Auto MonitorI N D I A ’ S N O . 1 M A G A Z I N E F O R A U T O M O T I V E N E W S , V I E W S & A N A LY S I S

Pg 10-13MACHININGFOCUS

NEWS IN BRIEFPricol partners with Johnson Controls

Coimbatore-based auto-motive instrument cluster manufacturer, Pricol Limited has tied-

up with the Indian arm of the global automotive major Johnson Controls, to set-up a joint venture for Indian automotive market. Johnson Controls is in to manu-facturing seats, overhead systems, doors, instrument panels, interior and electronics.

The 50:50 joint venture will be under the name of ‘Johnson Controls Pricol Private Limited’. The JV will use Pricol’s Pune manufacturing plant as its base and it will develop and manufac-ture instrument clusters, displays and body electronics for both car and motorcycle manufactur-ers in India. Both the fi rms will draw synergies from each other’s strengths by leveraging Pricol’s Indian experience and Johnson Control’s industry leading human machine interaction design and implementation expertise, along with product capabilities.

The facility will be enhanced to serve global customers through a cost-competitive value chain.

According to the Chairman of Pricol, Vijay Mohan, Johnson Controls brings their product development capabilities, global purchasing relationships and access to global customer rela-tionships to this JV.

Bangalore-based materi-al handling equipment manufacturer, Maini Group has recently

acquired the majority stake in Israeli ATV manufacturing com-pany, Tomcar for an undisclosed amount. The company is shift-ing its manufacturing unit from Israel to Bangalore to avail the cost benefi ts offered here.

Maini Group did not dis-close the percentage of share it has acquired because of the non-disclosure agreement, but according to sources close to the development, it is between 65 and 70 percent. The manage-ment will remain in the hands of the original promoters. Tomcar is engaged in design and manu-facturing of high performance off-road vehicles.

“We will set-up a new plant in Bangalore by the end of this year. The shift of manufacturing plant here is mainly because of the availability of talents and other facilities at lower cost when com-pared to Israel. We will also focus on the Indian market starting with the defence sector.” Chief Executive Offi ce, Maini Group, SA Mohan told Auto Monitor.

The new plant will have an initial capacity of producing around 1,000 cars a year and the Israel plant will be con-verted into a technical design

centre. The company is strate-gising to get maximum benefi t of the deal, as it gets established markets for the product in the US, Europe and Australia. While low-cost manufactur-ing facility from India will give it the competitive edge over competition apart from the opportunity being opened here with Indian government allowing pr ivate players in t he defence sector.

Maini Group was also the promoter of electric car Reva, now acquired by Mahindra & Mahindra. The company recent-ly launched Tomcar vehicles in India. The vehicles launched dur-

ing the Defexpo 2012 in Delhi was a military grade, high-perform-ance all terrain vehicle originally designed for military and border patrol use is virtually an inde-structible vehicle.

“We are happy to launch the Tomcar in India. With the Indian defence, paramilitary and homeland security scout-ing aggressively for all terrain vehicles, we intend to promote Tomcar amongst them as part of their modernisation drive.” Maini added.

Tomcar all-terrain vehicles feature a robust, fully-welded steel tube chassis and heavy duty four-wheel independ-

ent suspension. These vehicles are designed to be safe, rug-ged and dependable. The company will now be export-ing vehicles from its Bangalore plant to all the existing and new foreign markets.

The Maini Group is engaged in high precision engineering products for the last four dec-ades and has a strong presence in diverse industry segments. Core capabilities of Maini group include high precision components for aerospace and automotive applications, material handling equipment, electric buggies for people and cargo movement, storage and shelving systems and plastics & composites. The group has clocked a turnover of `500 crore in FY11 and hopes to touch `600 crore this financial year. With the new venture, it expects to clock total revenue of `2,000 crore in the next three years.

Tomcar is deployed by the Israeli military, the US Customs & Border Patrol and the British Army in Afghanistan. Tomcar has been customised for the military and border forces to carry heavy machine gun, anti-tank guided missile launcher, automatic grenade launcher with a winch for self-recovery. It has an option of being cus-tomised for both, armoured and unmanned versions. The vehi-cle is also air transportable and para-droppable.

Polaris India Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of US manu-facturer of off-road and all terrain vehicles, is

in dialogue with Indian defence forces for supplying vehicles. Some allied forces and paramili-tary forces are even testing their vehicles to assess their suitability of usage.

“We are suppliers to the defence forces of several coun-tries. Though we are not doing any business with the Indian defence forces currently, we hope to do so in future. We are currently in dialogue with

s ome a l l ie d forces and para-military forces,” Managing Director, Polaris India, Pa nkaj D u b e y t old Auto Monitor on the sidelines of the recent-ly concluded Defexpo 2012.

The company is also in conver-sation with the forest department. “We have received a tremendous response from the Indian market. And we may also consider setting-up a facility here, though it is too soon to furnish further details,” he added. In the four months

of operation in the Indian mar-ket, the company claims to have achieved its internal targets.

At the Defexpo 2012, it show-cased Ranger RZR SW and Sportsman MV 850. The Ranger is a two-passenger LTATV with features suited specifi cally for tactical operations. It has an 800

cc high output twin four stroke petrol engine. It has 454 kg of payload capacity and four wheel independent suspensions.

The MV 850 is militarised ATVs, equipped for demanding operations with 850 cc, 77 HP four stroke SOHC twin-cylinder petrol engine with a fuel capacity of 44.5 litre and a towing capacity of 680.4 kg. It comes with elec-tronic power steering.

Polaris’s other offerings for the military and security forces are light mobility vehicles to conduct operations such as patrolling, recce and surveillance, law & order, perimeter security, casual-ty evacuation, search & rescue and training among others.

Maini to shift Tomcar plant to B’lore

Polaris eyes business with defence, paramilitary

Bhargav TS Chennai

www.amonline.in9 April 2012Vol. 12 No. 7 32 Pages ` 50

ONTARIO LOOKS FOR STRONGER TIES WITH INDIA

INTERVIEW

Aaron Rosland, Counselor and Head, Ontario International Marketing Centre, India

BUDGET 2012: WILL IT ACCELERATE OR PUT A BREAK ON GROWTH?

AUTOPINION

Pg 14Pg 8

Top 5 3W makers

Company Feb-11 Feb-12 Change

BAL 19,296 17,131 -11.22%

Piaggio 18,742 14,486 -22.71%

M&M 5,725 5,111 -10.72%

Atul Auto 1,892 2,511 32.72%

SIL 1,369 1,698 24.03%

Top 5 3W-Exporters

Company Feb-11 Feb-12 Change

BAL 20,921 24,685 17.99%

Piaggio 1,649 1,942 17.77%

TVS 2,362 1,760 -25.49%

M&M 167 32 -80.84%

Atul Auto 16 - -

* Source: SIAM/ ** Excluding exports/ *** all sub segments considered/ ^ excluding MRPL

DATA MONITOR

Nabeel A Khan New Delhi

Shambhavi Anand New Delhi

EDITORIALGrowth story continues

The last month of the previous fi nancial year was a signifi cant one for almost all the OEMs in India, as their respective sales marched north, ending the year on a positive note. However, these growth sto-

ries have to be read with reference to what the Union Budget had for the industry and its repercussions. Even though the sentiments were good, there were apprehensions from the vehicle buyers till January due to increasing interest costs.

Fortunately, the situation improved after the journey of ‘policy rate hike’ was paused temporarily. This coupled with the intent to get better deals on the dealer inventories that attract lower excise duties, has pushed the sales to soar sig-nifi cantly. Most of the OEMs and their dealer principals were prepared for this shopping spree of the customers by main-taining inventories, as it would help shore up revenue any which ways. However, the question is—would it will contin-ue in the following months? The truck segment has already begun responding in a negative manner due to an increase in excise duty, since it is very price sensitive segment.

Apart from the price hikes on account of the increase in excise duty, the auto industry is likely to witness the increase in raw material prices, which has to be passed on to the customers to stay afl oat. And it depends upon the vehicle segment as few categories of vehicles including tractors are not able to pass on the increase. They had to absorb the cost by resorting to some methodologies including waste elim-

ination and optimising resources. The sales momentum might take a beating in the short term due to the negative factors, but the growth story is intact due to lower motorisa-tion levels and the increasing aspirations of the people.

You might have gone through the fi rst weekly edition of your favourite automotive news magazine Auto Monitor by now. In the weekly format, the magazine will focus on three segments in the fi rst three weeks of every month. For instance, the fi rst issue of every month will focus on Testing, the second issue on Machining and the third issue on New Materials. The usual special issue will be the fourth issue if every month. And the fi fth issue, which comes once in a quarter, will be a regular issue. Looking forward to your feedback.

Wishing you much pleasure reading.

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Printed by Mohan Gajria and published & edited by Lakshmi Narasimhan on behalf of Infomedia 18 LimitedEditor: T. MurraliPrinted at Infomedia 18 Ltd, Plot no.3, Sector 7, off Sion-Panvel Road, Nerul, Navi Mumbai 400 706, and published at Infomedia 18 Ltd, ‘A’ Wing, Ruby House, J. K. Sawant Marg, Dadar (W), Mumbai - 400 028. AUTO MONITOR is registered with the Registrar of Newspapers of India under No. 67827/98. Views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Infomedia 18 Limited. Infomedia 18 Limited reserves the right to use the information published herein in any manner whatsoever. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the information published in this edition, neither Infomedia 18 Ltd nor any of its employees accept any responsibility for any errors or omission. Further, Infomedia 18 Ltd does not take any responsibility for loss or damage incurred or suffered by any subscriber of this magazine as a result of his/her accepting any invitation/offer published in this edition. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.

QUOTESMallika Srinivasan, Chairman & CEO, TAFE Hiroshi Nakagawa, MD, Toyota Kirloskar Motor

“Our investments in product and process technologies, and improvements to our product mix helped us meet the demand of customers”

“India is one of the leading innovative international multi-purpose vehicle countries and has played an important role in the success of the project”

Auto Monitor

T. Murrali t.murrali@infomedia18.in

TAFE steers ahead of industry growth, plans `180 crore capex 9TAFE is set to plough deeper despite bucking the diminishing industry trend in FY11-12by infusing about `180 crore, beginning fiscal 2012-13 in three major areas

Kay Jay to yoke Jaguar 10Kay Jay Forgings has stretched its platter to make new offerings in international and domestic markets, after bagging an export order to supply Yokes to ZF France for Jaguar

EOS process to cut product development time 11EOS Gmbh India comes with a unique e-machining process which reduces the testing and development time in the automotive industry

Exhibitors anticipating higher footfalls at Die & Mould 2012 13Exhibitors from across industries are anticipating higher involvement and participation from automotive, engineering and allied industries at the upcoming Die & Mould India

Haas Automation to display machine tool range 13Haas Automation India is looking to capitalise on the resurgence in demand for high-tech production equipments in India

Vectra steers towards civilian market 18Vectra Group has started supplying some products for municipal usage and other utility entities in the civilian sector

Toyota Etios heads to South Africa 18Toyota recently flagged off its first consignment of 247 Etios sedansand its hatchback Liva for Durban, South Africa from the Ennore port

CONTENTS

Lowell Paddock, President & Managing Director, GM IndiaPaddock is an old GM hand with wide ranging experience across different functional areas overseeing the North America and European operations of GM

SPECIAL REPORT

FOCUS: TESTING

CORPORATE

30

GLOBAL WATCHIndian Tier I investor stars at Europe’s premier annual showcase 23More than 65 percent of over 70 new cars displayed at the recent Geneva Motor Show featured GKN driveline componentsthem featured GKN driveline components

Ford to share intelligence with Cardiff University 24Ford is partnering with Cardiff University involving operations at Ford’s high-tech manufacturing plant in Bridgend to share research and intelligence

Denso to test VTX technology in China 24Denso, in collaboration with Tongji University (Shanghai), will begin testing vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2X) technology on roads in China

22

10 11

EVENT OF THE WEEK

After Aston Martin, In� nity Cars has taken the mandate of retailing BMW’s Mini brand in Mumbai. The car will be available to customers from May this year and the German car major intends to deliver around 30 to 35 units every month. It will be imported in India as a Completely Built-up Unit (CBU) in petrol variants with a six-speed automatic transmission. The price range for Mini starts from `25.5 lakh for Mini Cooper.

The company has sold over two million Minis and offers the Mini brand in family of six models. “Three of the models from the ‘Mini’ family: the Mini Hatch, the Mini Convertible and the Mini Countryman are now available in India. Our main focus this year will be to concentrate on successfully establishing the Mini brand in India,” said President, BMW India, Dr Andreas Schaaf.

In� nity Cars will display upto � ve cars in its showroom, exclusively established for the ‘Mini’ brand, in suburban Mumbai. The showroom will also have 24-hour dining facility and two service centres will be established in Chembur and Worli for Mini. BMW has already identi� ed two additional dealers in Delhi and Gurgaon respectively and is looking to establish around � ve to six ‘Mini’ dealerships across the country by the end of this year.

Infinity to sell Mini in Mumbai from `25.5 lakh

THE OTHER SIDE

Auto Monitor

89 APRIL 2012

I N T E R V I E W

What kind of opportunities are the Ontario automotive man-ufacturers exploring in India?

Our companies obviously want to sell its products to Indian auto-mobile companies. One company is already supplying parts to Nano and we want more such deals to happen. We are certainly work-ing with Indian companies to

increase the same and getting into the media to enhance awareness about Ontario.

Your main traditional mar-ket is the US. Are you planning to shift focus?

Canadian manufacturers has been focused on the US mar-ket and doing very well. That’s going to be our main focus. Most of the manufacturing nations are looking to diversifying into new regions and since India is a growing economy, it is becoming very attractive. We would like to partner with Indian companies to ensure that we both be part of the changing environment.

Why do you think Indian automotive companies should work with their Canadian

counterparts? Traditionally, the benefi t that

an Ontario company can offer is access to the North American mar-ket, which is massive. The benefi ts that we can offer in manufactur-ing are in the fi eld of research and innovation; there are more than 30 research facilities in Ontario working on fi bres and light weight components. There are also over 40 engineering colleges that are working on automotive pro-grammes. So there is an easy availability of skilled manpower.

Cost of manufacturing is the

key especially for Indian man-ufacturers. What is Ontario’s answer?

Traditionally, Ontario has been a cost competitive manu-facturing location. It has always been cheaper place in terms of automotive manufacturing than any other place in North America. I think the other benefi t is that it provides access to a centralised dedicated automotive manufac-turing hub spread over 20 kms.

How do you see the govern-ment of the two sides engaging into a trade tie-up?

Well, you are aware that there is the comprehensive economic partnership agreement between India and Canada that is being negotiated now. If this happens, it will certainly help in enhancing ties between the two countries. We hope that this will be ham-mered out in a couple of months.

What learning can Indian manufacturers imbibe from their Canadian counterparts?

Like I mentioned before, one of the components that the Indian companies can get is the light

weighting technology. This is one of the things that the manufactur-ers in Ontario have done very well. We have done research and lots of experimentation in this fi eld. We can bring this in to India; the other important aspect is the bio-fi bers and there is lots of interest in India for these components.

What kind of increase in

bilateral trade in automotive sector do you expect one year down the line?

The fi rst thing we hope to see is that comprehensive eco-nomic agreement. So the exports and imports from both the par-ties increase. We see there is a lot of room for growth for both the countries. The delegation of businessmen who visited during the auto expo, were very excited to see what is happening here in India. I think that this is going to augur well for the economic ties.

What kind of support would

your government offer to a com-pany wanting to set-up a plant in Ontario?

Ontario is very much open to business and it is interested in having Indian companies. There are a number of Indian compa-nies that have already invested in Ontario. The environment there is not only attractive for short term, but also long term because we have a very favourable tax regime and support for R&D. These things attract not only domestic but for-eign companies as well. You can manufacturer here (in Ontario) and ship products to America tariff-free. The Canadian gov-ernment is also negotiating with the European Union that would allow easy access to this market as well.

