtual address that the Delhi government has set a very ambitious target for the next five years -- to have 25 percent electric vehicles in total vehicle registrations in the city. Under the Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy launched in August 2020, almost 6,000 electric vehicles have been rolled out on Delhi Roads, he said. He also mentioned about Delhi having a dedicated EV Cell and a State EV Board as a single-window cell to ensure proper implementation and day-to-day operations and to address any issues that might come up.

Tender Floated By Delhi Govt To Set Up 100 EV Charging Stations Recently, the Delhi government floated a tender to set up 100 charging stations for electric vehicles across the city.

It has been floated by Delhi Transco Limited (DTL). These charging stations will be set up within a year wherein each station will have five charging points, making it a total of 500 such points. There will be a mandate for minimum 20 per cent slow chargers and 10 per cent fast chargers at these charging stations to cater to all kinds of EVs. Majority of these sites will be at Metro stations and DTC bus depots.

PG 7

EMOBILITY+ INDIA

NEWS BRIEFS

PARTNERSHIPS

Electric One And Hero Electric Form Strategic Partnership Electric One Mobility Pvt Ltd announced a strategic partnership with Hero Electric Vehicles Pvt Ltd. Electric scooters and Electric Cycles with international technology and quality from Hero electric will enhance the portfolio of Electric one. The partnership will be in the area of sales of Hero electric 2 wheelers for B2B customers and last mile aggregators.

All Hero electric models will be offered to Electric One with elevated service and spare part support.

Triton Electric Vehicle Partners With Bharat Electronics Limited To Develop EVs

Hindustan Zinc Signs MoU With Epiroc To Deploy EVs For Its Underground Mining Works Hindustan Zinc signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Sweden’s mining and infrastructure equipment maker Epiroc for supplying battery electric vehicles (BEV) for underground mining. The company said in a statement that this move is said to help HZL explore the possibility of introducing battery-operated vehicles in underground mines which will help reduce carbon emissions, enabling the mine operations to become more environmentally friendly. Hindustan Zinc said in its media statement that it will become the first mining company in India to introduce electric vehicles in UG mines.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between US-based Triton Electric Vehicleand Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for developing electric vehicles and energy storage systems. BEL will be the exclusive manufacturing partner to Triton in India for identified products, while Triton will provide the know-how and technical documentation required for manufacturing of these products.

For requirements of Energy Storage System ( ESS) in India, BEL will address the requirements as a prime contractor and Triton will provide the support as technology partner as per Make in India requirements. With this partnership, Triton aims to produce an innovative product “which will transform the Indian EV and ESS segment”.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 8

EMOBILITY+ INDIA

INSIGHTS:

Tata Motors Receives 98 Patents In 2020 Tata Motors announced that it had accelerated its drive for engineering excellence and innovation in 2020 by filing 80 and receiving 98 patents in 2020. These patents predominantly relate to the megatrend of CESS (connected, electrified, sustainable and safe) automobiles and encompass an eclectic mix of improvements in automotive electronics, noise vibration and harshness, conventional and advanced powertrain systems, and crash safety under various categories of Industrial Designs, Copyrights and Notarizations.

Ola Adopts Siemens’ Digital Enterprise To Build India’s Most Advanced Manufacturing Facility Ola announced that it has partnered with Siemens as it looks to rapidly build its upcoming electric vehicle manufacturing facility. This announcement comes on the heels of Ola’ s MoU with the government of Tamil Nadu to invest nearly INR 2, 400 Cr towards building this facility. The factory will generate almost 10, 000 jobs and with an initial capacity of 2 million units a year, it will be the largest scooter manufacturing facility in the world. It will serve as Ola’ s global manufacturing hub catering to its customers in India as well as key markets across Europe, UK, Latin America and ANZ. . It will have almost 5, 000 robots deployed across various functions. Ola will have access to Siemens’ integrated Digital Twin design and manufacturing solutions to digitize and validate product and production ahead of actual operations.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

Tata Motors Set To Launch ' Tata uniEVerse' To Enable EV Adoption Tata Motors recently announced the first anniversary celebrations of its popular electric SUV, the Tata Nexon EV. Since its launch a year ago, the Nexon EV has consistently grown in popularity to become India’ s highest-selling electric vehicle, commanding a market share of 64% (YTD FY21). Tata Motors has partnered with relevant Tata group companies to launch the ‘ Tata uniEVerse’ , an enabling ecosystem to catalyze the adoption of electric vehicles in India with thrust on local manufacturing of key components and development of supporting infrastructure. It has also established a robust process towards installing home chargers with Tata Power at the residence of every Nexon EV customer. Tata Power also has the largest network of CCS2 fast chargers (compatible with Nexon EV).

PG 9

EMOBILITY+ INDIA

INSIGHTS:

Three Electric Two-wheelers Launched By Earth Energy Earth Energy EV which is a Mumbai-based global automotive startup has forayed into the electric two-wheeler segment and launched 3 electric two-wheelers: Glyde +, Evolve R and Evolve X in the range starting from INR 92, 000INR 1, 42, 000. The start-up has launched the Glyde+ electric scooter, and two electric motorcycles - Evolve R and the Evolve X - all of which, the company says have been completely developed in India. The new range is 96 percent localized which was made possible by tying up with Indian OEMs and domestic auto part manufacturers, according to the company. Prices for Earth Energy' s range starts from ₹ 92, 000 for the Glyde+, going up to ₹ 1. 30 lakh for the Evolve R, and ₹ 1. 42 lakh for the Evolve X (all prices, on-road Mumbai).

Ampere Electric Strengthens The EV Dealership Network With The Launch Of 300th Outlet In Panvel, Maharashtra Ampere Electric strengthens its EV Dealership Network in the country with the opening of its 300th dealership outlet in Panvel, Maharashtra.

With this, Ampere has undertaken rapid retail expansion in the country with 80 dealership outlets added since easing of lockdown.

Ampere Electric has launched a series of highperforming electric 2-wheelers in the last 18 months and has emerged as one of India’ s most sought after EV brands with over 20% market share in the segment.

Ather Energy Shifts Production To Its New Facility In Hosur, Tamilnadu Ather Energy has started manufacturing electric scooters at its new plant in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. Since December 2020, the company had stopped production of Ather scooters at its Whitefield plant in Bengaluru.

Electric vehicles and Lithium-ion batteries will be manufactured here. Ather Energy is looking at a monthly production of around 3, 000 units initially from this new plant, which is planned to be expanded to 8, 000 units by early 2022. The Bengaluru plant production capacity averaged around 300 units a month. The company had entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu government in Dec 2019 for setting up the 4, 000 sqft plant. The company had committed INR 635 crore for this plant.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 10

EMOBILITY+ INDIA

BUZZ

Ampere Electric Appoints Roy Kurian as COO, E-mobility Business (2W&3W) Ampere Electric, a wholly-owned electric mobility subsidiary of Greaves Cotton Ltd. has announced the appointment of Roy Kurian as Chief Operating Officer (COO) to Head Emobility Business of electric 2-Wheelers and electric 3-Wheelers. Given Roy’ s rich industry experience, Ampere will benefit from his deep domain knowledge, strategic direction, and organizational efficiencies, which will help in accelerating the next level of growth for Ampere Electric. In the past year, Ampere Electric’ s 2&3-Wheelers segments have seen substantial growth both in terms of sales and improved livelihoods for drivers. Ampere Electric vehicles have superior designs and features, which are built to last and ensure passenger comfort. With each year, Ampere is becoming more conscious of the environment by adopting responsible and sustainable technology solutions. With its pan India presence coupled with a strong retail network, Ampere Electric has established itself as a fastgrowing player in the organized electric 2wheeler and electric 3-wheelers. Today, Ampere Electric has 300 dealerships (e-2W) in 230+ towns and cities in the country touching 75000 customers.

Tata Nexon EV ‘Mileage Challenge Rally’ In Pune Tata Motors organized a ‘ Mileage Challenge Rally’ for its Nexon EV customers in Pune recently. This unique initiative by Tata Motors was aimed at spreading awareness and busting myths surrounding EV’ s range anxiety. This specially curated rally was flagged off from Hotel Sayaji, covering a total distance of 100 km, spread across hours. The rally witnessed an overwhelming response with as many as 50 Nexon EV customers revving on the route with enthusiasm. Mr. Mukund Mavalankar, a proud

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

owner of Nexon EV and a resident from Baner, was declared as the winner for achieving the highest range i. e. 376 km. Organized for the first time, the Nexon EV Mileage challenge rally was a perfect opportunity for the EV owners and their families to get better acquainted with their electric car, learn new driving techniques, calculate the mileage per charge and also get recognized in the process.

Ola Electric In Plans To Raise $300 million After SoftBank Group Corp investment of $250 million( Rs 1, 725 crore), Ola Electric is in plans to raise $300 million from existing and new investors, multiple people aware of the development said. The funds are being raised as part of the company' s larger strategy to become a full-range, electric-vehicle maker by adding two-wheelers, three-wheelers and other modes of last-mile transport to its product portfolio. Recently Ola has set up the world’ s largest scooter factory in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, at an investment of Rs 2, 400 crore.

Tata Motors Launches The Altroz i-Turbo With iRA Tata Motors announced the launch of the iTurbo variant along with iRA-connected car technology for its premium hatchback, Altroz. iRA comes with 27 connected car features along with natural voice tech, through which the car understands commands not only in English or Hindi, but also in Hinglish.

Additionally, it is India’ s first hatchback to introduce What3Words technology – a precise & unique tool that makes navigation easier than before. Loaded with new tech and the 1. 2L turbocharged BS6 petrol engine, the Altroz iTurbo is launched in a new Harbour Blue colour, which is available on variants from XM+.

With power of 110 PS @ 5500 rpm, Altroz iTurbo provides a torque of 140 Nm @15005500 rpm which ensures an enjoyable drive experience.

PG 11

E-MOBILITY+ INDIA

Eight BharatBenz Models Unveiled By DICV Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) has expanded its product range and introduced eight new vehicles to its range of BharatBenz commercial vehicles which will target new segments such as FMCG, e-commerce, parcel, container applications and mines industry for deploying the vehicles as coal carriers. Six new trucks named as BSafe Express (reefer truck for transportation of vaccines), and two new buses were displayed by DICV. It has introduced COVID-19 prevention features across the entire portfolio, including infection-proof fabric seats, safety kits and disinfection fogging machines.

Ola Electric Scooter Testing Begins Ola Electric has started testing its electric scooter and it will be soon launched commercially. As per the reports, the scooter can go up to 100 kmph speed and have a range of 100 km in a single charge. The Ola scooter looks very similar to the Etergo AppScooter and it even gets the same unusual single telescopic front suspension. It is likely that we will get an updated version of this Etergo scooter, with changes made for our riding environment and also to keep costs low.

The e-scooter is expected to be priced competitively against the current petrol scooters. The company has planned an investment of INR 2400 cr to set-up a manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu to manufacture these electric scooters. The Ola Electric scooter launch in India is likely to happen in the second half of 2021.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

Escorts Becomes First company In India To Get Budni Certification For Electric Tractor Escorts Ltd, India’ s leading engineering conglomerate, Agri machinery Division (EAM) got certification from Central Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute, Budni for its Electric Tractor with the description “ESCORTS LIMITED, Farmtrac (26E) AGRICULTURE TRACTOR manufactured by M/s. Escorts Limited” that the same complies with the provision of Central Motor Vehicles rules, 1989.

They started export of these tractors in 2019 and now with this certification, will be launching in the domestic market too. Escorts limited is the first and the only company to receive the CMVR certificate (Central Motors vehicles rules, 1989) in India for the Electric Tractor.

TVS Motor iQube Electric Scooter Launched In Delhi TVS Motor Company launched iQube Electric scooter in New Delhi at an on-road price of INR 1, 08, 012 (post-FAME and Delhi state subsidies). TVS iQube Electric can be booked through the company website, and at select dealerships with a booking amount of INR 5, 000. Launched first in Bengaluru in January 2020, this electric scooter can accelerate 0 to 40 kmph in 4. 2 seconds. It is equipped with a 4. 4 kW electric motor and has a maximum speed of 78 kmph and traverses 75 km in full charge. It is embedded with the next-gen TVS SmartXonnect platform and an advanced TFT cluster and a TVS iQube app. The app offers multiple features such as geo-fencing, remote battery charge status, navigation assist, last park location, and incoming call alerts/SMS alerts, among others.

PG 12

E-MOBILITY+ INDIA

BUZZ

Ampere Electric Appoints Roy Kurian as COO, E-mobility Business (2W&3W) Ampere Electric, a wholly-owned electric mobility subsidiary of Greaves Cotton Ltd. has announced the appointment of Roy Kurian as Chief Operating Officer (COO) to Head Emobility Business of electric 2-Wheelers and electric 3-Wheelers. Given Roy’ s rich industry experience, Ampere will benefit from his deep domain knowledge, strategic direction, and organizational efficiencies, which will help in accelerating the next level of growth for Ampere Electric. In the past year, Ampere Electric’ s 2&3-Wheelers segments have seen substantial growth both in terms of sales and improved livelihoods for drivers. Ampere Electric vehicles have superior designs and features, which are built to last and ensure passenger comfort. With each year, Ampere is becoming more conscious of the environment by adopting responsible and sustainable technology solutions. With its pan India presence coupled with a strong retail network, Ampere Electric has established itself as a fastgrowing player in the organized electric 2wheeler and electric 3-wheelers. Today, Ampere Electric has 300 dealerships (e-2W) in 230+ towns and cities in the country touching 75000 customers.

