autoASIA March-April 2015 issue

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March-April 2015

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Budget India 2015 AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY

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The Asian Magazine for

A MAGNUM OPUS OF INTREPID JOURNALISM

for Automotive, OEM’s After-Market & Components

Government of India: RNI#: DELENG|2000|675

Vol.9 No.3 | New Delhi, India - Annual Subscription: India: Rs.2000 | Overseas: US$250

Managing Editor: Reny Singh | Editor: Sarvjit Kanwar | Circulation: Surekha China Correspondent & Reporters: Ying Wei (Beijing), Xingguang Li (Shanghai) Associate Editors: Vishwapreet, Amrita | Secretary & Legal Advisor: K. Surinder Production, Design & Digital Media: Diamond Infomedia Overseas Editors: Julia, Steffen, Saskian (Germany) Technical Advisors: Alex Van Bienen / Lily (Netherlands) Public Relations Director (UK): Mike Steele International Advisor (Australia): Andrew S. McCourt Head Office: D-182, PR House, Anand Vihar, New Delhi-110092.

Tel: +91 11 2214 1542 | Fax: +91 11 2216 0635 Email: info@autoasia.net | Web: www.autoasia.net Published, edited & owned by Sarvjit Singh, on behalf of WORLDWIDE PUBLICATIONS, D-182, PR House, Anand Vihar, New Delhi-110092, and printed by him at Technical Press Inc. D-182/C, Anand Vihar, New Delhi-110092, India. Founder Editor-in-Chief: Late Mr Kanwar N.S.

Auto component industry to touch $100 bn turnover by 2020: ACMA India had barely recovered from the ill-effects of the global financial crisis of 2008-09, when another crisis, this time with its genesis in the Euro Area, hit the economy hard. To be sure, though economic growth moderated in the crisis year of 2008-09, but it also revived smartly in 2009-10 and 2010-11.

However, growth in 2011-12 came in at 6.5%, which was not only poor compared to the precrisis growth, but also compared to the immediate post-crisis year.

The slowdown has spilled over to the current fiscal as well, with the latest GDP data print released for the firstquarter 2012-13 (1QFY13), slowing to 5.5%. If we exclude the growth in the last quarter of 2011-12, then this is the lowest quarterly growth in nearly 3 years. Agricultural output accelerated to 2.9 per cent in 1QFY13 from 1.7 per cent in the previous quarter mainly due to a low base of last year.

Growth in the industrial sector also increased to 3.6 per cent in the 1QFY13 as compared to an anemic 1.9 per cent in the previous quarter.

Economy’s bellwether, services sector growth dropped to 6.9% in 1QFY13the sector’s lowest quarterly growth since March 2009. The continuing uncertainty in the Euro Zone and, falling domestic investment demand are expected to keep the Indian economy’s growth prospects weak for this fiscal.

Moreover, notwithstanding the pick-up in rainfall towards end-August 2012, this year is likely to end in a net rainfall deficit, thus exacerbating the downside risks to growth. The weak performance of agriculture due to the drought will rub on industry and services given the inter-linkages between them.

On a positive note, the government recently announced some major policy reforms which are likely to usher in a period of fiscal consolidation and boost investment levels in the economy.

In sharp contrast to growth, headline WPI-based inflation has remained sticky at around 7.5 per cent throughout the current financial year so far.

Consequently, the RBI has so far kept the repo rate unchanged, but it did reduce the cash reserve ratio (CRR) by 25 basis points in its mid-September 2012 meeting, citing rising liquidity deficit in the financial market.

Auto component industry body ACMA is targeting a nearly three-fold jump in the turnover of the sector to touch $100 billion by 2020, mainly driven by focus on high-quality products and low-cost manufacturing.

According to Mr Ramesh Suri, President Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA), “We expect the Indian auto component industry to touch $100 billion turnover by 2020. The goal is little ambitious but we have full faith in the industry to achieve this target.”

The auto component industry in India is currently pegged at $35 billion, with over $10 billion coming from exports, he added.

“It is an achievable goal as our manufacturing now conforms to global standards. Also, the relatively low-cost of production gives us an edge to grow,” Suri said.

Moreover, with India all set to become a global export hub for small and medium segment cars, auto component industry is also expected to benefit, he added.

When asked about the challenges faced by the industry, Suri said: “There is huge problem of spurious spare parts. There should be a proper verification of auto parts so that this problem could be contained.”

Besides, there is a need for active campaign for genuine spare parts as many people die in accidents due to the malfunction of spurious parts in the vehicles, he added.

Commenting on the growth of industry in the next fiscal, Suri said: “We expect auto component industry to grow in single digit in the next fiscal, while the exports would grow in double digit during the period.”

Suri was speaking on the sidelines of the inaugural day of ACMA Automechanica, where over 400 auto component makers from 16 countries are participated to showcase their products in the Capital. autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 3

Tata Motors PRIMA rides in again with Kings XI Punjab, as Title Sponsor for IPL Season 8!

• Further strengthens existing relationship established in IPL Season 7 • Unveils new Kings XI Punjab jersey for IPL Season 8

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he upcoming IPL Season 8 started on a positive note as Tata Motors Prima announced its association with the Kings XI Punjab as official Title Sponsor. This collaboration will take ahead the brands’ existing relationship, first established in IPL Season 7.

Representing Tata Motors Prima, Mr. Ravi Pisharody, Executive Director, Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors, Mr. R. Ramakrishnan, Senior Vice President, Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors and Mr. UT Ramprasad, Head – Marketing Communications, Tata Motors were present at the event, along with Ms. Preity Zinta, Co- Promoter and Chairperson, Kings XI Punjab, Mr. Mohit Burman, Co-promoter and Director, Kings XI Punjab, Mr. Fraser Castellino, Chief Operating Officer, Kings XI Punjab and team’s marquee player Virender Sehwag.

Reflecting the determined, energetic and enthusiastic spirit of the team, Kings XI Punjab’s playing jersey was unveiled at the event.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Ravi Pisharody, Executive Director, Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors said “Tata Motors Prima is delighted to partner Kings XI Punjab for the second year in a row; one of the most exciting franchises with some of the finest records in the Indian Premier League. With the Tata Prima we bring the same passion and commitment to our customers, as the King XI Punjab team, with a star line-up of some 4 | March-April 2015 | autoASIA

of finest cricketers in the world. We wish “The Lions” the very best for this season of IPL and hope to see them emerge as the victors “.

Mr. Mohit Burman, Co-promoter and Director, Kings XI Punjab said, “We are pleased to extend our relationship with Tata Motors Prima as our Title Sponsor. The franchise would like to welcome them onboard for this season. This extension indeed testifies the faith the brand instills in the franchise and on this note, we are geared to enter the season with the confidence to excel. With the team’s outstanding performance both on and off the field, we are sure that this partnership will further prove to be mutually beneficial for both the brands.”

Kings XI Punjab will play their first match on April 8, 2015 against Rajasthan Royals at MCA International Stadium, Pune.

About Tata Motors: Tata Motors Limited is India’s largest automobile company, with consolidated revenues of INR 2,32,834 crores (USD 38.9 billion) in 2013-14. Through subsidiaries and associate companies, Tata Motors has operations in the UK, South Korea, Thailand, South Africa and Indonesia. Among them is Jaguar Land Rover, the business comprising the two iconic British brands. It also has an industrial joint venture with Fiat in India. With over 8 million Tata vehicles plying in India, Tata Motors is the country’s market leader in commercial vehicles and among the top in passenger vehicles. It is also the world’s fifth largest truck manufacturer and fourth largest bus manufacturer. Tata cars, buses and trucks are being marketed in several countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, South America, CIS and Russia.

THAILAND Driving ASEAN's Automotive Boom

TandHAILAND is the world’s top ten automotive exporter the world’s top producer of one-ton pickup

trucks. It is the leading auto manufacturer in Southeast Asia, possesses the largest vehicle assembly capacity, and the highest quality parts manufacturing capability in ASEAN.

Thailand Leading Trade Shows

The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015 is expected to be a boost for Thai automotive suppliers whose products and parts will be tax exempt as a result of FTAs with Japan, China, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and India. Thailand’s competitive labor, land and facility costs combine with strong government support that includes tax incentives for auto parts clusters to drive growth in the Thai auto industry forward.

Intermach 2015

Metalex 2015

Subcon Thailand 2015

The 32nd Thailand International Motor Expo 2015

13 – 16 May 2015 | www.intermachshow.com

13 – 16 May 2015 | www.subconthailand.com

Assembly & Automation Technology 2015

18 – 21 November 2015 | www.metalex.co.th

1 – 13 December 2015 | www.motorexpo.co.th

24 – 27 June 2015 | www.assemblytechexpo.com

Automotive Manufacturing 2015

24 – 27 June 2015 | www.subconthailand.com

Industrial Component & Subcontracting 2015

24 – 27 June 2015 | www.components-subcon.com

Intermold Thailand 2015

24 – 27 June 2015 | www.intermoldthailand.com

Exclusive Campaign for Match-Making at Exhibitions in Thailand

Surface & Coatings 2015

24 – 27 June 2015 | www.surfaceandcoatings.com

Interplas Thailand 2015

9 – 12 July 2015 | www.interplasthailand.com

Thailand International Truck Show 2015

17 – 19 September 2015 | www.tit-show.com Download TH Exhibition

Follow us

www.businesseventsthailand.com

New Volvo truck range makes an exciting premiere in India

Volvo Trucks’ much-awaited new range has been launched in India today. The completely renewed product portfolio - which includes the flagship Volvo FH, voted ‘International Truck of the Year 2014’ in Europe - is pushing the limits on what premium trucks can offer, setting a new benchmark for transportation.

During the initial press event held at KTPO, Whitefield, Bangalore, Philippe Divry, President, Volvo India Private Ltd, and Senior Vice President of the Volvo Group said, “Volvo has invested more than US$3 billion and 14 million engineering hours in this project. And just to make perfectly sure of the outcome, we have tested the vehicles for 21 million kilometers. We are the undisputed leader of the premium truck segment in India, and this new range will keep moving the bar further in terms of productivity and efficiency for our customers.”

Over a two day period - following the press event - more than 150 VIP customers from all over India are invited to Bangalore to experience three new models that together constitute a significant development in the transportation industry.

