Auto Monitor - 22 October 2012

I 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

Auto Monitor

Vol. 12 No. 35

w w w.am o n l i n e.i n

22 October 2012

50 Pages

` 50

INTERVIEW

SPECIAL

TWO-WHEELER Pg 15-18

NEWS IN BRIEF Sumit Sawhney joins Renault India Our Bureau New Delhi

S

umit Sawhney has recently joined Renault India as Executive Director, Marketing & Sales. He was earlier working at GM India overseeing sales, marketing and after-sales operations. He has over 17 years of experience in the automotive sector.

He ha s occupied diverse posit ions at different levels and fields.

In Renau lt India, he will be based in Chennai and assume charge of the company’s sales and marketing effective November this year and will report to Marc Nassif, MD Renault India.

Swahney will replace Len Curran, who will relocate within Renault Group after completing his assignment in India.

Curran joined Renault India in 2010 and was responsible for sales and marketing activities of Renault in India.

Currently, the company sells five models – the Fluence, the premium sedan, Koleos the top-ofthe-line SUV, Pulse – the premium compact, Duster the popular SUV and the recently launched mid size sedan - the Scala.

DATA MONITOR Top 5 CV Makers Company

Sep-11

Sep-12

Change

TML

41,757

41,071

-1.64%

M&M

10,677

11,915

11.60%

ALL

7,487

10,002

33.59%

VECV EICHER

4,152

3,026

-27.12%

FML

2,269

1,546

-31.86%

Top 5 CV Exporters Company

Sep-11

Sep-12

Change

TML

5,451

4,585

-15.89%

M&M

2,365

2,401

1.52%

ALL

1,120

621

-44.55%

VECV Eicher

475

124

-73.89%

FML

33

8

-75.76%

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

“WE ARE THE ONLY LUXURY MANUFACTURER TO HAVE SO MUCH INVESTED ON-GROUND IN INDIA” Piyush Arora, Director, Technical, Mercedes-Benz India

Pg 11

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Tata developing mini-Aria Anand Mohan Mumbai

T

ata Motors is developing a smaller variant of the Aria. The ‘compact’ Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) is expected to be in the same league as the Ertiga and the Innova in terms of size and price.

The company appears to have realised the potential of the large budding market in the MPV segment under the `10 lakh mark where Maruti’s Ertiga is scripting its success story. The Innova too hasn’t been hit by the Ertiga with both models averaging around 6,000 units approximately per month in the period of April to September. The Aria on the other hand, priced at the wrong side of the Rs `10 lakh sweet spot, has managed just double digit sales despite being the most technologically advanced Tata vehicle to be ever built.

Reducing the price by about `5 lakh implies that the company may find it difficult to use the latest hydro-formed ladder-frame chassis since it is an expensive platform, according to industry sources. The company may trade the extra stiffness and weight advantage for the lower costing old Safari platform to keep the

Artist’s Impression of the ‘Mini’ Aria

Sub four-metre Sumo in the works A new sub-four metre Sumo Gold is also being developed that could come as early as next year. Prices may start from around `five lakh making it an even more ‘value for money’ proposition in the intensely competitive segment. Sources reveal that the exterior design of the ‘mini’ Sumo is ready. It has been jointly designed by the Tata Motors European Technical Centre in Warwick and the company’s in-house design team in India. It is likely to be a seven seater using a pair of jump seats like the mini-Aria. price competitive. The benefit of ladder-frame construction compared to a monocoque shell is that it is easier to modify. From the rear, the boot could be reduced to either fall flush with the third row or even fit in a set of jump seats like on the Mahindra Quanto to

reduce the rear overhang even further. If the shortened ladderframe chassis from the Safari is used, the length will reduce by another 200mm to fall under the crucial four-metre mark.

But that’s not the only criteria to qualify under the 12 percent

excise duty bracket. The diesel engine needs to be under 1500cc capacity. For this, one of the options for the company is to dump the 2.2-litre DiCOR block for the tried and trusted 1248cc Fiat Multijet engine.

The challenge for the company would be to reduce weight.

The Aria is a 2.2 tonne vehicle, one tonne more than the Ertiga.

It will be a challenge for Tata Motors to adapt that same engine (1.3 Multijet Fiat diesel) powering the Ertiga to haul the heavier Aria without compromises in power or fuel efficiency.