Tata Nexon EV ‘Mileage Challenge Rally’ In Pune Tata Motors organized a ‘ Mileage Challenge Rally’ for its Nexon EV customers in Pune recently. This unique initiative by Tata Motors was aimed at spreading awareness and busting myths surrounding EV’ s range anxiety. This specially curated rally was flagged off from Hotel Sayaji, covering a total distance of 100 km, spread across hours. The rally witnessed an overwhelming response with as many as 50 Nexon EV customers revving on the route with enthusiasm. Mr. Mukund Mavalankar, a proud

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

owner of Nexon EV and a resident from Baner, was declared as the winner for achieving the highest range i. e. 376 km. Organized for the first time, the Nexon EV Mileage challenge rally was a perfect opportunity for the EV owners and their families to get better acquainted with their electric car, learn new driving techniques, calculate the mileage per charge and also get recognized in the process.

Ola Electric In Plans To Raise $300 million After SoftBank Group Corp investment of $250 million( Rs 1, 725 crore), Ola Electric is in plans to raise $300 million from existing and new investors, multiple people aware of the development said. The funds are being raised as part of the company' s larger strategy to become a full-range, electric-vehicle maker by adding two-wheelers, three-wheelers and other modes of last-mile transport to its product portfolio. Recently Ola has set up the world’ s largest scooter factory in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, at an investment of Rs 2, 400 crore.

Tata Motors Launches The Altroz i-Turbo With iRA Tata Motors announced the launch of the iTurbo variant along with iRA-connected car technology for its premium hatchback, Altroz. iRA comes with 27 connected car features along with natural voice tech, through which the car understands commands not only in English or Hindi, but also in Hinglish.

Additionally, it is India’ s first hatchback to introduce What3Words technology – a precise & unique tool that makes navigation easier than before. Loaded with new tech and the 1. 2L turbocharged BS6 petrol engine, the Altroz iTurbo is launched in a new Harbour Blue colour, which is available on variants from XM+.

With power of 110 PS @ 5500 rpm, Altroz iTurbo provides a torque of 140 Nm @15005500 rpm which ensures an enjoyable drive experience.

PG 13

INCONVERSATION

VIVEK GOSAIN GENERAL MANAGER MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING, M G MOTORS E Mo b i l i t y + i n t e r v i e we d Mr . Vi v e k Go s a i n , Ge n e r a l Ma n a g e r Ma n u f a c t u r i n g E n g i n e e r i n g , M G Mo t o r s a n d g o t s o me i n s i g h t s o n h o w t h e g o v e r n me n t c a n p l a y a n e f f e c t i v e r o l e i n g r e e n mo b i l i t y t r a n s i t i o n a n d wh a t a r e a s t h e i n d u s t r y mu s t f o c u s o n t o r e v i v e t h e s e c t o r . We a l s o g o t i n s i g h t s o n M G Mo t o r ’ s ma n u f a c t u r i n g technology adoptions and future g r o wt h p l a n s .

According to you, what are some important areas the industry should focus on post Covid?

Co v i d wa s a c h a l l e n g i n g e x p e r i e n c e wh i c h c o mp e l l e d t h e i n d u s t r y t o a d a p t t o t h e Ne w n o r ma l . To d a y t h e i n d u s t r y i s o n a r e v i v a l p a t h t o P r e Co v i d l e v e l .

F o l l o wi n g s h o u l d b e t h e a r e a s wh e r e I n d u s t r y s h o u l d f o c u s t o o v e r c o me t h e i mp a c t o f Co v i d 1 9 .

1. R e s t o r a t i o n o f S u p p l y c h a i n : Du e t o t h e d i s r u p t i o n i n t h e Va l u e c h a i n , t h e s u p p l y c h a i n h a d d r i e d u p a n d i mp a c t e d s ma l l a n d b i g Ma n u f a c t u r e r s , t h e r e b y i mp a c t i n g i n d u s t r i a l o u t p u t . I n d u s t r y ma y l o o k a t t h e c o n c e p t o f ‘ Co n n e c t e d v a l u e c h a i n ’ wh i c h i s o n e o f the key differentiators for an e f f i c i e n t ma n u f a c t u r i n g organization. Blockchain establishes end-to-end visibility in the entire value c h a i n wi t h i mp r o v e d d a t a integrity. It can easily connect s t a k e h o l d e r s , f r o m ma t e r i a l s u p p l i e r t o t h e e n d c u s t o me r , i n a d i g i t a l t h r e a d , wi t h o u t c o mp r o mi s i n g t h e d a t a

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

DUE TO THE DISRUPTION IN THE VALUE CHAIN, THE SUPPLY CHAIN HAD DRIED UP AND IMPACTED SMALL AND BIG MANUFACTURERS, THEREBY IMPACTING INDUSTRIAL OUTPUT. s e c u r i t y . Th i s wo u l d f a c i l i t a t e s e a ml e s s a n d mo s t e c o n o mi c a l s u p p l i e s t o t h e OE Ms / u s e r s .

2 .1. De p e n d e n c e o n S k i l l e d ma n p o we r - Du e t o L o c k d o wn t h e s k i l l e d a n d s e mi - s k i l l e d ma n p o we r we n t f o r a ma s s mi g r a t i o n l e a v i n g t h e i r wo r k l o c a t i o n s wh i c h c r e a t e d a v e r y b i g r o a d b l o c k i n r e s u mi n g t h e p r o d u c t i o n p o s t l o c k d o wn , t h e r e b y me e t i n g d e ma n d wi t h q u a l i t y we r e a f f e c t e d . Th i s e x p e r i e n c e h a s ma d e t h e Industry realize the potential of Di g i t a l i z a t i o n a n d s ma r t Ma n u f a c t u r i n g . Te c h n o l o g i e s like cloud -based data ma n a g e me n t , Bi g d a t a a n d AI and Industrial IoT are the need o f t h e h o u r . Th e u t mo s t p r i o r i t y o f t h e i n d u s t r y p o s t - COVI D i s t o i mp l e me n t d i g i t a l t r a n s f o r ma t i o n a n d t a k e s t r i d e t o wa r d s I n d u s t r y 4 . 0 . Th i s wi l l significantly reduce reliance o n t h e S k i l l e d ma n p o we r .

Please tell us how the government can play a role in effectively facilitating the transition towards green mobility Government does play a vital role in the transition towards green mobility. The government of India has undertaken multiple initiatives to promote manufacturing and adoption of electric vehicles in India. Government has framed Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India, (FAME India) policy. FAME 2 is offering incentives to manufacturers, who invest in developing electric vehicles and its components, including lithium-ion batteries and electric motors. The state governments are in the process to draft their EV policy and provide additional fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to manufacturers and buyers. . Charging Infrastructure is one of the key requirements for

Technologies like cloud -based data management, Big data and AI and Industrial IoT are the need of the hour. The utmost priority of the industry post-COVID is to implement digital transformation and take stride towards Industry 4.0.

PG 14

accelerated adoption of electric vehicles in India.

Also a strong mechanism for the disposal of the used battery is required for the completed cycle of the EV technology.

What are some latest manufacturing technologies being adopted at MG motors?

MG Motors has set up a New facility in the Erstwhile General Motors facility and has taken up green initiatives’ implementation as a responsibility towards the Environment and the Society. Basis our Global knowhow and basis country level Benchmarking, We have implemented LED and power saving lightings acrossour 170 Acres plant facility. MG Motor has installed energy efficient machines and Equipment like Friction conveyors which save power and are very efficient in operations. MGI has implemented an intelligent mix of Human resources with Scalable Automation wherever necessary, such as, Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Intelligent machines, Connected and Intelligent Plant floor systems under the ‘Smart Manufacturing’ concept. We have also installed Robots in such operations which are difficult to be executed by Man resources. Basically, we have done need based automations in our plant.

Some of the initiatives that MG India has taken are as under: Gender diversity of 35% plus and we ensure that any employee coming to the Plant gets a conducive work environment. Our Process lines have been laid out considering Employee Health and Safety without any Ergonomic hazards and Safe working.

MG tied up with MAX Ventilators, Vadodara and helped ramp up production volume to meet the high demand.

Under MG Seva during the pandemic, we have delivered foods, groceries etc. to many people throughout the Country.

We have customized and offered MG Hectors to local bodies to be used as Ambulance for Medical purposes On the industrial front we are supporting MSMEs and startups financially in this COVID situation under MG Developer and Grant 2.0 Program.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

What is your growth plan for this year 2021?

Our first offering of MG Hector has been very well accepted by the Customers and has been a huge success. Our second launch was an Electric Vehicle (EZS) which was also well accepted by the Customers.

In 2020, despite the Covid impact, we sold more vehicles than our Plan. While most of our competitors showcased negative growth, we continued to post a positive growth. For instance, in January,2021, we posted YoY growth of 15%.

We have a very ambitious target for 2021 which we plan to achieve through further diversification of our offerings to the Customers and through capacity enhancement. We want to reduce the waiting period of our vehicles.

In 2020, despite the Covid impact, we sold more vehicles than our Plan. While most of our competitors showcased negative growth, we continued to post a positive growth.

PG 16

How do you see India's EV sector evolving in the next 5 years?

As the call for Green mobility gets louder, I foresee a steady increase in the % penetration of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the overall Automotive industry.

In 2020, EV penetration of a 2.4 Million Automotive industry was 0.2% only. By 2025, it is expected to increase to 10% of estimated 3.7 Million vehicles. I believe that we are moving quickly towards a mobility regime where EVs become mainstream.”

Add to this the push on the Charging infrastructure by the Government and Private players, the forecast may increase furthermore.

In 2021 we expect to see at least 2-3 sub 4 metre EVs on Indian roads. These cars are expected to create the affordable segment for EVs, say around 8 to 10 Lac category.

On the commercial vehicle side, E-buses are expected to lead the category. The regulatory push will drive this category, rather than the Total Cost of Ownership. (TCO). I also expect this segment to be worth Rs 60 billion by FY25. Light Commercial Vehicles (<3.5 tonnes) in the EV category also make TCO sense and forecast about ~4% EV adoption in this segment by FY25, translating into an Rs 15 billion market opportunity.”

In 2020, EV penetration of a 2.4 Million Automotive industry was 0.2% only. By 2025, it is expected to increase to 10% of estimated 3.7 Million vehicles.

Two and three-wheelers category is also expected to join the Bandwagon of the electrification movement in India in the medium term.

According to a study, about 9 percent penetration is expected by FY25 in the two-wheeler segment. With the right macro environment, the number can further go up to 16 percent. It is expected that this segment will grow to be Rs 120 billion by FY25.

E-rickshaws have emerged as a large market in India.

A large part of this market is still unorganized and based on lead-acid batteries. However, this market is expected to rapidly shift to Li-ion and by FY25, with 40 percent of the e-rickshaws to be operating on Liion batteries.

On the commercial vehicle side, E-buses are expected to lead the category. The regulatory push will drive this category, rather than the Total Cost of Ownership. (TCO)

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 15

INCONVERSATION

SANDEEP BANGIA HEAD - EV & HOME AUTOMATION, TATA POWER I n a n e x c l u s i v e c o n v e r s a t i o n wi t h E Mo b i l i t y + , Mr . S a n d e e p Ba n g i a , He a d - E V & Ho me Au t o ma t i o n , T a t a P o we r s p o k e a b o u t h o w t h e y e a r 2 0 2 0 wa s f o r t h e c o mp a n y a n d t h e r e c e n t wo r k d o n e u n d e r t h e i r E Z c h a r g e b r a n d . He a l s o spoke about the state of the art technology being used in the charging business and the c o mp a n y ’ s r o b u s t f u t u r e expansion plans.

How has the year 2020 been for Tata Power especially as this has been the pandemic year? Any key learnings?

F r o m t h e E V Ch a r g i n g b u s i n e s s perspective: S i n c e E V Ch a r g i n g b u s i n e s s i s a n e w b u s i n e s s , t h e p a n d e mi c p e r i o d a l l o we d o u r p r o s p e c t i v e c u s t o me r s / l o c a t i o n p a r t n e r s s o me b a n d wi d t h f r o m t h e r e g u l a r b u s i n e s s r o u t i n e t o s p e n d t i me and understand the advantages of putting up EV chargers at their locations – enhanced foot falls and a progressive ‘eco-friendly i ma g e ’ f o r t h e i r b u s i n e s s e s .

COVI D r e l a t e d p a n d e mi c a c t u a l l y increased the consciousness a r o u n d s u s t a i n a b l e l i f e s t y l e . We have seen pristine air quality d u r i n g COVI D i n d u c e d l o c k d o wn s a n d p e o p l e h a v e realised that such a pristine e n v i r o n me n t c a n b e s u s t a i n e d i f t a i l p i p e e mi s s i o n s a r e e l i mi n a t e d o r r e d u c e d . Th i s h a s b o o s t e d t h e interest in electric vehicles and h e n c e c h a r g i n g . S o p e o p l e we r e keen to understand and subsequently appreciated the EV e c o s y s t e m a n d wh a t i t c a n d o f o r our polluted urban landscape.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

"WE ARE CURRENTLY PRESENT IN 60 CITIES AND WILL SOON BE AVAILABLE IN 100 CITIES AND ARE COMMITTED TO WORKING WITH THE AUTO-MAKERS"

Tata power is one of the early movers to develop EV infrastructure in India. Please highlight the recent work done in this space under the brand EZ charge.