Comprising of Volvo FH, the Volvo FM and the Volvo FMX, the range is the most technologically advanced in India. It boasts of important improvements in all crucial areas: from productivity, fuel efficiency, safety to maximizing uptime. The range also introduces unique features such as the intelligent I-Shift automated gearbox technology optimized for tough and rugged mining operating conditions, as well as Volvo’s unique Dynafleet telematics system which allows following up on fuel consumption over time, and - together with Volvo Trucks Driver Training services - coach drivers into further improving their fuel saving skills.

Dynafleet also enables customers to see in real time the location of their vehicles and vehicles’ performance data that are critical to have control on their fleet, letting the customer fully focus on running their core business.

Designed for demanding industry segments Vinod Aggarwal, CEO of VE Commercial Vehicles, commented that, “with new hi-tech capabilities and a wide range of benefits, the trucks are equipped to serve every Volvo customer in India, from construction and mining to heavy haulage.”

“There are countless infrastructure developments taking place in India, 6 | March-April 2015 | autoASIA

providing significant opportunities.

We at Volvo Trucks want to maximize our operations off the back of these major developments; we want to offer total peace of mind to our customers and facilitate their growth. With the introduction of the New Volvo truck range, we’re confident in our ability to be a key player in this ambitious journey” added Mr. Aggarwal.

The Volvo FH is an innovative truck built with the driver in focus, it is wired to make operations more efficient, more productive, safer and more comfortable for over dimensional cargo transport. The new Volvo FH 520, built grounds up, is more robust leading to increased technical load carrying capacity (GCW) by 33% to 200 tonnes.

The Volvo FMX is extremely robust and is the ultimate truck for mining and construction, integrating the experience of Volvo in this segment around the world and especially during its 15 years of leadership in India. The new FMX 440 8X4 is equipped to deliver the best in class productivity with an increased body capacity of 19.5 cu.m, which allows to carry an additional bucket of payload. Also, it will offer the I-Shift gearbox for mining as an option, which makes it easier to drive the vehicles under the toughest conditions, thereby increasing productivity.

Driving progress through total offer Though the expectations for the new truck range is high, Volvo Trucks is stepping up the overall customer experience which comprises of two key factors premium product solutions and premium customer service.

Rama Rao A S, Senior Vice President, Sales Marketing and Aftermarket, Volvo Trucks, VECV explained, “We are the No.1 preferred truck brand in the premium European segment with over 65 percent market share in its segment; but more importantly we focus to be No.1 in terms of customer satisfaction.” He further added, “We believe in creating and delivering value to our customers. For us at Volvo Trucks, all our offerings emerge from the customers’ needs and end with their satisfaction. With our comprehensive offerings meeting today’s business challenges in transportation, we can help our customers to improve their productivity and profitability more effectively and aim at what we call customer delight”.

Volvo Trucks is currently present in India with more than 150 touch points across the country including state of the art workshops and various service support centers as we believe premium trucks need premium care.

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2014 exhibitors included:

*partial 2014 exhibitors

Auto Industry Awaits a Sustained Demand Revival, Heavy Commercial Vehicles Shows Good Improvement

Production

The industry produced a total of 1,976,270 vehicles including passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, three wheelers and two wheelers in January 2015 as against 1,937,489 in January 2014, registering a growth of 2.00 percent over the same month last year.

Domestic Sales

The sales of Passenger Vehicles grew by 3.62 percent in April-January 2015 over the same period last year. Within the Passenger Vehicles segment, Passenger Cars and Utility Vehicles grew by 4.79 percent and 5.58 percent respectively, while Vans declined by (-) 12.15 percent in AprilJanuary 2015 over the same period last year.

The overall Commercial Vehicles segment registered a de-growth of (-) 4.60 percent in April-January 2015 as compared to same period last year.

Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M&HCVs) grew by 12.91 percent and Light Commercial Vehicles declined by (-) 12.42 percent.

8 | March-April 2015 | autoASIA

Three Wheelers sales grew by 13.63 percent in April-January 2015 over the same period last year. Passenger Carriers and Goods Carriers grew by 15.14 percent and 7.27 percent respectively in April-January 2015 over April-January 2014.

Two Wheelers sales registered growth of 9.97 percent in April-January 2015 over April-January 2014. Within the Two Wheelers segment, Scooters, Motorcycles and Mopeds grew by 27.42 percent, 4.34 percent and 6.38 percent respectively in April-January 2015 over April-January 2014.

Exports

In April-January 2015, overall automobile exports grew by 19.40 percent over the same period last year. Passenger Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles, Three Wheelers and Two Wheelers grew by 6.66 percent, 14.73 percent, 18.98 percent and 23.30 percent respectively during April-January 2015 over the same period last year.

LIQUI MOLY continues to grow in spite of crisis

Motor oil specialist increased turnover and created 50 new jobs In spite of the crisis in a number of export markets, the German motor oil and additive specialist LIQUI MOLY succeeded in further increasing its turnover during the past year. It increased slightly by one percent to 421 million euros.“This means we have succeeded in steering our LIQUI MOLY ship through all storms,” said Ernst Prost, LIQUI MOLY Business Manager.

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n its home market in Germany LIQUI MOLY is so strong in the meantime that further growth is becoming increasing difficult. Here turnover stagnated during the past year. Our locomotive for growth is our export business, which, in the meantime, has reached 60 percent of our total turnover. LIQUI MOLY is sold in over 110 countries. However these also include several counties making headlines as trouble spots: Syria, Iraq, Libya and Ukraine. At one time Ukraine was one of LIQUI MOLY’s three largest export markets; however in 2014 the turnover dropped by one-half. “Compared with the suffering experienced by the people there, this is only a trifle, but, naturally, it has left its tracks in our balance”, continued Ernst Prost. For this reason the export business was not as strong as planned.

“Failure to meet planning is never good, but turnover without profit is not what we are looking for”, said Ernst Prost. “We want healthy growth.” In spite of the reduced growth, LIQUI MOLY has continued to invest in personnel and material. The number of employees increased during the previous year by 50 for a total of 696.

The decreasing price of crude oil during the past few months has had only a minor effect on our costs. LIQUI MOLY’s production process uses base oils, i.e. refined oils; not crude oil.

These prices have not decreased nearly as

10 | March-April 2015 | autoASIA

About LIQUI MOLY LIQUI MOLY GmbH from Ulm in South Germany offers a wide range of high-quality products such as motor oils, additives, vehicle care products and service products. The range includes some 4000 items. LIQUI MOLY develops and tests their products in their own laboratories, manufactures exclusively in Germany and markets all of their products themselves. LIQUI MOLY was founded some 50 years ago and is now one of the leading companies in the industry. The products are sold in Germany and in 110 other countries.

much and with some delay. Other prices, such as our high cost additive packages, have even increased - and state-of-the-art motor oils consist of over 30 percent additives. Finally these are purchased in dollars, and the weak euro makes them more expensive. “Sinking crude oil prices do not automatically mean lower prices for the final motor oils - this calculation simply doesn’t work out”, stated Purchasing Manager Achim Scharm.

Continued growth is the motto on our way to a worldwide brand.

This year LIQUI MOLY will conclude its 20 million euro investment program. Then the oil production facilities will be completely finished and the laboratory capacities expanded. Moreover 16 new employees have been added to our staff since January. “This will make us fit for the future”, explained Personnel Manager Rainer Maass, “because employees are the company’s most important asset.”

The company is pushing its export business and, in addition to major markets such as the USA, China and India, is also consciously focusing on smaller countries such as Kazakhstan, Uruguay and Cambodia. Ernst Prost: “For our major competitors these countries are frequently not lucrative enough, reducing the pressure from competition.

But drivers there also want top of the line motor oils from Germany.”

SIAM Welcomes new FAME Scheme to Promote Electric and Hybrid Mobility, Forward looking and inclusive budget: SIAM President

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r. Vikram Kirloskar, President, SIAM welcomed the budget and termed it as ‘forward looking’ and addressing both, the social sector as well as the industry in an “inclusive fashion”. Concessional customs and excise duties on select parts used in the manufacturing of Electric & hybrid vehicles have been extended for a year, which is a positive move. SIAM is particularly grateful to the Finance Minister for having accorded approval to the Scheme on Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric vehicles (FAME). Although the initial allocation of Rs. 75 crores is very modest, industry hopes that over the next a few months, more resources would be allocated for promoting this new and green technology area, which can be a game-changer for the automotive industry. SIAM had earlier requested for a rise in the customs duty on commercial vehicles from 10% to 40%. The effective rates have been increased to 20% which is a welcome change. The reduction in excise duty on the chassis of ambulances from 24% to 12.5% is also a positive step.

The budget has focused on the overall development of the society and has brought in several reforms to ensure an improvement in the consumer sentiment as well as disposal incomes

12 | March-April 2015 | autoASIA

which shall benefit the automobile industry. A re-affirmation of the date of implementation of GST from April 2016 shall help the manufacturers develop more concrete long term plans on the products and investments. The reduction in the corporate tax from 30% to 25% over the next 4 years lays down a clear roadmap which removes the uncertainties for industry.

The budget lays huge emphasis on development of the infrastructure throughout the country and shall boost the prospects of a wide range of industries including the automobile particularly the commercial vehicles industry.

A strong focus on the rural development including substantial allocation under MNREGA would also ensure improved demand from the non-urban centers which will benefit the auto industry.

Mr. Kirloskar said that in the forthcoming budgets he would expect emphasis on renewal of the vehicle fleet through fiscal incentives. Fleet renewal would help both the industry and the society in terms of the environment, health etc, he added. SIAM would have liked to see a reduction or moderation in the excise duty on vehicles particularly for large vehicles attracting 30% excise duty, which has not happened.

We hope that the Finance Minister would reconsider the high taxation on cars in the future.

Overall the budget looks to bring in systemic changes which are important in the overall second generation reform process. The Budget shall also provide more purchasing power in the hands of the consumers through various measures by different development schemes. This shall help the overall market scenario and boost consumer demand.

“Yet China remains a statistician's - and Western car executive's - dream. In excess of 200 cities here house more than one million inhabitants, while 10 cities contain more than 10 million people each. Then there's the Yangtze Delta region, an area the size of Germany that's home to an unbelievable 217 million people. Shanghai is the main hub of this delta, and is home to 23 million of them. Almost a quarter of China's humongous GDP is generated by this bit of the country - equivalent to $1800bn. This has helped fuel prosperity to the extent that there are now more than one million millionaires in China overall. Information like this is almost impossible to absorb.”