Apart from concerns regarding power and performance, a newer engine like 1.3 Multijet, which seems like the logical option, may help the company in pricing the shortened Aria more aggressively. If not, the 2.2-litre unit will deliver better performance due to lesser loads on a smaller car but at the cost of pricing it higher than its competition.

That’s one mistake Tata Motors doesn’t want to repeat.

If the 5,000 bookings for the Quanto in its first three weeks since launch is anything to go by, the company could be looking at an attractive market for this smaller value for money offering.

Pajero Sport’s price reduced to `22.56 lakh Our Bureau New Delhi

H

industa n Motors recently reduced price of its Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) Pajero Sport to `22.56 lakh (ex-showroom New Delhi). The customers will receive a benefit of `1.87 lakh.

The manufacturer has passed on the benefit obtained after local assembly which started last month. The Pajero Sport is now assembled at the HM plant in Tiruvallur near Chennai. The SUV was earlier priced at `24.43 lakh (ex-show room New Delhi), when sold as a CBU. Currently components like tyres, batteries, window glass, seat belts, lamps, wiper assemblies, alloy wheels & headlining are the major items which are being localised at its Tiruvallur

plant.

Currently, localisation ratio is about 14 percent but the company is planning to increase the localisation to 30 percent by next fiscal year.

Speaking on the occasion, MD, HM, Uttam Bose said, “We are pleased to announce our start of production of the Pajero Sport in our Tiruvallur plant and are happy to extend the price benefit to our customers. India has in the recent past seen an increased desire for SUV’s; Pajero Sport will further consolidate its position in the Indian market. Pajero Sport will look at capturing 20 percent of the premium SUV segment in the country. With Pajero Sport being locally manufactured, the produc-

tion numbers are set to increase to over 400 units and also the plant has capacity to scale up operations based on market requirements.

The manufacturing quality of Pajero Sport CKD is as great as the CBU quality and the dealers are also happy with the end result.”

The CKD Pajero Sport comes with the same 2.5L common-rail DI-D & VG turbo engine providing maximum power 178 PS and

torque 400 Nm, 4WD, rear stabilizer and 5.6 m turning radius.

HM also have its Mitsubishi range of dealerships across 40 locations with four service outlets and three show windows. The company will look at fortifying its dealerships to 55 points by end of 2012.

Some of the cities include New Delhi, Chandigarh, Jalandhar, Agra, Chennai, Ghaziabad, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Ludhiana, Vadodara, Pune, Coimbatore, Cochin, Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.

The Pajero SFX, Mitsubishi’s popular SUV among off-roaders, was discontinued around June 2012. Many Mitsubishi dealers did not have Pajero Sports to sell for over a month. Since CKD operations were about to begin, the company had stopped supplying CBUs to dealers.

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EDITORIAL Stiffer competition

T

he competition has got stiffer in the compact car

consideration, it may well boil down to raw value preposi-

segment with the launch of the Maruti Alto 800.

tion offered by OEMs. Better service infrastructure would also be a key differentiating factor for the incumbent and

The launch does bode well for the passenger car

segment given the lacklustre car sales over the last few months but it may do little to uplift the fortunes of

newer players. Expect a slugfest in the coming months here.

Maruti. The company Chairman emphasised in a recent tel-

Comments can be sent to am.editorial@network18publishing.com

evision appearance that sales of petrol cars continued to be slack and may not recover in the near to medium term.

The passenger car segment could be actually witnessing excitement (or bare knuckle ďŹ ght) in the more expensive people mover or utility vehicle segment with robust double digit growth over the last few months and this growth is showing no sign of abatement. Not only are there new launches lined up, in addition to several launches including Maruti’s Ertiga, M&M’s Quanto and Nissan’s Evalia, several manufacturers are considering tweaking their existing and new products to better suit the customer requirements in this segment.