Ta t a P o we r i s a 1 0 0 y r + o l d c o mp a n y wi t h p r e s e n c e a n d e x p e r t i s e i n a l l d o ma i n s o f t h e e n e r g y v a l u e c h a i n .

S o , mo v i n g i n t o E V c h a r g i n g wa s t h e mo s t l o g i c a l l i n e o f b u s i n e s s f o r u s t o b e i n . E Vs h a v e j u s t b e g u n a p p e a r i n g o n t h e I n d i a n l a n d s c a p e a n d we have a very focussed plan to set up EV charging infrastructure in India.

We h a v e a l r e a d y c o mmi s s i o n e d close to 400 chargers and these chargers are located across c o mme r c i a l b u i l d i n g s , p u b l i c p l a c e s , h i g h wa y s a n d o t h e r s i mi l a r l o c a t i o n s .

I n a d d i t i o n t o t h i s , we h a v e a t i e - u p wi t h MG Mo t o r , J a g u a r L a n d Ro v e r & Ta t a Mo t o r s f o r s e t t i n g u p c h a r g i n g stations for them as also for their c u s t o me r s ’ h o me c h a r g i n g r e q u i r e me n t s . We a r e n o w f o c u s s i n g o n k e y h i g h - t r a f f i c h i g h wa y l o c a t i o n s for deploying our charging stations a n d a r e c o mmi s s i o n i n g n e w f a s t c h a r g e r s a t a r a p i d p a c e . I n f a c t , we are also doing a turnkey project for BE S T’ s a n d AJ L ’ s e l e c t r i c b u s f l e e t i n Mu mb a i & Ah me d a b a d r e s p e c t i v e l y .

Th i s i n v o l v e s s e t t i n g u p t h e e n t i r e electrical, civil and charging infrastructure for their electric buses.

Could you tell us how Tata Power is deploying state of the art technology in its EV charging business?

Ap a r t f r o m t h e c h a r g e r i t s e l f , t h e r e a r e 2 mo r e k e y c o mp o n e n t s o f t h e c h a r g i n g business.

1. E x p e r t i s e i n Gr i d Ma n a g e me n t 2. Di g i t a l P l a t f o r m f o r operations.

T a t a P o we r ’ s e x p e r i e n c e , e x p e r t i s e a n d c r e d i b i l i t y i n Gr i d ma n a g e me n t i s o f a v e r y h i g h o r d e r , wo r l d - c l a s s i f I c a n s a y .

F o r t h e Di g i t a l P l a t f o r m p a r t , we a r e i n v e s t i n g a l o t o f mo n e y i n setting up the platform and l o a d i n g i t u p wi t h a l o t o f ‘ f u t u r e r e a d y ’ f e a t u r e s . Ap a r t f r o m j u s t L o c a t e – Na v i g a t e – Ch a r g e – P a y , we a r e h a v i n g s p e c i f i c functionalities for route ma n a g e me n t f o r i n d i v i d u a l s , f o r fleets – both corporate & shared a n d s i mi l a r s u c h f e a t u r e s . E g : o u r platform is ready to take a d v a n t a g e o f t h e ‘ T i me o f Da y ’ c h a r g i n g wh e n e v e r s u c h a f e a t u r e i s o f f e r e d b y DI S COMs .

PG 17

Please help our readers understand what are the major challenges faced during setting up charging infrastructure and how you mitigate them.

Th e c h a l l e n g e s a r e ma i n l y t o d o wi t h identifying the locations and thereafter e x p l a i n i n g t o t h e l o c a t i o n o wn e r s t h e advantage of setting up a charging station a t t h e i r p r e mi s e s . He n c e , t h i s i s s o me t h i n g t h a t we a r e ‘ e v a n g e l i s i n g ’ a n d i n v e s t i n g t h a t t i me t o e d u c a t e t h e s t a k e h o l d e r s . I a m g l a d that things are also changing and new l a u n c h e s o f E V’ s a n d E V c h a r g i n g h a s ma d e inroads in our living room conversations.

We are now focussing on key high-traffic highway locations for deploying our charging stations and are commissioning new fast chargers at a rapid pace.

Kindly highlight your aggressive and robust future expansion plans across the country.

We a r e c u r r e n t l y p r e s e n t i n 6 0 c i t i e s a n d wi l l s o o n b e a v a i l a b l e i n 1 0 0 c i t i e s a n d a r e c o mmi t t e d t o wo r k i n g wi t h t h e a u t o - ma k e r s e s p e c i a l l y t h o s e wi t h wh o m we h a v e a t i e u p wi t h t o l e a d t h e c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e s o t h a t wh e n t h e y s t a r t s e l l i n g t h e i r v e h i c l e s our public charging infrastructure is already present.

Tata Power is a 100yr+ old company with presence and expertise in all domains of the energy value chain. So, moving into EV charging was the most logical line of business for us to be in."

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 18

PERSPECTIVE CURRENT EV MANUFACTURING INFRASTRUCTURE IN INDIA:

EVOLUTION, CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

In India, the automobile industry is one of the primary segments driving economic growth; and at the same time, one of the principal contributors to pollution and rising health concerns. The government has set its sights firmly on making India a nation chiefly running on electric transportation. But to achieve this, electric vehicles (EVs) have to make their place despite their share of challenges in terms of manufacturing infrastructure and also the opportunities they can bring in. When it comes to the manufacturing sector, EVs do present umpteen opportunities.

Read on as our experts provide deep insights into how the EV manufacturing sector has evolved over the years in our country along with the challenges and opportunities it brings to the forefront. . .

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 19

PANKAJ TIWARI CMO, NEXZU MOBILITY

Th e f u t u r e o f t h e a u t o mo b i l e i n d u s t r y i s f i r ml y h i n g e d u p o n e l e c t r i c mo b i l i t y . Th i s b e a r s o u t , i n e q u a l me a s u r e , i n t h e c o n c e r t e d e f f o r t s o f t h e ma n u f a c t u r i n g s e c t o r and the various policies being introduced by the g o v e r n me n t . Ve r y r e c e n t l y , t h e g o v e r n me n t a n n o u n c e d i t s i n t e n t i o n o f t r a n s f o r mi n g I n d i a i n t o a 3 0 % e l e c t r i c mo b i l i t y - l e d c o u n t r y b y 2 0 3 0 . Th i s i s a r e a l i s t i c a n d e a s i l y - a c h i e v a b l e g o a l f o r I n d i a , wi t h a wa r e n e s s r e g a r d i n g E Vs i s g r o wi n g r a p i d l y . Ho we v e r , c e r t a i n challenges need to be addressed in order to ensure t h a t t h e r e a r e n o i mp e d i me n t s t o t h e j o u r n e y t o wa r d s t h e f u t u r e o f mo b i l i t y .

THE EVOLUTI ON OF I NDI A’ S EV SPACE

I n d i a ’ s e l e c t r i c mo b i l i t y s t o r y i s a s i mp r e s s i v e a s i t i s i n s p i r a t i o n a l . Th e v e r y f i r s t c o n c r e t e mo v e t o wa r d s E V a d o p t i o n wa s t h e g o v e r n me n t ’ s d e c i s i o n t o i n c e n t i v i z e E V ma n u f a c t u r e r s i n 2 0 1 0 wi t h t h e I NR 9 5 c r o r e s c h e me l a u n c h e d b y t h e Mi n i s t r y o f Ne w a n d Re n e wa b l e E n e r g y ( MNRE ) . I d e n t i f y i n g t h e n e e d f o r a l t e r n a t i v e mo b i l i t y d u e t o t h e r i s i n g p o l l u t i o n c r i s i s , t h e g o v e r n me n t continued to take favorable policy decisions such as t h e Na t i o n a l E l e c t r i c Mo b i l i t y Mi s s i o n 2 0 2 0 l a u n c h e d i n 2012 to launch subsidies and bolster infrastructure or t h e d o ma i n - d e f i n i n g F AME - I I p o l i c y wh i c h l a i d d o wn a n o u t l a y o f I NR 1 0 , 0 0 0 Cr o r e s t o e n c o u r a g e E V a d o p t i o n i n t h e c o u n t r y . I n 2 0 1 9 , t h e g o v e r n me n t a n n o u n c e d a s o f t e r , mo r e p r a g ma t i c , a n d p h a s e - wi s e a p p r o a c h t o E V a d o p t i o n wi t h a f o c u s o n t h e mo s t p o l l u t e d u r b a n centers of the country.

Wi t h t a r g e t e d p o l i c i e s a n d u n wa v e r i n g i n t e n t , t h e c o u n t r y i s ma r c h i n g t o wa r d s b e c o mi n g a n E V - l e d n a t i o n . Wh a t , t h e n , i s s l o wi n g d o wn t h i s p a c e ? T h e ma j o r c h a l l e n g e s h o l d i n g u s b a c k l i e i n t h e h i g h u p f r o n t c o s t s o f E Vs a n d t h e l a c k o f c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e .

E Vs a r e c o n s i d e r e d h i g h - p r i c e d v e h i c l e s s i n c e k e y parts – such as the batteries – have thus far been i mp o r t e d f r o m f o r e i g n c o u n t r i e s . Mo r e o v e r , wi t h a l a c k of proper infrastructure, the adoption at scale cannot be expected.

ADDRESSI NG THE NEED- GAP WI TH SEL F RELI ANCE

F o r t u n a t e l y , n e w- a g e E V ma n u f a c t u r e r s h a v e i d e n t i f i e d the solution to the long-standing challenges in the s e c t o r . I n t h e ’ 8 0 s , wh e n I n d i a b e g a n l o o k i n g a t a r e a s s u c h a s mi c r o a n d r e g i o n a l mo b i l i t y , we q u i c k l y mo v e d f r o m i mp o r t s t o l o c a l e c o s y s t e m d e v e l o p me n t f o r a u t o mo t i v e ma n u f a c t u r i n g . L o n g s t o r y s h o r t , I n d i a b e c a me a ma j o r a u t o mo t i v e ma n u f a c t u r i n g a n d e x p o r t h u b a n d f o u n d a p l a c e a mo n g t h e t o p t e n a u t o mo b i l e ma r k e t s i n t h e wo r l d .

Th e a n s we r t o o u r p r o b l e ms , t h e r e f o r e , l i e s i n b e c o mi n g s e l f - r e l i a n t o r , a s o u r g o v e r n me n t h a s r e c e n t l y p u t i t , i n b e c o mi n g a n At ma Ni r b h a r B h a r a t .

Th e j o u r n e y t o wa r d s ma k i n g ma s s mo b i l i t y s u s t a i n a b l e f o r i n d i v i d u a l s , b u s i n e s s e s , a n d t h e p l a n e t , wi l l s t e m f r o m l o c a l i z a t i o n i n t e r ms o f r a w ma t e r i a l , c o mp o n e n t ma n u f a c t u r i n g a s we l l a s d i s t r i b u t i o n .

A r e c e n t r e p o r t c o mp i l e d b y t h e Ce n t r e f o r E n e r g y F i n a n c e ( CE E W- CE F ) me n t i o n e d t h a t I n d i a ’ s e l e c t r i c v e h i c l e ma r k e t c o u l d b e wo r t h $ 2 0 6 b i l l i o n i n t e n y e a r s i f we a c h i e v e o u r 2 0 3 0 E V g o a l . Al l s t a k e h o l d e r s o f t h e E V i n d u s t r y a r e n o w c o mi n g t o g e t h e r t o f o r g e p a r t n e r s h i p s wi t h l o c a l s u p p l i e r s a n d OE Ms , t o ma k e t h i s p r o j e c t i o n o u r f u t u r e r e a l i t y . I n l i n e wi t h t h e Ma k e I n I n d i a mo v e me n t , t h e n e w- a g e E V i n d u s t r y i s a l l s e t t o expand capabilities, reduce costs, bolster adoption a n d e l e c t r i f y mo b i l i t y s o o n e r t h a n e v e r i ma g i n e d .

The answer to our problems, therefore, lies in becoming self-reliant or, as our government has recently put it, in becoming an Atma Nirbhar Bharat.

The journey towards making mass mobility sustainable for individuals, businesses, and the planet, will stem from localization in terms of raw material, component manufacturing as well as distribution.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 20

DHEERAJ CHAWLA, BUSINESS HEAD- EVCS, DELTA ELECTRONICS INDIA PVT LTD

I n t h e s i t u a t i o n o f COVI D- 1 9 p a n d e mi c , E V ma r k e t s a r e expecting a drop in sales. For the EV charging industry, t h i s wi l l i n e v i t a b l y l e a d t o a s l o we r ma r k e t i n t h e c o mi n g y e a r s , wi t h I HS Ma r k e t a n t i c i p a t e s wi l l l a s t u p t o 5 y e a r s .