China auto market seen cruising to another strong year with 16th edition of Auto Shanghai 2015

Gu Chunting, Assistant to Chairman of CCPIT Shanghai and President of SIEC

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hina will continue to be the auto industry’s growth leader over the coming years. We expect auto demand in China to grow 7% in 2015 to nearly

19.5 million units. Monetary easing by the central bank and a proliferation of new models will also support car sales over the coming year. Estimates suggest that nearly 20% of all new vehicle sales are now financed in China, up from 10% as recently as 2010. Meanwhile, automakers launched 10 new CUVs in late 2014 and more are coming in the New Year. However, last year’s 12% increase likely marks the end of more than a decade of double-digit gains. We believe that growth will shift into single-digits going forward. While urbanization and employment growth remain strong, per capital urban income growth has moderated from the double-digit pace of the past decade and will dampen sales growth.

Sales of passenger cars in China grew almost 10 percent last month from a year earlier despite broader concerns about a slowdown in both the overall automobile business and the Chinese economy

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as a whole.1 With auto sales in Brazil, India and Russia struggling to live up to the BRIC hype of a few years ago, the Chinese market remains the global auto industry's best bet for sustained growth. One problem: the Chinese government.

A wave of recent intervention suggests that the good times for the world's automakers have increasingly come at the expense of China's strategic auto-industry goals.

The world's biggest auto market will likely sustain the momentum it regained in 2013, helped by an anticipated array of economic stimulus measures and robust demand for cars in smaller cities of China's interior regions, according to industry executives and analysts. The

new year should mark a second year of double-digit growth for China after sales expansion rates slumped in 2011 and 2012 to 2.45 percent and 4.33 percent, respectively. In the previous 10 years, auto demand in China often surged 30 to 40 percent annually.

PROVIDING A SHOWCASE FOR OEMS AND OTHER SUPPLIERS Wanting to make their mark on the Chinese market, the 16th edition of Auto Shanghai 2015 will be held from April 22-29, 2015 at National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) (NCEC).

The event is one of the most important auto events in China and

indeed the whole region. “Efficiency and innovation govern the way in which the organizer of Auto Shanghai plans and manages the event.” The aim is to convey to visitors and the media the unique charm and feeling visitors and the media the unique charm and feeling of auto culture. We warmly invite you to join us at Auto Shanghai 2015,” say the show organizers.

innovations. Fifteen successful editions of Auto Shanghai have been held since the show was launched in 1985. The 16th edition is coming up in 2015.

AUTO SHANGHAI 2015

Auto Shanghai ranks as one of the most important and respected auto shows in the world, and it is a key date in the diary of auto fans,” says a statement by the show organizers.

Auto Shanghai is jointly organized by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, China

Auto Shanghai 2015, which is held every two years, provides an important platform for exhibitors and visitors to showcase both domestic as well as international car companies’ technologies, products and

Over the past 30 years, Auto Shanghai has testified to the boom in China’s automobile industry, and built a platform for communication and cooperation between auto companies in China and abroad.

Council for the Promotion of International Trade (Shanghai SubCouncil), China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (Automotive Sub-Council), Shanghai International Exhibition Co Ltd (SIEC) and Internationaler Messe und Ausstellungsdienst (IMAG).

who provided on-site reporting of the event.. The success of Auto Shanghai 2013 created an excellent platform for exchange and cooperation between global carmakers, drawing wide attention from the automobile industry and from every community across China.

The previous edition, Auto Shanghai 2013, had a combined show space of 280,000 square meters, brought together 1,787 Chinese and foreign exhibitors from 18 countries and regions worldwide. The show attracted around 813,000 visitors.

Up to 1,300 complete vehicles were on display at the event, including 69 concept cars and 91 new energy vehicles, while 111 new models had their world debuts at the event.

China’s domestic carmakers, among them the six major players, FAW, SAIC Group, Dongfeng Motor, Changan Automobile, GAC Group and BAIC Motor, as well as other Chinese brands including Chery, Brilliance Auto, Geely, BYD and Great Wall Motor, gathered at Auto Shanghai 2013, posing a significant challenge to traditional multinational industry leaders.

In addition to the 813,000 visitor arrivals, the show attracted 10,493 journalists from 2,718 domestic and abroad news media organizations

Chinese domestic brands have experienced a giant leap forward in progress by shifting from mere imitation of foreign counterparts to self-innovation. autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 15

Budget INDIA 2015: After Rs 75 cr aid from Centre, EV makers seek exemption from VAT, road tax

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ith the Centre beginning to take small step to boost electric vehicle manufacturing, industry body Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) says it wants states to support the initiative by eliminating road tax and VAT for a few years.

“Now that the Centre has cleared the roadmap for the growth of electric vehicles in India, SMEV expects states to join in to support this initiative,” SMEV Director-Corporate Affairs Sohinder Gill said in a statement.

Elaborating on the current situation in this regard, he said that presently many states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra have been charging VAT as high as 14 per cent or more, road tax of 4 to 6 per cent, nullifying the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP).

“SMEV requests such states to immediately revert to 0 VAT and eliminate road tax for few years,” Gill said.

In the Budget 2015-16, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley earmarked Rs 75 crore for faster adoption and manufacturing of electric vehicles in 2015-16, a step which electric 16 | March-April 2015 | autoASIA

vehicles makers termed as a good beginning.

Further, the concessional excise duty of 6 per cent on specified goods for use in manufacture of electrically operated vehicles and hybrid vehicles, presently available up to this March, is being extended for another year.

Gill said the steps taken up for the sector in the Budget “is like a life saver for the ailing companies who had invested into the environmentally friendly vehicles but were bleeding heavily because of lack of government support.”

Gill said the biggest beneficiary of NEMMP will be companies manufacturing electric two-wheelers and small electric cars, who have man-

aged to survive through the difficult years and have been still active in the market.

An ambitious target of putting 5 million electric and hybrid vehicles per year on the road by 2020 had been set under the NEMMP. In addition to supporting the industry, NEMMP seeks to create a significant positive impact on the health index of country by promoting zero pollution electric vehicles and reducing the dependence on fossil fuel.

The previous UPA government had launched the NEMMP 2020 in 2013. The targets were envisaged to result in substantial lowering of vehicular emissions and decrease in carbon dioxide emissions by 1.3 per cent to 1.5 per cent in 2020.

RemoteTOP Convertible Top Controller for Porsche 911 Carrera Convertible Reduced Manufacturer Mods4cars has lowered the price for the RemoteTOP add-on Convertible Top Controller for Porsche 911 Carrera (996) Convertibles. The product allows one-touch top operation from the original key fob remote. speeds. The resulting product offered not only that, but also allowed quick and easy installation by just swapping out a relay box, thus leaving no traces and no permanent changes on the vehicle.

The first SmartTOP roof controller was born.

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ftermarket Automotive Electronics specialist Mods4cars has permanently reduced the retail price for the RemoteTOP Convertible Top Controller for Porsche 911 Carrera (996) Convertibles.

The kit is now available for 99 Euros/$129 and makes usage of the convertible top more convenient and fun.

installed and later uninstalled quickly, without leaving damage.

The main feature of the chip is the ability to remotely open and close the convertible top, using just the original key fob remote. Holding down the button on the remote for a set time puts the top in motion. A onetouch option can be turned on as well if full automatic top operation is desired.

Kits are available for many popular brands such as: Alfa, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Ferrari, Ford, Infiniti, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Mazda, MercedesBenz, Mini, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Volkswagen and Volvo.

There are a few additional bonus features such as active interior motion detector (alarm) with the top down, auto locking and unlocking of the doors and a short confirmation sound when locking and unlocking the car. All features can be turned on or off as needed. The entire module can be temporarily disabled as well while retaining all user settings for when it is re-enabled.

“The installation of the RemoteTOP kit is very easy,” explains PR-Manager Sven Tornow. “Our chip is basically just plugged in between an existing connection.” Since there is no need to cut or splice any wires, it can be 18 | March-April 2015 | autoASIA

Mods4cars has been developing add-on convertible top and convenience controls since 2002.

Further details: http://www. mods4cars.com

About Mods4cars: Mods4cars was founded in 2002 with the idea to add a highly demanded feature to the otherwise almost perfect Porsche Boxster: Comfort One-Touch roof operation while driving at slow

The success of their first products in Germany and Europe prompted them in late 2004 to move operations to the USA, to be able to serve the American market as well as all other English speaking countries such as Australia, UK and South Africa from one central location. Their business has grown to a full-fledged international corporation with an office in Las Vegas and a full line of innovative products as well as distributors and installation partners all over the globe.

Being highly specialized in the development and distribution of aftermarket roof- and comfort controllers since 2002 allows them to offer an unsurpassed level of competence and product quality.

Their main goal is optimization of each individual product to a maximum in compatibility, usability and intuitive operation. They put greatest effort into development and quality checks of all their products to achieve this goal and meet all expectations of their customers.

The extraordinary success of their products is also based on the great communication with their customers, which usually already starts for each new product during the development and prototyping phase.

MESNAC and Bosch Rexroth Begins Strategic Cooperation

MESNAC signed a strategic cooperation partnership protocol with Bosch Rexroth on February 4th. Reaching a consensus on the development of a drive and control system of rubber and tire industry. MESNAC president Zheng Jiangjia and Ren Yixing, CSO of Rexroth (China) signed the protocol on behalf of each party.

Bosch Rexroth enjoys the reputation in the field for drives and controls, with high-quality products and rich experience to provide modern, efficient and flexible complete solutions. In the cooperation, Bosch Rexroth will fully support the development of MESNAC’s drives and controls business in the rubber and tire industry, and will make a special plan of action towards the partnership and the promotion of MESNAC’s products. It will support MESNAC’s modular and standardization work, advancing expansion activities of both parties in their respective fields and markets.

The partnership will reinforce each other’s advantages within the drives and controls field of the rubber and tire industry. The two parties will work together to promote the intellectual and digital development towards the rubber and tire industry, providing better products and service for global rubber and tire customers.

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WHEN REPAIR REALLY PAYS OFF The new Ruville Torsion Bar Kit from Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket

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premiere for the independent Aftermarket – Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket is expanding its comprehensive portfolio of suspension springs by offering a new Ruville torsion bar kit for rear axles of the Renault Kangoo passenger car model, available as of April 2015. With this new product, the Aftermarket specialists underscore their suspension expertise under the Ruville brand, and take another step forward in the development of innovative repair solutions.