Considering the fact that the segment is not only price sensitive and value conscious but is driven by commercial

QUOTES Ian Robertson, Sales & Marketing Head, BMW

Challenges in Europe are getting greater

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Thierry Morin, Former CEO, Valeo on PSA/PeugeotCitroen

When you do everything right but too late, you do it all wrong

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CONTENT TWO WHEELER SPECIAL Munjal Showa to invest `100 crore in Gujarat plant

15

Munjal Showa is looking to set up its new plant in Gujarat by the second quarter of the next fiscal with an investment of around `100 crore

18

GLOBAL WATCH

HMSI deepens its roots in India

18

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India further strengthened its trust on the Indian market and inaugurated its new technical centre at Manesar production facility

CORPORATE Tata ‘Stormes’ into the festive season with new Safari

14

Tata Motors recently launched the Tata Safari Storme and widen its presence in the country with 200 additional sales and service points by the end of the year

14

Vauxhall, Cold Consortium offer hot deals on cool conversion

34

Vauxhall has partnered with Cold Consortium Ltd to produce a refrigerated Movano, available in a range of load lengths and roof heights

Toyota greets festivities with limited edition variants

20

Toyota has introduced limited edition variants of Etios, Corolla Altis and Fortuner with an eye on building up excitement for the festive season

22

Transportation sector to emerge as key user for smart cards RFID tags would be helpful for toll collection, parking and the implementation of economic road pricing in congested areas, according to a discussion at a recent Smart Card Expo

22

Volvo celebrates 25th anniversary of airbag innovation Volvo celebrated airbag’s 25th anniversary in 2012 with the introduction of the groundbreaking pedestrian airbag in the all-new Volvo V40

36

Auto Monitor

Rexton launched by Mahindra be launched in India.”

In the presence of Indian and Korean media at the Rexton’s ahindra launched national launch, CEO, SsangYong t he Ssa ngYong Motor Company, Yoo-Il Lee brand in India with said, “Having produced rugthe Rexton as its first ged, robust, high quality off road offering priced at `17.67 lakh for models for decades, SsangYong the RX5 variant and `19.67 lakh knows what it takes to create for the RX7 variant (all prices exglobal benchmarks. Our partnershowroom, Mumbai). The SUV ship with the Mahindra Group will be sold through Mahindra has now allowed us to explore dealerships across the country in joint product and technology a phased manner beginning with development opportunities and Mumbai and Delhi NCR. At the launch, President, synergise global operations and This third generation Rexton Automotive & Farm Equipment purchase.” will be assembled at Mahindra’s Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra The Rexton will be powered Chakan plant. M&M is pushLtd & Chairman, SsangYong by a five-cylinder DOHC 2696cc ing to increase local content for Motor Company, Dr Pawan turbo-diesel engine in two states the Korean brand but at present, Goenka said, “We did research of tune. The manual RX5 will get local parts and common equipten years ago to see if India is the 162 bhp unit and the automent like the paint shop bring ready for a luxury SUV and found matic RX7 will be powered by localisation levels to around out that the time isn’t right. Now the 184 bhp mill. The RX7 boasts 22 percent. The Rexton is now the we are convinced that it is the of safety features like Electronic flagship of the Mahindra stable. right time for such a product to Stability Program (ESP), four airbags (front and side), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Hill Descent Cont rol, Anti Slip regulation and Active Rollover P r ot e c t i on a nd engine immobilizer.

The Chakan plant has a capacity to assemble 500 units of the Rexton per month on a single shift basis.

Depending on the demand, the company can easily increase production. Mahindra has invested `1,500 crore in SsangYong since it acquired a majority stake in the Korean company last year. In India, `63 Dr Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive & Farm Equipment Sectors, crore has been investMahindra & Mahindra Ltd & Chairman, SsangYong Motor Company ed in the Rexton.

Our Bureau Mumbai

M

22 OCTOBER 2012

C O R P O R AT E

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M&M is pushing to increase local content for the Korean brand but at present, local parts and common equipment like the paint shop bring localisation levels to around 22 percent

Ford updates Figo, plans 500 outlets by 2015 Our Bureau New Delhi

F

ord India has updated its small car Figo ahead of the festive season to avail benefits. The updated Figo petrol now starts at `3.85 lakhs for the base petrol variant and `4.82 lakhs for the diesel variant, both prices ex-showroom Thane. There has been a negligible increase in price, thus keeping the Figo as competitive as ever.

Ford has managed to improve the engine calibration for better performance and added lumbar support in the seats. Sealing on the Figo’s doors has also been improved to lower NVH levels.