Mo r e o v e r , a r e d u c t i o n i n E V p r o d u c t i o n a n d a d o p t i o n wi l l b e a s i g n i f i c a n t c o n t r i b u t o r t o t h e s l o wd o wn i n E V c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e d e v e l o p me n t . Th i s wi l l l i k e l y h a v e a c o mp o u n d i n g e f f e c t , a s k e y i n f r a s t r u c t u r e i s critical in purchase decisions for people seeking to s wi t c h f r o m c o mb u s t i o n e n g i n e s t o E Vs , a n d t h i s h e s i t a t i o n b y t h e ma r k e t ma y f u r t h e r d e l a y t h e e s t a b l i s h me n t o f n e w E V c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e .

Ho we v e r , i n v e s t me n t i n E V c h a r g i n g s t a r t u p s i s s h o wi n g s o me g r o wt h , wi t h t h e l o n g - t e r m v i e w t h a t g r o wt h wi l l p i c k u p ma r k e d l y i n t h e n e x t 3 t o 7 y e a r s . On e k e y i n v e s t me n t a r e a h a s b e e n f a s t - c h a n g i n g t e c h n o l o g i e s , wh i c h , i n c o mb i n a t i o n wi t h t h e c o s t o f E Vs b e i n g expected to drop below that of vehicles that run on other greener fuels such as gas, should lead to an increase in EV adoption. It is also likely that this chain o f e v e n t s wi l l s e e a u t o i n d u s t r i e s b e c o me i n c r e a s i n g l y mo r e i n t e r t wi n e d wi t h t h e e l e c t r i c g r i d s e c t o r .

The European Green Deal, which focuses on developing green industries, has set out to see installation of 1 million charging points across the continent.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

GREEN RECOVERY PLAN AND I NVESTMENT AROUND THE WORLD

Go v e r n me n t s a r o u n d t h e wo r l d a r e a l s o i mp l e me n t i n g p o l i c i e s t o e n c o u r a g e t h e s a l e o f E Vs a n d f u r t h e r d e v e l o p me n t o f E V c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e . T h e E u r o p e a n Gr e e n De a l , wh i c h f o c u s e s o n d e v e l o p i n g green industries, has set out to see installation of 1 mi l l i o n c h a r g i n g p o i n t s a c r o s s t h e c o n t i n e n t . Dr a f t d o c u me n t s f r o m t h e E u r o p e a n Un i o n s h o w t h a t c o u n t r i e s wi l l b e f u r t h e r i n c e n t i v i z i n g E V ma n u f a c t u r e r s t o p r o d u c e c l e a n e r c a r s a n d i n v e s t o r s t o p u t mo n e y into EV charging infrastructure.

I n a d d i t i o n t o i n v e s t i n g o v e r US $ 1 . 4 b i l l i o n t o e x p a n d EV charging infrastructure by 50% in 2020 and e x e mp t i n g p u r c h a s e t a x o n n e w E Vs , Ch i n a ’ s g o v e r n me n t i s a l s o ma k i n g e f f o r t s t o s t i mu l a t e t h e E V ma r k e t a n d e s t a b l i s h i t s e l f a s a wo r l d l e a d e r i n g r e e n e r vehicles by extending subsidies on new EV purchases until 2022.

KEY DEVELOPMENTS I N COMMERCI AL AND HOME EV CHARGI NG I NFRASTRUCTURE

Re g a r d l e s s o f t h e f a c t wh e t h e r t h e p r e d i c t i o n s surrounding an increase or decrease of EV adoption a r e t r u e o r n o t , t h e k e y p o i n t r e ma i n s t h a t E V c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e mu s t b e s i g n i f i c a n t l y d e v e l o p e d t o s u p p o r t f u t u r e E V a d o p t i o n . Th e e x p e c t e d s l o wd o wn i n E V p u r c h a s e s o v e r t h e n e x t f e w y e a r s j u s t mi g h t we l l be the perfect opportunity for charging infrastructure t o u n d e r g o f u r t h e r d e v e l o p me n t s o t h a t i t c a n p r o v i d e better support to any future increase in EV adoption.

P r o v i d i n g E V o wn e r s wi t h a f a s t e r c h a r g e e x p e r i e n c e , l o we r i n g p o we r d e ma n d f r o m t h e g r i d , a n d e s t a b l i s h i n g u p g r a d a b l e c h a r g i n g e q u i p me n t a r e c e n t r a l t o f u t u r e proofing EV charging infrastructure.

PG 21

MR. AMIT TYAGI BUSINESS HEAD- EMOBILITY, PHOENIX CONTACT (INDIA) PVT LTD

I f t h e r e h a s b e e n o n e g o o d t h i n g a b o u t t h e p a n d e mi c t h a t t h e wo r l d wi t n e s s e d i n 2 0 2 0 - i t i s t h e s u d d e n d r o p i n t h e a i r p o l l u t i o n l e v e l s . E mi s s i o n s f e l l d r a s t i c a l l y , s k i e s c l e a r e d , a n d e v e r y o n e e mb r a c e d n a t u r e i n i t s p u r e s t f o r m! As COVI D- 1 9 s u b s i d e s a n d I n d i a e n t e r s t h e n e x t n o r ma l , we f i n d t h e s a me v e h i c u l a r c o n g e s t i o n i n s p r a wl i n g me t r o p o l i t a n r e g i o n s l e a d i n g t o c a t a s t r o p h i c pollution levels again.

I NI TI AL STEPS: EVOLVI NG OF EV LANDS CAPE I N I NDI A

S p e a k i n g o f s u s t a i n a b i l i t y , e - Mo b i l i t y h a s a b i g s h a r e o f r e s p o n s i b i l i t y i n c r e a t i n g a ma j o r s h i f t i n I n d i a . E v e n t h o u g h E V ma r k e t p e n e t r a t i o n i s o n l y 1 % o f t h e o v e r a l l ma r k e t , t h e s i l v e r l i n i n g i s t h a t t h e r e i s c o n s i d e r a b l e h e a d r o o m f o r g r o wt h . Al s o , I n d i a i s o n e o f t h e l e a d i n g p l a y e r s g l o b a l l y i n u n i t E V s a l e s ; t h u s , a n y mo v e me n t i n E V v o l u me s i s l i k e l y t o h a v e a l a r g e i mp a c t o n g l o b a l E V penetration.

I NDI AN POLI CY FRAMEWORK: ENABL I NG EV GROWTH

P o l i c y ma k e r s i n I n d i a h a v e b e e n a c t i v e l y p u s h i n g E V Ad o p t i o n i n r e c e n t p a s t . NI TI Aa y o g i s p o s i t i v e t h a t F a s t e r Ad o p t i o n a n d Ma n u f a c t u r i n g o f Hy b r i d E l e c t r i c Ve h i c l e s ( F AME I I ) a n d o t h e r s u p p o r t i n g p o l i c i e s wi l l push EV penetration to 30% for private cars, 70% for c o mme r c i a l c a r s , 4 0 % f o r b u s e s a n d 8 0 % f o r 2 Ws a n d 3 Ws b y 2 0 3 0 . Wi t h t h e r e c e n t a n n o u n c e me n t s b y t h e g o v e r n me n t t o s e t u p E V k i o s k s a c r o s s 6 9 , 0 0 0 p e t r o l s t a t i o n s i n t h e c o u n t r y a n d p e r mi t s a l e s a n d r e g i s t r a t i o n o f E Vs wi t h o u t b a t t e r i e s c a n g i v e a b o o s t t o t h e s e c t o r & e n c o u r a g e c o mp o n e n t s ma n u f a c t u r e r s t o i n v e s t i n i t .

Wi t h t h e r e c e n t Bu d g e t 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 An n o u n c e me n t , E V ma n u f a c t u r e r s h a v e a s k e d f o r a n e x t e n s i o n o f t h e F AME - I I s c h e me f o r t wo mo r e y e a r s . Th i s c a n s p u r d e v e l o p me n t a n d g r o wt h i n t h e e n t i r e s e c t o r t h a t c a n help to get to the goal sooner than expected.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

ON THE WAY TO ELECTRI C FUTURE: CURRENT ROADBLOCKS

E v e n t h o u g h t h e r e i s a c o mp e l l i n g c a s e f o r a d o p t i o n , t h e s u c c e s s o f E Vs s o f a r i s c o n s t r a i n e d b y we a k c u s t o me r a p p e t i t e a n d i n f r a s t r u c t u r e r o a d b l o c k s .

Du e t o t h e p a n d e mi c , t h e l a u n c h o f n e w E V s i s delayed, and disruption in the supply chain of c o mp o n e n t s wa s a l s o r e p o r t e d . As mo s t l o c a l i z a t i o n p r o j e c t s a r e d e l a y e d , S I AM’ s r e q u e s t t o t h e Go v e r n me n t f o r t h e e x t e n s i o n o f t h e F AME - I I s c h e me & P MP p r o g r a m c a n b e g r e a t we l c o me s t e p s .

Al s o , wi t h c u r r e n t E V c o n c e r n s s u c h u p f r o n t c o s t s , r a n g e a n x i e t y , l o n g c h a r g i n g t i me s , mi n i ma l c h a r g i n g stations, speed, battery reliability, and battery technology - EV is a technology-intensive industry and i s a l o n g - t e r m g a me . He n c e , r e s e a r c h a n d d e v e l o p me n t s u p p o r t i n g E V wi t h Co n s i s t e n t p o l i c y s u p p o r t wo u l d also be critical.

EMBRACE CHANGE: WELCOME ELECTRI C VEHI CLE ADOPTI ON

As t h e g l o b a l s u p p l y c h a i n s h i f t s f o r ma n y a u t o c o mp a n i e s a c r o s s t h e wo r l d , we a r e h o p e f u l t h a t I n d i a c a n s wi f t l y e me r g e a s t h e wo r l d ’ s n e x t a u t o ma n u f a c t u r i n g h u b . K e e p i n g i n mi n d t h e c o u n t r y ’ s mi s s i o n – At ma n i r b h a r Bh a r a t ( s e l f - r e l i a n t I n d i a ) , i t i s t h e r i g h t t i me f o r a r e n e we d f o c u s o n l o c a l i z a t i o n o n e v e r y b u s i n e s s f r o n t – a me a s u r e t h a t c o u l d h e l p t h e a u t o i n d u s t r y o v e r c o me i t s c u r r e n t s u p p l y c h a i n i s s u e s .

PG 22

NISHANT ARYA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, JBM GROUP

E l e c t r i c mo b i l i t y i s e v o l v i n g a s a s u s t a i n a b l e a l t e r n a t i v e t o a d d r e s s t h e e v e r - e x p a n d i n g t r a v e l r e q u i r e me n t s . T h e Go v e r n me n t o f I n d i a i s a k e y f a c i l i t a t o r f o r i g n i t i n g t h e a d o p t i o n o f e l e c t r i c v e h i c l e s f o r ma s s t r a n s p o r t a t i o n .

Th e F AME p o l i c y wa s l a u n c h e d u n d e r t h e a e g i s o f t h e Mi n i s t r y o f He a v y I n d u s t r i e s t o p r o v i d e a n e c o s y s t e m o f electric vehicles, key electric aggregates, charging i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , s k i l l e d ma n p o we r a n d e d u c a t i o n t o a l l s t a k e h o l d e r s u n d e r t i me b o u n d p r o j e c t s . I n d i a i s s wi f t l y c a t c h i n g u p i n t h e e - mo b i l i t y s p a c e , a n d g i v e n i t s p o t e n t i a l , i s a l l s e t t o b e t h e l a r g e s t E V ma r k e t g l o b a l l y .

F AME I I p o l i c y h a s b e e n c o mp r e h e n s i v e l y d e s i g n e d p o s t t h e l e a r n i n g s f r o m t h e i mp l e me n t a t i o n o f F AME 1 .

Un d e r F AME - I I , t h e I n d i a n g o v e r n me n t h a s o u t l i n e d a s p e n d i n g o f Rs . 1 0 , 0 0 0 c r o r e a n d Rs . 1 , 0 0 0 c r o r e h a s b e e n e a r ma r k e d f o r d e p l o y me n t o f c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e f r o m 2 0 1 9 t o 2 0 2 2 . Th e g o v e r n me n t ’ s p r o p o s a l t o s e t u p a Na t i o n a l Mi s s i o n o n Tr a n s f o r ma t i v e Mo b i l i t y a n d Ba t t e r y S t o r a g e t o p r o mo t e c l e a n & c o n n e c t e d t e c h n o l o g y s h a l l p r o v i d e i mp e t u s t o a sustainable EV infrastructure in India.

wo r k i n g o n a p o l i c y t o i n s t i t u t i o n a l i s e r e s e a r c h a n d d e v e l o p me n t t o e n s u r e a s t r o n g e r ma n u f a c t u r i n g b a s e f o r E V' s , i t i s j u s t a ma t t e r o f t i me wh e n I n d i a wi l l h a v e i t s E V g a me s t r o n g .

At J BM, o u r a p p r o a c h t o wa r d s E Vs h a s b e e n h o l i s t i c i n nature foreseeing end to end EV solutions as a c o mp l e t e s o l u t i o n t o t h e c u s t o me r s . Th i s h a s e n s u r e d sustainability and scalability across all our various b u s i n e s s v e r t i c a l s , b e i t a u t o s y s t e ms & a s s e mb l i e s , buses and electric vehicles, EV charging infrastructure a n d r e n e wa b l e s .