The new repair solution consists of four torsion bars, which are also available separately. All torsion bars possess a high-quality coating that protects them from corrosion and ensures long service life. Parallel to this, the Aftermarket specialists have developed a tailor-made special tool that makes it possible for garages to carry out efficient repair on all Renault and PSA vehicles with torsion bar suspensions.

Regardless of whether it’s from stone impact or high load conditions – once the surface coating of a rear axle torsion bar has been damaged, this component will begin to rust. This will inevitably result in the torsion bar breaking, and the vehicle will no longer be safe to drive. The torsion bars of the new Ruville repair solution, on the other hand, will hold up even under extreme load thanks to their zinc-flake coating. When combined with the Ruville special tool that goes along with it, independent garages are able for the first time to quickly and efficiently replace broken torsion bars with long-life torsion bars manufactured in OE quality.

“Up until now, a lot of car owners faced with this kind of damage, have tended to purchase a new car due to high cost of repair,” says Maik Evers, Director Program Management Ruville, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket.

“With the Ruville torsion bar kit and the special tool that goes with it, we are giving independent garages a complete package that they can use to affordably and quickly repair the rear axle of the Renault Kangoo. This is repair that really pays off.”

More information about the entire portfolio of Ruville suspension springs can be found at www.ruville.com.

THE NEW MICHELIN CrossClimate REPRESENTS A TURNING POINT In May 2015, European motorists will for the first time be able to purchase a summer tire that has been certified for use in winter. Thanks to a combination of summer and winter tire technologies, the new MICHELIN CrossClimate delivers an appropriate level of safety in all weather conditions, throughout the year.

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ew, different and unexpected, the MICHELIN CrossClimate is the only tire that combines the benefits of summer and winter tires. It brakes in short distances on dry ground, has earned the top “A” rating in wet braking on European tire labels and is approved for winter use, indicated with the Three Peak Mountain Snow Flake (3PMSF) certification (displayed on the sidewall) indicating that it can be used in all seasons, even in countries that require special equipment for winter driving And like all MICHELIN tires, the new MICHELIN CrossClimate also provides long mileage, energy efficiency, and a comfortable ride.

Recently added to Michelin’s existing tire catalog, the new MICHELIN CrossClimate tire addresses an increasingly urgent

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need among European motorists to feel safer when faced with unstable, unpredictable weather conditions. Road conditions can change from one day to the next, during the same day or sometimes even in just a few hours. Rain and snow amplify drivers’ need to be properly equipped in changing weather conditions, to ensure their safety and that of their loved ones. The new MICHELIN CrossClimate offers reassurance, making it possible to deal with

changes in the weather. But above all, the new tire delivers total safety performance simply and economically. Motorists can drive the entire year in the most common weather situations, on just one set of MICHELIN CrossClimate tires.

The new MICHELIN CrossClimate is thus the fullest expression of the Group’s strategy, MICHELIN Total Performance, which consists of delivering more performance in the same tire. This strategy informs

all of the Group’s research and development activities. To provide solutions that are best suited to user expectations and to ensure the relevance of its innovations, Michelin first conducts in-depth studies to understand how motorists use their equipment. To this end, the Group introduced a road usage laboratory in 2014. The MICHELIN CrossClimate is the result of this far-reaching knowledge and research process.

Hankook Tire Supplies Original Fitment for New Audi TT and TTS Models - Hankook Tire’s Ventus S1 evo² selected as the original fitment for the third generation of the Audi TT and TTS models - Features high grip performance combined with high long-term durability and low rolling resistance

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ankook Tire, the leading and one of the fastest growing tire companies in the world, is supplying the original fitment tires for the Audi TT and TTS models.

The completely redesigned sports cars from the premium car manufacturer in Ingolstadt will be fitted with the high-performance Hankook Tire Ventus S1 evo² in sizes 225/50R17, 245/45R17 or 245/35R19 as standard or optional equipment, depending on the engine version.

“The Audi TT stands for excellent design as well as dynamics and innovation, and is thus a perfect match for our flagship Ventus S1 evo² tires,” explains Mr. Seung Hwa Suh, Vice Chairman and CEO of Hankook Tire. He also added, “The very latest innovative technologies were used for the development

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of our high-end tire in order to effectively support the vehicle’s character. Therefore, we are very pleased to be able to supply original fitment tires for this sporty Audi design icon.”

The Hankook Ventus S1 evo² is produced in Europe and demonstrates optimum performance even under demanding conditions with its successful combination of precise handling, outstanding braking ability and high directional stability. The use of high tensile yet extremely lightweight steel cord material, which is also used for Hankook racing tires in the DTM for example, means the Ventus S1 evo² still enables highly dynamic driving even under permanently challenging conditions. The development of the Ventus S1

evo² took the ever more important environmental aspects into account, resulting in a significantly reduced rolling resistance and low rolling noise.

high-performance tire which is customized to the requirements of our customers in terms of dynamic driving, safety, eco-friendliness and comfort.”

The Hankook Ventus S1 evo² is proof of the successful combination of dynamics and comfort, wet grip and low rolling resistance even under demanding conditions. “During the intensive test phase, our tire once more successfully proved its high degree of characteristic dynamic driving properties,” explains Mr. Klaus Krause, head of the European Technology Centre (ETC), where Hankook Tire coordinates the tire development for Audi AG vehicles. “With the Ventus S1 evo², we have implemented our Kontrol Technology* philosophy and developed a modern

There are currently 50 engineers and technicians working at Hankook Tire’s European development center in Hanover, Germany on tailor-made tire solutions for European car manufacturers. It is here that the Audi tires are developed and tested. The tires for the new Audi TT and TTS models are manufactured at the company’s European high-tech production facility in Rácalmás, Hungary. The ultra-modern production facility, located some 60 km south of the capital Budapest, specializes in the production of passenger car and SUV tires for the European market and is one of the most modern production facilities in the world.

Bajaj Auto launches the World’s Most Fuel Efficient Bike

- the New Bajaj Platina ES • The new Platina delivers an unparalleled mileage of 96.9 km, highest in its category • Now with Superior Styling and Electric Start

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ajaj Auto has launched the World’s most fuel efficient bike – the all new Platina. The new Bajaj Platina is not just an upgrade on its hugely succesful model, but also a technological leap. It is an entirely new platform developed with a new DTS-i powered engine which delivers a potent mix of superior power & world champion mileage. In fact, this new motorcycle has broken all the benchmarks on mileage to deliver 96.9 kmpl as per ARAI testing. This is the highest ever among all 100cc bikes not just in India, but also all around the world!

Bajaj Auto has done a global study on mileage across more than 50 major countries and more than 500 motorcycle models. All sources such as country specific OEM websites, blogs, industry bodies, and certified automotive publications were reviewed in detail. The findings prove the fact that on mileage the Bajaj Platina ES is unbeatable. No other production bike in the 95 to 105cc range, either in India or globally, comes close.

Commenting on the launch Mr Eric Vas, President Motorcycle Business said “The original Bajaj Platina has always been known for its great mileage and reliability.

It is one of India’s most successful bike model with more than 50 Lakh bikes on road. It is seen as a low maintenance and a good resale value motorcycle that has built its reputation through customers’ word-ofmouth. It has always been a mileage “Champion” with

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existing customers acknowledging its great on road delivery. The new Platina now -takes mileage to an unbeatable level of 96.9 kmpl making it the “World’s Mileage Champion”.” Moreover it adds superior styling and Electric Start to make it a very attractive proposition to the everyday commuter.”

The new Platina ES has been designed to appeal to the long distance commuter. It gets a new long travel telescopic front suspension and SNS (double spring) rear suspension. Moreover it has a long wheelbase and three inch wide rear tyres for superior grip and control on uneven roads.

All of which result in a superior ride experience.

The all new Platina ES also comes with refreshed styling as well as Electric Start. It offers new side panels, new exhaust, a refreshed headlamp design, new graphics and alloy wheels as standard. The bike also offers the longest seat in the segment making it the perfect commuter motorcycle.

The new Bajaj Platina is competitively priced at Rs- 44,507 (on road Delhi) and is available in three colours: ebony black, electron blue and candy red.

Hankook Tire to Supply Ultra High Performance Tires for All-New V6 and EcoBoost Ford Mustangs - Hankook Tire’s premium Ultra-High Performance All-Season Ventus S1 noble2 selected as original equipment for V6 and EcoBoost base level 2015 Ford Mustang - Expanded partnership with Ford represents Hankook Tire’s continued business commitment in North America as a global tire brand

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ankook Tire, the leading and one of the fastest growing tire companies in the world, has been selected as an original equipment (OE) supplier for the all-new 2015 Ford Mustang V6 and EcoBoost. Both the V6 and EcoBoost base level vehicles will be factory equipped with Hankook Tire’s Ventus S1 noble2 (Pattern Code: H452) in 235/55R17H AS size, providing the ideal balance of all-season ability and ultra-high performance.

Providing a well-suited complement to the 2015 Ford Mustang, Hankook Tire’s Ventus S1 noble2 adds to the dynamic driving experience and innovative features of the vehicle. Incorporating an asymmetric tread pattern, the tire features a four channel rib design for efficient water evacuation and an advanced silica rubber compound to offer impressive wet handling, braking and lower rolling resistance.

Additionally, a straight rib block design applied to the outer edge of the tire’s contact patch helps to prevent unwanted road noise and increase

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cornering grip. “We value our growing partnership with Ford and above all our unwavering commitment to one of our strategic markets in North America,” said Mr. Seung Hwa Suh, Vice Chairman & CEO at Hankook Tire.

He also added, “Our new original equipment fitments proudly exhibit Hankook’s globally proven tire quality and performance. Based on our technological leadership, we at Hankook Tire will continue to advance our position to become a global top-tier tire company as a trusted tire brand.”

In an array of OE supply deals, Hankook Tire has been expanding its partnership with Ford since 1999 on vehicles globally such as the Ford Fiesta, Edge, Explorer, Flex, Taurus, Fusion, Mode, Transit and Kuga as well as Ford’s luxury brand, Lincoln.

Based on this long-term partnership, Hankook Tire is enhancing its strong position worldwide as a global tire brand with superior and cutting-edge tire technology.

SME, DEMAT Partner on EUROMOLD to Strengthen Additive Manufacturing Industry SME’s 25-year leadership position in additive manufacturing fosters international collaboration, enhances conference and exhibits!

SME, the U.S. leader in additive manufacturing and 3D printing expertise and events, has announced that it will partner with DEMAT, to support the additive manufacturing elements of EUROMOLD. The SME/DEMAT strategic relationship will further strengthen EUROMOLD’s position as the world’s leading exhibition on additive manufacturing and 3D printing.