There is a comprehensive

economic partnership agreement between India and Canada

that is being negotiated now. If this happens,

it will certainly help in enhancing ties

between the two countries

Ontario looks for stronger ties with IndiaOntario claims to have produced more vehicles than any other state or province in North America, thanks to its dedicated work force. The province’s auto industry offers nearly four lakh jobs and contributes about $20 billion to the economy annually. Counselor (Commercial-Ontario) and the head of the Ontario International Marketing Centre in India, Aaron Rosland in an interview with Nabeel A Khan said that Ontario automotive companies are looking at stronger ties with their Indian counterpart. Excerpts from the interview:

Auto Monitor

S P E C I A L R E P O R T 99 APRIL 2012

TAFE steers ahead of industry growth, plans `180 crore capex

Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited (TAFE) is set to plough deeper despite bucking

the diminishing industry trend in the fi nancial year 2011-12. The company, which is the third larg-est tractor manufacturer in the world and second in the country in terms of numbers, is plan-ning to infuse about `180 crore beginning fi scal 2012-13 on three major areas.

Firstly, it is investing about `100 crore to set-up a greenfi eld facility in Madurai, about 450 km south of Chennai, with an annual capacity of about 60,000 units. Secondly, it is earmarking `40 crore to make farm imple-ments. Though the company has not decided the location to estab-lish the facility, it is considering a place near Chennai. Thirdly, it is allocating an equal amount for its overseas plant in Turkey, espe-cially in creating value addition in manufacturing like paint shop and such things.

Currently, the compa-ny has four plants in India to make tractors at Mandideep (Bhopal), Kalladipatti (Madurai), Doddaballapur (Bangalore) and in Chennai in addition to a over-seas plant in Turkey. Besides, it also makes diesel engines, gears, panel instruments, engi-neering plastics, hydraulic pumps, plantations and pas-senger car distribution through other divisions and wholly owned subsidiaries.

At a media interaction recent-ly, Chairman and Chief Executive Offi cer, Mallika Srinivasan said the new facility in Madurai will make high horse power tractors targeting at global customers and the domestic market. The plant will be up and running by the middle of next calendar year, she said. As part of the event, Srinivasan also announced the launch of MF 9500, a 55 HP tractor, alongwith a few other products. Currently, the cumu-lative production capacity is 1.8 lakh tractors a year. Though the company’s Turkey facility has an installed capacity of 15,000 units,

it sold around 4,200 tractors last year. It hopes to double its sales during the current year.

Bucking TrendThe company reported 30.4

percent growth in 2011-12 to `8,020 crore against `6,149 crore reported in the previous years. Overall tractor sales increased by 26.6 percent at 1,48,112 units as against the industry sale of 6,07,213 units, which represents a growth of 11.4 percent for the years. While the industry growth between November 2011 and

March 2012 was at 0.66 percent, TAFE clocked an aver-age growth of 28.58 percent during the same period. Raising labour cost and increasing shortage of labour has catalysed the growth for the com-pany. These aspects will continue to fuel mechanisation in the farm sec-tor, which will help clock numbers, she said. The aggressive growth has ena-

bled the company to increase its market share by another three percent. The company continues to be the largest exporter of trac-tors in the country. Last year it shipped 20,396 completely built tractors to 73 countries, regis-tering a growth of 28.2 percent against previous year. Besides, it is also exporting kits and aggre-gates. It will commence exports of tractors in the range of 85 to 100 hp from the second half of this year, said President, TAFE, RC Banka.

Cautiously Optimistic According to Srinivasan, the

year 2011-12 is a landmark year for the company. When asked about outlook for the industry for the current fi scal, she said that she hopes that the industry might grow by eight to 10 percent. “I am cautious about the industry but bullish about ourselves. We are happy that our focus on product development and expansion of our product portfolio has paid off. Our investments in prod-uct and process technologies,

improvements to our product mix supported by extensive fi eld effort helped us meet the demands of our discerning customers,” she said. Srinivasan substantiated her statement by indicating that more than 75 percent of the rev-enue for the company came from products that were launched dur-ing the last three years. The right products for the right market will help gain inroads further, she said and added that as part of its strat-egy the company has established an alliance with Captain Tractors, which helps TAFE to cater to the requirements of tractors with less than 20 HP. It currently makes a wide range of tractors from 9.5 hp up to 100 HP.

TAFE is currently working with its collaborator Massey Ferguson (now owned by AGCO Corporation, USA) for developing tractors that comply with the future emis-sion, noise and safety norms that are applicable for European and North American markets. It has established strategic alliances with WMG, Steyr, Ricardo, TCS, Spadco and IITs.

Our Bureau Chennai

Mallika Srinivasan, CEO & Chairperson, TAFE

TAFE is investing about `100 crore to set-up a greenfield

facility in Madurai, with an annual capacity of about 60,000 units. It

is also earmarking`40 crore to make farm implements

Comparative Growth Of TAFE & Industry

Auto Monitor

M A C H I N I N G109 APRIL 2012

Kay Jay to yoke Jaguar

Ludhiana-based forged, machined & precision sheet metal components manufacturer, Kay Jay

Forgings (KJF) has stretched its platter to make new offerings in international and domes-tic markets, after bagging an export order to supply Yokes to ZF France for Jaguar. It is looking to forge similar rela-tionships with OEMs like Audi, V W and Porsche via the same Tier I supplier.

Exports constitute around around eight percent of the company’s revenue it is hoping to increase it to 20 percent in the next two years. It also supplies yokes to GM and Ford in the US.

KJF is planning to enter the four-wheel segment in the domestic market. So far, it was prima-rily focusing on two-wheelers but recently entered the three-

wheeler segment by clinching a deal with TVS motors to supply hand starters, crank shafts for the three-wheeler—King.

Expansion PlansThe company has received the

sample approvals from ZF France and production has started at its Ludhiana plant. It has initiated a major expansion and acquired two pieces of land in Ludhiana and also put-up an addition-al shed in its existing plant in Hosur. The new machining line in Hosur is two km away from TVS Motor plant. The shed is built in the spare space available at the existing plant and has fetched an investment of `40 crore.

The existing plant in Hosur is spread across five acre. The expansion is likely to occupy

another 80,000 sq ft for new machines as desired by TVS with a capacity of four lakh units a month. The production at the new line will initially be done for Moped XL Super of TVS Motors with a capacity of 5,000 units a day and gradually it will start working for entire range of two-wheelers of TVS Motors.

“The facility will be dedicated to complete machining of crank shafts, connecting rods and assemblies for TVS Motors. The machining was previously done by TVS Motor itself at its LAC (Lakshmi Auto Components) plant, but the practise has been discontinued as TVS does not operate the plant anymore,” Director, Kay Jay Forgings, Amit Kothari told Auto Monitor in an interview.

KJF has bought 11 acres of land, on the main GT Road Highway, around 10 km away from the existing plant in Ludhiana. “We have also acquired another two-acre land adjoining to our existing plant in Ludhiana.” Kothari added. The company might use this space for the diversification into four-wheeler segment in the domestic market.

The forging company is the sole supplier to TVS and Hero Honda for a range of compo-nents including connecting rods, crank shafts and brake pedals. KJF earns around 20 per-cent of revenue from machining. It has closed FY12 at `270 crore of total revenue and hopes to touch `350 crore revenue by the next fiscal.

Nabeel A Khan New Delhi

Mulls entering four-wheeler segment by next fi scal

Cognex introduces new tool for character recognition

Cognex, a leading supplier of machine vision systems, has introduced

OCRMax, a new tool for Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Verifi cation (OCV) appli-cations that gives Cognex vision systems and vision software the power to achieve the highest read rates while keeping misreads to a minimum. OCRMax is fast, easy to set up and simple to use across all In-Sight vision system and VisionPro vision software platforms.

OCRMax overcomes the limita-tions of other OCR technologies. It is an all-in-one tool that can handle character variations, text skew, pro-portional fonts and variable string lengths. The segmenting func-tionality takes each character line and splits it into individual regions that each contains one character. This robust functionality ensures that OCRMax can handle distort-ed, touching and variably spaced characters. It can also accommo-date uneven surfaces and lighting variations on the production line. In addition, OCRMax lets users control key parameters to further improve segmentation perform-ance, resulting in even higher read rates and fewer misreads.

OCRMax has an intuitive user interface that makes font train-ing a very simple process. This makes reads more consistent and repeatable in virtually any environment. OCRMax users can also export and import fonts from external storage, making

training easier and increasing the tool’s fl exibility. In addition, users can share the same fonts across multiple OCRMax tools, further streamlining and simpli-fying font management.

“Industries are putting a major focus on traceability in the sup-ply chain. Consumers and other stakeholders are requiring it. OCRMax gives manufacturers the power to ensure that labels match products, to verify print legibility of codes and to match text to bar-codes or 2-D Data Matrix codes,” said Business Unit Manager, Vision Systems, Bhaskar Banerjee.

Cognex designs, develops, man-ufactures and markets machine vision and industrial ID systems, or devices that can ‘see’. Its vision and ID systems are used around the world for a wide range of inspec-tion, identifi cation and guidance applications throughout the manufacturing and distribution process. It has shipped more than 700,000 systems, representing over $three billion in cumulative reve-nue, since the company’s founding in 1981. Headquartered in Natick, Massachusetts, the company has regional offi ces and distribu-tors located throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Japan and Latin America.

Our Bureau Mumbai

(L&R) A range of Kay Jay components

Kay Jay Facility

Auto Monitor

M A C H I N I N G 119 APRIL 2012

EOS process to cut product development time

The Indian automobile industry is currently experiencing an unprec-edented boom in

demand for all types of vehicles. The customers are expecting more for less and moreover, the life cycle of the vehicle is very less. Therefore the vehicle man-ufactures are forced to develop a new product in a shorter time.

Vehicle manufacturers need technologies which can cut down their development time to a signifi cant extent. In order to address these issues, EOS Gmbh

India comes with a unique e-ma-chining process which reduces the testing and development time in the automotive industry.

In a recent interaction with Auto Monitor, the company’s Country Manager, Prakasam Anand said, “Global markets are facing shortening product life cycles. At the same time, product variety is on the rise. Manufacturing methods based on economies of scale are no longer in the position to meet these challenges. This require-ment, however, can no longer be met in today’s competitive environment. To address these issues, our e-manufacturing sys-tem with laser-sintering will help the manufacturers.”

EOS is basically a manufac-turer of machines that use laser energy and raw materials in the form of powder to built com-ponents for different industry segments. “This is not a stand-ard or conventional machining

type of operation; here it is like 3D printing. In the automotive segment, we are not in man-ufacturing but we are in the development phase. Normally for developing a component and for testing, it takes minimum of six months and if any further changes are required, it takes more time. In this new technolo-gy, we print all these components either directly or indirectly. For instance, if you take an engine, we print the moulds basically in sand and with the help of it we can make the casting. This takes around one or two weeks, so there will be more fl exibility in terms of researching more engines,”

Anand said. EOS India helps the manu-

facturer in development phase by providing machine, materi-als and process. The machines that the company manufactures will produce the exact model, which is designed by the vehi-cle manufacturers. Later with the help of these components the testing and validation is car-ried out. Finally it reduces the development time by 50 percent besides, containing the material wastage eventually reducing the cost incurred during the devel-opment time signifi cantly when compared with the conventional method.

E-Manufacturing SolutionEOS has been offering e-man-

ufacturing solutions for the product development and man-ufacturing since 1989. According to Anand, the machines add fl exibility to both product devel-opment and manufacturing. It is

possible to produce inner struc-tures just as well as undercuts. Mould draught angles are no longer necessary. Focusing on the fi nal product, the designer sketches out individual, three-dimensional geometries. During manufacturing, this 3D CAD model is sliced into thin layers. EOS’s laser sintering technology consequently creates layer by layer, using only powder-based materials and laser energy.

Laser sintering is a well-de-veloped additive manufacturing process that can be successfully used for both prototyping and manufacturing applications. The process works in a similar

way to the ‘stereo-lithography’ process, which uses an argon laser to create a 3D part, lay-er-by-layer, by tracing the required shape direct from a 3D CAD model.

In the early stages of product development, laser-sintering can help by making design and functional prototypes. As a result, functional testing can be initiated quickly and f lexi-bly. Finally, it results in reduced time to market and shortened reaction times to current cus-tomer demands. This reduces the risk in developing new products, since the problems are detected and addressed

immediately. Development costs are reduced, and at the same time, consumer response is accelerated.

EOS In IndiaEOS India started its Indian

journey 13 years back to serve the aerospace, automotive, med-ical and tooling industries. It supplies its machines to several customers including Baja, TVS Motors and other Tier I suppliers in India. Globally, it supplies to all the major OEMs and component manufacturers. Anand feels that in another couple of years, the company would serve to at least ten manufacturers in India.

Bhargav TS Chennai

In the auto segment, EOS is not into

manufacturing but in the development phase. Normally, for developing

a component and for testing, it takes

minimum of six months and if any further

changes required, it takes more time. In the

new technology, it prints the components either directly or indirectly,

which takes one or two weeks

(L&R) Engine Castings Made Out Of Laser Sintering

Laser Sintering Machine

Auto Monitor

M A C H I N I N G129 APRIL 2012

Auto component industry: Key focus of MMS

The second edition of the Modern Machine Shop (MMS) that was organised in Greater

Noida, Uttar Pradesh had its key focus on the automotive compo-nent industry. The event, which is an international exhibition of manufacturing technolo-gy and production equipment, was formally inaugurated by the President of Automotive Component Manufacturers A s s o c i a t i o n ( A C M A ) , Arvind Kapur.

While inaugurating the event Kapur said, “With the Indian manufacturing industry growing at its current rate, the machine

tool industry will be playing an extremely important role. Machine tools can act as a cata-lyst to the growth, which almost all the manufacturing industries are witnessing. Exhibitions such as Modern Machine Shop will give international exposure to the industry machine tool indus-try thereby to the indigenous manufacturing sector.”

Modernisation DriveDelegations from leading

players in the automotive indus-try such as Amtek Auto, Caparo Maruti and Hero MotoCorp vis-ited the four day long exhibition, which was organised by Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (IMTMA).

The key focus of exhibitors

was on automotive component industry, railways and Ordnance Factory Board. It showcased a wide range of machines, equip-ment and services that enable facilitation of modernisation in manufacturing organisations.

Overseas Participation In addition, there was a range

of metalworking machinery, low-cost automation, energy effi cient devices, metal forming and sheet metalworking machine tools, material handling, quality con-trol systems and equipment, off-the-shelf production aids, accessories, consumables and software and consultancy which are growth enablers for the auto-motive industry.

Over a hundred exhibitors from six countries (Austria, Japan, China, Netherlands and the USA) had participated. This exhibition

also hosted group participation from United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) which comprised sev-eral small scale machine tool manufacturers who were seek-ing an opportunity to showcase their technology upgradation solutions at the exhibition.

Event ConsolidationPresident IMTMA, Vikram

Sirur said, “2012 is a signifi cant year for us as it marks the begin-ning of the 12th Five year plan for the industry. This lays down the vision to increase our share from 16 percent to 25 percent by

the year 2025. The target can be achieved by constantly organ-ising various initiatives by the industry. Such events witness better partnerships, advanced technologies, increased momen-tum and business confi dence leading up to progressive changes in the industry, better quality, enhanced effi ciency and increased productivity.”

The exhibition, which was held at three different locations, will be held next year, from 5-8 September in greater Noida (North India), 25-28 September in Mumbai and 25-28 October, in Chennai.

Our Bureau New Delhi

Forms & Gears bags order from Escorts, ITL

Chennai-based fixture manufacturer Forms & Gears has bagged new orders from Escort and

ITL recently. This is for the fi rst time that the company is get-ting orders from the two major players. Forms & Gears supplies machining centre fi xtures world-wide to the leading automobile and machine tool manufacturers. Recently, the fi xture manufactur-er has also bagged a repeat order from Mahindra & Mahindra for its new XUV 500.

Speaking to Auto Monitor, Managing Director, Forms & Gears, Reji Varghese said, “It is an indication of our abilities and our hydraulic fi xtures go to some of the biggest names in the automobile industry too. We will be supply-ing fi xtures to Escort and ITL for manufacturing gearboxes, trans-missions parts, cylinder blocks and cylinder heads.” The new fi xtures that the company will be supply-ing, can reduce the cycle time by around 30 to 40 percent.