Th e g r o u p i s c o n s c i o u s l y wo r k i n g t o wa r d s d e v e l o p i n g i n - h o u s e , e n d t o e n d c a p a b i l i t i e s i n t h e e - mo b i l i t y d o ma i n r i g h t f r o m g e n e r a t i o n t o t h e c o n s u mp t i o n o f g r e e n e n e r g y i n p o we r i n g e - v e h i c l e s .

We u n d e r s t a n d t h a t t h e r e a r e c h a l l e n g e s t o b e o v e r c o me b u t wi t h a l mo s t a l l ma j o r OE Ms p u t t i n g i n t h e i r b e s t s y n e r g i e s f o r wa r d i n d e v e l o p i n g E V s a n d t h e s u p p o r t i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , we a r e s u r e t h a t t h e s e c h a l l e n g e s wi l l b e a t h i n g o f t h e p a s t v e r y s o o n . T h e i n d u s t r y i s wo r k i n g t o wa r d s a c h i e v i n g t h e s a me a s a c o h e s i v e u n i t wi t h t h e s u p p o r t o f t h e g o v e r n me n t .

Ho we v e r , a n y n e w s h i f t i n t h e e c o s y s t e m d o e s n o t c o me wi t h o u t i t s s e t o f c h a l l e n g e s . S i mi l a r l y , i n t h e e l e c t r i c v e h i c l e s s e g me n t , t h e r e a r e c h a l l e n g e s i n t h e f o r m o f h i g h e r c a p i t a l c o s t f o r ma n u f a c t u r i n g , e x p e n s i v e b a t t e r i e s a n d c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e . Th e c o s t o f batteries is a huge percentage of the vehicle cost, as c u r r e n t l y ma n u f a c t u r e r s a r e i mp o r t i n g t h e s e b a t t e r i e s .

Ho we v e r , wi t h a r o b u s t e c o - s y s t e m t h a t s u p p o r t s t h e u s a g e o f e l e c t r i c v e h i c l e s a n d wi t h s t r o n g g o v e r n me n t policy on setting up of charging infrastructure, these c h a l l e n g e s wi l l s o o n t r a n s l a t e i n t o o p p o r t u n i t i e s .

Co mme r c i a l v e h i c l e s , e s p e c i a l l y i n p u b l i c t r a n s p o r t a t i o n , h a v e b e e n wi t n e s s i n g t h e d e p l o y me n t o f e - v e h i c l e s a t a mu c h - p r e f e r r e d p a c e c o mp a r e d t o P V ' s .

Ho we v e r , t h e ma j o r o b s t a c l e s i n a c h i e v i n g a h i g h e r pace have been the absence of indigenous technology a n d h i g h c o s t s . To d a y , mo s t o f t h e c o mp o n e n t s s u c h a s b a t t e r y c e l l s , mo t o r s a n d c o n t r o l l e r s a r e i mp o r t e d , b u t d o me s t i c ma n u f a c t u r e r s a r e wo r k i n g h a n d i n h a n d wi t h t h e g o v e r n me n t t o l o c a l i s e t h e s e c r i t i c a l a g g r e g a t e s i n India.

F u r t h e r , t h e d e v e l o p me n t o f b a t t e r y t e c h n o l o g i e s f o r e l e c t r i c v e h i c l e s , l i k e me t a l - i o n , me t a l - a i r , h y d r o g e n f u e l c e l l , e t c . , t o r e p l a c e l i t h i u m- i o n b a t t e r i e s wi t h i n t h e country can reduce India’s dependence on other c o u n t r i e s f o r i t s i mp o r t . Wh i l e t h e g o v e r n me n t i s a l r e a d y

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 23

PERSPECTIVE

PLI SCHEME: HOW CAN IT PLAY A CRITICAL ROLE IN BOOSTING THE EV MANUFACTURING SECTOR?

The government approved the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme recently in a bold move. The scheme' s battery policy aims to make manufacturers globally competitive, boost exports, achieve economies of scale and produce cutting edge products. With this, the EV industry is likely to get a strong impetus given the issues of high battery costs and lack of supporting infrastructure that the industry faced earlier. Indian companies generally import batteries, which account for more than half the cost of an EV. The government has proposed the building of local manufacturing facilities, seeking to reduce the cost and encourage competition. So, how will this scheme prove beneficial to the EV industry. We asked this question to our experts and here is what they said. . .

RAKESH CHOPRA, MD, REIL

As p a r t o f t h e Na t i o n a l E l e c t r i c Mo b i l i t y Mi s s i o n P l a n ( NE MMP ) 2 0 2 0 , t h e De p a r t me n t o f He a v y I n d u s t r y f o r mu l a t e d a S c h e me v i z . F a s t e r Ad o p t i o n a n d Ma n u f a c t u r i n g o f ( Hy b r i d &) E l e c t r i c Ve h i c l e s i n I n d i a ( F AME I n d i a ) S c h e me i n t h e y e a r 2 0 1 5 t o p r o mo t e ma n u f a c t u r i n g o f e l e c t r i c & h y b r i d v e h i c l e t e c h n o l o g y a n d t o e n s u r e s u s t a i n a b l e g r o wt h o f t h e s a me .

We a r e g l a d t o s e e t h e g o v e r n me n t ’ s c o n t i n u e d f o c u s o n At ma Ni r b h a r Bh a r a t a n d Ma k e i n I n d i a i n t h e Un i o n Bu d g e t o f 2 0 2 1 . Th e g o v e r n me n t ' s P r o d u c t i o n - L i n k e d I n c e n t i v e ( P L I ) s c h e me , i mp l e me n t e d t o b o o s t ma n u f a c t u r i n g wi t h i n I n d i a , wi l l c o v e r a t o t a l o f 1 3 s e c t o r s i n c l u d i n g E V ma n u f a c t u r i n g wi t h a n o u t l a y o f ₹1.97 lakh crore over 5 years, starting from financial y e a r 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 . Th e P L I S c h e me i s t o c r e a t e a n d n u r t u r e g l o b a l c h a mp i o n s i n t h e Au t o S e c t o r u n d e r At ma Ni r b h a r Bh a r a t Ab h i y a n . Th e s c h e me i s a n n o u n c e d wi t h FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

an ai m to enhance Indi a’ s Manufacturi ng Capabi li ti es and exports i n automobi le and i ts components sector.

As vehi cular polluti on i s the mai n cause for deteri orati ng ai r quali ty i n Indi a, soluti ons li ke the shi ft to Electri c Vehi cles (EV) can become a boon to the country. Government expects 30 percent of the total vehi cles on roads wi ll be electri c vehi cles by 2030, necessi tati ng a robust Electri c Vehi cle (EV) chargi ng i nfrastructure across the country.

In the Fi rst Phase of the FAME-Indi a Scheme upto 31st March 2019, about 2, 80, 987 hybri d and electri c vehi cles were supported by way of demand i ncenti ve. Further, the Department of Heavy Industry (DHI) sancti oned 425 nos. of electri c & hybri d buses to vari ous ci ti es and 520 nos. of Chargi ng Stati ons for Rs. 43 Cr (approx. ) i n vari ous ci ti es. Thi s also i ncludes 470 nos. of chargi ng stati ons i nstalled by REIL i n the 9 allotted ci ti es and 4 Nati onal express hi ghways.

At present, Phase-II i s bei ng i mplemented for a peri od of 3 years w. e. f. 01st Apri l, 2019 wi th a total budgetary support of Rs. 10, 000 Cr. Government i s on the way to make Indi a a global manufacturi ng hub of electri c vehi cles. Besi des the upfront cost of PG 24

electric vehicles, the availability of user friendly charging infrastructure is the single biggest factor for adoption of EV in the country. To give a further push to c l e a n mo b i l i t y , DHI h a s s a n c t i o n e d 5 , 5 9 5 n o s . o f e l e c t r i c b u s e s t o 6 4 c i t i e s a n d 2 6 3 6 n o s . o f c h a r g i n g s t a t i o n s a c r o s s 2 4 S t a t e s / UT s u n d e r P h a s e - I I . Cu r r e n t l y , ma j o r c h a r g i n g s t a t i o n s a r e b e i n g i n s t a l l e d wi t h i n c i t i e s a n d l e s s n o s . o f c h a r g i n g s t a t i o n s a r e a v a i l a b l e o n h i g h wa y s . F u r t h e r , DHI h a s f l o a t e d a n E x p r e s s i o n o f Interest for installation of 1544 nos. of EV charging stations to be deployed along mo r e t h a n 1 5 , 0 0 0 k ms o f ma j o r n a t i o n a l h i g h wa y s & e x p r e s s wa y s . I t wi l l c o n v e r t t h e s e h i g h wa y s i n t o e - h i g h wa y s a n d a l s o e n a b l e i n t e r c i t y & i n t e r s t a t e transportation by electric vehicles.

Th e P L I s c h e me f o r Ad v a n c e d Ch e mi s t r y Ce l l ( ACC) b a t t e r y e n v i s a g e s i n c e n t i v i z i n g l a r g e d o me s t i c a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l p l a y e r s i n e s t a b l i s h i n g a c o mp e t i t i v e ACC b a t t e r y s e t - u p i n t h e c o u n t r y . I t r e p r e s e n t s o n e o f t h e l a r g e s t e c o n o mi c o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r s e v e r a l g l o b a l g r o wt h s e c t o r s , s u c h a s c o n s u me r e l e c t r o n i c s , e l e c t r i c v e h i c l e s , a n d r e n e wa b l e e n e r g y .

P L I S c h e me i s g o i n g t o p l a y a c r i t i c a l r o l e i n b o o s t i n g t h e E V ma n u f a c t u r i n g s c e n a r i o i n t h e c o u n t r y a s i t e n v i s a g e s ma k i n g t h e I n d i a n a u t o mo t i v e I n d u s t r y mo r e c o mp e t i t i v e a n d a i ms t o e n h a n c e g l o b a l i z a t i o n o f t h e I n d i a n a u t o mo t i v e s e c t o r a n d wi l l a d d i t i o n a l l y i n c e n t i v i z e R&D i n I n d i a . T h i s wi l l a l s o e n a b l e ma n u f a c t u r i n g c o mp a n i e s t o b e c o me a n i n t e g r a l p a r t o f t h e g l o b a l s u p p l y c h a i n s i n c o r e c o mp e t e n c y a n d c u t t i n g e d g e t e c h n o l o g y . T h e s c h e me wi l l n o t o n l y i n v i t e f o r e i g n c o mp a n i e s t o s e t u p ma n u f a c t u r i n g u n i t s i n t h e c o u n t r y b u t wi l l a l s o e n c o u r a g e t h e l o c a l c o mp a n i e s t o e x p a n d p r o d u c t i o n a n d ma n u f a c t u r i n g i n I n d i a .

RE I L h a s a v i s i o n t o wo r k e x t e n s i v e l y a l i g n i n g t h e F AME I n d i a s c h e me b y d e v e l o p i n g E V c h a r g i n g i n f r a s t r u c t u r e a c r o s s t h e Co u n t r y a n d a i m t o ma n u f a c t u r e E V c h a r g e r s i n I n d i a u n d e r Ma k e i n I n d i a i n i t i a t i v e t o c o n t r i b u t e t o NE MMP . We l o o k f o r wa r d t o s i g n i f i c a n t c o n t r i b u t i o n t h r o u g h d e p l o y me n t / ma n u f a c t u r i n g i n t h e E V j o u r n e y p l a n n e d u n d e r F AME - I I . I t i s o u r f i r m b e l i e f t h a t t h i s f i s c a l y e a r wi l l u n f o l d i mme n s e g r o wt h o p p o r t u n i t i e s a n d t h e Co mp a n y i s g e a r e d u p f o r t h e s a me .

AS PART OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC MOBILITY MISSION PLAN (NEMMP) 2020, THE DEPARTMENT OF HEAVY INDUSTRY FORMULATED A SCHEME VIZ. FASTER ADOPTION AND MANUFACTURING OF (HYBRID &) ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN INDIA (FAME INDIA) SCHEME IN THE YEAR 2015 TO PROMOTE MANUFACTURING OF ELECTRIC & HYBRID VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY AND TO ENSURE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH OF THE SAME.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 25

JEETENDER SHARMA FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR, OKINAWA

Production Linked Incentives are drawing the path for a self-reliant EV ecosystem in India As fuel prices soar and pollution in urban India makes daily headlines, the conversation and momentum around EVs is stronger than ever. The sector prospects are promising, and the Government initiatives are pushing to drive mass adoption of EVs. The electric vehicle industry is still at a nascent stage in the country and the next two-three years will see faster growth and more adoption. The current Indian EV Ecosystem largely depends on imports for EV components. The imperative is enabling a holistic growth for the EV sector and developing a strong EV value chain in the country. India is a large market for automobiles and with a paced transition to EVs, the country can enhance local manufacturing, lower oil dependence and consumption, and indeed enable a global clean transition.

In a major push to domestic manufacturing in the country, and to make India a manufacturing hub, the government recently approved production-linked incentives (PLI) scheme for ten sectors including automotive, auto components and advanced cell batteries. Currently, the EV industry demands a standalone and focused approach towards EVs. EV companies need to focus on local manufacturing, with innovation with new technologies in making them affordable and at par with ICE vehicles. This will also support the government’s objective of the country becoming self-reliant and enhancing domestic manufacturing. The recently announced Production

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

Linked Incentives to spur lithium-ion cell manufacturing in India would be incremental to make this happen.