“SME is excited to partner with DEMAT and participate in EUROMOLD,” said Debbie Holton, director of events and industry strategy, SME.“ Collaboration between the U.S. and Europe is vital to advancing additive manufacturing, as these markets are the largest in 3D technology. Advanced applications, machines and related technologies are constantly being discovered and launched.

“Through this concerted effort – and with other industry expertise – EUROMOLD will continue to be the premier platform to bring people together globally, showcase the latest innovations and drive the technology forward.”

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SME’s role in the partnership will be to provide additive manufacturing knowledge to EUROMOLD delegates through a newly expanded technical conference and exhibits. SME will also work with startups and other leading companies to assist them in reaching the world market for additive manufacturing.

“We are very enthusiastic to partner with SME, a highly-respected and leading organization on additive manufacturing and 3D printing,” said Diana Schnabel, CEO/President of DEMAT. “This marks a significant milestone for our company to further boost EUROMOLD, together with SME, as the leading world fair and conference for additive manufacturing, industrial design,

mold-making and tooling and product development.

We look forward to a long-term partnership in order bring the innovations from the U.S. to Europe and bring the entire industry into the `Factory of the Future’!”

From the early days of rapid prototyping 25 years ago, SME members have been the experts and thought leaders in this technology. SME offers professionals and companies the most comprehensive set of resources and programs around 3D technology. It is viewed by many as a top authority on additive manufacturing and 3D printing.

SME + Additive Manufacturing

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RAPID is the longest-running 3D scanning, printing and additive manufacturing conference and exposition in North America. This annual event will celebrate its 25th anniversary May 18-21, 2015.

SME offers an additive manufacturing certificate program and training through Tooling U-SME to provide and validate specific manufacturing skills.

Advanced Manufacturing Media offers additive manufacturing content in its print Manufacturing Engineering magazine, as well as a web channel.

SME members have access to a technical community focused on Rapid Technologies and Additive Manufacturing.

SME offers various awards, student contests and programs related to additive manufacturing including M.Lab21, SkillsUSA, Design for Direct Digital Manufacturing Competition, the Dick Aubin Distinguished Paper Award and Rippl3D. com.

EUROMOLD Strategic Partnerships EUROMOLD recently announced a partnership with Wohlers Associates, which will be responsible for the long-term plan and thinking associated with additive manufacturing as it relates to EUROMOLD. The 17th International Wohlers Conference will take place at EUROMOLD 2015.

“The addition of SME as a EUROMOLD partner will enhance the programming and bring an extensive

breadth of knowledge in additive manufacturing,” said Terry Wohlers, principal consultant and president, Wohlers Associates. “I am excited to work with SME and DEMAT. Together, we will continue to influence the additive manufacturing industry and help bring it to a new and exciting level.”

EUROMOLD 2015 takes place Sept. 22-25, 2015 at the Exhibition Center Düsseldorf. For more information, visit euromold.com.

About SME SME connects all those who are passionate about making things that improve our world. As a nonprofit organization, SME has served practitioners, companies, educators, government and communities across the manufacturing spectrum for more than 80 years. Through its strategic areas of events, media, membership, training and development, and the SME Education Foundation, SME is uniquely dedicated to the advancement of manufacturing by addressing both knowledge and skill needs for the industry.

Follow @SME_MFG on Twitter or facebook.com/SMEmfg.

About EUROMOLD EUROMOLD is the world’s leading trade fair for mold-making, tooling, design, additive manufacturing and product development. Based on the process chain “from design to prototype to series,” it presents products and services, technologies and innovations, and trends for the markets of the future. The EUROMOLD process chain promotes the formation of networks, partnerships and business relationships. EUROMOLD offers a unique trade fair concept that closes the gap between industrial designers, product developers, fabricators, suppliers and users. The EUROMOLD trade fair reveals methods for faster, more cost-effective and efficient development and manufacturing of new products. This increasingly plays a central role in the modern economy. The renowned trade fair organiser DEMAT GmbH transfers the successful concept of world-leading EuroMold trade fair to attractive foreign markets on five continents. autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 31

A Memorable Anniversary for a Successful WACKER Brand: 60 Years of ELASTOSIL® One of the best-known and most successful brands of Munich-based chemicals group WACKER is turning 60: on March 4, 1955, the company sought trademark protection from the German Patent Office for the name ELASTOSIL®.

Since then the number of different products bearing the registered trademark has grown to nearly 3000.

ELASTOSIL® silicones are used in virtually all branches of industry, from automotive to aerospace. WACKER is celebrating this milestone with a website (www. wacker.com/elastosil60) dedicated to telling the brand’s remarkable success story.

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LASTOSIL® silicone rubber has been used to reliably seal joints for many years. It is used not only for building joints but also for joints in the household and industrial sectors.

Employees are marking the 60th birthday of ELASTOSIL® on the group website www.wacker.com with a series of reports about the varied application areas, trends and innovations surrounding this silicone brand. The series opens with a welcoming address

by Peter Summo, head of the Engineering Silicones business unit. “A trademark application was filed for ELASTOSIL® on March 4, 1955. Since then, this extraordinary technology has repeatedly provided the basis for high-performance, economical and sustainable products.”

ELASTOSIL® silicones have become an essential, integral part of many applications due to their versatility and unique property profile. Whether for airbags, keyboards, safety and fire-resistive cables, mold-making, sealing and medical technology – silicone elastomers provide key benefits to manufacturers and end customers alike. The brand is also renowned for the role it plays in technical innovations that lead to new products and open up new opportunities for fabricators. One such example is ELASTOSIL® Film, the latest member of the brand family. This ultrathin high-precision film of silicone rubber is used in the production of novel sensors, actuators and generators. “Our

high-precision silicone film, which is available as roll stock, opens up totally new application possibilities for the industry. We have only just scratched the surface,” says Summo. “Many products nowadays tend to come and go quickly. But not ELASTOSIL®. This is a brand you can rely on.”

The brand name ELASTOSIL®, which is a contraction of “elastomer” and “silicone”, encompasses numerous silicone elastomers from the WACKER product range. Unlike silicone fluids or silicone resins, they are by nature elastic and rubber-like. While silicone rubbers constitute the largest group numerically, the brand portfolio includes other silicone grades, such as silicone rubber dispersions, silicone sealants and additives.

The brains behind WACKER silicones and the man behind the ELASTOSIL® brand was the chemist Dr. Siegfried Nitzsche, who commenced his pioneering research into silanes and silicones at WACKER’s initial production site in Burghausen, Germany, in 1947.

Over the years that followed, WACKER scientists developed a range of different silicone polymers and all kinds of crosslinking mechanisms as they systematically built up the comprehensive ELASTOSIL® portfolio.

Silicone rubbers consist essentially of silicone polymers and fillers. They undergo hightemperature (HTV silicones) or room-temperature vulcanization (RTV silicones and liquid silicone rubber respectively) with suitable reactants, during which the uncured, flowable compound in a plastic state is transformed into an elastomeric rubber with a threedimensional structure.

Silicone rubbers are flexible at

low temperatures as well as being resistant to heat and aging (UV, ozone, radiation). They are easy to process and have good mechanical properties that remain unchanged over a wide temperature range. Moreover, they have a neutral taste and a low environmental impact. As the properties of the silicone rubbers can be varied within wide limits, developers can tailor them to all kinds of applications and adjust them in response to growing technical requirements – this has been a key factor underpinning the success of the ELASTOSIL® brand. Aside from tried-and-true silicone sealants widely employed throughout the construction industry, the portfolio contains highly specialized rubber grades, such as extremely heat-resistant and high-tear-strength grades.

Various self-adhesive, electrically conducting, low-friction and magnetic silicones are also available.

The ELASTOSIL® range has a product to suit nearly every industrial application and every processing method, whether this be extrusion, injection molding or dispensing. Molded parts, profiles and tubing, joint seals, bonded components, coated surfaces and exact reproductions can all be made with silicone rubber.

ELASTOSIL® silicone products are employed in all kinds of industrial applications. Their near-to unlimited potential makes them ideal for applications in many industries – such as automotive and mechanical engineering, electronics and electrics, textiles, baby articles, toys, domestic appliances and sports articles, as well as the construction industry.

For more details about ELASTOSIL®’s 60th anniversary, visit www.wacker.com/elastosil60 . autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 33

Close to the Customer:

ContiTech Presents Sustainable Railway Engineering Solutions at Eurasia Rail • • •

ContiTech is a competent contact on site Worldwide dealer network provides outstanding service Innovative product line for all types of rail vehicles

Whether local or high-speed, rail travel is on the fast track in Turkey.

Under the motto “Engineering Next Level,” ContiTech has its sights on the expanding needs of this growth market. And it’s not just about components and systems – ContiTech also develops solutions jointly with customers. With its long-standing competence in materials and development, the company is presenting tomorrow’s sustainable product solutions at Eurasia Rail in Istanbul (Hall D9, Booth 10-05).

Excellent temperature stability combined with high resistance to abrasion and the effects of ozone, UV rays, and other media: The new K air spring holds up under adverse conditions.

ContiTech air actuators in pantographs are also especially durable. During power transmission, they generate the right amount of pressure to bring the conductor lines into contact with the overhead line. Lightweight, highly durable, and maintenance-friendly, they can withstand extreme weather conditions and are resistant to UV radiation and dirt.

Not only is ContiTech Air Spring Systems a partner of leading original equipment manufacturers but it also offers air spring systems for the aftersales market. In this regard, the company stands out for its excellent quality and high level of safety. “We only produce products that meet OEM specifications,” says Hoppmann. “The customer gets original-equipment quality he can rely on.”

A trip through the ContiTech product portfolio: The rail network stands for the vast array of railway engineering solutions.

ContiTech has more than 50 years’ experience in the development and production of air spring systems, including 15 years in Turkey alone.

In 2014, ContiTech’s Bursa site reached a milestone: Since the site’s founding in 1999, its employees have produced 15 million air springs for the utility vehicle industry. Products from ContiTech Railway Engineering are also prevalent here. “We are a competent on-site partner to our customers,” says Friedrich Hoppmann, Segment Manager of Railway Engineering at ContiTech. He adds, “Localization in Turkey is driving ahead for the long term. There is already a contact person for rail projects at the Bursa site.” In addition, a worldwide dealer network enables outstanding service.