Cosmetic changes include new head and tail lamps, hexagonal front grille, new instrument panel colour, steering column mounted audio controls and new seat fabrics.

Ford India plans to increase its dealer and service network throughout the country to 500

Ford has improved the engine calibration for better performance and added lumbar support in the seats. Sealing on the Figo’s doors has been improved to lower NVH

outlets by mid decade. Currently its network comprises of 230 sales and service outlets in 123 cities across India. Ford has also initiated mobile service vans and RSA in more locations now.

Michael Boneham, President & MD, Anurag Mehrotra, VP Marketing and N Raja, VP Sales. Ford India

22 OCTOBER 2012

Auto Monitor

INTERVIEW

11

“We are the only luxury manufacturer to have so much invested on-ground in India” said Director, International Productions, Daimler AG, Ralf Mungenast and Director, Technical, Mercedes-Benz India, Piyush Arora in an interview with Auto Monitor about taking the fight to BMW and Audi, advantages of the paint shop, ramp-up in local assembly, introduction of new models and increase in local part sourcing to be future-ready.

Anand Mohan How important is India in Daimler’s international operations from car manufacturing perspective, what are the challenges of vehicle assembly in India and what are the peculiarities in India compared to other BRIC markets and other Asian markets?

RM: India is a very important market for us and is also an important strategic location.

That’s also the reason why we have made such an investment in India.

You have mentioned about gearing up for 2015-16, when the market matures for luxury car manufacturers, to take the fight

to BMW and Audi. Can you elaborate on that?

PA: One is the product portfolio and other is the manufacturing capabilities. We are the only luxury manufacturer to have so much invested on-ground in the country. Capacity expansion is taking place, paint process has already begun, network expansion is happening so these are

the things we are doing to get prepared for the future.

Now that you have inaugurated the new state-ofthe-art paint shop, will there be a discernible enhancement in quality?

PA: The enhancement and advantage is in different areas.

One is the logistical advantage of having the paint shop in the same premises. Before this, we were painting at the Tata motors paint shop which was logistically not convenient and had logistical costs to top that. Process stability is another advantage which we are seeking by this.

We do not compromise on the quality so we will end up giving the same product as we have been delivering in the past but the amount of effort that goes into delivering that quality will substantially reduce so it will improve our efficiency. With the new paint shop, we will be able to react to customer demands and be more market friendly.

Is there a possibility of introducing more colours for the locally assembled models now that you have your own paint shop?

PA: Colours are driven by the market. In the Indian market, the customer wants just a few colours – black, white and a few shades of grey. But of course, we will offer as many colours as the customer wants.

Piyush Arora, Director, Technical, Mercedes-Benz India

Ralf Mungenast, Director, International Productions, Daimler AG

How much of a cost advantage is it and when will you

We do not compromise on the quality so we will end up giving the same product as we have been delivering in the past but the amount of effort that goes into delivering that quality will substantially reduce so it will improve our efficiency Piyush Arora on the paint shop recover the costs?

PA: We have invested Rs 200 crore in the paint shop. I am sure that within the next two-three years, we will recover our costs.

Is India on allocation for the M-class?

RM: The M-class is globally a huge success and so is the B-class. India is one of the important markets so yes, we are getting a good share but there are restrictions as well. The capacity of the Tuscaloosa plant in the US where the ML is manufactured is 200,000 units. So globally the allocation has to be managed due to its high demand.

When will you locally introduce the B-class and the A-class?

RM: In the next two to three years, we are going to bring them both. It depends on the development of the market. All the plans are more or less ready and the production pre-conditions have

Auto Monitor

been finalised. We have to study if the market demand is sustainable or is it just an initial spurt.

So what was the figure that made you say that it was the right time to locally assemble the M-class?

PA: The M-class is the first SUV we wanted to bring into the Indian market. With this new generation SUV, we have doubled the sales per month and this justifies our decision as well.

Were any enhancements made to the flexible line for the assembly of the M-class?

PA: Some product specific enhancements were made to the marriage station because this is a 4x4 vehicle but otherwise the line is capable of assembling all cars.

When does the GL come and will it go on to the same line?

PA: By the time the GL is locally assembled, we would have already expanded our capacity so we can take a decision by that time on which line we want to produce it in.