The manufacturing of these advanced chemistry cells can bring down EVs costs by a substantial amount and efforts in this direction will help introduce affordable electric mobility in the country. A shift to electric mobility without local cell manufacturing is counterproductive and initiatives like the PLI will help lessen the burdens of import substitution in the coming years.

More outlays towards indigenization of battery and cell manufacturing, this would in turn promote a thriving domestic ecosystem. We are at a nascent stage in EV manufacturing and adoption, and any level of standardization of battery production does not exist. The drive towards local manufacturing of cells and indigenisation will help achieve some level of battery standardization and make EVs affordable. The outlay announced will encourage the industry to become a net-exporter and help reduce import dependence.

Attaining self-reliance is not just about manufacturing but also growing collectively along with suppliers and component manufacturers. The various EV policies and initiatives including the PLI scheme have already brought encouragement to the EV OEMs in the past one year. We are at an inflection point and the coming years will be crucial to drive affordable EV consumption.

As we move forward, we will have a larger ecosystem, which also promises millions of jobs in the EV sector.

Focus on import substitution, localization and can help India create this formidable ecosystem to make EVs mainstream, bringing down the cost of ownership and increasing mass adoption. With the increased focus on the EV industry on deep-localization and cell/battery manufacturing, the EV space is optimistic to become self-reliant in the next decade.

PG 26

NEERAJ KUMAR SINGAL DIRECTOR, SEMCO GROUP

PLI scheme aims to give companies incentives on incremental sales from products manufactured in domestic units. The scheme invites foreign companies to set units in India and also aims to encourage local companies to set up or expand existing manufacturing units.

The PLI Scheme was notified on 01 April 2020 for the mobile phone & specified Electronic components to provide financial incentive for boosting domestic manufacturing and attract large investments through the provision of incentive of 4% to 6% to eligible companies (meeting the incremental investment & production criteria) on incremental sales (over base year i.e. 2019-20) for a period of five (5) years subsequent to the base year. Foxconn, Wistron & Dixon Technologies have already ventured into Mobile Phone contract manufacturing under the PLI scheme and, in the last 2 years, India has become the second largest (after China) Global Mobile Phone manufacturer.

Further, to boost new manufacturing companies, the Indian government reduced the tax rate for new manufacturing companies to 17% in October 2019, as compared to 25% for other companies.

On 11 November 2020, the PLI scheme was extended to 10 additional sectors which also included the “Automobiles & Components” sector in which components alone contributed about 2.3% of GDP in 2019. The total budgetary outlay for these schemes is Rs. 1.96 lakh crores or $26 billion. On average, 5% of the production value is provided as an incentive. This implies that the minimum production in the country as a result of the PLI schemes stands to be around $520 billion in five years out of which the automobiles and auto components have a major share of Rs. 57,042 crore, followed by battery manufacturing at Rs.18,100 crore. India already is a major exporter of two wheelers whose internal demand in personal & commercial space is also very high. The Department of Heavy Industries will soon finalize the PLI-related guidelines for the automobile industry.

commencement. Any new technology that evolves over the next 10 years would also be eligible for a subsidy.

Tata Chemicals Ltd plans to start manufacturing lithiumion cells in Dholera (Gujarat), export cells & seek incentives under the PLI scheme. Consortium of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Toshiba Corporation and Denso Corporation plans to turn their under construction joint Lithium (Li)-ion battery manufacturing unit in Hansalpur (Gujarat) into a global export hub. Manikaran Power Limited, will also be investing over Rs 1,000 crore to set up a Lithium extraction refinery in Sanand or Dholera.

Other active players for cell manufacturing under the PLI scheme may include Exide & Amara Raja.

Under FAME I & II, 33 OEMs are already registered with the Department of Heavy Industry for the manufacture of EVs. After announcement of EV policies by Delhi & Andhra, more states are likely to join the league and recently announced “Scrappage Policy” will also promote use of EVs. Such initiatives and domestically produced cheaper, reliable & readily available batteries in bulk will further ensure wider participation of Industry in EV related ventures and the PLI Scheme will be a financial booster to such efforts. Increasing EV based mass transport under FAME I & II will also ensure wider involvement with incrementally increasing production & export levels under JV or stand alone arrangements.

Additionally, for the new entrants, especially the European / American companies, which plan to move manufacturing facilities from China to India, the exports could gain from MOOWR, 2019 scheme (Manufacture and Other Operations Regulations, 2019- Manufacture here sell elsewhere) and EPCG exports under RoDTEP scheme.

With the PLI & other schemes, India’s role in the EV sector is poised to get stronger through enhanced contribution in the global supply chain, more FE earnings, adoption of latest world class technologies & volume manufacturing benefits. Any automobile industry has hundreds of ancillary units and any expansion of EV manufacturing under PLI scheme will also result in mass scale skill development, employment & revenue generation. Considering the success of the PLI scheme for earlier products like mobile phones & extensive governmental support through the conducive new policies, the multifold growth & success of EV manufacturing & support systems is guaranteed.

Further, towards the major push for EV vehicles, the PLI scheme for advanced chemistry cell (ACC) battery manufacturing was also approved on 11 November 2020. As battery cost in the EV can be upto 50% of the total vehicle cost, the battery policy could render the EVs affordable while using the latest & safe technology.

Manufacturers will be eligible for the subsidy when they achieve 60% value addition within five years of project

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 27

MANOJ KUMAR UPADHYAY DEPUTY ADVISER, NITI AAYOG

India imported $17.7 billion (31% of total autocomponent industry turnover) in FY19 with the growth rate of 14.4%. 27% of the total component import in FY19 was from China alone. Current supply chains of critical EV components have strong dependency on import.

Battery- Only battery packaging capability currently exists in India.

Motor- Local manufacturing capability is limited to small motors.

Motor controller/Inverters- Completely dependent on import. Even for AC applications, 100% imported despite huge volumes.

The domestic electric vehicle manufacturing sector lacks adequate infrastructure, domestic supply chain; high cost of finance; inadequate availability of quality power; limited design capabilities and focus on R&D and inadequacies in skill development. Under Atma Nirbhar Bharat, Government of India is promoting local EV manufacturing through following policies: FAME II localization criteria: To ensure the development of EVs domestically, the FAME scheme pre-specified eligibility criteria for demand incentives in terms of battery technology, localization content and product specifications. Due to Covid-19 pandemic situation and noncompliance of localization timeline by OEMs, DHI announced a new deadline for localization of critical EV components to avail FAME Incentives.

achieving size and scale in domestic manufacturing across 10 key specific sectors. The total budgetary outlay for schemes is Rs. 1.96 lakh crores or $26 billion and on average 5% of the production value will be provided incentive. The minimum production in the country as a result of the PLI schemes would be $520 billion in five years.

The PLI scheme will make Indian manufacturers globally competitive, attract investment in the areas of core competency and cutting-edge technology; ensure efficiencies; create economies of scale; enhance exports and make India an integral part of the global supply chain.

To boost the EV Manufacturing Sector incentives were announced for (i) automobiles & auto components and (ii) Advance Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery under PLI scheme.

Rs 18,100 crore has been announced for Advance Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery. ACC battery manufacturing represents one of the largest economic opportunities of the twenty-first century for several global growth sectors, such as consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy.

Rs 57,042 crore (highest in all 10 sectors) is announced for automobiles & auto components. The automotive industry is a major economic contributor in India.

With Rs 57,042 crore outlays for auto and component industry, Rs 18,000 crores and Rs 46,000 crores allocated for Advanced Chemistry Batteries and electronics manufacturing respectively, Government wants to promote the manufacturing of EVs in India with plans to build Tesla style giga-factories and develop a home grown battery manufacturing ecosystem.

Import restrictions through PMP: The higher customs duty may help curb import dependency of components from China, especially the poor quality ones and benefit long term domestic manufacturing.

Ministry of Finance is attracting global manufacturers for model launches in India through Semi Knocked Down (SKD) or Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route in short term and critical part assembly in midterm (2021 onwards). Indian OEMs are expected to start with critical part imports and shift to develop assembly capability of critical parts.

Production Linked Incentive scheme (PLI) Boosting the EV Manufacturing Sector

The development of the battery industry, charging infrastructure and local supply chains is critical in building a local EV manufacturing ecosystem. On November 11, 2020, Government of India announced the Production Linked Incentive scheme (PLI) to

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 28

Ab o u t 7 5 - 8 0 % o f E V c o mp o n e n t s i mp o r t s a r e f r o m Ch i n a . T h e k e y r e a s o n f o r i mp o r t f r o m Ch i n a i s c o s t - b e n e f i t ( n o t t e c h n o l o g y ) . Co s t d i s a d v a n t a g e s o f t e n a r i s e d u e t o l a c k o f s c a l e a n d s i z e . Th e r e f o r e , b y i n c e n t i v i z i n g p r o d u c t i o n wi t h a h i g h we i g h t a g e o n ( i ) L o c a l v a l u e a d d i t i o n , ( i i ) S c a l e , ( i i i ) Qu a l i t y ; P I L s c h e me wi l l s p u r h i g h e r i n v e s t me n t s wh i c h wi l l , i n t u r n , d r i v e e f f i c i e n c y , p r o d u c t i v i t y a n d q u a l i t y u p g r a d a t i o n wh i c h wi l l b o o s t i n d u s t r y ’ s c o mp e t i t i v e n e s s .

Th e b e n e f i t s o f P L I s c h e me e x t e n d s n o t o n l y t o t h e OE Ms s e l e c t e d u n d e r t h e s c h e me b u t f o r a l l f i r ms & MS ME s a c r o s s t h e v a l u e c h a i n . F o r e x a mp l e , a n E V b a t t e r y c e l l ma n u f a c t u r e r wi l l h a v e ma n y MS ME s u p p l i e r s u n d e r T i e r - 1 , 2 , 3 c a t e g o r i e s . As t h e b a t t e r y ma n u f a c t u r e r b e n e f i t s f r o m t h e P L I s c h e me , n a t u r a l l y t h e o r d e r s o f i t s s u p p l i e r s wi l l a l s o i n c r e a s e .

P L I s c h e me wi l l h a v e s p i l l o v e r b e n e f i t s o f i n c r e a s e d i n v e s t me n t s a c r o s s t h e v a l u e chain and is likely to be significant in developing tier 2/3 level capability d e v e l o p me n t o f I n d i a n p l a y e r s o v e r 2 0 2 0 - 2 0 2 5 i n t h e f i e l d o f e l e c t r i c v e h i c l e s ( E Vs ) a n d t h e a s s o c i a t e d s u p p l y c h a i n s .

Wa y f or wa r d I n d i a h a s s t r o n g p o t e n t i a l i n E V c o mp o n e n t ma n u f a c t u r i n g . Wi t h p o l i c i e s l i k e t h e P L I s c h e me , I n d i a c a n e me r g e a s a h u b f o r ma n u f a c t u r i n g a s we l l a s e x p o r t s f o r k e y c o mp o n e n t s l i k e wi r i n g h a r n e s s , BL DC mo t o r s , AC i n d u c t i o n mo t o r s , t h e r ma l ma n a g e me n t s y s t e ms , e l e c t r o n i c s ( o t h e r t h a n s e mi c o n d u c t o r ) , p l a s t i c s a n d L i B .

Au t o - c o mp o n e n t ma k e r s a r e i n c r e a s i n g l y s e e k i n g t o d e v e l o p t h e r e q u i s i t e technological capabilities and capacities in these areas.

As mo r e E Vs e n t e r t h e ma r k e t , t h e r e i s a n e e d t o c o n s i d e r t r a n s i t i o n i n g f r o m a l i n e a r e c o n o my t o a c i r c u l a r e c o n o my . Cl e a r p o l i c y n e e d s t o b e d e f i n e d f o r recycling, end of life and disposable practices for batteries, EV vehicles.

THE PLI SCHEME WILL MAKE INDIAN MANUFACTURERS GLOBALLY COMPETITIVE, ATTRACT INVESTMENT IN THE AREAS OF CORE COMPETENCY AND CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY; ENSURE EFFICIENCIES; CREATE ECONOMIES OF SCALE; ENHANCE EXPORTS AND MAKE INDIA AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 29

INSIGHTS

What Is the Role Of Real-time Data And Predictive Analytics IN HELPING EV MANUFACTURERS TAKE INFORMED AND IMPROVED DECISIONS?

data being generated every day by its users. They build their cars by developing software on unique hardware instead of a rigid, stiff vehicle with no scope of updation.

We’re living in a day and age when organizations are producing & consuming huge amounts of data everyday. Companies are trying to become data behemoths in their industries and decode valuable information to make breakthroughs.

One such industry is the automotiv e industry as we all stand in the forefront of witnessing the transition f rom standardization to personal ization, Model T to Model S, Ford to Tesla!

After more than a century of dev el opment and breakthroughs in the automotiv e industry since the Ford era, we’re becoming al l set to adopt the f lurry of electric vehicles coming our way in this Musk era.

Henry Ford, a pioneer in the transportation industry introduced Model T in 1908 as an af f ordable, practical & a simple to operate v ehicl e and became a chief developer of assembl y l ine technique of mass production. His innov ativ e v ision and determination revolutionized the transportation industry at the time.