Since M&M is expanding its production capacity for XUV 500, Forms & Gears will be sup-plying jigs and fi xtures for its engine plant. These equipments will help in manufacturing cyl-inder blocks and other engine components. Verghese said, “We pioneered the use of high pressure hydraulic fi xtures with the Tata Indica cylinder block fi xtures for Heller machines sup-plied to Tata Motors in 1997. This was a landmark project for us.”

In the past decade, the fi x-ture manufacturer has steadily

been introducing the high pres-sure hydraulic fi xtures to the domestic auto industry. The com-pany supplies its products to major vehicle manufacturers like Ford, Maruti Suzuki, M&M, Ashok Leyland, Tata Motors, Eicher and Caterpillar. It supplies products to precision engine components cus-tomers like Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, Cummins, John Deere, Maruti Suzuki and M&M. Its machine tool clients include Mazak India and Japan, Makino Asia, Toyoda, NTC -Japan, LMW and BFW.

Forms & Gears also exports fi xtures from its three manu-facturing facilities in Chennai to US, Japan and Singapore. Complementing its manufactur-ing capabilities, the company has a full-fl edged design centre.

High pressure hydraulics, widely used in the US and Europe, has several benefi ts, the most important being the high clamp-ing forces and excellent vibration dampening during machining. This enables high cutting param-eters to be used eventually resulting in higher productivity. High pressure hydraulic fi xtures manufactured by the company are used in most of the automo-bile plants in India especially for the precision engine and trans-mission components.

Earlier in 2011, Forms & Gears partnered with Toshiba of Japan to develop what the company claims has been the largest set of hydrau-lic machining centre fixtures designed and developed in India. The fi xtures are over fi ve metres long and operate on high pressure hydraulics. These fi xtures are used for manufacturing large earth moving equipment parts.

Bhargav TS Chennai

The exhibition, which was held at

three different locations, will be held in the following year, from

5-8 September in greater Noida

(North India), 25-28 September in Mumbai

and 25-28 October, in Chennai

Kapur Addressing The Gathering

Arvind Kapur, ACMA President,

Auto Monitor

M A C H I N I N G 139 APRIL 2012

Exhibitors anticipating higher footfalls at Die & Mould 2012

Haas Automation to display machine tool range

Exhibitors from across industries are anticipat-ing higher involvement and participation from

automotive, engineering and allied industries at the upcom-ing Die & Mould India that kicks off at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon, Mumbai on 19 April, 2012.

The eighth Die & Mould India

is targeted at suppliers and users of machine tools and allied sec-tors. Organised by Tools & Gauge Manufacturers Association of India (TAGMA), Die & Mould India (DMI) will showcase the latest technologies and devel-opments related to the die and mould industry and will provide the industry with an opportu-nity to upgrade its know-how and keep pace with the latest developments in this segment. According to TAGMA, the size of the tooling market in India is projected to be `19,100 crore by FY2012. In terms of tools, plas-tic moulds constitute 36 percent of the total tooling demand in India.

Automotive ApplicationsThe automotive industr y

mainly consumes aluminium die casting-based components and systems due to its contribu-tion towards weight and costs reduction. The die casting pro-vides higher accuracy in terms of fit and shape as well as offers a smooth finish. India is one of the most competitive sources of die casting components for global automotive majors, with several of them having set-up their respective sourcing offices in Chennai, Bengaluru, Pune and the National Capital Region (NCR).

“Organised by TAGMA, the Die & Mould show is an opportunity for the exhibitors to showcase their new products and technol-ogies and build new relationships and revive old ties. Since this is a niche show for the die & Mould industry, the visitors come spe-cifi cally for this segment of the plastics industry. For Synventive, this show is to introduce our new products and get the users know about the product, add new cus-tomers to our portfolio, revive the old contacts and re-estab-lish business with them. This also gives us an opportunity to know what our competition is upto and how our customers are making their progress and what should we do to get benefi ted from their growth,” said Vice President, Marketing, Synventive Molding Solutions JBJ Pvt Ltd, Prashant Shelar.

Since 2008, Die & Mould India is being supported by

DEMAT GmbH, the organiser of EuroMold. This edition will seek to boost trade and technol-ogy partnerships mould making and tooling, design and appli-cation development. EuroMold will provide an excellent expo-sure to global technology for the burgeoning Indian industry.

Wider Participation The upcoming show is likely

to witness participation from across users and applications areas including press tools, gauges accessories for machine tools, mould base and standard parts, CAD/CAM system relat-ed to dies & moulds, die casting machines/moulding machines, hot runner systems, rapid pro-totyping & modelling, die/mould polishing machines, tool steel, digitising cutting tools, heat treatment, die casting machines/moulding machines, measuring machines, tex-

turising, machine tools for making dies & moulds, CNC milling/machining centre and die spotting.

Customer Connect“Die Mould India 2012 plays

a vital role in drawing atten-tion of global investors towards the Indian tooling industry. This year, we will be showcas-ing design and manufacturing automation technologies for the die and mould industry as well as technologies like VoluMill for high speed roughing and ElectrodeWorks for electrode extraction that will help us focus on the potential audi-ence. During the event, we have planned a series of CAMWorks and DFMPro product demon-strations to suit the target buyers’ requirements,” said Manager-Business Development-Asia Paci f ic, Geomet r ic Ltd, Sambit Pradhan.

Haas Automation India is looking to capital-ise on the resurgence in demand for high-

tech production equipments in India. The company will put on display a cross-section of models from its machine tool portfolio at the upcoming Die & Mould India 2012 exhibition in Mumbai on 19-22 April, 2012.

Among the machines on show will be Haas VM-2 mould maker VMC with 12,000 rpm spin-dle and 24-pocket side-mount tool changer; a Haas DT-1 drill and tap centre with full milling capability; a Haas VF-3YT VMC with 40 taper spindle and rotary table; a VF-2SS super speed VMC; a VF-6/50 VMC with 50-taper geared head; an ST-20Y CNC turn-ing centre with Y-axis; and a Haas mini mill. The machines will be operational, cutting a range of different components under demonstration conditions.

According to the IMTMA, the demand for CNC machines climbed 20 percent in the last financial year—around two-thirds of CNC machines sold in India are imported. Furthermore, IMTMA says that demand growth is projected at 15 percent CAGR over the coming fi ve years.

“The Mumbai region is a particularly significant market for die and mould machining. Industries such as automotive, domestic appliance, consum-er electronics and consumer durables are positively f lour-ishing here, driving up demand for machine tools,” said Managing Director, Haas India, Terrence Miranda.

There are already over 4,000 Haas machines working in India and exhibition will pro-vide opportunity for a complete assessment of optimised die and mould machining solu-tions. A team of experienced and motivated representatives from Haas will be on hand to solve customer challenges.

Our Bureau Mumbai

The automotive industry mainly

consumes aluminium die casting-based components and systems due to its contribution towards weight

and costs reduction. The die casting

provides higher accuracy

in terms of fit and shape as well as offers

a smooth finish

Glimpses of Diemould India’s previous editions

Our Bureau Mumbai

A Haas product

Auto Monitor

A U T O P I N I O N149 APRIL 2012

This year budget was chal-lenging not only for the Indian economy but also for the Finance Minister

(FM). The FM was grappling with many challenges viz decline in the economic growth, rising fi scal defi cit, industry expecta-tion for sops to boost industrial growth, etc. The year 2011-12 has been tough with the Indian econ-omy reporting a growth of 6.9 percent as against 8.4 percent in last two fi scal years. The fi scal defi cit also rose to 5.86 percent as against 4.60 percent estimated for this fi scal year. This is refl ect-ed in the slow growth of the auto sector this fi scal year.

However, given the overall fi scal defi cit scenario and the sluggishness of tax collections, sections of the industry were bracing themselves from few tough measures from the FM. Given this backdrop, the Budget has largely been on the predict-able lines for the Industry. No doubt, the duty hikes has been a bit disappointing but there also seems to be an acknowl-edgement that this has been a ‘realistic Budget’ considering the constraints that the FM was operating under. Some of the key changes relevant for the industry are summarised below:

No Diesel Tax There were apprehensions

that the pre-budget that the FM might introduce diesel tax in this Budget to curb diversion of diesel consumption in the per-sonal auto segment. The FM gave a boost to the diesel cars segment by restraining from imposing any additional levy on this seg-ment. This measure would give some sigh of relief to players with significant diesel variants in their portfolio.

A Clear Roadmap The industry was expecting

that the FM would lay down a clear road map for GST imple-mentation as it is high time since India has been talking to move towards a uniform GST model. The FM did not spell out the road map for implementation of GST in his Budget except for stating that the necessary constitutional amendments will be taken up and the platform for implementation will be operationalised by August 2012. The industry will keenly look forward to its full implementation immediately thereafter.

Hike In The Excise Duty & Service Tax

The FM, perhaps, with the objective of aligning the rate

structure to the overall GST frame-work, has increased the basic excise duty and service tax rate by two percent. While the Indian economy was recovering from infl ationary cycle, the proposed hike in the excise duty and serv-ice tax could push the economy back into the infl ationary mode. Though the objective of the FM is well appreciated but given the economic scenario, it was expect-ed that this move could have been deferred for next year till the time the economy revives from the cur-rent state of infl ation.

The aforesaid increase in the excise duty would likely to have a negative impact on the auto sector. This would increase the over-all cost for the industry. There is already a sluggish demand in the industry. With further increase in the excise duty, there would be a further slow-down in the demand in the industry. The steep increase in the excise duty for large cars would lead auto players dealing with big cars to relook at their budgets. This steep rise was not expected for big cars.

Discouraging Import Of Luxury Vehicles

The FM has proposed a hike in the customs duty on import of luxury vehicles with a value exceeding USD 40,000 from 60 percent to 75percent. This step seems to encourage indigenous production of luxury vehicles by discouraging import and there-by generating more employment opportunities locally.

Extension Of R&D Incentive & Introduction Of Accelerated Deduction For Skill Development Projects

Currently, the tax incentive in the form of accelerated deduction of 150 percent for expense incurred on in-house R&D is available only till 31 March 2012. The industry has been demanding the extension of this incentive to boost R&D activ-ity which is much needed in this sector. The FM has proposed an extension of the aforesaid incen-tive till 31 March 2017.

Further, the FM has pro-posed an accelerated deduction of 150 percent of eligible expens-es incurred on notified skill

development projects in this Budget. The work performed in the auto industry is highly skilled. The Industry hopes that the projects undertaken in this industry should get notifi ed for availing this benefi t. These pro-posed changes will likely help the industry improve its products and performance.

Promotion Of Eco-Friendly Vehicles

As part of India’s commitment towards a greener world, the FM proposed measures to promote production of eco-friendly vehi-cles. The FM has proposed to reduce the basic customs duty to nil on lithium ion automo-tive battery for manufacture of lithium-ion battery packs for manufacture of hybrid and electric vehicles. Further, these products have also been exempt-ed from levy of Special Additional Duty of customs.

The excise duty on environ-ment friendly goods such as battery packs and specifi c parts of hybrid vehicles has been reduced from 10 percent to six percent. Further, the excise duty on spec-ifi ed parts of hybrid vehicle has been reduced from 10 percent to six percent. The aforesaid meas-ures would reduce the overall cost of manufacturing hybrid vehicles and consequently pro-mote the usage of such vehicles.

Impetus To Infrastructure Growth

The FM emphasised on the infrastructure growth for the country. With this objective, the Budget focused on private sector participation in infrastructure investment. The FM also increased the budgetary allocation by 14 per-cent towards National Highways and Development Project. The impetus to infrastructure develop-ment would act as stimulus to the demand in the auto industry espe-cially for commercial vehicles.

Announcement Of Advance Pricing Agreement (APA) To Bring Tax Certainty

The tax environment in India has been very litigative especial-ly on transfer pricing front. Given the uncertain tax environment, it

was a unanimous demand from all Industries that the Government should bring in some mecha-nism in the tax administration which ensures certainty to tax payers so that they can concen-trate on their core business. Tax cost at times becomes a critical cost of doing business, and with an uncertain tax environment, it has always attracted the attention of the boardroom.

It seems that the FM has lis-tened to this unanimous demand from the Industry by propos-ing APA scheme in this Budget. The Budget proposes to imple-ment APA which would enable the tax payers to agree upfront with the revenue administra-tor on the mechanism of pricing for cross border related party transactions.

This would be a binding agree-ment on the revenue authorities, which essentially means that once the pricing mechanism is agreed, there can be no dispute on the pricing subsequently by the revenue authorities unless there is a change in law or facts. This move would go a long way in ensuring tax certainty. The industry expects that while the FM has made the necessary policy announcement on this, the frame-work to administer this scheme should also be implemented very quickly and the framework should ensure complete objectivity to the whole process.

Given the current diffi cult economic environment, the FM has tried to balance the need for growth with fi scal compulsions. The proposals in the budget have been primarily on expected or more realistic lines. The pro-posed increase in indirect taxes is likely to result in ‘cost push’ and to that extent, a potential dampener. However, a silver lin-ing could be the renewed focus on infrastructure development, which will benefi t the industry in the medium to longer term. Further, the absence of any spe-cial tax on diesel vehicles, as was being envisaged in some quar-ters, has been a big relief for companies with a diesel vehicle portfolio.

(The views expressed are personal.)

Budget 2012: Will it accelerate or put a break on growth?

The specific increase in the excise duty rates for passenger vehicles proposed in the Budget is tabulated below:

The FM has emphasised on the

infrastructure growth for the country, which would act as stimulus to the demand in the

auto industry

Dinesh SupekarPartner, Price Waterhouse & Co

Navneet KothariSenior Manager - Transfer Pricing, Price Waterhouse & Co

Type Of Car Existing Excise Rate New Excise Rate

Petrol variants Length not exceeding 4,000 mm and engine capacity 10 percent 12 percentnot exceeding 1200cc Length exceeding 4,000 mm and engine capacity 22 percent 24 percentnot exceeding 1500 cc Length exceeding 4,000 mm and engine capacity 22 percent + `15,000 27 percentexceeding 1500 cc Diesel Variants Length not exceeding 4,000 mm and engine capacity 10 percent 12 percentnot exceeding 1500 cc Length exceeding 4,000 mm and engine capacity 22 percent 24 percentnot exceeding 1500 cc Length exceeding 4,000 mm and engine capacity 22 percent + `15,000 27 percentexceeding 1500 cc

Auto Monitor

C O R P O R A T E189 APRIL 2012

In a bid to propel market pen-etration for South African value added products and services in India, and also

to promote the country as a trade and investment destination, a trade delegation led by its Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Elizabeth Thabethe, visited India recently. The 45-member high-level trade delegation from the country is eyeing opportuni-ties from the auto industry and energy sector in India, especially from Tamil Nadu.

Currently, India’s export to South Africa include petro-leum products, motor cars, vehicles for transporting goods and other types of specialised vehicles and telephones. South Africa’s exports to India main-ly consists of raw materials and unprocessed goods (coal, bri-quettes, solid fuels, manganese ores, copper ores, ferrous waste and scrap metal) and there is a drive to diversify from export-ing unprocessed raw materials to value added products and services. Several Indian com-panies including Apollo Tyres, Ashok Leyland, Mahindra and

Tata Motors have their pres-ence in South Africa. According

to the delegation, several South African companies involved in automotive and transportation are looking at opportunities in India.

The objective of the delega-tion, which is part of Investment and Trade Initiative (ITI) of the South African Government, is to enhance the bilateral trade between both the coun-tries. After kick-starting the third edition of the annual ITI in Chennai, Thabethe said, “Trade between South Africa and India has received a lot of attention in recent years. South Africa wants to partner with Tamil Nadu as it is one of the largest contributors to India’s economy. As the government of South Africa, we are striving to enhance economic growth that will lead to an increase in the creation of decent, sus-tainable jobs, advance the fi ght against poverty and accelerate the economic transformation. Our task (as a government), is to ensure the necessary ena-

bling environment is in place for business between our two countries to thrive. We are doing this through numer-ous programmes, such as this investment and trade initiative, which will lead to an enhance-ment of our close political and economical relationships.”