The powertrains and axles are localised. What does that mean? Do you still get them assembled by Force Motors?

22 OCTOBER 2012

INTERVIEW

12

In the next two to three years, we are going to bring them both (locally assembled B & A Class). It depends on the development of the market. All the plans are more or less ready and the production preconditions have been finalised. We have to study if the market demand is sustainable or is it just an initial spurt - Ralf Mungenast on future launches PA: A completely knocked down engine gets fully assembled, gets hot tested, then the gear box gets assembled and then the complete powertrain is assembled. There is a substantial amount of assembly happening there. The axles too come out of there. And apart from that, there are also certain components that we are sourcing globally out of India like engine mounts, which then get directly supplied to Force Motors.

So what other parts are locally sourced apart from engine mounts?

PA: As part of our global sourcing initiative, there are components we are sourcing out of India that can be classified into forged items, gravity die-casting items, some plastic items like grab handles, and also rubber and metal

bond items. In terms of local sourcing, we are looking at cable harnesses to be done locally, seats to be done locally. These plans are in the pipeline.

When can we expect increased levels of localisation?

PA: In the next one-two years, as the numbers grow, our localiza-

tion levels will justify that.

Does that depend on the success of the B-class and the A-class sedan?

PA: Product specific localization will follow that number so if we localize the E-class seat, it will have no affect on the B-class being a success.

Toyota aims to cover 85 percent of used car market by March 2013

T

oyota Kirloskar Motors (TKM) is planning a phased expansion of its used car arm Toyota U Trust and is eyeing to cover 85 percent of the used car market by March 2013. The expansion will establish Toyota U Trust operations in 25 cities

by March next year.

Distribution Expansion With the opening of three new used car outlets in Navi Mumbai, Rajmundry and Guntur, the number of outlets has grown to 26 throughout the country. Toyota aims to open nine more U Trust outlets by March 2013 to make its presence felt in the Indian used car market. While the Navi Mumbai outlet is a dedicated U Trust facility, other two recently opened outlets deal in both new and pre-owned cars.

“The used car business is a part of our value added services offered to our customers. The used car market is growing at a rapid pace and plays an important part in attracting new customers. We aim to provide our customers a Toyota experience and treat them at par with the new customers. Be it a new car or a used car, we want the ownership experience of a customer to be a Toyota experience”, said Mr. Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Marketing, Toyota Kirloskar Motors.

Sandeep Singh, Deputy MD, Toyota Kirloskar Motors

Auto Monitor

22 OCTOBER 2012

C O R P O R AT E

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Tata ‘Stormes’ into the festive season with new Safari Our Bureau New Delhi

E

yeing at the number two spot in the medium term in India, Tata Motors recently launched the Tata Safari Storme in the Indian

market following Manza Club launch. Tata Motors has also revealed that it is looking to widen its presence in the country with 200 additional sales and service points by the end of the year.

On the upcoming festive season newly appointed MD, Tata

Motors, Karl Slym said, “The short term festive season will drive the Indian market. We are also looking at bringing in the EV2 soon”. Over the long term, Slym said that the company is looking to bring in six new products in the market and upgrading

Ranjit Yadav, Neeraj Garg & Karl Slym At The New Safari Launch

the existing model line-up. It has however ruled out the possibility of bringing in a small UV in near future.

Safari Storme has been priced at `9.95 lakh (ex-showroom New Delhi) for the base LX 4x2 variant and `13.66 lakh for the high end VX 4x4 variant. The new Safari is powered by 2.2L VariCOR engine and electronic shift-on-fly technology for the 4x4 variant.

President, Passenger Car Business Unit, Ranjeet Yadav also mentioned that controlled air-fuel ratio has allowed the company to improve the drivability of the 2.2L engine. “Safari Storme’s ladder frame chassis is constructed using hydroformed members that provide added structural strength with reduction in weight,” he added. For the 4x2 variants, the company claims efficiency figures of 14 kmpl while for the 4x4 variant it comes down to 13.2 kmpl.

The company is planning to sell both the existing and new Safari. Yadav also mentioned that the hardcore lovers of the original Safari will be able to buy it as it continues to sell. However,

Tata Motors may introduce the Nano to the European market over the next two to three years. European next generation Nano will be based on Tata’s Megapixel concept car that has been previously showcased Tata Motors won’t be looking to alter the prices of the last gen Safari.