Enter Elon Musk. The one who changed the roadmap of the automobile industry with Tesla by cracking the code for a successful business model for bringing electric cars to the market.

Tesla is certainly breaking barriers with its staggering market performances. Tesl a’ s speed in innovation is posing as a huge chal l enge f or established bureaucratic automakers to match up with and is l eading them to an existential crisis.

Instead of a standard, one-model -f its-all, ride-it-till-it’ send concept that the traditional auto industry was following, Tesla highl y rel ies on updating it’ s of f ering to the people by understanding and using the f loods of

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

Essentially, coming down to the brasstacks, what has led this industry to shift gears is, Data. In a stark difference to how older vehicles operated, electric vehicles rely on powerful, insightful real time data. A person’s everyday driving habits, their charging patterns, their acceleration, battery performance or their vehicle conditions, all of it gets analyzed to understand, improve and reflect their most impending needs in the development of an upgraded & improved vehicle by the automakers.

Simultaneously, manufacturers in the battery technology space are working towards shelving out superior batteries of greater efficiency and operational reliability with the help of predictive analytics and data intelligence to back the electric transformation in the automobile industry.

Ultimately, crunching of big data is going to help auto manufacturers identify patterns in driver psyche and behavior and solve the larger hurdles regarding the charging infrastructure, range concerns & other difficulties preventing an all-out electric showstop.

EV’s are increasingly seen as the saving grace in the automobile industry, a bright alternative to the fossil fuel burning vehicles pumping out harmful greenhouse gas emissions into the environment leading to climate change. Although a complete shift to an electric landscape by leaving behind their traditional siblings is still a long way to go, data is surely going to be it’s biggest ally and supporter in doing so.

RISHIKA BARATAM MARKETING MANAGER, GHOOM

PG 30

FEATUREDINTERVIEW

KARTHIKEYAN SANTHARAM DIRECTOR, RELUX ELECTRIC

"WE PROVIDE FREE ADVICE AND ONLINE SURVEY WHICH HELPS THEM TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CHARGERS ON RIGHT PLACE." Please tell us how your EV charging journey began and how it has been in the year 2020 I have entered this EV field as an u s e r f r o m 2 0 1 2 , As we a l wa y s wo r k t o wa r d s Gr e e n Wo r l d a n d P o l l u t i o n F r e e I NDI A. By P r e - 2 0 1 9 , We h a v e e n t e r e d o f f i c i a l l y i n t o “ RE L UX Ch a r g i n g Ch a i n s ” No w we a r e a s “ RE L UX e l e c t r i c ” a s a r e g i s t e r e d Tr a d e ma r k a n d o u r Of f i c i a l Br a n d f o r E V i n f r a S e r v i c e P r o v i d e r Co mp a n y .

Wh e n t a l k i n g a b o u t 2 0 2 0 , We h a d a P l a n t o o p e n 3 Ch a r g i n g S t a t i o n s f o r E v e r y Mo n t h , we a c h i e v e d t h e s a me u p t o F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0 , I n Ma r c h we a r e a b o u t t o o p e n o u r Ho s u r Ou t l e t n e a r Be n g a l u r u b y Ma r c h 2 8 , 2 0 2 0 . Bu t COVI D- 1 9 , h a s c h a n g e d a l l Bu s i n e s s P l a n s a n d u p s i d e d o wn .

Bu t We b o u n c e d Ba c k a n d s t a r t e d o u r o p e n i n g s s o o n b y Au g u s t 2 0 2 0 i t s e l f , F r o m Au g u s t 2 0 2 0 , We a r e o p e n i n g mo n t h l y 2 o r 3 Of f i c i a l Ou t l e t s .

Please give us a brief idea about the various charging solutions that you provide.

We Provide End to End Charging Solutions to all our Clients which includes Machine along with Installation. Civil and Power Infrastructure which is required, Getting Permissions from Discom’s and other boards for EV subsidies..

Software and Payment gateway Integrations also make Tailormade customization on all our services according to our Client.

We Provide Free Advice and Online Survey which helps them to choose the right Chargers on Right Place. Recently we have started to serve Corporate Companies and Apartments too on Op-Ex Models.

We are giving Free OCPP and Free App for anyone who attach their charger with us without any integration or registration cost. We have taken this step because to boost the EV Charging Business across INDIA.

BY DEC 2020, WE HAVE REACHED 20 OFFICIAL CHARGING OUTLETS, AND MORE THAN 30 CHARGING POINTS ACROSS INDIA.

By De c 2 0 2 0 , we h a v e r e a c h e d 2 0 Of f i c i a l Ch a r g i n g Ou t l e t s , a n d mo r e t h a n 3 0 Ch a r g i n g P o i n t s a c r o s s I NDI A.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 31

How do you see the EV charging scenario evolve in India in a couple of years?

What are your plans on contributing to the EV revolution in India in the coming few years?

Right Now itself, It’s an unexpected growth, we expect this growth by 2025. People are ready to switch to electric vehicles and the only crisis is Charging Infra. As the government is also taking steps in Major cities, We as Private Players are placing DC Fast Chargers for Every 150Kms in Highways across India.

RELUX Aims to achieve a goal of 500 DC Fast Chargers across all National Highways. 500 AC Points in all maj or Metropolitan and Cities across INDIA.

We are concentrating on Restaurants, Malls, Lay-By Areas on the Highway to deploy our chargers in Op-Ex Partnership models.

Also, we plan to Launch our Annual Subscription Model for Unlimited Recharges in all our stations soon by this year.

R E L UX Ai ms t o a c h i e v e a g o a l o f 5 0 0 DC F a s t Ch a r g e r s a c r o s s a l l Na t i o n a l Hi g h wa y s . 5 0 0 AC P o i n t s i n a l l ma j o r Me t r o p o l i t a n a n d Ci t i e s a c r o s s I NDI A.

Already RELUX has a presence in 6 states like Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Telangana State, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat.

Soon there will be opening Outlets in other places INDIA.

RELUX AIMS TO ACHIEVE A GOAL OF 500 DC FAST CHARGERS ACROSS ALL NATIONAL HIGHWAYS. 500 AC POINTS IN ALL MAJOR METROPOLITAN AND CITIES ACROSS INDIA.

As a charging solution provider what are the challenges that you face currently which needs immediate resolution?

ROI is the major Challenge when we face our clients. But now, we have an answer for this, anyone who starts a Charging Outlet with RELUX will get ROI in 4 Years for sure. But we can't guarantee monthly income as in the current scenario.

Also, we are working with various Discoms for Power Infrastructure also we are working with a couple of leading Private Players too. As power Infrastructure is also a maj or constraint, as each and every state has its own EV policy, so according to it we need to draft a unique business plan for our Outlets in that state.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 32

PERSPECTIVE

AUTOMATED EV MANUFACTURING PROCESS: IS INDIA FULLY READY YET? THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY IS AT A TURNING POINT. BLOOMBERG ESTIMATES THAT BY 2040, 54% OF NEW VEHICLE SALES WILL BE ELECTRIC. THIS MEANS THAT A WHOLE NEW APPROACH IS NEEDED WHICH IS FAST AND SMART. ELECTRIC VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS MUST SHIFT PROCESSES AND TECHNOLOGY TO SERVE THESE CHANGING MARKET NEEDS. WHILE CONSUMERS HAVE TIME TO CONSIDER SWITCHING FROM COMBUSTION TO AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE, MANUFACTURERS HAVE TO PREPARE THEIR AUTOMATION STRATEGY TODAY FOR THE FUTURE. ELECTRIC DRIVETRAINS AND SMART MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS HAVE UNLIMITED POTENTIAL TO AUTOMATE VEHICLE PRODUCTION. WHILE EVS HAVE FEWER MECHANICAL PARTS, THE EVOLUTION REQUIRES A LARGE NUMBER OF NEW ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS, INCLUDING THE MOST EXPENSIVE PART OF THE VEHICLE – THE ELECTRIC BATTERY. WE ASKED OUR EXPERTS TO THROW LIGHT ON WHETHER OUR COUNTRY IS READY FOR AN AUTOMATED EV MANUFACTURING PROCESS AND HERE IS WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY...

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

PG 33

SUBHABRATA GHOSH PRESIDENT, OPERATION, BATTRIXX

The first car that plied on Indian roads was as early as 1897 and the first Indian to own a car in 1901 was Jamshedji Tata. It was in 1942, before India's independence that Hindustan Motors manufactured the first automobile in India. The year 1952 also marked the introduction of passenger cars in the country.

Manufacturers like Hindustan Motors, Premier Automobiles and Standard Motors came into the limelight. In the 1980s Maruti started manufacturing cars and followed by TATA MOTORS, Honda, Hyundai etc. Automobile Manufacturing processes normally have 4 Major Shops or areas i.e. (i) BIW/Welding Shop; (ii) Paint Shop; (iii) Assembly Shop and (iv) Testing Shop. Paint Shop in almost all Automobile Plants are automatic. Welding Assembly Shop and Testing area/shops consist of a combination of Automated and Manual processes depending on the requirements from 40% to 90% Automation level.

Indian Customer expectation has increased with world class car models like Audi, BMW, Citroen, MG etc widely available on Indian Road. Indian Automobile manufacturing Plants have critical problems like Fluctuation of demands from Market, Frequent Model/Plan change, difficulty in material handlings, slow speed of operators working on Line, Skill Gap like welding, painting, unrealistic demands from Workers Union, Local/Political interference, Consequences related to Injuries or fatal incidents.

The coronavirus pandemic may drive enhancement of automation, digitalisation and artificial intelligence(AI) in the automobile sector in the post COVID era. One of the country’s leading car makers Tata Motors utilises seven spot welding robots in its framing stations at the

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

Pune and Sanand plants. The automated welding process ensures safety as well as stability in the production of vehicles. Maruti Suzuki India makes use of 5,000 robots at its Manesar and Gurgaon plants in Haryana. The robots are being used in the automated weld, paint and press shops.

In addition to this, automobile giant Mahindra & Mahindra carries out about 70 % of its body shop work via robots. The American automaker Ford Motor Company makes use of around 450 robots to paint vehicles and carry out processes for body construction at its Sanand plant in Gujarat.

Hyundai plant state-of-the-art facility is equipped with over 590 - Generation 4 robots for quality and testing capabilities. Almost all existing companies and new Automobile manufacturers implement Automation projects in the different shops. These projects are emerging out of productivity improvement Drives, consistency in Quality or more robust QMS (Quality Management system Development) drives, ensuring Error proofing systems, ease in material handlings, drives to eliminates unsafe conditions or Acts and also some of them are to tackle with different challenges coming out of variation in customer demands or frequent change in Production Plans.

Now almost all Automobile manufacturers have understood the requirement of integrating all these small or big projects under one single umbrella be it ERPs, Industry 4.0 or MES system (manufacturing execution) which can not only provide live information about all the processes, but also can help control all these processes.

This is just the beginning, with India exploring the dimensions of Industry 4.0, MES etc one can expect a significant increase in the demand for industrial robots in the years to come.

PG 34

HIMANSHU JADHAV, CEO, JENDAMARK INDIA

Automation is the use of technology to perform tasks with reduced human assistance. It replaces human intervention in operations that have repetitive processes. Automation is not a new phenomenon by any means, and has been used by automotive OEMs in India to increase their productivity and overall output.

But what is the role of automation in this new age of electric vehicles?

Technology has enabled us to develop a highly functioning EV that can be rolled out on the market, but building those vehicles on a large scale with all the necessary precautions is where most EV manufacturers are facing hurdles. In spite of being built in similar vehicular bodies, the production processes for IC engine vehicles and EVs differ vastly. Even though the required number of components in EVs is fewer, the procedure to assemble these individual components is quite intricate and complex. Any kind of deviations or errors in the assembly process might pose a risk to the safety level of the vehicle, and hamper the process security of the assembly setup. Since most of the labour is available on a contractual basis, the liability of training every batch of workers to the required standards puts OEMs in a highly difficult position. For EVs, there is an uncertainty of requirement in terms of volume from the market, and the flexible manufacturing setups that are required to meet these changing demands are unavailable. Automation, powered by the solutions of the 4th Industrial revolution is completely capable of helping us combat these challenges faced during the production of EVs.

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE

For instance, for critical components like PCBs that include numerous parts, usage of pick to light racks at the assembly station will ensure that the right parts are picked in the right sequence. For operations that require bolting, using an automated system that will feed the bolts and tighten them in the required sequence and torque, will eliminate the possibilities where a manual operation might have caused errors.

Likewise, digital solutions like operator guidance systems for assembly stations that assist operators during the operations, vision systems for inspection, and data analytics for increasing overall efficiency will make sure that the assembly process is seamless, and will vastly reduce the margin of error. The extent to which these solutions can be used for our benefit, is limitless.

The key factor here is adoption of industry 4.0 enabled automation setups that cater to requirements specific to India. The objective of implementing automation for EV manufacturing is not only to increase productivity. The processes involved in manufacturing an electric vehicle require consistency in part build along with a high level of process security, and automation is the only way these can be achieved. Automation solutions that do not replace but instead empower our workforce have an immense potential in India, and implementation of these will help OEMs prepare for the coming rise in the electric vehicle market.