ContiTech air springs and suspension systems increase comfort and safety in metro trains, streetcars, and high-speed trains. They make ecofriendly rail travel even more attractive to passengers and help reduce noise pollution in cities and congested areas. As a driver of innovation, ContiTech is pressing forward with development in this field. At InnoTrans 2014, for example, the company presented the K air spring, which can withstand even extreme temperatures. And the new product stood up to the hardness test in Kazakhstan.

Competence on site: For more than 15 years, ContiTech has been serving the air spring market from its site in Bursa, Turkey.

With a comprehensive selection of premium railway hoses (including railway brake hoses, coolant hoses for heating and cooling systems, and cable protection hoses for rail cars and engines), ContiTech helps make passenger and freight transport safe and comfortable. ContiTech railway hoses meet all specifications of the new European fire protection standard EN 45545, even before it takes effect in 2016. As a flexible transition system between individual cars, bellows materials are constantly moving and must withstand stone impacts, UV radiation, rain, and snow. ContiTech products reliably meet these requirements. They travel in both high-speed trains and in metro trains. autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 35

COMPANY PROFILE: Al Dobowi Tyre Company world’s premier sports cars.

Al Dobowi is also the major industrial tyre player in the UAE. It is the sole authorized distributor for entire UAE for Trelleborg Wheel Systems – the leading global industrial tyre manufacturer. With the above partnership, Al Dobowi is able to offer a complete range of industrial tyres & wheels. This includes solid / pneumatic industrial tyres, press-on-solids & skid steer tyres. It also provides removal & fitment of wheels with technical assistance from a qualified & experienced team with its own service vehicles and pressing facilities.

Al Dobowi Tyre Company (“Al Dobowi”), has been servicing the needs of clients for over three decades. In that time it has built up a reputation as the most trusted name for automotive products in UAE.

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e market a range of high performance tyres and high quality automotive batteries. We also distributes lubricants, motor oils and alloy wheels.

We service the domestic UAE market through its presence in all seven Emirates and the markets of East Africa, the CIS and Afghanistan through our vast dealer network.

Al Dobowi is the most professional choice when it comes to commercial tyre requirements.

Since its inception over three decades ago Al Dobowi has established itself amongst the most prominent tyre distributors in the UAE. Not only have we gained vast knowledge of effective customer service but we also boast some of the worlds leading original fitment tyre brands. Al Dobowi is the only major tyre player in the UAE to

offer the Total Tyre Management System (“TTMS”) to its fleet clients. Its fleet programs include a package offered to selected fleets whereby we assist in maximizing tyre usage in the fleet and thereby reduce total tyre operational cost. We conduct fleet studies on selected transport fleets customers and offer on-time advice to assist customers to save on downtime and tyre headaches. We were also the first company to have a service truck to service clients in the UAE. We are also the only tyre company in the Middle East to offer the two life concept to its clients – both new and retread under o ne roof. Training end user customer’s personnel also plays an important role for Al Dobowi and we are regularly conducting training sessions for our customers.

Al Dobowi training programs consist of training modules for all levels of tyre personnel from basic

knowledge to more advanced courses on all aspects of tyre technology and maintenance. Our sales staff are highly trained and skilled to give advice on all aspects of tyre safety and applications as required by customers.

In addition to commercial tyres Al Dobowi offers a full range of car tyres and is proud to be associated with Hankook and Semperit for these ranges. The Group provides car tyres to major car and taxi fleets in the Emirates. After more than 50 years of inception, Hankook remains committed to customer satisfaction today, applying quality and technology to offer its special brand of value to customers in over 170 nations. Hankook, the world’s 9th largest tyre manufacturer, supplies Original Equipment (OE) tires to such automakers as Ford, Volkswagen and Volvo. Semperit is part of the Continental Group from Germany, which is the fourth largest tyre manufacturer in the world.

Semperit tyres are made in Europe and have launched the Direction Sport Range which is fitted on the

Al Dobowi is the oldest battery distributor in this market. We have been a partner for Yuasa in this market for over twenty five years and have more recently also started distributing Hankook Calcium batteries and Optima batteries. Yuasa is a leading global battery manufacturer offering batteries made in Japan, Indonesia, Korea & Taiwan for automotive, motorcycle & industrial applications. Hankook batteries, manufactured in Korea, are highperformance lead-acid batteries.

Optima Batteries, part of Johnson Controls, Inc., is an American company that is manufacturing a revolutionary product that is the world wide standard for electrochemical power sources.

With the above partnership, Al Dobowi is able to offer a complete range of automotive, motorcycle, industrial and special application batteries. This includes, but not limited to, the following: • Full range of starter automotive dry charged batteries • Sealed maintenance free batteries meeting all standards • 6V & 12V batteries for motorcycles and jet-ski application • Starter, Deep-cycle & Marine application batteries • UPS batteries autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 37

Ashok Leyland reports 72 % growth in revenue and substantial improvement in profits

Ashok Leyland, flagship of the Hinduja Group, reported revenues of Rs. 3361.00 crores, as against Rs. 1953.21 crores for the corresponding period last year.

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et profit stood at Rs. 32.09 crores for Q3, as against a net loss of Rs. 167.21 crores for Q3 last year

For YTD, the operating profit was at Rs. 588.62 crores as against an operating loss of Rs. 17.38 crores for first nine months last year.

Mr. Vinod K. Dasari, Managing Director, said, “This marks a significant turnaround for the Company. In addition to our export orders from Sri Lanka and Africa, we are hopeful of making significant inroads into newer markets, maintaining network expansion and also opening small assembly centers in overseas markets like our experience in Ras Al Khaimah (UAE). We are today reasonably confident that the domestic market is indeed coming back and that the worst may be behind us”.

“We believe this growth momentum will continue and we should close this fiscal on a good note. Total industry volume has grown 10 percent year-on-year. A more stable and optimistic business environment, improvement in profitability of fleet owners, pre-buying ahead of the excise duty hike contributed to the increase in sales in the last quarter. Our single-minded focus on fiscal discipline and customer profitability reflects in the results of the company” added Mr. Dasari. autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 39

Toyota Kirloskar launches new Land Cruiser Prado for Rs 84.9 lakhs

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) recently launched the new version of its luxury sports utility vehicle Land Cruiser Prado in India priced at Rs 84.87 lakhs (ex-showroom New Delhi).

Apart from new exterior looks, the new Prado will have features such as ‘crawl control’ - a system that makes accelerator and brake operations unnecessary when driving over jagged off-road terrain or on slippery surfaces, enabling the driver to concentrate fully on steering.

It will also have multi-terrain select, a system that allows driver to choose between various road condition modes such as rock, rock and dirt, loose rock, and mud and sand.

The company said bookings for the new Prado will start today.

Commenting on the launch, TKM Deputy Managing Director & COO Sandeep Singh said ever since Prado’s launch in India in 2004, customer response has been very good and the company was confident of taking it forward.

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Ashok Leyland signs MoU with Lakshmi Vilas Bank for Vehicle Financing

Ashok Leyland, flagship of the Hinduja Group, and

Vilas Bank and Mr. K. Ram Kumar, Vice President - Corporate

Lakshmi Vilas Bank signed an MoU (Memorandum

Finance, Ashok Leyland Ltd.

of Understanding) whereby Lakshmi Vilas Bank will extend retail financing to customers of Ashok Leyland’s commercial vehicles. With this tie-up, Ashok Leyland will have access to Lakshmi Vilas Bank’s network presence in 15 states that will enable efficient and effective service to its customers across the country.

“We are happy to announce this strategic tie-up with Lakshmi Vilas Bank. We are sure that the bank’s technologically advanced network will help Ashok Leyland deepen and widen its presence” said Mr. Gopal Mahadevan, Chief Financial Officer, Ashok Leyland.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Rakesh Sharma MD & CEO Lakshmi Vilas Bank said “This is a strategic tie up with a leading OEM group

The MoU was signed today by Mr. Rakesh Sharma,

and will be a step forward for LVB strengthening its presence in

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lakshmi

retail commercial vehicle lending”

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MFGRS. OF AUTOMOTIVE REAR VIEW MIRRORS & HORNS FOR ALL TYPE OF TRUCKS, BUSES, TRACTORS, MOTORCYCLES, SCOOTERS AND AUTORICKSHAWS

PERFECT AUTO INDUSTRIES FARIDABAD, HARYANA

2015 Indian Union Budget: What It Has For Indian Automobile Industry

The much-awaited first full-term budget of the current government is finally out, which attempts to address several issues, including a few raised by the Indian automobile players. Additional excise duty on vehicles, speeding up the implementation of GST (Goods and Service Tax), lowering interest rates on vehicles, etc. were the primary demands raised by the Indian auto players. Save for the assurance of speeding up the implementation of GST, most demands raised by auto players were not addressed in the current budget. That said, reduced corporate tax (from 30% to 25%) and the government’s focus on infrastructure will indirectly help the auto industry.

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ower excise duty benefit was the primary demand that all the automakers were asking, which in the new budget has not been addressed. This means that cars and two-wheelers will not get cheaper. The previous UPA government had cut excise duty on cars, SUVs and two-wheelers in its interim budget in February 2014 to help the industry tide over a demand slump.

Excise duty was reduced to 24 per cent from 30 per cent in the case of SUVs, 20 per cent for mid-sized car from 24 per cent and 24 per cent for large cars from 27 per cent. In June, the new government led by Narendra Modi extended the excise duty concession by six months to December 31. But in January, it was rolled back and the excise duty slab came to the old structure once again.

While there is no change in the excise duty structure, the GOI has announced to speed up the implementation of Goods and Service Tax (GST) that the auto industry had been demanding for quite a long time. It will create a uniform tax structure across all states. The govt said that the GST will come into effect from April 2016.

Also, the Indian auto players were hoping the govt to ask banks and financial institutions to lower the interest rate on vehicles to bring the positive sentiments among buyers.

But the 2015 Union Budget hasn’t addressed this issue as well.

To promote green vehicles, the government of India has proposed Rs. 75 crore for electric vehicle manufacturing. Also, the excise duty concession on EV manufacturing will continue.

The LATIN TYRE EXPO (July 16-18, 2015) Panama City, R. Panama is 90% reserved tional Ltd., BuyBigTires.com, Carlisle Tire, Deestone Limited, Elgi Rubber Company LLC., Euromaster, S.A. / Michelin, Evergreen Global (United Tyres), Evergreen Tyre Company Limited, Federal Corporation, Hules Banda S.A. de C.V., Industrias de Hule Galgo, JK Tyre - JK Tornel, Kenda Rubber Ind. Co., Ltd., Lakin Tire, Nankang Rubber Tire, Ravaglioli S.p.A., 2 Crave, and over 190+ companies more.