Slym talked about the possibility of introducing the Nano to the European market over the next two to three years. He stated that the European next generation Nano will be based on Tata’s Megapixel concept car that has been previously showcased. About the Aria, he pointed out that the company has not been able to manage everything in one place and there are lesser people willing to spend that much for an Aria.

Tata drops Indigo tag from Manza Club Our Bureau New Delhi

T

ata Motors has given a mid-life update to its entry level C segment sedan, the Manza. Calling it the Tata Manza Club Class, Tata has managed to feature load the sedan and decided to give its customers special treatment to boost the sales and customer satisfaction index. The Indigo moniker has been dropped to have clear differentiation between models.

Ranjit Yadav, Neeraj Garg & Karl Slym With The New Manza

Tata Manza Club Class range will start from `5.70 lakh (ex-showroom New Delhi) for the petrol powered sedan and `6.49 lakh (ex-showroom New Delhi) for the diesel variants.

Club class treatment that the company intends to bestow on its customers will include customer access to privileged services. It will also appoint dedicated managers to attend to their cars at showrooms and service centres. The customers will also get to attend Tata Motors’ engagement programmes across the country.

“As desired by today’s Indian motorist, the Tata Manza Club Class delivers premiumness,” said Managing Director of Tata Motors, Karl Slym. Explaining further the Club Class treatment that Tata Motors intends to shower on its customers, President, Tata Motors’ PCBU, Ranjit Yadav added, “The Club Class character of the car will be matched with consumer experiences. The elite owners of Tata Manza will have privileged access to services that go beyond the mere pleasures of motoring.” Key features of the updated Manza will include a touchscreen multi-media interface with in-built GPS, automatic Climate Control, leather upholstery, black and plum interiors, infinity contrast roof and eight split-spoke alloys. It will be available in five variants and six colour options. Regular updates in the company’s portfolio are expected to continue over the entire range and the company is also gearing up to launch six new products over the next year.

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Munjal Showa to invest `100 crore in Gujarat plant Nabeel A Khan & Jagdev Kalsi New Delhi

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ero Group controlled shock absorber manufacturer Munjal Showa is looking to set up its new plant in Gujarat by the second quarter (Q2) of the next fiscal with an investment of around Rs 100 crore.

The component maker has taken this decision based on customer requirements.

The company’s key customers have acquired land to set up their plants in the western state of the country.

The component maker hopes to reach a turnover of `2,000 to `2,500 crore in the next five years and take some new measures to improve the bottom line as well.

The revenue of Mujal Showa in FY12 was around `1,400 crore.

Apart from new plants, the company is also looking to expand the capacity of existing facilities.

The Gurgaon-based company

hopes to get sustained business growth as customers including the Honda and HeroMotocorp continue to perform well in terms of the two-wheeler sales. The current stagnation is a blip while in long run the industry will get momentum, the company officials pointed out.

“At present, Hero Motocorp has declared that they’ll start the Neemrana plant in the first quarter of FY14 and in Gujarat by the second quarter 2014 so we’ll also have our plant by then. In Gujarat, we will invest more than Rs 100 crore. Neemrana isn’t finalised, if we’ll have a plant there, we’ll only have the assembly line. So that will hardly be around Rs five crore investment,” Managing Director, Munjal Showa, Yogesh Munjal told Auto Monitor.

In the four wheeler segment, the company has also bagged some new customers. Nissan Motors is one of the new customers it is hoping to have on its roosters. Yet the company is finding it a bit tough to tap the

Mahindra2W offers free petrol worth 2K Our Bureau Mumbai

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ahindra Scooters has rolled out ‘Festival Promotion Offer’ under which customers will get free petrol worth `2,000 on the purchase of any Mahindra Scooter. Customers will be able to avail this offer from 8 October 12 to 31 October 12 across all 411 of the company’s dealerships pan-India.

Speaking on the festival offer Viren Popli, Executive VP, Strategy and Market Development, Mahindra Two Wheelers said “The customer was, is and always will be central to any initiative by Mahindra 2 Wheelers whether it is the company’s unique Consumer Inspired Technology or the innovative features which have been devised keeping in mind the needs of the discerning consumer.”