PG 35

THE E-MOBILITY PIONEERS SHARE THEIR

SUCCESS MANTRA The Achievements of e-Mobility Leaders Gets Recognized at EV Manufacturing & Design Show 2021 Awards Ceremony TOP HONORS WERE AWARDED TO ENTREPRENEURS, INNOVATIONS, TECHNOLOGIES AND CORPORATES IN THE E-MOBILITY SECTOR FOR THEIR MANUFACTURING AND DESIGNING EXCELLENCE

THE EV MANUFACTURING & DESIGN SHOW 2021 AWARDS ARE POWERED BY EMOBILITY+. THIS IS AN INITIATIVE TAKEN BY EMOBILITY+ TO RECOGNIZE AND AWARD THE EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP, INNOVATIONS AND TECHNOLOGIES THAT GOES INTO MANUFACTURING AND DESIGNING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES. THE FIRST EDITION OF ‘EV MANUFACTURING & DESIGN SHOW 2021 AWARDS’ WAS CELEBRATED VIRTUALLY WITH EQUAL ZEAL AND ENTHUSIASM. THE WINNERS WERE ANNOUNCED AT THE VIRTUAL GALA AWARD CEREMONY ON 29TH JANUARY AT 6 PM. SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON THE TECHNOLOGY, INNOVATIONS, COMPANIES AND THEIR LEADERS, THE AWARDS WERE PRESENTED TO SOME OF THE GREAT ACHIEVERS AS WELL AS THE RISING STARS OF THE E-MOBILITY SECTOR, WHICH HAVE MADE AN OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE ADVANCEMENT OF THE INDIAN EV MANUFACTURING & DESIGNING. THE PROUD WINNERS OF THE 'EV MANUFACTURING & DESIGN SHOW 2021 AWARDS' ARE:

ELECTRIC 2 WHEELER MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: CONSUMER

The company In 2017 launched its first product and since then have expanded i ts launch to 7 di fferent electri c twowheelers, Okinawa has captured the highest market share in high-speed electri c two-wheelers i n Indi a wi th over 75, 000 scooters on-road.

Okinawa Autotech Pvt. Ltd: ELECTRIC 2 WHEELER MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: CONSUMER +B2B -

The company is the first company Indian or Multinational to start EV operations i n Indi a. It has been manufacturi ng electric two wheelers for over 13 years and is currently the largest Electric 2 wheeler manufacturer i n Indi a provi di ng i ts services for Consumers as well as B2B segments. .

Hero Electric Vehicles Pvt.Ltd. ELECTRIC 2 WHEELER MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR:B2B

The company offers best-in-class features and design for its electric 2 wheelers. Nexzu’ s cutti ng-edge e-scooters and ecycles are equipped with several value-added benefits and through their innovati ve, li ghtwei ght, affordable products, the company offers breakthrough technology, comfortable ride, environment-fri endli ness, a user-centri c approach, hi ghtech security, and extensive R&D.

Nexzu Mobility

ELECTRIC 3 WHEELER MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR-

Kinetic Green Energy & Power Solutions Ltd: ELECTRIC CAR MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR

The company is a leading player in Electric Vehicle space offering a wide range of battery-operated vehi cles such as EAutos, E-Carts and Buggies. The Kinetic vehicles feature significant technology i ntegrati on, IoT (Internet of Thi ngs) capabilities and advanced safety features, including full GPS tracking and sensor capabi li ty, wi th a vi ew to offer a safe, reliable and economical ride experience to its customers.

The company is a USD 35 billion organization and is a leading global automobi le manufacturer of cars, uti li ty vehi cles, pick-ups, trucks and buses. They are the market Leaders in India passenger electri c vehi cle market wi th 47% market share & current market share of over 60%.

Tata Motors Limited:

ELECTRIC BUS MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR - ECO-LIFE

JBM Auto Ltd

The company introduced ECO-LIFE series, India’ s first ever 100% electric buses. . Apart from manufacturi ng 100% electri c buses in India , the company also supports the running of these buses, as well as provi des EV chargi ng stati ons. The company has an Installed capacity of 2000 buses per annum and new plant wi th i nstalled capaci ty of 10000 Buses under construction.

ELECTRIC BUS MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR - ULTRA 9/9

The company has designed and developed Ultra 9/9 first fully electric drivetrai n Electri c Bus. Si nce FY19, the company has supplied over 240+ buses to different corporations. These buses have successfully run over 5 mi lli on ki lometers on Indian roads and in different terrains.

Tata Motors Limited:

EV MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: AUTO COMPONENTS

Pranav Vikas (India) Private Limited

The company has ventured into e-mobility projects to support the FAME-II poli cy of Govt. Of Indi a and to assi st OEM' s with high-standard & localized products. The company has continued to be the largest 2-Wheeler heat exchangers supplier in India and also the leading thermal management solution provider for Electri c Vehi cles.

EV MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: BATTERY ADVANCED BATTERY TECHNOLOGIES

The company has a sales turnover of around one billion US dollar. In addition, by steppi ng i n to the new platform under Li-Ion technology, battery packs to electric vehicles (2W & 3W-E-rickshaw & E-auto), telecom/stati onary and ESSalong with this the company has also demonstrated the power bank technology and has been awarded the desi gn patent of the outer casing of power banks.

Amara Raja Batteries Limited: EV MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: BATTERY NMC CHEMISTRY -

The company is one of the leading manufacturers of Lithium Ion battery in Indi a . Usi ng best i n class LFP and NMC cells with in-house developed BMS , software and IOT solutions. It makes Battery Packs i n NMC chemi stry usi ng 3. 6 V cells with varied Ah capacities from 3. 6 V to 72 V architecture.

Ipower Batteries Pvt Ltd:

EV MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: STORAGE -

The company has established state of art research facilities to conduct intensi ve research on advanced green energy storage technologies and evaluating the in-house developed product using the NABL certi fi ed i n--house electri cal testing labs.

Amara Raja Batteries Limited:

EV MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS

The company has a workforce strength of above 250 people in India. The company offers i ts servi ces i n Powertrai n, Catalytic convertor, Electric vehicle, aerospace and digital solutions. They have developed the software soluti on called ' ODIN' which is under Industry 4. 0 solutions.

Jendamark India Pvt. Ltd:

EV MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: POWERTRAIN

EMF Innovations Pte Ltd. ELECTRIC FLEET MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR -

Tata Motors Limited:

EV SOLUTION PROVIDER OF THE YEAR: BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

The company is a fully equipped organisation doing both magnet-less and magnet DC motors for a wi de range of applications starting from EV to agricultural equipment, mining equipment, constructi onal equi pment and so on. These motors are Locally designed , engineered and sourced parts, supplier development, manufacturi ng and marketed on i ts own by the company.

The Company is a leading global automobile manufacturer of cars, utility vehi cles, pi ck-ups, trucks and buses. It i s Indi a’ s largest and the only OEM offering extensive range of integrated, smart and e-mobi li ty soluti ons havi ng operati ons i n India, the UK, South Korea, Thailand, South Africa, and Indonesia through a strong global network of 103 subsi di ari es, 10 associate companies, 3 joint ventures and 2 joint operations.

The company' s vehicle battery has an efficient battery management system (BMS), and i s tuned to enable the vehi cle to have a higher range and performance. The battery capacity of its EV is installed - 2. 9 kWh and usable - 2. 6 kWh. The BMS also allows a 45% speedier charging rate and significantly increases standby ti me

Ather Energy Pvt. Ltd:

EV SOLUTION PROVIDER OF THE YEAR: SIMULATION

The company is a division of a 105 years old world-class consultancy for engi neeri ng, technology, i nnovati on and strategy. Their leading-edge simulation software enables users to quickly and accurately create, analyse and opti mi ze complex physical systems - from initial concept to final design.

Ricardo Software:

EV SOLUTION PROVIDER OF THE YEAR: TELEMATICS 4 WHEELER -

The company provides Service network across 40+ cities in India with service capabi li ty of full electri c vehi cle scheduled service , battery pack repair and refurbishment , Fast charging Infrastructure , App showi ng chargi ng locati on near to the customer and Mobile charging van facility to support customers 35 uni que features through connected vehicle platform and advanced diagnostics through telematics.

Tata Motors Limited:

EV SOLUTION PROVIDER OF THE YEAR: TELEMATICS 2 WHEELER -

The company is India’ s first EV company to launch high performance EV that was bui lt on a fully i ntegrated tech platform. The telematics hub of this company makes all the communications from and to the vehi cle possi ble, ensuri ng the vehicle is constantly connected to its server and monitored by it.

Ather Energy Pvt. Ltd: EV SERVICE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR: DESIGN AND MODELING -

CAS Modeling:

The company is a Global Design consulting firm. They have in-house experti se wi th combi ned experi ence i n Automoti ve design , Product & Packaging Design, Proto development using advanced techni ques to serve the cli ents i n one Roof solution for their Design development

EV CHAMPION OF THE YEAR 2 WHEELER-

Okinawa Autotech Pvt. Ltd:

EV CHAMPION OF THE YEAR - 4 WHEELER

The current scooter line-up from this company comes equipped with a detachable li thi um-i on battery pack, microprocessor controller, a permanent magnet BLDC motor and an anti-theft battery system whi ch enables the battery to get locked in, thus avoiding any theft.

With ‘ Connecting Aspirations’ at the core of it’ s brand promise, the company’ s i nnovati on efforts are focused to develop pioneering technologies that are sustainable as well as suited to evolving aspi rati ons of the market and the customers. The company strives to bring new products that fire the imagination of GenNext customers

Tata Motors Limited:

EV START-UP OF THE YEAR -

Ather Energy Pvt. Ltd NEW-GENERATION EV OF THE YEAR 4 WHEELER -

The company has a production capacity of 20, 000-25, 000 units The company has desi gned new i nnovati ve ways to disrupt the auto industry. Using technology and intelligence to help provide a holi sti c and deli ghtful experi ence from pre-purchase to a hassle free post purchase experience.

The company Offers multiple products with varied range options to cater to both personal and fleet market. li ke Evs wi th Compact structure, practical electric vehicle with 140 km & 213 km certified range and Electri c premi um SUV wi th connected car feature.

Tata Motors Limited:

NEW-GENERATION EV OF THE YEAR 2 WHEELER-

Nexzu Mobility

In a year as tough as 2020, the company rebranded itself to solidify its EV space. From Electri c two wheelers they expanded into the e-cycle segment and PPE space, cracking several partnershi ps wi th vari ous ri deshare and ri de rental companies Today, they are operating in the B2B, B2C, and institutional categori es, wi tnessi ng demand from not j ust domestic but also from international markets as well.

MOST INNOVATIVE EV OF THE YEAR 4 WHEELER

The company' s all the EVs are ARAI certified and meet all the safety test requi rements. It has manufactured Indi a’ s fi rst own Electric premium SUV with connected car feature and 312 km ARAI certi fi ed range wi th best i n class 8 years/1. 6 L warranty on Battery and motor, winning various awards.

Tata Motors Limited MOST INNOVATIVE EV OF THE YEAR 2 WHEELER

Ather Energy Pvt. Ltd

The company' s electric 2 wheeler is the quickest and one of the smartest scooters i n Indi a, The scooter i s powered wi th a 6kW PMSM motor, a new 2. 9 kWh lithium-ion battery, and comes with 4 ridi ng modes. The company has i ntroduced a new high-performance mode, ' Warp' . which helps the vehicle to go from 0 to 40 kmph i n j ust 3. 3 sec i n Warp mode, making it the quickest scooter in the 125cc category and the perfect choice to navi gate through ci ty traffi c.

SMART TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION OF THE YEAR -Z CONNECT APP -

The company provides end - to -end user centered design and development. The company' s app enables the user to control the car safely, securely in the most convenient way. The UI neatly packs and lets the user di scover 22 features and functions just when they need them.

YUJ Designs SMART TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION OF THE YEAR - SMART ECU (FOC) -

The EVs made by this company are the Strongest built of the scooters with longest wheelbase and hi ghest ground clearance amongst all 2 wheeler segments. . The company' has designed and developed Uni que Features and Soluti ons such as DSP Technology, VCU, ECU with Instrument Cluster, Mobile Applicati ons consi deri ng and fulfi lli ng the growi ng requirements and technical specifications.

NDS Eco Motors Private Limited: SMART TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION OF THE YEAR - THERMAL MANAGEMENT SOLUTION

The company provides Thermal Management Solutions for Battery Thermal Management, Cabi n Thermal Management, Power-train Thermal Management. and the State of the art heat exchangers for hi ghly effi ci ent heat transfer and best i n packaging.

Pranav Vikas (India) Private Limited SMART TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION OF THE YEAR - ZIPTRON TECHNOLOGY

The company focuses on end to end aspects of product ownership, thus provi di ng customers complete peace of mi nd and with their Ziptron technology they provide safe and Durable High voltage aspi rati onal Electri c vehi cle best i n class key attributes at an affordable cost.

Tata Motors Limited

To know more about the 'EV Manufacturing & Design Show 2021 Awards Ceremony' visit:https://solarquarter.com/studio/

EXCITING CONTENT MADE EVEN MORE ENGAGING. News | Interviews | Insights | Technology | Business | Policy | Webcasts | Web Series

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO

CONTENT FROM THE

BUSINESS WORLD OF

SMART, ELECTRIC AND

FUTURE AUTOMOTIVE

SECTOR

FOLLOW NOW

WEBINARS