RESERVE YOUR BOOTH TODAY to make sure your company is not left out of the ORIGINAL, LARGEST and BEST tire show in Latin American and the Caribbean.

For booth reservations or to sign up The LATIN TYRE EXPO (July 16-18, 2015) Panama City, R. Panama is 90% reserved. We still have some spaces avail-

FREE as a visitor contact +1 786-

able for you to access the Latin American markets with your products.

293-5186 yamila@latintyreexpo. com or visit the website www.

The following companies will be present this year Sumitomo Rubber Latin America Ltda., Triangle Tyre Co., Ltd.,

usatireexpo.com to see all the

Aeolus Tyre Co., Ltd., Robert Bosch Panama S.A., Sailun Tire Co., Ltd., Antariyamin Latino America, Apollo Interna-

expo details.

The LATIN AUTO PARTS EXPO (June 18-20, 2015) in Panama, Rep. of Panama is over 90% reserved with more than 270+ companies

The LATIN AUTO PARTS EXPO (June 18-20, 2015) in Panama, Rep. of Panama is over 90% reserved with more than 270+ companies!

The U.S. Department of Commerce recently granted Trade Fair Certification to the LATIN AUTO PARTS EXPO. Through Certification, the Commercial Service of the Department of Commerce recognizes the expo’s professional capability to organize a United States Pavilion and endorse the event as an excellent opportunity to showcase U.S. products and services.

The following companies will be present this year AC Delco Tools & Equipment, ACE International, Advance Auto Supply Co, Ltd., AISIN World Corp. of America, Akebono Brake Corporation, B&B Manufacturing, Corp., Beck/Arnley, BOOSTane, Octane Engineering, Delco Remy, Exedy Latin America, S.A., Federal-Mogul Motorparts, Fujimoto America, Grant Piston Rings, Japan International Parts S.A., NAPA Auto Parts, New York Brake Co., RapidParts.com, and many more great companies.

RESERVE YOUR BOOTH TODAY to guarantee your company has the BEST available location in what is going to become the LEADING auto parts show in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Meet directly with buyers in this region and expand your market.

For booth reservations or to sign up FREE as a visitor contact 1-786-293-5186 or email alexandra@latinpartsexpo.com or visit the show website for more details www.latinpartsexpo.com autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 45

Technology Day 2015 at

Ashok Leyland’s Technical Centre

The global R&D Centre of the Hinduja group flagship, Ashok Leyland organizes its 2-day symposium-cum-exhibition, which seeks to ignite a passion for engineering and create a culture of innovation across Ashok Leyland. Themed around “Power Train Technology”, the symposium-cum-exhibition focuses on technical advancements related to engines, drive train, hybrid electric technology and ethanol engine.

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hief Guest and keynote speaker, Padmashri Dr. MYS Prasad, Director, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota High Altitude Range, inaugurated the 2 day exhibition, at the Ashok Leyland technical centre campus located in Vellivoyal Chavadi (VVC), North Chennai.

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Leading companies in power train technologies from Austria, Germany, USA, France, UK and Japan will set-up exhibits and offer insights on the latest trends in R&D. Ashok Leyland will showcase its zeroemission electric vehicles (ZEVs) including the all-electric LCV – DOST, 10T electric Truck, the 10T electric midi bus and a DOST powered by an ethanol engine.

The campus has close to 1000 engineers engaged in design and development of commercial vehicles and vehicle systems and is

credited with rolling out many firsts in India like CNG buses, Multi-Axle Trucks, Vestibule Buses, etc.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Vinod K. Dasari, Managing Director, Ashok Leyland, said, “Technology Day is a forum aimed to bring our engineers face-to-face with cutting- edge R&D from across the globe. In addition to gaining intense learning experience, our engineers get an opportunity to showcase their own research and innovations. Such engagements and forums help them keep abreast of latest technologies and apply them to develop worldclass vehicles”.

The Rs 18 crore palace on wheels sold in Dubai

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he world’s most expensive mobile home has gone on sale in Dubai for $3 million, approximately INR 18 crores.

The humongous, 40-foot-long eleMMent Palazzo from Austrian company Marchi Mobile is covered with gold and comes with a ton of luxury features, including a 40inch flat screen, a pop-up cocktail lounge, a fireplace, a master bedroom, and underfloor heating.

But it is still a lot of money for something that could be considered a lot of ugly – at least on the outside. It looks like one of those creatures of the deep caught on camera during the raising of the Titantic. To drive something this hideous you need to have some deep pockets. However, as your mom used to tell you (unless she was really shallow) beauty is on the inside. That’s where the element Palazzo shines. It comes with its own, as CNN describes it, “portable, push-button, pop-up rooftop terrace.”

It also features a pop-up cocktail lounge, a fireplace, a master bedroom, and underfloor heating.

The amazing vehicle could also cater to any multi-millionaire or global superstar on the road. It’s also available in white.

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Budget 2015: Auto sector demands tax sops With the arrival of new stable government, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is all set to present the Union Budget 2015-16. Since it is the Modi government’s first full-term budget and they already have promised a transformational budget, expectations are high on decisions to be taken for any sector of the country and automotive sector is no different. Here is AutoPortal’s take on the automobile industry and the budget impact on it.

With the increasing growth in demand on back of rising income, expanding middle class and young population base, in addition to a large pool of skilled manpower and growing technology, will propel India to be among the world’s top five auto-producers by 2015.

A report published by Delloite says, “India is expected to become a major automobile manufacturing hub and the third largest market for automobiles by 2020”. The auto48 | March-April 2015 | autoASIA

motive industry in India accounts for around 22% of the country’s manufacturing gross domestic product (GDP) and is one of the largest employment creators of the economy.

However, sales of passenger vehicles in the domestic market grew just 3.67% in the April-December period (mainly after the excise cuts) this fiscal in comparison with the same period a year ago and the industry went through slowdown for most of last year.

The situation got worsen in January 2015, after the withdrawal of excise duty concessions, car sales in India witnessed major decline with main players Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai posting single digit growth in January, while others like GM

India and Ford saw decline in sales.

AutoPortal’s outlook on the upcoming budget over automobile industry is: · Reduction in excise duty: In February 2014 interim budget, excise duty on small cars, scooters, motorcycles and commercial vehicles was reduced to 8% from 12% previously. For SUVs, it was cut to 24% from 30%; for mid-sized cars, to 20% from 24%, and to 24% for large cars from 27% earlier, in the hope of boosting the sector. In June2014, the new government led

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the excise duty concessions till December 2014. As a result, auto manufacturers were forced to increase prices. The auto industry SIAM, further wants to extend the relaxation in duties as this

would keep the cost of ownership down for the ultimate owners and increase the interest for new buys. Further, long-term stability in excise duty structure is needed across the country, so that manufacturers can plan their products strategy for the next 3-5 years. · Inverted duty structure: The government is expected to address the inverted duty structure in the forthcoming Budget. Under the inverted duty structure, taxation of inputs is at higher rates than finished products that results in build-up of credits and cascading costs, thus favouring imports of raw material. Under the government’s “Make in India” approach, it is suggested to remove inverted duty structure to protect the interests of domestic industry. · Implementation of GST: Implementation and speedy action on GST will bring in growth to the economy and create a uniform tax structure across all states. Also this will persuade more exports through increased competitiveness in the international market. The auto industry is keenly looking forward to the roadmap and introduction of GST. · Scrappage Subsidy Schemes: Introduction of Scrappage Subsidy Schemes on lines of European counterparts, which will clean old cars off the road. Budget should include Policy for scrapping old cars- 15 years and above, along with the infrastructure needed to scrap. This will benefit the environment, reduce fuel consumption and also propel further demands for automotives.

· Green initiatives to manufacturing of electric and hybrid cars: With the upcoming budget, Green initiatives from the government to boost sale of electric and hybrid vehicles is expected and also needed as ‘Go Green’ is the motto for all leading economies of the world. The government is expected to announce special tax incentives to promote eco-friendly vehicles and provide more sops for hybrid/ alternative fuel for vehicles, to increase the marketability and usage of these vehicles and to improve environment and economy by bringing down fuel imports. Continuation of the tax incentives from the Budget for 2014-15 like investment allowance and duty cuts for hybrid vehicles/ parts is also expected.

attract a customs duty in excess of 125%. To promote “Make in India” and to provide healthy competitive platform to domestic players, the auto industry hopes that the budget will retain the customs duty at the current rate which ultimately increases the cost of imported cars.

Electric cars are an eco-friendly variant of four-wheelers. But these cars need to be charged regularly which requires a particular infrastructure (charging locations) across the country. The auto sector needs the government to help setup the charging infrastructure across cities. · Custom duty unchanged for exported cars: Fully imported cars

Before it is too late and the auto industry is back to the days of poor demand and high taxes, it needs a big push from the upcoming Budget to be back on a growth trajectory. In the wake of the government’s ‘Make in India’ and big expectations from the upcoming budget, Indian auto industry shall witness an unprecedented sales and demand growth.

· Lowering of interest rates for financing vehicles: According to a Business World report, “Over 80% of the vehicles purchased in India are purchased with financing from banks and other institutes”. Thus, a reduction in bank interest rate on loans will overall reduce the cost for the consumer, ultimately improving the demand for the automobiles.

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ACMA Automechanika New Delhi concludes successfully REFLECTING POSITIVE INDUSTRY SENTIMENTS

2nd edition aftermarket trade fair generates 12,861 business visitors

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he 2nd edition of ACMA Automechanika New Delhi successfully concluded its four-day run on 1st March, 2015 reinforcing its position as a leading networking and sourcing platform for India’s autocomponent and aftermarket. Mirroring the return of growth in the automotive sector, ACMA Automechanika New Delhi witnessed an enthusiastic response from auto part majors, the aftermarket and business visitors on the whole. The exhibition which featured a total of 436 exhibiting companies from India and foreign contingents from Brazil, China, Germany, Hungary,

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Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Poland, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, the UAE, the UK and the USA saw key industry players expressing satisfaction on the government’s budget focus on infrastructure development including roads and power, education, skilling, infrastructure development, ease of doing business and attracting investments. The exhibits on the show floor were a represen-

tation of the latest products in mobility, vehicle maintenance and up-keep. With over 20 companies choosing this platform to unveil new products and component lines, ACMA Automechanika New Delhi became an ideal showcase for new products and technologies for the aftermarket in the region. 12,861 business visitors from India and abroad visited the show, creating new records as compared to the

last edition of the show in 2013.