The Economic Consul of South Africa in Mumbai, Seema Sardha said, “South Africa is currently focusing on Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) that focuses on free trade in goods. After getting it we will focus on Free Trade Agreement, which will focus on goods and services.”

Bilateral trade between South Africa and India has experi-enced an upward trend during 2006-2010, growing from $2.2 billion to $5.7 billion. The total trade increased by an average of 28 percent between 2009 and 2010 and the average growth rate over the past four years is 30.4 percent. Trade statistics depict a trade balance in favour of South Africa since 2009.

As part of exploring oppor-tunities in the defence sector, the Vectra Group has also identifi ed some

in the civilian sector in India. It has started supplying some products to the some states for municipal usage. The company might also introduce some new products to the civilian sector in the coming years.

“The Indian army is our larg-est customer but we have recently started supplying to the civil market. To start with, we are sup-plying simple machines such as skid steers. The business is still in the nascent stage but depend-ing on the demand we might add some new products to our portfo-lio in the civilian segment,” GM, Vectra Advance Engineering, Dilip Magee told Auto Monitor.

He continued, “There is a huge potential in the civilian market for such products and since we have the facility to produce them we want to capitalise on this opportunity.” Though the Indian market is still in the nascent stage for such products, the company is banking on the high utility of this machine to gain popularity. The strategic pricing is another fac-tor. “The machines supplied to the defence have many sophisti-cated features but to fi t into the cost sensitive civilian market, we have done away with some such features,” Magee elaborated.

The skid steer loader meant for

the civilian market is a multi-pur-pose machine which can be used for several municipal purposes. It can be used with ten different kinds of attachments meant for serving varied operations, claims the company. The compact size gives an advantage over back hoe loader, as skid steers can operate in limited space. The machine is designed for easy mainte-nance thereby reducing the cost of ownership.

The company sells around 10 such machines to the municipal bodies in a month in the initial days of starting the operation. It aims to sell around 500-600 units annually in the next two years, if the market sentiments go up. The machine is designed at the in-house design centre of the Vectra Group.

The Vectra Group has a diver-sifi ed portfolio and operates in industries such as aviation, engi-neering, material handling and construction equipment, real estate, information technology, services sector apart from auto-motive. It supplies seating systems to OEMs such as Mercedes, Volvo, and Tata Motors among others. It also supplies seating systems to Bombardier for the metro rail.

The operations of Vectra Group are primarily in India and Eastern Europe. It has more than 18 companies, with eight manufacturing facilities in four countries (India, the UK, Czech Republic, and Slovakia). It has three manufacturing facilities in India, one each in Greater Noida, Hosur and Bangalore.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt Ltd (TKM) recently fl agged off its fi rst consignment

of 247 Etios sedan and its hatch-back Liva for Durban, South Africa at the Ennore port near Chennai. This fi rst consignment was loaded on to Antares Leader, a roll-on-roll-off vessel, at the Ennore port. The company has plans to export around 20,000 Etios per annum.

According to the Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Asia Pacifi c, Vicente Socco, the export operations at Toyota Kirloskar Motor denotes the growing role of TKM in Toyota’s global opera-tions. India has always been a very important market for Toyota and it is further reiterated with the advent of the Etios export to South Africa. TKM’s foray into the export market promises a lot of growth for the company.

The export model of Etios is built on the same platform as Etios and Etios Liva, manufac-tured and sold in India. However,

it would be customised according to suit the South African require-ments. Toyota SA Motors (PTY) Ltd Senior Vice-President (Sales and Marketing) Calvyn Hamman said, “The modifi cation included tyres to withstand higher speed. While the average speed on highways in South Africa is 120 kmph, motor-ists tend to go up to 160 kmph.”

The CMD of Ennore Port S Velumani, said, “We were shipping coal for the TNEB requirements. From coal to car, we have come a long way. The port is designed to meet the needs of Nissan Motors and now Toyota is exporting its

fi rst consignment of cars to South Africa. We would extend all sup-port to TKM.”

The Etios is currently manu-factured in TKM’s second plant located in Bidadi industrial area on the outskirts of Bangalore. The export model will also be manu-factured in the same plant.

The current production capac-ity in the second plant is 120,000 units, which will be ramped up to 210,000 units by 2013. To increase the localisation content in Etios the company is building up its engine and transmission plant, which will produce around one lakh engines annually.

Production is expected to start in the third quarter of 2012 and approximately 2.4 lakh trans-missions will be manufactured annually which is slated to start the production by the early 2013. The engines and transmissions are currently being import-ed from its parent company in Japan.

Several South African companies

involved in automotive and transportation are

looking at opportunities in India. There is a drive to diversify to value added products and

services locally

South Africa-India venture to motor new trade passages

Vectra steers towards civilian market Toyota Etios heads to South Africa

Bhargav TS Chennai

Shambhavi Anand New Delhi

What is the objective of the current visit of your delegation to India?

The objective of our current visit is to increase the bilateral trade between the two coun-tries. We want to achieve a target of $15 bn by 2014.

What is the focus of the

current mission?Our current mission focuses

on identifying trade and invest-ment opportunities in the two countries in the targeted sectors including automotive, create awareness of South African value added goods and services, and increase exports to India. It will also facilitate increased foreign direct investment into South Africa as well as joint ventures between South African and Indian companies.

Currently, how many South African companies have started their operations and what is their progress?

We have had some good starts. One of our banks will be coming to India soon.

Sasol Motor fuel manufactur-er has set-up business here and we have had success with some of our wine manufacturers.

Which are the other coun-tries South African delegation visited apart from India?

We will be visiting all the BRICS nations.

What according to you is the uniqueness of India?

Competitive skill-sets is the most unique in India.

Off late, India is emerg-ing as a R&D hub for few OEMs and component manufac-turers. Is the South African compa ny look ing a long these lines to leverage inherent capabilities of India?

Yes of course. We also have representatives in this ITI del-egation who are focused on OEMs and will dialogue with the Indian companies.

Elizabeth Thabethe, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry South Africa

Tamil Nadu Industry Minister, Thangamani along with the South African delegation

Etios being shipped to SA Bhargav TS Chennai

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Auto Monitor

S T U D Y209 APRIL 2012

The ~`1,600 billion Indian auto components indus-try has been witnessing a moderation in its rev-

enue growth since the beginning of this fi scal following the decel-eration in sales volume growth across all automobile segments.

As per industry estimates, out of the total turnover of the Indian auto components indus-try, around 60 percent is derived from sales to domestic OEMs, around 25 percent comes from sales to the domestic replace-ment market and around 15 percent is derived from exports. While lower YoY volume growth of domestic OEMs in nine-m 2011-12, particularly those belonging to the passenger vehicle (PV) and Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicle (M&HCV) segments, translated into muted revenue growth for the auto components industry during this period; the sluggishness was partly arrested on the back of rise in component exports and higher domestic replacement market sales. While the long term prospects for the industry remain strong in line with the outlook for the OEM seg-ment, the industry faces strong challenges in the form of threat of low cost imports, currency volatility and ability to invest on product development to be able to move up the value chain.

Apropos our sample of 35 listed auto component manu-facturers, the revenue growth of these select entities has been in low single digits over the last three consecutive quarters on QoQ basis and in double digits on YoY basis. Within our sample uni-verse, however, there was a wide variance in the performance of individual companies with rev-enue growth being relatively higher for companies dependent on the domestic two-wheeler (2W) and Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segments; and growth being lower/ negative for compa-nies dependent on the Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicle (M&HCV) and Passenger vehicle (PV) segments. This broadly mir-rors the trend in sales volumes seen in the respective automo-bile segments in nine-m, 2011-12. Further, despite macro-econom-ic challenges currently being faced by the automotive indus-try—PV and M&HCV segments in particular—due to infl ation, high interest rates and rising fuel prices, many of the auto compo-nent manufacturers continued to reported strong double digit revenue growth in nine-m, 2011-12 supported by (i) component

exports to Europe for CV appli-cations (further supported by a favourable exchange rate sce-nario, particularly in Q3, 2011-12) (ii) increased sales to the replace-ment market and (iii) rising share of revenues from the non-auto-motive segment. Also, several entities in our sample have been displaying significantly high-er revenue growth than average over the last several quarters by virtue of their success in improv-ing market share, expanding product portfolio and changing product mix in favour of high-er realization components. The above initiatives sailed such com-panies through in 9m, 2011-12, allowing them to report healthy topline growth, overall demand side pressures notwithstanding.

Revenue Growth Drivers An analysis of historical rev-

enue trends of auto component manufacturers suggests that component suppliers whose business has been concentrated on a few customers, geographies or automotive segments have been able to maintain a rather healthy fi nancial profi le, while the performance of their more diversified peers has experi-enced stress. This peculiarity is not unusual in the Indian context as a relatively small set of OEMs enjoy a signifi cantly high market share in each of the automotive segments; plus, most Indian ancillaries lack adequate scale to enjoy the full benefi ts of geo-graphical or product diversity as compared to their global coun-terparts. The same theme has been on show in nine-m, 2011-12 as well when the revenue growth of auto component manufactur-ers dependent entirely on the 2W segment has remained healthy due to continued resilience shown by this segment; while the performance of companies dependent on the PV segment has been in stark contrast as volumes suffered due to both demand side as well as supply side concerns.

Notwithstanding the above, adequacy of diversifi cation—in terms of customer base, segment mix, product portfolio and geo-graphical footprint—remains a desirable metric as it enhances a company’s ability to overcome cash fl ow variability across busi-ness cycles and makes it better equipped to endure cyclical shocks. In our sample too, mod-erate to large sized entities which also score high on the diversifi -cation parameter, demonstrated steady revenue growth in nine-m, 2011-12, despite the lacklustre

performance of the domestic PV and M&HCV segments during this period.

Sharp depreciation of INR against USD weighed on auto component industry

Since the beginning of this fi s-cal, the prices of key commodities have been softening, provid-ing partial relief to the industry players that had grappled with commodity cost pressures throughout 2010-11. In Q1, 2011-12, the PBDIT margins of the publicly-listed auto OEMs in our sample had improved sequen-tially by virtue of the combined benefi t of price increases under-taken by them in the preceding quarter and partial correction in commodity prices. However, the same improvement did not man-ifest in the PBDIT margins of auto component manufacturers in our sample due to infl ation in other costs such as employee costs,

power costs and other overhead expenses, which are generally not pass-through to OEMs (unlike increase in raw material costs).

The PBDIT margins of auto component manufacturers declined further in Q2, 2011-12 mainly due to lower sales vol-umes but fi xed overhead charges, notwithstanding QoQ decline in average raw material prices of key raw materials. Although interna-tional prices of key raw materials declined further in Q3, 2011-12, the landed costs however stayed fi rm due to sharp depreciation of INR against USD. Thus, even as growth in exports and increase in domestic replacement market sales had a positive impact on PBDIT margins of the auto com-

ponents industry in Q3, 2011-12, the industry’s margin expansion was constrained due to (a) weaker INR against USD that negated the potential benefi t arising from soft international commodity prices (b) weaker INR against JPY that increased the cost of imports for ancillaries that source component child parts and other inputs from Japan (c) combination of high-er overhead costs and sluggish growth in supplies to domestic OEMs. In the context of current demand environment, we expect the margin pressures to continue over the next few quarters.

Over and above operating cost pressures, the PAT margins of several auto component manu-facturers over the last two quarters have also been weighed down by increase in depreciation and inter-est costs. This was consequent to the large capex incurred by these entities in the period prior to Q2, 2011-12 to meet the rising pro-duction schedules of OEMs and towards establishing production infrastructure to supply parts for new models launched by OEMs. With slowdown in sales, particular-ly in the PV segment, and relatively lower volume growth of some of the new models, the utilisation of vendors’ capacities remained sub-optimal. Since a part of the above capex was debt-funded, the rise in interest rates and decline in profi ts brought down the interest cover-age ratio of several companies in nine-m, 2011-12. With interest rates likely to have peaked in the system, some relief on this front could be expected in the second half of 2012-13.

Also, the net profi ts of entities with foreign currency loans suf-fered in Q2, 2011-12 and Q3, 2011-12 due to MTM losses on restatement of foreign currency loans follow-ing sharp appreciation of USD against INR since the second fort-night of September 2011.

Growth OutlookAuto component manufac-

turers dependent on the M&HCV and 2W segments likely to expe-rience relatively lower growth over the short term; the expect-ed recovery in PV segment volumes in 2012-13E to refl ect in improved revenue growth of ancillaries supplying to this seg-ment Since a majority of revenues of the auto component industry are derived from supplies to the domestic OEMs, the growth pros-pects of the former are largely determined by performance of the user OEMs. Given below are ICRA’s volume growth expecta-tions pertaining to individual

automobile segments:PV Segment: Amongst the vari-

ous automobile segments (PV/ CV/ 2W) in India, the PV segment is the largest by value and accounts for nearly half the size of the ~`2,300 billion auto OEM segment, fol-lowed by the CV segment and the 2W segment that together account for the balance half in an almost equal proportion. Thus, given the large size of the PV segment, its pace of growth has a relative-ly higher infl uence on the growth prospects of the auto components industry as a whole. After record-ing a robust 20 percent+ volume growth in 2009-10 and 2010-11, the PV segment volumes (domestic + exports) grew by a meagre 4.3 per-cent in 10m, 2011-12 marred both by circumspect consumer senti-ment that impacted demand as well as supply constraints caused fi rst by the tsunami in Japan (in March 2011), then by production disruption at the country’s largest PV manufacturer Maruti Suzuki (intermittently over the June-October 2011 period) and then by fl oods in Thailand (disrupting production output of select OEMs during the November-January 2012 period).

This apart, the supply chain of PV OEMs also suffered to an extent due to incidences of labour unrest at factories of auto compo-nent manufacturers such as Ceat (23 days in October 2011) and Mahindra Forgings (mainly in Q2, 2011-12). The adverse impact of most of these supply side shocks seems to have fully played out:• The supplies of components

that were being imported from Japan have either been restored now or sourcing from alternate geographies is being done by PV OEMs

• An amicable agreement between Maruti Suzuki and its Labour Union is understood to have been reached in end-Oc-tober 2011

• Honda Siel (India) was sourc-ing several electronic and underbody parts for Brio, Jazz and City models from its Thailand plant. As per com-pany’s statements, the supply disruption due to Thailand fl oods that had started in the fi rst week of November 2011 and had got aggravated in December 2011, has now been resolved as the company com-menced normal production at its plant from February 17, 2012 onwards

Assuming there are no additional supply shocks and as consumers

Contd. on page 22

Indian Auto Components IndustryCost pressures, currency volatility and threat of imports remain a challenge

Given thecurrent environment

where the growth in industrial activity remains low and the

operating environment for fleet operators

remains weak, ICRA expects the industry

to defer capacity addition. As a result, the outlook over the near term appears

subdued which may result in a

slowdown in new vehicle sales

Auto Monitor

S T U D Y229 APRIL 2012

adjust to the new normal charac-terized by relatively higher vehicle prices and high fuel costs; demand sentiment is likely to get some relief on the interest rate front during 2012-13. Over the medium term, ICRA expects the PV indus-try to record a volume CAGR of ~11 percent over 2011-16E (inclu-sive of 2011-12E, a year in which volume growth is likely to be low at around three percent).

CV Segment: After register-ing a strong 30 percent+ volume growth over 2009-10 and 2010-11, the growth in the CV industry has somewhat slowed down dur-ing the current fi scal. In 10-m, 2011-12, the CV industry posted a volume growth of 19.5 percent YoY supported by 28.7 percent growth in the LCV segment and a relatively muted 8.6 percent growth in the M&HCV segment.

Steadily rising interest rates, contracting industrial output and a considerable increase in vehicle prices along with high base of pre-vious years have been the main factors constraining growth. The sharp rise in overall cost of own-ership combined with almost stagnant freight rates are exert-ing pressure on the profi tability and cash fl ows of fl eet operators. Our channel check suggests that several operators have postponed their expansion plans in view of the prevailing high interest rates and slower industrial output. Capacity utilisation has gradually declined and freight rates con-tinue to remain stagnant despite rise in operating expenditure for operators. On the fi nancing front, some of the fi nanciers have also tightened lending norms in addi-tion to the rise in interest rates. Overall, the near term risks against M&HCV demand have increased signifi cantly, though structurally, the demand drivers over a longer period remain intact.