Several exhibitors and trade visitors have confirmed on closing sizeable business deals.

ACMA’s ‘Asli Naqli’ Pavilion and Messe Frankfurt’s ‘Against Copying’ campaign not only aimed at educating aftermarket professionals about disadvantages and risks involved in using fake parts for vehicles; it also allowed visitors to evaluate components and distinguish real from fake, enabling them to take well-informed procurement decisions.

Among the key highlights of the event, a white paper on Transformative Technologies of Future Cars was presented by Frost & Sullivan on day two of the exhibition during the concurrently held ACMA Automechanika Seminar.

The seminar presented comprehensive insights on next generation of electronics & safety systems and managing cost of innovation from an esteemed panel of 18 speakers from India, Germany, the UK and the USA. Additionally, the first ACMA Global MSME Summit: “Make in India – Evolving Manufacturing through Globalisation” was organized which focussed on Indian small and medium enterprises and the evolution of global MSMEs in terms of entrepreneurial ability, technology upgradation and innovation.

The session also provided an opportunity to understand business openings in adjacent industries like Off-Highway Vehicle, Urban Transport System, Defense (Indigenisation) and Agricultural Machinery.

The next edition of ACMA Automechanika, focusing purely on the needs of the growing Indian aftermarket will be scheduled in February 2017 and will continue to present opportunities in the aftermarket as well as address industry concerns on counterfeit products sold in the replacement market.

For further information about ACMA Automechanika New Delhi, please visit www.acma-automechanika.in autoASIA | March-April 2015 | 51

Major Investment by Kordsa Global in the Asia-Pacific Region Kordsa Global, has opened its’ second tire cord fabric and polyester yarn facility with an amount of 100m USD investment. Since 2007, operating under the title of IndoKordsa, Kordsa Global has become the biggest player in the Asia-Pacific region with its new investments

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ordsa Global has opened its second site in Indonesia, in Bogor-Citeureup located on the west part of Java Island. Kordsa Global’s 100m USD investment covers an 18 kiloton Tire Cord Fabric facility and a 14 kiloton 3rd and 4th Generation Polyester HMLS yarn facility. There will be over 200 people employed within the two facilities. Guler Sabanci Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Sabancı Holding, Mehmet Pekarun, SBU Industry President of Sabanci Holding and Kordsa Chairman of the Board of Directors, Cenk Alper, Kordsa Global CEO, Indonesia government officials and local administrators have all participated to the inauguration of the new facility.

Speaking in the opening ceremony Guler Sabanci said: “This occasion has become even more significant because our core commitment of ‘being where our customers are’ has reached a new milestone; this is the true story of Kordsa Global. For a sustainable and profitable leadership, we closely monitor our existing and potential tire manufacturer customers and want to be present where production growth is stronger. By all means, standing alongside the manufacturer is the key to our success. Kordsa Global is a global force to be reckoned with, we have 10 manufacturing facilities in 8 countries spread over 5 continents. We are very proud of this.”

Mehmet Pekarun, SBU Industry President of Sabanci Holding and Kordsa Chairman of the Board of Directors said that the second investment in Indonesia is the

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biggest investment in capacity for Kordsa Global outside Turkey and this investment has become a new milestone within the last 42 years for Kordsa becoming a leading global player. Mehmet Pekarun also emphasized that this investment is a milestone in the long term growth strategy of Kordsa Global and said: “Our customers, now, are demanding the best in quality and the latest in technology, in order to realize their global ambitions. I can clearly say that this region is rapidly becoming the most competitive market in all aspects. ‘Success in Asia’ is the new definition of global competitiveness’”.

Cenk Alper, Kordsa Global CEO, said that the investment made by Kordsa Global demonstrated the belief that they, as a company, have in the tire industry and with it not only Kordsa Global, but also their customers would entrench their position in the Asia Pacific region. Mr. Alper also stated that since the company started its investments in the region in 2007, they have brought Kordsa

Global standards to the region and they have created value for their customers with the acumen of perfection in quality, price and service. Cenk Alper added: “With these brand new facilities, we are going to offer added value to our global, regional and local customers by developing special

solutions. With our increased capacity and competencies, high quality standards and determined workforce who have embraced Kordsa Global’s core values, we will continue to smoothly satisfy our customers’ needs.”

JK Tyre showcases the new product concepts in India at IRE 2015

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K Tyre & Industries Ltd, pioneers of radial tyres in India, showcased their formidable new product range covering different product segmentsPassenger Cars, Truck, Light Commercial Vehicle and Farm Radials at this year’s 8th Indian Rubber Expo and Tyre show in Delhi.

The show stopper at the event is the ultra-high performance, Ultra Hi, low aspect ratio 17” Concept tyres with full silica technology and multi-layer tread compound with colours matching the car aesthetics.

The Ultra Hi is a culmination of two extreme technologies delivering low fuel consumption; high end traction, handling required for high performance vehicles. The innovative concept was conceived and developed in JK Tyre’s Tech Centre in India and is now being tested in global testing grounds.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. VK Misra, Technical Director at JK Tyre & Industries Limited, “At JK Tyre, we have been focussing on R&D as an intrinsic part of our business and bringing cutting edge technologies to delight our customers and partners. Participating at IRE 2015 is an opportunity for us to share ideas with industry partners and showcase how our research and development capabilities are helping us deliver better, fuel efficient and dependable products.”

JK Tyre showcased its UX1 - Ultra High Performance range, which provides unmatched ride comfort & durability on Indian roads. These tyres are designed for high end luxury cars such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes.

farm radial tires are superior in every aspect of performance be it resistant to puncture, draw-bar pull for providing high traction in different soil conditions, high resistance to wear giving long hourage and fuel efficiency.

JK Tyre also displayed its soon to be launched products across categories. In the passenger car category it showcased a High Performance Asymmetric Tyre range, designed for high end sedans in India like Honda City, Hyundai Verna, VW-Vento and Suzuki Ciaz. Also, showcased at this year’s IRE were JK Tyre’s AllTerrain tyres for the SUV segment.

Underlining its international strategy, JK Tyre is building products for its key export markets i.e. the US and Latin Americas. Some of the tyres that can be seen at the expo are Ultima-XPC1, America Selecta Plus and Turbo.

In the farm segment, JK Tyre reiterated their pioneering efforts in developing radial technology for India by being the first to develop Steel belted Farm Radials suiting Indian Farming needs. Steel belted

In addition to strengthening its product portfolio, JK Tyre is changing the Indian aftersales landscape by introducing international practices for its consumers. JK Tyre is the only company running CRM Programme for fleets in the Indian Tyre Industry and providing customised service to its valued customers.

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Cooper Tire Rewards Shoppers Apollo Tyres launches its With Great Offers During Spring Event recruitment drive in Hungary Cooper Tire is giving consumers the opportunity to roll into spring with great offers on select Cooper tires during its Spring Event. Now through April 15, consumers are eligible to receive a prepaid Visa® card worth up to $70 when purchasing a new set of four qualifying Cooper tires through participating dealers in the United States, District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Products eligible for the Spring Event include: Adventurer A/T*| Cooper Response Touring* | Cooper Zeon RS3-A and RS3-S | CS3 Touring CS5 Touring | Discoverer A/T3 | Discoverer A/TW | Discoverer ATP* | Discoverer CTS | Discoverer H/T and H/T Plus | Discoverer HT3 | Discoverer HTP* | Discoverer LSX* and LSX Plus* | Discoverer RTX* | Discoverer SRX | Discoverer STT | GLS Touring* *Available at select national retailers only.

Drivers can obtain full terms and conditions, download an official mail-in form or apply for a reward online by visiting www.coopertirerebates.com.

Visit www.coopertire.com to locate the nearest Cooper dealer.

About Cooper Tire & Rubber Company Cooper Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE: CTB) is the parent company of a global family of companies that specialize in the design, manufacture, marketing, and sales of passenger car and light truck tires. Cooper and its subsidiaries also sell medium truck, motorcycle and racing tires. Cooper’s headquarters is in Findlay, Ohio, with manufacturing, sales, distribution, technical and design facilities within its family of companies located in 11 countries around the world. For more information on Cooper, visit www. coopertire.com, www.facebook.com/coopertire or www.twitter.com/ coopertire.

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The company to appoint hundreds of technicians in 2015 for its Greenfield facility

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nternational tyre manufacturer Apollo Tyres Ltd. today announced its recruitment drive in Hungary for its soon to be built Greenfield facility at Gyöngyöshalász. In the first round, 100 technicians and fresh graduate engineers will be appointed. This will be followed by a second recruitment drive in second half of this year where 150 additional people will be selected. Although production will only start at the beginning of 2017, the first batch of employees for the Hungarian factory will be contracted in the beginning of July 2015. Besides technicians and engineers, the company is also seeking applications for various functional areas including administration and logistics.

Apollo Tyres employs 16,000 people worldwide and has manufacturing units in India, Southern Africa and The Netherlands. The one in Heves County in Hungary would be the most modern facility for Apollo Tyres.

Announcing the recruitment drive, Kannan Prabhakar, Managing Director, Apollo Tyres Hungary Kft said, “An exciting task is awaiting us in the next two years as Apollo Tyres looks to work with talented people in Hungary.

We have started the recruitment of technicians in several educational institutes in Heves County, with whom we will sign a scholarship agreement in March 2015. These students will receive support from Apollo in their last semester. Also, we are expecting applications for almost all functional areas including maintenance, finance and logistics.”

The first hundred employees will play a key role in this Greenfield facility.

They will participate in a two months theoretical training followed by a three-month trip to India, where they will be trained for the Hungarian hightech factory. The Hungarian facility, once completed, will be the most modern plant of the company. This state-ofthe- art factory will have a capacity to produce 5.5 million passenger car & light truck (PCLT) tyres and 675,000 heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) and bus tyres per annum, mostly for the European market.

The company will follow a multi-step selection process; the applicants will undergo written and oral tests. The prospective candidates can find the job descriptions on the company’s Facebook page.

Apollo Tyres was awarded the Tire Manufacturer of the Year award in 2013; in 2014, the company received Global Sustainability Leadership Awards. Apollo Tyres has been selected as the best company to work for in the Auto Component category in India and Asia by Great Place to Work.