Given the current envi-ronment where the growth in industrial activity remains low and the operating environ-ment for fl eet operators remains weak, ICRA expects the industry

to defer capacity addition. As a result, the outlook over the near term appears subdued which may result in a slowdown in new vehicle sales.

Among segments, M&HCV seg-ment which tends to be infl uenced more by macro-economic indica-tors is likely to register a weaker performance over the near term as against the steadily growing LCV segment. The proliferation of the hub-and-spoke model, improving last mile connectivity and strong demand originating from rural segment is likely to drive demand in the LCV segment over the medium term. ICRA expects the M&HCV segment to grow by ~fi ve percent and the LCV segment to grow by ~24 percent in 2011-12E. Over the medium term, ICRA expects the M&HCV segment to grow at a volume CAGR of 9.5-11.5percent and the LCV to grow at a volume CAGR of 11-13 percent over the next fi ve years.

2W Segment: The Indian 2W industry recorded a volume growth (domestic + exports) of 16.6 percent (YoY) in 10m, 2011-12; which although healthy, was signifi cantly lower than the 25 per-cent+ volume growth rates seen in 2009-10 and 2010-11. Overall, ICRA expects the domestic 2W industry to report a volume growth of ~13 percent in 2011-12E as we expect growth to moderate further in Q4, 2011-12 due to base effect.

In an environment where the northward movement of infl a-tion, fuel prices and interest rates has been the nemesis of the Indian automobile industry at large, the 2W industry has been the most resilient so far. The growth has been supported by various struc-tural positives associated with the domestic 2W industry including favourable demographic profi le, moderate 2W penetration levels (in relation to several other emerg-ing markets), under developed public transport system, growing urbanisation and expected strong replacement demand, besides moderate share of financed purchases. ICRA expects these strengths, coupled with the OEMs’ thrust on exports, to aid the 2W

industry to report a volume CAGR of 10-12 percent over the medium term to reach a size of 21-23 mil-lion units (domestic + exports) by 2015-16E.

With this being the backdrop, the revenue growth of the auto components industry is likely to be a close refl ection of the blended growth of individual automotive segments. That said, the perform-ance of individual auto component manufacturers will continue to vary depending on their rev-enue mix (OEMs/ Replacement Market), segment leaning (PV/CV/2W) and geographical diver-sification (domestic/ exports). Overall, auto component man-ufacturers who have a growing presence in the replacement mar-

ket and also have geographically dispersed customer base, are like-ly to be better equipped to offset the expected moderation in busi-ness volumes of select domestic automobile segments over the short term.

Other Growth Determinants

Currently, the auto com-ponents industry in India is around two-thirds the size of the OEM segment. This propor-

tion is around one to two times in mature markets of Europe, America and Japan. This indi-cates (a) higher proportion of imports of auto components in India by OEMs and (b) lower replacement market sales. Given the healthy growth prospects of the Indian automobile indus-try over the medium term, ICRA expects the size of the auto com-ponents industry to grow at a rate faster than the OEM seg-ment, driven by OEMs’ thrust on localization and steadily growing replacement market demand.

Also, the following compo-nents appear to have a larger scope for business growth over the medium term:• Electronics (Engine-side &

Body-side): The localisation proportion of electronic com-ponents in Indian cars remains low as of now. Given the growing need to offer driver information systems, engine management systems and emission control systems in cars to meet the advancing safety and emission regulations, the use of elec-tronics in Indian cars is likely to see a proliferation in the times to come. This should translate into strong growth for auto ancillaries having capabilities in this segment.

• Plastics: Although this segment is already quite com-petition intensive, considering OEMs’ focus on adopting light-weighting technologies and already several instances where material of components has been changed by OEMs from sheet metal to plastic; it augurs well for auto compo-nent manufacturers having strong capability in the plastics space. Sheet moulded compos-ites, bulk moulded composites and long fi bre thermoplastic are some of the new materi-als being used to replace metal and conventional plastics.

• Aluminium Die-casting: In the boom period of 2009-10 and 2010-11, the auto Industry had experienced signifi cant capacity constraints for alu-minium die-cast components.

The capacity shortage was more severe at Tier II suppli-ers’ end and this had prompted few tier-1 players to backward integrate not just for captive consumption but also for sell-ing to other customers. Also, for select engine components, OEMs are likely to demand tighter product tolerances to meet the stringent emission control norms which in turn is likely to increase per unit realization for auto ancillaries manufacturing such compo-nents (although at the cost of higher capital investments).

While various positives charac-terise the Indian auto component manufacturers including prov-en manufacturing capabilities, improving design abilities and high production effi ciency, the industry is exposed to several risk factors, including:• Localisation of auto compo-

nents is high on the agenda of Indian auto OEMs; yet, the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between India and other countries/ regions including ASEAN, Japan, South Korea, European Union etc is a signif-icant risk that may encourage OEs to go for global sourcing. In the process, this will eat into the potential business for ancillaries located in India.

• A large number of compo-nents, mainly for CV, 2W and tractor applications, such as alloy wheels, tyres, wheel rims, bearings, engine valves, chassis components, power steering components are being imported by auto OEMs from China. In fact, import of Chinese auto components into India has multiplied briskly over the last fi ve years by virtue of their cheaper cost. With stunted growth of Chinese automobiles in CY2011 and modest growth prospects over the short term, the surplus capacity of Chinese auto component manufacturers might fi nd its way into other global markets including India.

(Courtesy: ICRA)

Select auto component manufacturers that maintained steady revenue growth in Q3, 2011-129mFY12 Q3FY12 9mFY12 Q3FY12

GROWTH DRIVERS YoY YoY QoQ GROWTH DRIVERS YoY YoY QoQExports and/or Non-Automotive Segment Growth Traction in Replacement Market DemandBharat Forge 27.4% 19.6% 1.5% MRF 29.9% 32.6% 9.8%Amtek Auto 28.5% 26.6% 4.5% Apollo Tyres 57.8% 45.9% 13.4%Sundram Fasteners 19.7% 14.3% -2.5% JK Tyres 18.4% 20.7% 10.4%Sundaram Clayton 32.2% 31.9% 6.2% Ceat 29.7% 19.0% -4.7%Wheels India 22.9% 30.6% 6.6% Exide Industries^ 8.3% 16.3% 6.4%Diversification Benefits (product/ customer/ geographic) Market Share Gains and Improved RealizationsMinda Industries 27.2% 33.1% 2.8% Automotive Axles 55.9% 63.0% 4.1%

Nelcast 39.0% 34.5% 11.6%^Exide Industries had witnessed a sharp decline in revenues in Q2, 2011-12 due to lower replacement market sales, amongst other reasons. However, the company’sreplacement market sales grew strongly in Q3, 2011-12 following price cuts undertaken in end-August 2011

3

0%

2%

4%

6%

8%

10%

12%

14%

16%

-

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

40,000

Q4FY10 Q1FY11 Q2FY11 Q3FY11 Q4FY11 Q1FY12 Q2FY12 Q3FY12

`

`

Crore

AutoOriginal EquipmentManufacturers (OEMs)Chart1: Trend in AggregateRevenuesandWeightedAverageMargins

Trend in Aggregate RevenuesandWeightedAverageMargins

Revenues PBDITMargins PATMargins

0%

2%

4%

6%

8%

10%

12%

14%

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-

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10 ,000

12 ,000

14 ,000

16 ,000

18 ,000

Q4FY10 Q1FY11 Q2FY11 Q3FY11 Q4FY11 Q1FY12 Q2FY12 Q3FY12

Crore

Auto ComponentManufacturers

Revenues PBDIT Margins PATMargins

Source: ICRA's Estimates, Capitaline Database,Sample of publically-listed auto OEMs

Source: ICRA's Estimates, Capitaline Database,Sample of 35 select entities

The sharp rise in overall cost of

ownership combined with almost stagnant

freight rates are exerting pressure on the profitability and cash flows of

fleet operators. The study suggests that several operators

have postponed their expansion plans in

view of the prevailing high interest rates

and slower industrial output

Contd. from page 20

Auto Monitor

G L O B A L W A T C H 239 APRIL 2012

Indian Tier I investor stars at Europe’s premier annual showcase

Honda draws on alternative energy for next-gen range

Text-to-speech mobiletechnology to boost safety

With such a strong focus on drive-line technology at March’s Geneva

auto show, one of the most important companies present was GKN Driveline. Over 70 new cars were revealed at the show, and the company said that more than 65 percent of them featured GKN driveline components. Applications were as diverse as the electronic torque vector-ing unit for BMW’s X6 M50d, direct torque fl ow technology

and side-shafts in the Audi A6 Allroad Quattro, the power trans-fer unit in Ford’s all new Kuga SUV, and the company’s unique electric axle for Citroen’s fl ag-ship, the 4WD diesel hybrid DS5 HYbrid4 model.

GKN has been investing in pro-duction facilities on the Indian sub-continent for more than 25 years, and is reckoned to have around 70 percent of the market including supplying side-shafts for Tata’s game-changing Nano, so will be making a signifi cant contribution to India’s growth as an automotive market.

GKN Driveline

Communication Director, Paul Dinwiddy said, “We have been investing `100 crore per year in our four Indian manufactur-ing facilities over the past four years. We saw great potential for India back in the 1980s and looked for strategically placed locations to provide driveline solutions to the subcontinent’s fast-growing industry.”

The fi rst site, in the north, was at Faridabad, where constant velocity joint (CVJ) manufac-ture started in 1986, followed by Dharuhera in 1997 (also CVJs). Then, with the growth of vehi-cle manufacturers in the south, a new CVJ facility (2008) and a pre-cision forging (2011) were built in Oragadam, near Chennai. Most recently, construction has start-ed on a new `130 crore plant at

Pune in the west, for the manu-facture of CVJs and trans-axles.

“The new Pune plant is only 30 km from Fiat, Volkswagen, GM and Tata plants and, before the end of the year, will have a capacity of 1.2 million CVJ sys-tems,” Dinwiddy added.

GKN’s continued expan-sion enables the company to remain close and accessible to its customers in India. With the completion of the Pune facil-ity and further development at Oragadam, the company will have a headcount of 1,200, a 20 percent increase. “We’ve posted

an annual growth rate of more than 15 percent over the past fi ve years in India. “This is clearly a critically important market for GKN,” said Dinwiddy.

Dinwiddy sees a very posi-tive future. “We expect India to remain a high-growth market for many years to come and we will continue to invest to meet our customers’ needs not just for CVJ and trans-axle solutions, but all-wheel drive, hybrid and electric-drive vehicle compo-nents too.”

(Mark Carbery is an Automotive Consultant.)

Honda Motor Co Ltd has opened a Solar Hydrogen Station on the grounds of its

Saitama Prefectural Offi ce in Japan. The OEM has also devel-oped the FCX Clarity to serve as a mobile electric generator. With the initiatives taken in testing and evaluation, the company is mapping out an extensive plan to boost its alternative energy development programmes for vehicles.

Dedicated to reducing its impact on the environment, both in terms of emissions from its products as well as from

the company’s manufactur-ing activities, these initiatives form part of the Electric Vehicle Testing Programme for Honda’s next-generation personal mobil-ity products, in which Honda, Iwatani and Saitama Prefecture are currently collaborating.

This is the fi rst installation in

Japan of a total system to produce, store and dispense hydrogen with zero CO2 emissions. The high pressure water electrolysis system, uniquely developed by Honda, uses clean solar power created by Honda CIGS thin solar panels, to produce electricity which in turn produces hydro-gen with zero CO2 emissions. With no mechanical compressor, the system is nearly silent and energy effi cient. Using solar and grid power, the system is capable of producing 1.5kg of hydrogen within 24 hours, which enables an FCX Clarity to be refuelled and run approximately 150 km / 90 miles. When full, the unit has the capacity to fi ll three units of FCX Clarity—an equivalent of approx-

imately 20 kg of hydrogen.In a further initiative, Honda

has equipped the FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel cell electric car with an outlet to function as a 9kW power source. Since the FCX Clarity uses a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to produce power with zero CO2 emissions, with its new outlet, the vehicle will also be able to serve as a zero-emission mobile electricity generator.

Honda continues to progress its research activity in the areas of fuel cell electric vehicles and zero CO2 emission production, storage and supply, in order to develop and offer clean energy sources for vehicles and the home in the future.

A new study commis-sioned by Ford shows one in three UK driv-ers admit they have

read texts while driving, a highly distracting habit proven to con-tribute to traffi c accidents.

The study helped respond to the safety issue as the company prepares to introduce its Sync in-car connectivity system, which can read aloud incoming mes-sages through a text-to-speech feature and enables drivers to send a text reply by voice from a predetermined list of responses.

Study ResultsDespite the prevalence of the

practice, drivers agreed over-whelmingly that reading texts on the move was dangerous. Ninety-fi ve per cent of drivers thought that texting affected driver abili-ty and safety. At least half of those surveyed said they believed driv-er response was 50 percent slower when checking messages from a mobile phone.

“Smartphones have quickly become an essential part of many people’s day,” said Chief Engineer, Electronic and Electrical Systems Engineering, Ford of Europe, Christof Kellerwessel. “However, text messages can be a distrac-tion for drivers, so the benefi t of a system that can read messages aloud from compatible smart-phones is obvious.”

Ford SYNC will debut this summer on the all-new B-Max

and will roll out to other vehi-cles in Ford’s line-up, including Focus and Kuga. The text-to-speech feature on Sync, powered by Microsoft, retrieves messages using a simple voice command from Bluetooth-connected com-patible smartphones.

FeaturesSync also enables drivers

to send a text reply from a pre-determined list of responses, helping motorists to remain focused on driving while staying in touch with contacts. Sync’s text-to-speech feature will be compatible with an increasing range of smartphones due to Ford’s adoption of the emerging Message Access Profi le (MAP) standard for Bluetooth device-to-device connectivity, which is already used by leading mobile device manufacturers including Blackberry producer Research In Motion (RIM).

“RIM plans to implement MAP on BlackBerry smart-phones moving forward and we are pleased to work with Ford in an effort to foster industry-wide adoption and standardisation,” said Vice President, Handheld Software Product Management, at Research In Motion, Andrew Bocking. More than four million Ford vehicles in the US already feature SYNC and Ford antici-pates 3.5 million new vehicles in Europe will be equipped with standard by 2015.

GKN has began construction

on a new `130 crore plant at Pune in the west, for the

manufacture of constant

velocity joints and trans-axles to cater

to local demand across vehicle

segments

These initiatives form part of the Electric

Vehicle Testing Programme for

Honda’s next-gen personal mobility

products

GKN Booth at Auto Expo 2012, New Delhi

GKN Booth at Auto Expo 2012, New Delhi

Mark Carbery Geneva

Honda’s Solar Hydrogen Station in Saitam, Japan

Auto Monitor

G L O B A L W A T C H249 APRIL 2012

Ford to share intelligence with Cardiff University

Denso to test VTX technology in China

Latest V8 engine leads to better savings, cuts emissions

Ford has established a new partnership with Cardiff University involving operations at Ford’s

high-tech manufacturing plant in Bridgend to share research and intelligence.

Cutting CostsThe new joint working agree-

ment with Ford will help improve production processes and reduce costs. Ford will be employing a Cardiff University graduate for two years to work directly on the project under the supervi-sion of both Ford and academic staff. This task has been praised by Welsh Government Minister for Business, Enterprise, and Technology and Science, Edwina Hart AM. During a visit to Ford Bridgend engine plant, the Minister said, “Ford and Cardiff University are both highly respected in their fi elds in Wales and internationally. This new

agreement is just the kind of part-nership that I want to see between our universities and the anchor companies in Wales. Modern manufacturing is one of my top priorities and I am delighted that Ford will be working with Cardiff University to make their opera-

tions here even more successful.” The agreement was signed

at Ford’s Bridgend plant where the Minister was joined by Kieran Cahill, Plant Manager; Dr David Grant, Cardiff University Vice-Chancellor and Professor Derek Jones, Cardiff University

Director of Business and Strategic partnerships.

Ford Bridgend Plant Manager, Kieran Cahill said, “This agree-ment marks a new step in the fast-growing, dynamic relation-ship between Ford Bridgend and Cardiff University, and we are

delighted to be working together.” Derek Jones said, “The overarch-ing priority will be to identify projects which will best help to improve profi table operations and innovative, carbon-effi cient, manufacturing. Reducing energy costs will be a priority.

“Collaboration and the shar-ing of knowledge will take place through a range of meth-ods, including research and development projects, student scholarships and placements, and staff exchanges and secondments.”

In January, Cardiff University was selected as one of 12 UK uni-versities to be included in the Ford Blue Oval Scholarship Programme. The scholarships will provide £10,000 per student, over a three-year period on a variety of different courses, ranging from science to automotive engineering and com-puter technology, starting in the 2012 academic year.

Denso Corporation, in collaboration with Tongji University (Shanghai),

w i l l b e g i n t e s t i n g vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2X) technology on public roads in Taicang, Jiangsu Province, China.

This is Denso’s fi rst V2X tech-nology fi eld test on public roads in China. The company has been conducting fi eld tests in Japan, the US and Europe for the past several years. “Due to the rapid increase in vehicles on China’s roads, chronic congestion and safety are the two largest issues, particularly in the larger cities. V2X technology, which allows cars to wirelessly communicate with other cars and roadside infra-structure, such as traffi c signals, is expected to help alleviate traffi c congestion and help prevent col-lisions,” said Executive Director in charge of the Engineering Research & Development Centre, Denso, Yasushi Yamanaka.

V2X technology will be used to wirelessly communicate the vehicle position and speed of emergency vehicles—like ambu-lances and fi re engines—to the surrounding vehicles and roadside infrastructure. When an emer-gency vehicle is approaching, the technology will change the traffi c light at intersections and alert sur-rounding vehicles to switch lanes. The experiments are intended to give the right of way to authority vehicles in case of emergency and to help prevent vehicle collisions.

Denso has been globally

researching and developing V2X technology since 2003. One of the central focus points is Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC), which is the primary enabling component of V2X com-munications. At its test track in Japan, Denso has simulated an urban road environment to check the communication performance and to develop and evaluate appli-cations with actual vehicles. The results have been used to develop in-vehicle devices which have been provided to various demonstration experiments involving collabo-

ration among automakers and government agencies in Japan, the US and Europe.

Headquartered in Kariya, Aichi prefecture, Japan, Denso is a leading supplier of advanced tech-nology, systems and components in the areas of thermal, powertrain control, electric, electronics and information and safety. Its cus-tomers include global carmakers. It employs approximately 120,000 people and notched up consoli-dated global sales for the fi scal year ending March 31, 2011, totalled $37.7 billion.

The new V8 engine for the Bentley Continental GT, launched at this year’s Detroit motor show is

on the road with a 40 percent cut in fuel consumption and emis-sions, as well as a drop of around £13,000 in price over the existing 12-cylinder versions.

The smaller engines will broaden the market appeal of Continental, which has become Bentley’s most important and best-selling car since its launch in 2003.

Fuel SavingsThe savings on fuel con-

sumption means that the car will give a range of up 500 miles with its 90-litre tank, that is over 100 miles more than the cur-rent W12 engine. Outwardly, the new V8 coupe and convert-ible differs from the existing models with their black matrix

grille, 21-inch wheels and fig-ure of eight tailpipes. The new Continental GT Coupe is priced at £123,835, down from £135,760 for the W12, while the GTC con-vertible costs £136,250 down from £149,350. What’s more, there is a whole range of options at additional costs—£10,000 for ceramic brakes, or a special liq-uid paint for £24,000.

Rise Of Sales FiguresThe new engine is launched

as Bentley rides the wave of strong sales. Bentley’s engineer-ing chief, Rolf Frech stated that the company saw sales increase in all its major markets in 2011, up 37 percent worldwide to 7,003 cars. “This has been led by the Continental and we are forecasting a positive operating result,” Frech added.

“Our US sales rose 31 percent as Americans have started to buy

cars again and more than 1,000 cars was our biggest number there for three years. EU markets rose 53 percent to 1,087 cars with Germany growing 88 percent, while the UK proved challenging although our sales still rose fi ve

percent to 1,031. “Top performer was the Chinese market, which rose 95 percent to pass more than 1,000 vehicles for the fi rst time, a fi gure reached by October and fi nishing the year on 1,839,” he said as he signed off.

With over 400,000 BMWs, Minis and Rolls-Royce vehi-cles sold worldwide,

BMW has had a spike in the fi rst quarter and the best ever in the company’s history felt Member of the Board of Management, Sales and Marketing BMW, Ian Robertson recently.

The introduction of the BMW X1 to the US market will build upon its global success. Since its launch at the end of 2009, over 264,000 units have been sold worldwide.

Both, the US and China con-tributed to the BMW Group’s fi rst quarter sales results. In the US, sales climbed to over 13 per-cent in March to 29,806 vehicles (prev. yr 26,382). Year to date, 75,729 vehicles have been sold in the US, an increase of +16.6 percent over the previous year (64,957). In China, the company achieved a double digit growth in Q1 with over 75,000 vehicles delivered (prev. yr. 58.506).

To prevent potential fuel leaks and to fi x faulty wiring that could cause airbag failure, Volvo

Cars will be recalling 12,798 units of its 2012 model year vehi-cles imported to China, a Chinese quality regulator said recently.

The 11,119 S60 vehicles and XC60 cars will be recalled in China to fi x a wire harness under the front seats, which might interfere with the car’s airbags. The vehicle manufacturer is also recalling 1,679 S60 and XC60 cars to inspect the underbody coating that may penetrate the fuel lines and cause fuel leakage, Reuters said in a report.

BMW records global sales spike

Volvo China may recall S60 and XC 60

The new joint working agreement with Ford will help

improve production processes and

reduce costs. Ford will be employing

a Cardiff University graduate to work

on the project under the supervision

of both Ford & academic staff

With V2X technology, when an emergency

vehicle is approaching, it will change the traffic

light at intersections and alert surrounding

vehicles to switch lanes

Edwina Hart AM, Welsh Government Minister has signed a working agreement-partnership with Ford & Cardiff University

The V8 engine

Auto Monitor

G L O B A L W A T C H 259 APRIL 2012

Bosch gears up for growing internet syncG

erman Tier I major, Bosch Group sees huge potential in web 3.0, which is termed

as ‘the internet of things and services’. At this year’s inno-vation forum in Munich, the Bosch Board of Management Member, Dr Volkmar Denner said, “We expect the market for such products and services to grow signifi cantly, and are pre-paring our company for this growth.” The ‘internet of things and services’ is the next stage in the evolution of web technolo-gy. It involves all the things and people connected in the web communicating with each other. Denner sees three main areas in which Bosch can be active and grow profi tably on the internet: technology, applications, and business models based on these applications.

In the area of technology, Bosch will take products such as head units in vehicles or sensors in buildings and heating sys-tems and modify them so that they can connect with the inter-net. They need to be equipped with IP-enabled components to be able to communicate on the internet.

In addition, Bosch will make infrastructure available, such as the software platforms and technologies supplied by Bosch Software Innovations. These platforms create the basis for the internet of things and services. It is here that the “participants”—ie products and people—come together and provide the plat-form with data that is analysed. This allows third-party data to be used to develop services or apps. Here too, Bosch already supplies products, such as the

navigation app sold by its Car Multimedia division or, in the Thermotechnology division, the iCom app of the Junkers brand. Finally, there are busi-ness models on the basis of these applications. In these mod-els, objects are connected and data exchanged on the inter-net, and this serves as a basis for services.

New technologies poised for breakthrough

All this is possible thanks to new technologies that create connections between the vir-tual and physical worlds. When it comes to the development of this technological basis, Bosch assumes that computing power, bandwidth for data transmis-sion, and memory capacity will double roughly every two years. “This exponential growth is the fundamental driving force behind future technological developments.

It is very important to remem-ber that this happens on a predictable basis,” Denner said. The rapid increase in computing power and bandwidth allow new web-based services to be creat-ed, such as cloud computing. In the future, it will be possible to store even huge amounts of data in the cloud at low cost. The fast and complex analysis of data forms the basis for the spread of the internet of things and serv-ices. The decisive factor will be the ability to connect the data gathered with domain-specifi c know-how. This is why the com-pany is working on data mining and algorithms–in tele-health, for example, and robotics. Such work calls for highly sophisticat-ed mathematical methods.

Getting better fasterFor the company, this move

from individual devices to the cloud means that its products have to be modifi ed. “Bosch today is fi rst and foremost a man-ufacturer of things. In order to open up connected applications such as monitoring and heating systems, vehicles, or sensors, our fi rst task is to make our hardware products web-enabled, wher-ever this makes sense,” Denner said. The main challenge, he said, was to be fast enough to keep pace with the rapid devel-opments in the market. “It is extremely uncertain and unpre-dictable which applications and business models will ultimately become established in the mar-ket. Our approach has to be an exploratory and agile one.”

“eMobility platform”Activities relating to the inter-

net of things and services are an area where Bosch Software Innovations has been able to make a name for itself, in a project in Singapore. The architecture of the e-mobility platform set-up there comprises participants such as electric vehicles, charge spots, and the relevant provid-ers and networks and services. These participants log onto the eMobility platform provided by Bosch Software Innovations. From this platform, portals can be opened, from which, services are offered. Drivers of electric vehicles can, for exam-ple, use their cell phone to call up data that are available on the platform. And other service pro-viders can also open portals on our platform and offer their cus-tomers specifi c services. Further examples of functional Bosch

applications on the internet of things and services can be found in the Automotive Aftermarket and Security Systems divisions.

The Connected VehicleDenner explained that

connected vehicles are per-manently connected with the internet, other vehicles, and satellites via a powerful radio interface. By way of manufactur-er-specifi c apps and services, the participant—either the vehicle or the driver—receives apps and services provided by software engineers. At the other end, the participant transmits two class-es of data via a radio interface such as generic data and domain specifi c data. While generic data can later be processed in a busi-ness backbone for customer data management or customer billing the domain-specifi c data pro-vides added value for drivers. One example is vehicle diagno-sis and preventive maintenance

concepts based on it. As a result, drivers themselves will be will-ing to make more data available, which can then be the basis for new “added value apps.”

RisksDenner warned his Munich

audience that connection via the internet was not just about posi-tive potential. There were also risks: “We have to assume that there will be hackers who will try to infi ltrate our systems.” This made it necessary, he said, to use state-of-the-art technology to prevent unauthorised access. For its new-generation control units, Bosch has already developed a hardware security module that protects against external attacks. “We have also set up a centre of competence for security. Its job is to provide internal support and advice on using security-related technologies,” he added.

(Views expressed are personal.)

EcoBoost wins award during fi rst month on sale

The Ford Focus with a one-litre 125 PS EcoBoost turbocharged,

direct injection petrol engine has been named Best Company Car by Business Car Manager. The website described the one-litre Focus as “a brilliant all-rounder”, adding, “Ford has pulled another winner out of the bag. It has listened to its critics and the latest Focus is more com-fortable, upmarket and relaxing than ever.

“But Ford has done more than that—it’s now shaking up the company car sector. The 125 PS one-litre petrol model has all that the business driver needs—it’s punchy with lots of low-down overtaking urge, smooth and relaxing on the motorway. Plus there’s lower company car tax than the diesel.

The new one-litre EcoBoost engine combines turbocharging, direct injection and twin variable cam timing to deliver high levels of performance and refi nement with all the fuel economy advan-tages of downsizing.It produces

125 PS and 170 nm peak torque (200 nm with overboost) between 1,400 and 4,500 rpm.

These output figures are achieved in combination with fuel economy improvements of 20 percent over the outgoing 1.6-litre 125PS unit. In the fi ve-door Focus with 125 PS, combined fuel econ-omy fi gure is 56.5 mpg with CO2 emissions of 114g/km. The 100 PS version delivers a combined fuel economy fi gure of 58.9 mpg and outright best-in-class petrol CO2 emissions of 109g/km.

Ford Britain Fleet Director, Kevin Griffi n said, “This award is recognition of the many talents of the one-litre FocusEcoBoost —a highly effi cient, technically advanced powertrain which is fun to drive while delivering fuel economy and tax savings.”

Denso executive pleadsguilty to price fi xing

Norihiro Imai, an exec-utive of Japan-based Denso, will serve a year in prison and

pay a $20,000 criminal fi ne for his role in a conspiracy to fi x prices and rig bids for heater control panels installed in US cars, the Department of Justice announced.

He also will cooperate with the Justice Department’s investi-gation. According to a one-count felony charge fi led in US District Court in Detroit, Imai and co-con-spirators engaged in a conspiracy to rig bids for and to fi x, stabilise and maintain prices of parts in the United States. Imai’s involvement in the conspiracy lasted from at least as early as August 2006 until at least June 2009, according to the plea agreement.

Denso manufactures and sells a variety of automotive electrical parts, including heater control panels. Including Imai, eight indi-viduals and three companies have been charged in the government’s ongoing investigation into price fi x-ing and bid rigging in the auto parts industry. Denso pleaded guilty on March 5 and was sentenced to pay a $78 million criminal fi ne. Yazaki Corp, another Japanese automo-tive electrical component supplier, pleaded guilty March 1 and was ordered to pay a $470 million criminal fi ne. Both companies do

extensive business with Detroit’s Big Three automakers and have North American operations based in Metro Detroit. The Justice Department said the actions boost-ed the prices of cars and trucks around the world, but declined to offer any estimates. Price fi xing went on for at least a decade and had a major impact on auto manu-facturers in the US, Japan, Canada and Europe.

Yazaki, which has its North American headquarters in Plymouth, and Denso, with North American offi ces based in Southfi eld, both said they have been cooperating with US author-ities. Denso, which has 14,000 employees in North America and nearly 3,900 in Michigan, said in a statement it has been “imple-menting even more stringent compliance rules and even more enhanced compliance training to further ensure that its employees comply with all applicable anti-trust laws.”

Eight individuals & three companies have been charged in the

investigation into price fixing & bid rigging in

the parts industry

Ford’s latest addition to its best-selling Focus rangehas won its fi rst award within days of going on sale

Jaguar is looking to devel-op and manufacture a new sports car F-Type. Utilising Jaguar’s knowledge of all-

aluminium construction, the F-Type will launch as a convert-ible, and a two-seater. A range of petrol engines will be available —including a new powerplant family—and all will deliver sports car performance.

“We showed the C-X16 con-cept in September 2011, and the response has been so positive that we’ve accelerated our develop-ment of an all-new Jaguar sports car,” said Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars, Adrian Hallmark.

That car will be unveiled later this year. The core appeal of Jaguar’s cars is their sporting appeal. The F-Type’s develop-ment schedule is moving to fi nal on-road testing, with engineering prototypes now leaving Jaguar’s Castle Bromwich plant. The same plant will deliver the production cars as well.

The F-Type will join Jaguar’s existing range of cars—the XF saloon and Sportbrake, XJ saloon and XK coupe/convertible. Full F-Type technical and range details will be announced later in 2012. It will go on sale in mid-2013.

Jaguar to launch F type sports car

Ford Motor Company, President & CEO, Alan Mulally greets the first one-litre EcoBoost engine

Auto Monitor

N A M E R I C A N A S S E M B LY9 APRIL 2012

26

North America Assby Tracking 1 -2012 (Tracking by Brand & Nameplate)AUTOFACTS Global Automotive Outlook, 2009 Q1 Release

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

January 2012 Last 3 Months Year to Date

Ownership Org/ YOY Assembly YOY YOY Assembly YOY YOY Assembly YOY

Brand & Nameplate Volume % Chg Share % Share Chg Volume % Chg Share % Share Chg Volume % Chg Share % Share Chg

AutoAlliance International (USA) 12,091 115.30% 1.00% 0.4 33,847 45.10% 1.00% 0.2 12,091 115.30% 1.00% 0.4

Ford Mustang 6,864 163.50% 0.60% 0.3 17,798 62.50% 0.50% 0.1 6,864 163.50% 0.60% 0.3

Mazda Mazda6 5,227 73.60% 0.40% 0.1 16,049 29.70% 0.50% 0 5,227 73.60% 0.40% 0.1

BMW (Germany) 25,931 55.00% 2.10% 0.5 71,315 45.30% 2.10% 0.4 25,931 55.00% 2.10% 0.5

BMW X3 12,452 81.20% 1.00% 0.3 33,220 93.90% 1.00% 0.4 12,452 81.20% 1.00% 0.3

BMW X5 9,514 49.40% 0.80% 0.1 26,952 24.20% 0.80% 0 9,514 49.40% 0.80% 0.1

BMW X6 3,965 13.70% 0.30% (-0.0) 11,143 8.60% 0.30% (-0.0) 3,965 13.70% 0.30% (-0.0)

Chrysler Group LLC (USA) 185,283 32.60% 15.20% 1.3 535,693 51.70% 15.80% 3.4 185,283 32.60% 15.20% 1.3

Chrysler 200 8,747 27.80% 0.70% 0 28,888 249.90% 0.90% 0.6 8,747 27.80% 0.70% 0

Chrysler 300 6,734 - 0.60% 0.6 17,858 - 0.50% 0.5 6,734 - 0.60% 0.6

Chrysler Sebring - - - - - -100.00% - (-0.0) - - - -

Chrysler Town & Country 7,500 -15.30% 0.60% (-0.3) 27,458 10.50% 0.80% (-0.1) 7,500 -15.30% 0.60% (-0.3)

Dodge Avenger 6,380 81.30% 0.50% 0.2 20,327 66.90% 0.60% 0.2 6,380 81.30% 0.50% 0.2

Dodge Caliber - -100.00% - (-0.4) 8,458 -32.50% 0.20% (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.4)

Dodge Caravan 14,084 3.10% 1.20% (-0.2) 43,526 21.60% 1.30% 0 14,084 3.10% 1.20% (-0.2)

Dodge Challenger 3,514 -6.30% 0.30% (-0.1) 11,328 108.20% 0.30% 0.1 3,514 -6.30% 0.30% (-0.1)

Dodge Charger 8,139 19.80% 0.70% (-0.0) 24,850 215.50% 0.70% 0.5 8,139 19.80% 0.70% (-0.0)

Dodge Dakota - -100.00% - (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.2)

Dodge Durango 2,615 -63.70% 0.20% (-0.5) 11,792 11.00% 0.30% (-0.0) 2,615 -63.70% 0.20% (-0.5)

Dodge Journey 10,727 37.30% 0.90% 0.1 27,063 13.40% 0.80% (-0.0) 10,727 37.30% 0.90% 0.1

Dodge Nitro - -100.00% - (-0.2) 3,995 -39.70% 0.10% (-0.1) - -100.00% - (-0.2)

Fiat 500 6,176 580.20% 0.50% 0.4 16,192 892.20% 0.50% 0.4 6,176 580.20% 0.50% 0.4

Fiat Freemont 6,276 - 0.50% 0.5 15,328 - 0.50% 0.5 6,276 - 0.50% 0.5

Jeep Compass 9,949 25.30% 0.80% 0 27,978 168.10% 0.80% 0.5 9,949 25.30% 0.80% 0

Jeep Grand Cherokee 20,976 82.00% 1.70% 0.6 52,976 34.80% 1.60% 0.2 20,976 82.00% 1.70% 0.6

Jeep Liberty 10,072 139.00% 0.80% 0.4 26,438 92.10% 0.80% 0.3 10,072 139.00% 0.80% 0.4

Jeep Patriot 10,567 29.90% 0.90% 0.1 27,125 19.50% 0.80% 0 10,567 29.90% 0.90% 0.1

Jeep Wrangler 6,053 20.40% 0.50% (-0.0) 18,016 22.20% 0.50% 0 6,053 20.40% 0.50% (-0.0)

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 9,867 13.10% 0.80% (-0.1) 27,998 26.00% 0.80% 0 9,867 13.10% 0.80% (-0.1)

Lancia Grand Voyager 457 - 0.00% 0 1,844 - 0.10% 0.1 457 - 0.00% 0

Lancia Thema 748 - 0.10% 0.1 2,233 - 0.10% 0.1 748 - 0.10% 0.1

Ram Cargo Van 942 - 0.10% 0.1 2,659 - 0.10% 0.1 942 - 0.10% 0.1

Ram Pickup 33,964 29.80% 2.80% 0.2 88,834 24.50% 2.60% 0.1 33,964 29.80% 2.80% 0.2

Volkswagen Routan 796 -46.30% 0.10% (-0.1) 2,529 -15.70% 0.10% (-0.0) 796 -46.30% 0.10% (-0.1)

Daimler AG (Germany) 15,546 45.40% 1.30% 0.2 43,595 40.20% 1.30% 0.2 15,546 45.40% 1.30% 0.2

Freightliner Sprinter 762 16.00% 0.10% (-0.0) 2,059 22.60% 0.10% 0 762 16.00% 0.10% (-0.0)

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class 3,360 47.40% 0.30% 0 9,120 26.80% 0.30% 0 3,360 47.40% 0.30% 0

Mercedes-Benz M-Class 10,080 57.90% 0.80% 0.2 28,192 54.30% 0.80% 0.2 10,080 57.90% 0.80% 0.2

Mercedes-Benz R-Class 1,344 -1.80% 0.10% (-0.0) 4,224 6.50% 0.10% (-0.0) 1,344 -1.80% 0.10% (-0.0)

Ford Motor Company (USA) 200,481 13.10% 16.50% (-1.2) 620,280 19.10% 18.30% 0 200,481 13.10% 16.50% (-1.2)

Ford C-MAX 2 - 0.00% 0 2 - 0.00% 0 2 - 0.00% 0

Ford Crown Victoria - -100.00% - (-0.7) - -100.00% - (-0.6) - -100.00% - (-0.7)

Ford Econoline 8,162 -29.00% 0.70% (-0.5) 30,484 8.60% 0.90% (-0.1) 8,162 -29.00% 0.70% (-0.5)

Ford Edge 15,445 14.30% 1.30% (-0.1) 45,227 22.60% 1.30% 0 15,445 14.30% 1.30% (-0.1)

Ford Escape 27,697 8.30% 2.30% (-0.3) 78,210 19.90% 2.30% 0 27,697 8.30% 2.30% (-0.3)

Ford Expedition 5,171 57.70% 0.40% 0.1 16,111 27.50% 0.50% 0 5,171 57.70% 0.40% 0.1

Ford Explorer 15,140 76.20% 1.20% 0.4 44,582 39.00% 1.30% 0.2 15,140 76.20% 1.20% 0.4

Ford Explorer Sport Trac - - - - - -100.00% - (-0.1) - - - -

Ford Fiesta 12,367 13.40% 1.00% (-0.1) 33,726 8.70% 1.00% (-0.1) 12,367 13.40% 1.00% (-0.1)

Ford Flex 3,241 7.70% 0.30% (-0.0) 8,952 14.60% 0.30% (-0.0) 3,241 7.70% 0.30% (-0.0)

Ford Focus 19,462 6387.30% 1.60% 1.6 60,293 176.50% 1.80% 1 19,462 6387.30% 1.60% 1.6

Ford F-Series 62,730 35.60% 5.10% 0.5 179,328 25.30% 5.30% 0.3 62,730 35.60% 5.10% 0.5

Ford Fusion 15,970 -37.90% 1.30% (-1.3) 64,919 -4.20% 1.90% (-0.5) 15,970 -37.90% 1.30% (-1.3)

Ford Ranger - -100.00% - (-0.8) 12,936 -17.20% 0.40% (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.8)

Ford Taurus 7,511 92.30% 0.60% 0.2 19,680 84.80% 0.60% 0.2 7,511 92.30% 0.60% 0.2

Lincoln Mark LT 25 1150.00% 0.00% 0 109 5350.00% 0.00% 0 25 1150.00% 0.00% 0

Lincoln MKS 1,204 211.90% 0.10% 0.1 3,819 99.40% 0.10% 0 1,204 211.90% 0.10% 0.1

Lincoln MKT 592 -30.60% 0.00% (-0.0) 1,868 16.00% 0.10% (-0.0) 592 -30.60% 0.00% (-0.0)

Lincoln MKX 2,777 1.20% 0.20% (-0.0) 9,673 17.00% 0.30% (-0.0) 2,777 1.20% 0.20% (-0.0)

Lincoln MKZ 2,170 -6.70% 0.20% (-0.1) 8,295 41.50% 0.20% 0 2,170 -6.70% 0.20% (-0.1)

Lincoln Navigator 815 -0.40% 0.10% (-0.0) 2,066 18.70% 0.10% (-0.0) 815 -0.40% 0.10% (-0.0)

Lincoln Town Car - -100.00% - (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.1) - -100.00% - (-0.2)

Mazda Tribute - -100.00% - (-0.1) - -100.00% - (-0.1) - -100.00% - (-0.1)

Mercury Grand Marquis - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.1) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Mercury Milan - - - - - -100.00% - (-0.0) - - - -

Fuji Heavy Industries (Japan) 26,336 18.00% 2.20% (-0.1) 72,243 14.10% 2.10% (-0.1) 26,336 18.00% 2.20% (-0.1)

Subaru Legacy 17,088 21.80% 1.40% 0 47,256 17.20% 1.40% (-0.0) 17,088 21.80% 1.40% 0

Subaru Tribeca 413 -38.50% 0.00% (-0.0) 1,437 -17.80% 0.00% (-0.0) 413 -38.50% 0.00% (-0.0)

Toyota Camry 8,835 16.10% 0.70% (-0.0) 23,550 11.00% 0.70% (-0.0) 8,835 16.10% 0.70% (-0.0)

General Motors Company (USA) 253,366 12.60% 20.80% (-1.7) 718,105 6.80% 21.10% (-2.4) 253,366 12.60% 20.80% (-1.7)

Buick Enclave 5,248 -8.60% 0.40% (-0.1) 12,384 -24.90% 0.40% (-0.2) 5,248 -8.60% 0.40% (-0.1)

Buick LaCrosse 3,499 31.00% 0.30% 0 13,320 6.00% 0.40% (-0.0) 3,499 31.00% 0.30% 0

Buick Lucerne - -100.00% - (-0.3) - -100.00% - (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.3)

Buick Regal 2,328 - 0.20% 0.2 9,890 - 0.30% 0.3 2,328 - 0.20% 0.2

Buick Verano 4,123 - 0.30% 0.3 8,211 - 0.20% 0.2 4,123 - 0.30% 0.3

Cadillac CTS 4,312 -26.20% 0.40% (-0.2) 15,778 4.40% 0.50% (-0.1) 4,312 -26.20% 0.40% (-0.2)

Cadillac DTS - -100.00% - (-0.1) - -100.00% - (-0.1) - -100.00% - (-0.1)

Cadillac Escalade 1,384 -2.50% 0.10% (-0.0) 3,153 -12.10% 0.10% (-0.0) 1,384 -2.50% 0.10% (-0.0)

Cadillac Escalade ESV 630 16.50% 0.10% (-0.0) 1,741 -21.00% 0.10% (-0.0) 630 16.50% 0.10% (-0.0)

Cadillac Escalade EXT 133 -43.40% 0.00% (-0.0) 461 -11.30% 0.00% (-0.0) 133 -43.40% 0.00% (-0.0)

Cadillac SRX 7,904 29.60% 0.60% 0 20,909 12.80% 0.60% (-0.0) 7,904 29.60% 0.60% 0

Cadillac STS - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Chevrolet Avalanche 1,744 -4.90% 0.10% (-0.0) 5,600 18.50% 0.20% (-0.0) 1,744 -4.90% 0.10% (-0.0)

Chevrolet Aveo 6,795 62.70% 0.60% 0.1 17,445 39.40% 0.50% 0.1 6,795 62.70% 0.60% 0.1

Chevrolet C2 - -100.00% - (-0.3) 1,508 -79.50% 0.00% (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.3)

Auto Monitor

N A M E R I C A N A S S E M B LY9 APRIL 2012

27

Chevrolet Camaro 10,727 7.50% 0.90% (-0.1) 25,235 12.00% 0.70% (-0.0) 10,727 7.50% 0.90% (-0.1)

Chevrolet Captiva 4,275 91.40% 0.40% 0.1 14,950 101.10% 0.40% 0.2 4,275 91.40% 0.40% 0.1

Chevrolet Colorado 3,754 13.80% 0.30% (-0.0) 10,430 20.90% 0.30% 0 3,754 13.80% 0.30% (-0.0)

Chevrolet Corvette 793 109.20% 0.10% 0 3,021 35.70% 0.10% 0 793 109.20% 0.10% 0

Chevrolet Cruze 23,551 5.50% 1.90% (-0.3) 55,787 -8.80% 1.60% (-0.5) 23,551 5.50% 1.90% (-0.3)

Chevrolet Equinox 21,375 11.90% 1.80% (-0.2) 62,436 9.30% 1.80% (-0.2) 21,375 11.90% 1.80% (-0.2)

Chevrolet Express 4,951 -18.20% 0.40% (-0.2) 15,452 -10.30% 0.50% (-0.1) 4,951 -18.20% 0.40% (-0.2)

Chevrolet HHR - -100.00% - (-0.6) - -100.00% - (-0.6) - -100.00% - (-0.6)

Chevrolet Impala 16,184 -10.80% 1.30% (-0.5) 44,036 -8.50% 1.30% (-0.4) 16,184 -10.80% 1.30% (-0.5)

Chevrolet Malibu 21,531 183.00% 1.80% 1 57,431 38.10% 1.70% 0.2 21,531 183.00% 1.80% 1

Chevrolet Silverado 38,914 23.30% 3.20% 0 107,012 3.70% 3.20% (-0.5) 38,914 23.30% 3.20% 0

Chevrolet Sonic 7,708 - 0.60% 0.6 23,563 - 0.70% 0.7 7,708 - 0.60% 0.6

Chevrolet Suburban 4,262 26.40% 0.30% 0 13,263 0.70% 0.40% (-0.1) 4,262 26.40% 0.30% 0

Chevrolet Tahoe 8,451 1.00% 0.70% (-0.1) 22,274 3.40% 0.70% (-0.1) 8,451 1.00% 0.70% (-0.1)

Chevrolet Traverse 6,267 -30.70% 0.50% (-0.4) 18,472 -20.30% 0.50% (-0.3) 6,267 -30.70% 0.50% (-0.4)

Chevrolet Volt - -100.00% - (-0.1) 3,614 253.30% 0.10% 0.1 - -100.00% - (-0.1)

GMC Acadia 6,400 -19.80% 0.50% (-0.3) 23,224 3.30% 0.70% (-0.1) 6,400 -19.80% 0.50% (-0.3)

GMC Canyon 1,001 17.80% 0.10% (-0.0) 2,856 9.80% 0.10% (-0.0) 1,001 17.80% 0.10% (-0.0)

GMC Savana 2,148 1.10% 0.20% (-0.0) 6,834 45.40% 0.20% 0 2,148 1.10% 0.20% (-0.0)

GMC Sierra Pickups 15,137 18.60% 1.20% (-0.0) 47,697 9.10% 1.40% (-0.1) 15,137 18.60% 1.20% (-0.0)

GMC Terrain 10,831 13.80% 0.90% (-0.1) 30,512 16.90% 0.90% (-0.0) 10,831 13.80% 0.90% (-0.1)

GMC Yukon 4,151 -16.40% 0.30% (-0.2) 10,821 -17.70% 0.30% (-0.1) 4,151 -16.40% 0.30% (-0.2)

GMC Yukon XL 2,855 14.40% 0.20% (-0.0) 7,956 -10.10% 0.20% (-0.1) 2,855 14.40% 0.20% (-0.0)

Opel-Vauxhall Ampera - - - - 829 - 0.00% 0 - - - -

Honda Motor Company (Japan) 149,746 33.80% 12.30% 1.1 338,739 9.70% 10.00% (-0.8) 149,746 33.80% 12.30% 1.1

Acura CSX - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Acura MDX 6,532 6.90% 0.50% (-0.1) 15,393 5.70% 0.50% (-0.1) 6,532 6.90% 0.50% (-0.1)

Acura RDX 13 -99.40% 0.00% (-0.2) 4,307 -24.80% 0.10% (-0.1) 13 -99.40% 0.00% (-0.2)

Acura TL 5,704 208.00% 0.50% 0.3 11,949 91.10% 0.40% 0.1 5,704 208.00% 0.50% 0.3

Acura ZDX - -100.00% - (-0.0) 149 -61.60% 0.00% (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Honda Accord 35,333 43.20% 2.90% 0.4 69,555 -0.80% 2.00% (-0.4) 35,333 43.20% 2.90% 0.4

Honda Civic 44,362 69.40% 3.60% 1 105,536 51.10% 3.10% 0.7 44,362 69.40% 3.60% 1

Honda Crosstour 2,001 33.30% 0.20% 0 5,882 38.00% 0.20% 0 2,001 33.30% 0.20% 0

Honda CR-V 27,171 22.40% 2.20% 0 55,769 -12.30% 1.60% (-0.6) 27,171 22.40% 2.20% 0

Honda Element - -100.00% - (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.2)

Honda Odyssey 14,864 28.30% 1.20% 0.1 36,393 12.30% 1.10% (-0.1) 14,864 28.30% 1.20% 0.1

Honda Pilot 11,693 -3.30% 1.00% (-0.2) 28,073 -13.90% 0.80% (-0.3) 11,693 -3.30% 1.00% (-0.2)

Honda Ridgeline 2,073 57.00% 0.20% 0 5,733 64.70% 0.20% 0 2,073 57.00% 0.20% 0

Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea) 56,081 22.00% 4.60% 0 149,176 12.80% 4.40% (-0.2) 56,081 22.00% 4.60% 0

Hyundai Elantra/i30 9,427 17.30% 0.80% (-0.0) 22,053 -20.20% 0.60% (-0.3) 9,427 17.30% 0.80% (-0.0)

Hyundai Santa Fe 8,003 -0.20% 0.70% (-0.1) 15,757 -49.50% 0.50% (-0.6) 8,003 -0.20% 0.70% (-0.1)

Hyundai Sonata/i40 19,817 7.00% 1.60% (-0.2) 56,263 28.70% 1.70% 0.1 19,817 7.00% 1.60% (-0.2)

Kia Optima 8,484 - 0.70% 0.7 27,318 - 0.80% 0.8 8,484 - 0.70% 0.7

Kia Sorento 10,350 -9.10% 0.80% (-0.3) 27,785 -6.50% 0.80% (-0.2) 10,350 -9.10% 0.80% (-0.3)

Mitsubishi Motors Corp (Japan) 1,752 -50.20% 0.10% (-0.2) 5,589 -27.60% 0.20% (-0.1) 1,752 -50.20% 0.10% (-0.2)

Mitsubishi Eclipse - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Mitsubishi Endeavor - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Mitsubishi Galant 1,752 -39.60% 0.10% (-0.1) 5,589 2.40% 0.20% (-0.0) 1,752 -39.60% 0.10% (-0.1)

Nissan Motor (Japan) 111,402 20.50% 9.10% (-0.1) 300,277 19.30% 8.80% 0 111,402 20.50% 9.10% (-0.1)

Infiniti JX Series 37 - 0.00% 0 148 - 0.00% 0 37 - 0.00% 0

Nissan Altima 29,029 24.20% 2.40% 0.1 82,609 28.70% 2.40% 0.2 29,029 24.20% 2.40% 0.1

Nissan Armada - -100.00% - (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.2) - -100.00% - (-0.2)

Nissan Frontier 6,246 44.60% 0.50% 0.1 17,207 57.10% 0.50% 0.1 6,246 44.60% 0.50% 0.1

Nissan March 8,176 - 0.70% 0.7 20,863 - 0.60% 0.6 8,176 - 0.70% 0.7

Nissan Maxima 7,071 26.60% 0.60% 0 17,539 10.80% 0.50% (-0.0) 7,071 26.60% 0.60% 0

Nissan NV-Series 926 365.30% 0.10% 0.1 2,576 1194.50% 0.10% 0.1 926 365.30% 0.10% 0.1

Nissan Pathfinder 2,945 -16.40% 0.20% (-0.1) 8,691 -6.30% 0.30% (-0.1) 2,945 -16.40% 0.20% (-0.1)

Nissan Pickup 5,305 28.50% 0.40% 0 12,396 39.80% 0.40% 0.1 5,305 28.50% 0.40% 0

Nissan Sentra 12,814 -24.40% 1.10% (-0.6) 34,461 -23.90% 1.00% (-0.6) 12,814 -24.40% 1.10% (-0.6)

Nissan Tiida 16,015 160.20% 1.30% 0.7 42,691 143.00% 1.30% 0.6 16,015 160.20% 1.30% 0.7

Nissan Titan 2,378 15.90% 0.20% (-0.0) 6,333 23.00% 0.20% 0 2,378 15.90% 0.20% (-0.0)

Nissan Tsuru 4,634 -35.90% 0.40% (-0.3) 11,484 -42.00% 0.30% (-0.4) 4,634 -35.90% 0.40% (-0.3)

Nissan Versa 13,217 -8.00% 1.10% (-0.3) 36,491 -11.00% 1.10% (-0.4) 13,217 -8.00% 1.10% (-0.3)

Nissan Xterra 2,499 12.70% 0.20% (-0.0) 6,338 4.10% 0.20% (-0.0) 2,499 12.70% 0.20% (-0.0)

Suzuki Equator 110 -26.70% 0.00% (-0.0) 450 7.10% 0.00% (-0.0) 110 -26.70% 0.00% (-0.0)

Tesla Motors (USA) - -100.00% - (-0.0) 262 -5.10% 0.00% (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Tesla Roadster - -100.00% - (-0.0) 262 -5.10% 0.00% (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan) 143,863 25.60% 11.80% 0.4 380,069 17.80% 11.20% (-0.1) 143,863 25.60% 11.80% 0.4

Lexus RX Series 7,523 13.20% 0.60% (-0.0) 21,001 12.70% 0.60% (-0.0) 7,523 13.20% 0.60% (-0.0)

Toyota Avalon 3,287 -11.60% 0.30% (-0.1) 8,358 -10.20% 0.20% (-0.1) 3,287 -11.60% 0.30% (-0.1)

Toyota Camry 35,450 85.80% 2.90% 1 92,772 70.10% 2.70% 0.8 35,450 85.80% 2.90% 1

Toyota Corolla 23,939 22.10% 2.00% 0 63,359 17.10% 1.90% (-0.0) 23,939 22.10% 2.00% 0

Toyota Highlander 11,029 9.70% 0.90% (-0.1) 28,623 7.40% 0.80% (-0.1) 11,029 9.70% 0.90% (-0.1)

Toyota Matrix 2,084 7.10% 0.20% (-0.0) 4,212 -3.30% 0.10% (-0.0) 2,084 7.10% 0.20% (-0.0)

Toyota RAV4 16,436 12.60% 1.30% (-0.1) 45,304 5.50% 1.30% (-0.2) 16,436 12.60% 1.30% (-0.1)

Toyota Sequoia 1,974 31.60% 0.20% 0 6,191 17.10% 0.20% (-0.0) 1,974 31.60% 0.20% 0

Toyota Sienna 12,994 7.00% 1.10% (-0.1) 35,208 1.40% 1.00% (-0.2) 12,994 7.00% 1.10% (-0.1)

Toyota Tacoma 12,165 7.90% 1.00% (-0.1) 34,253 -4.60% 1.00% (-0.2) 12,165 7.90% 1.00% (-0.1)

Toyota Tundra 11,314 12.70% 0.90% (-0.1) 29,067 11.30% 0.90% (-0.1) 11,314 12.70% 0.90% (-0.1)

Toyota Venza 5,668 43.70% 0.50% 0.1 11,721 16.00% 0.30% (-0.0) 5,668 43.70% 0.50% 0.1

Volkswagen (Germany) 36,239 0.80% 3.00% (-0.6) 126,316 4.40% 3.70% (-0.5) 36,239 0.80% 3.00% (-0.6)

Volkswagen Beetle 2,731 - 0.20% 0.2 9,093 - 0.30% 0.3 2,731 - 0.20% 0.2

Volkswagen Bora - -100.00% - (-0.0) 92 -49.70% 0.00% (-0.0) - -100.00% - (-0.0)

Volkswagen Golf/Jetta Variant 7,232 -32.90% 0.60% (-0.5) 28,329 -21.80% 0.80% (-0.4) 7,232 -32.90% 0.60% (-0.5)

Volkswagen Jetta 16,876 -32.90% 1.40% (-1.1) 66,102 -21.80% 1.90% (-1.0) 16,876 -32.90% 1.40% (-1.1)

Volkswagen Passat 9,400 - 0.80% 0.8 22,700 - 0.70% 0.7 9,400 - 0.80% 0.8

Total Light Vehicle 1,218,117 21.6% 100.0% - 3,395,506 18.8% 100.0% - 1,218,117 21.6% 100.0% -

January 2012 Last 3 Months Year to Date Ownership Org/ YOY Assembly YOY YOY Assembly YOY YOY Assembly YOY Brand & Nameplate Volume % Chg Share % Share Chg Volume % Chg Share % Share Chg Volume % Chg Share % Share Chg

Auto Monitor

C L A S S I F I E D S289 APRIL 2012

Auto Monitor

C L A S S I F I E D S 299 APRIL 2012

triveniRUBBER

triveniRUBBER

Achieving Excellence Through Technical InnovationAchieving Excellence Through Technical Innovation

Tej Control Systems Pvt LtdPlot No.329/331, Road No.25,

Wagle Industrial Estate, Thane(W) - 400 604. Tel. +91 22 2583 8191 to 98, Fax: +91 22 25838199Email: tivs@tejcontrol.com, vision@tejcontrol.com

Website: www.tejivs.com

A D V E R T I S E R S ’ L I S T

Our consistent advertisersFIC : Front Inside Cover BIC : Back Inside Cover BC: Back cover

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Pg No

Ace Manufacturing Systems Ltd BC

T: +91-80-28360508

E: ams@bgl.vsnl.net.in

W: www.amsindia.net

ADEA 8

W: www.adea.in

Anticorrosive Equipment Pvt. Ltd 28

T: +91-09909919155

E: info@anticofoundry.co.in

W: www.anticofoundry.co.in

Ashfa Corporation 29

T: +91-22-25107461

E: ashfa91@hotmail.com

W: www.ashfacorp.com

Chamunda Equipments 29

T: +91-79-27522437

E: clamp@chamundaequip.com

W: www.chamundaequip.com

Ecocat India Pvt Ltd 6

T: +91-129-4266500

E: alok@ecocatindia.com

W: www.ecocat.com

Engineering Expo 13

T: +91-09819552270

E: engexpo@infomedia18.in

W: www.engg-expo.com

Ferromatik Milacron India Pvt Ltd 9

T: +91-79-25890081

E: salesfmi@milacron.com

W: www.milacronindia.com

Fox Solutions 4

T: +91-253-6618100

E: sales@foxindia.net

W: www.foxindia.net

GE Energy 15

T: +91-124-4808291

E: marcom.mcindia@ge.com

W: www.geenergy.com

Greaves Cotton Limited 19

T: +91-22-24397575

E: rahul.rao@greavescotton.com

W: www.greavescotton.com

Igus India Pvt Ltd 29

T: +91-80-39127800

E: info@igus.in

W: www.igus.in

IMTMA 10,11,12

T: +91-80-66246600

E: imtma@imtma.in

W: www.imtma.in

Jyoti Cnc Automation Pct Ltd BIC

T: +91-2827-287081

E: info@jyoti.co.in

W: www.jyoti.co.in

Klipco 28

T: +91-22-28684221

E: klipco@mtnl.net.in

W: www.klipcococlips.com

Larsen & Toubro Limited FIC

T: +91-9967800456

E: SM.Haridas@larsentoubro.com

W: www.larsentoubro.com

Litel Infrared Systems Pvt Ltd 28

T: +91-20-66300636

E: sales@litelir.com

W: www.litelir.com

Micromatic Grinding Technologies Ltd 1

T: +91-120-2712137

E: info@micromaticgrinding.com

W: www.micromaticgrinding.com

Padmini Vna Mechatronics Pvt. Ltd. 21

T: +91-44-24343343

E: sales@padminiengg.com

W: www.padminivna.com

Safexpress Private Limited 28

T: +1800-113-113

E: suyash.srivastava@safexpress.com

W: www.safexpress.com

Sandvik Coromant 3

T: +91-20-27104725

E: rupali.kavi@sandvik.com

W: www.sandvik.coromant.com/in

Sreelakshmi Traders 29

T: +91-44-24343343

E: sreelakshmitraders@gmail.com

W: www.sreelakshmitraders.com

Tej Control Systems Pvt. Ltd. 29

T: +91-22-25838191

E: tivs@tejcontrol.com

W: www.tejivs.com

Triveni Rubber 29

T: +91-22-25471084

E: rohit.millns@trivenirubber.com

W: www.trivenirubber.com

VE Commercial Vehicles Ltd. 16

T: +91-22-25894965

W: www.vecv.in

Auto Monitor

T H E O T H E R S I D E309 APRIL 2012

Getting Personalwith Lowell C Paddock, President & Managing Director, GM India

Illus

trat

ion:

Cha

itany

a S

urp

ur

Lowell Paddock was appointed President and Managing Director of GM India, effective 1 January, 2012. Paddock began his career in marketing with General Motors at Oldsmobile in 1992, where he was responsible for the launch of the Cutlass and Alero models.

In 1995, he moved to GM North American Operations, where he led the development of the Global Small Car Alliance and coordinat-ed the Global Strategy Board, which together served as the fi rst step in GM’s global product development efforts.

Paddock moved to Germany in 1998, becom-ing director of Planning and Programme Control for the compact car vehicle line team. He was responsible for the launch of the Opel Astra, Zafi ra and Speedster models. Three years later, he was appointed Director of GM Europe Portfolio Planning, with responsibility for all pre-VPI product and powertrain devel-opment activities as well as coordination of the European Strategy Board.

In 2004, Paddock took over as Executive Director of Planning and Programme Management at GM’s Shanghai joint venture. He was responsible for the launch of several products, including the China-built Buick LaCrosse and Park Avenue, Cadillac SLS and Chevrolet Epica. He was also responsible for the integration of Shanghai GM with GM’s small, compact and mid-size global architectural development teams. He was appoint-ed GM Asia Pacifi c Vice President of Planning in 2007. In 2009, he was appointed Vice President, Programme Management and Planning, for GM International Operations and served on the GM Korea and GM-AvtoVaz joint venture Boards of Directors.

Paddock has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Yale University and a Master of Management degree from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.

In Person

An experience I won’t forget…

If not in the auto industry, where would you be?Manufacturing somewhere—watches, aviation, cameras

What car do you drive? What do you dream of driving?I am about to get a Captiva in a week’s time. I am passionate about old cars, vintage cars. I have a couple of them at my place in Germany

Your most recent indulgence…A Fuji X10 camera. Every time I use it, I marvel at it and wonder how the people who made it were really passionate about it

What are you currently reading?‘India Calling’ to understand about India

What is Mr Paddock doing when not talking auto?Movies. I just saw ‘Sholay’. Movies and cars have a lot in common; sometimes they work sometimes they don’t.

Outdoor activity you would miss offi ce for…I like to walk in the country

Where did you go for your last holiday?It has been a while since I have had one. I can tell you my next holiday—in Southern China with my wife and daughter

You get angry when…There is lack of communication. People who don’t make an effort, who don’t think about others. I get very frustrated about people who are unkind

What is the one thing you would like to change about you?I need to go that extramile to get things done

Best thing to have happened to you…My wife and my daughter

I took a tough decision of moving out of my homeland and working overseas. And my wife and my daughter have always been supportive of my decision. I am very fortunate to have a family who shares my passion and is supportive.

32

Regn. No. MH/MR/WEST/20/2012-2014. RNI No. MAHENG/2000/11414 Licenced to post at Mumbai patrika channel sorting office G.P.O. Mumbai 400 001.Date Of Mailing: 1st & 2nd Fortnightly Issue. Date Of Publication: 28th of Every Month