Customers will be able to avail free petrol of up to `2000 from 8 October 12 to 31 October 12 across all 411 of the company’s dealerships pan-India Mahindra has a complete portfolio of mobility solutions across land, air and water.

Mahindra makes SUVs, aircrafts, luxury boats, tractors, trucks and vehicles for the defence forces. It has a rich legacy of manufacturing powerful, reliable and stylish vehicles designed specifically for the Indian consumer on tough Indian roads. Mahindra’s automobile expertise has gone behind the making of the new range of scooters ensuring that behind every Mahindra scooter is the trust and reassurance of Mahindra.”

Mahindra Duro DZ and Mahindra Rodeo RZ scooters have been launched in the market by Mahindra 2 Wheelers in 2012. These scooters have the advanced Z-Series engines which are powerful 125cc engines that offer great mileage. Mahindra 2 Wheelers’ range of powerful 125cc scooters cater to distinct consumer segments. The Mahindra Duro DZ is positioned as a `ROMBA SOLID’, family scooter. The new Mahindra Rodeo RZ with its very innovative, contemporary features is sure to enthuse young, modern couples. The Flyte is the Indian woman’s two-wheeler of choice.

opportunity because of the cost structure.

“We are in collaboration with Showa Japan and have to pay royalty. We have to get some components. So we are slightly expensive than other competitors,” Munjal said. The company also passes on three percent of sales royalty apart from 26 percent share in the company and in return it gets design, development and testing assistance from its Japanese collaborator. Munjal is strongly planning to improve its R&D in India to reduce dependability on its collaborator.

“We’ll start testing but it’ll take time and investment. Present profit percent doesn’t allow us to immediately ramp up R&D but every year we are adding testing equipments. Earlier we were 100 percent dependent for testing also. But now we are doing 60 percent testing in-house, “ he added.

The increasing cost of raw material and inf lation, the profit margin has trimmed substantially.

The company

is consistently improving production process. In the last two years, it has improved its productivity by around five percent and reduced cost between 1-1.5 percent. It has done TPM and has also got the first level award from Japan institute of plant management.

“Wherever we get customer complaints we do ‘Poka Yoke’.

Earlier we were rejecting pieces at some process and getting some rejection from customer also.

After Poka Yoke we are not get-

ting any rejections on our level in that process. We are also not getting any rejections from market,” Munjal explained. The other major step that the company took was in-house manufacturing of key machinery and some lean ones, which occupy lesser space. The company has so far re-designed and developed over 150 machines. This has led to savings on space, electricity and manpower. It hopes to maintain a growth of 15 percent in the coming year five years.

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ICRA Outlook on the Indian Jitin Makkar & Subrata Ray

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he buoyancy in volume growth of the domestic two-wheeler (2W) industry had remained a positive outlier till recently, in an environment when demand slowdown had been encumbering other automobile segments.

However, the extended bout of high inflation, rising fuel prices and firm interest rates, has now started hindering the growth run of the 2W industry as well. After a two-year period of strong 25 percent+ volume growth achieved in 2009-10 and 2010-11, the volume growth trajectory of the 2W industry began its perceptible march down starting H2, 2011-12. The industry finished the year 2011-12 with sales volumes of 13.4 million units, within striking distance of

the largest 2W market i.e. China (~14 million), but growth sobered down to 14 percent. Volume growth trends in the domestic market over the last six months (April-September 2012) have been even more staid, with volumes in September 2012 declining by 13 percent YoY. Exports growth too has been in the negative territory since June 2012 following rise in import duties on 2Ws in select countries, besides other countryspecific factors.

The deceleration in volume growth of the domestic 2W industry, 3.1 percent YoY in 6m, 2012-13, is largely attributable to the motorcycles segment which declined by 0.8percentYoY; even as the scooters segment continued to post 20 percent+ (YoY) expansion during this period, albeit at a smaller base. With this, the share of the scooters segment in the domestic 2W industry volumes

ICRA expects the domestic 2W industry to report a more moderate volume growth of 5-6 percent in 2012-13 as demand slowdown as well as base effect catches up with the segment increased to 21.0percent in 6m, 2012-13 from 17.5 percent in 201011. Factors such as delay in onset of monsoons, depressed yield on certain crops, rise in cost of inputs (labour, fertilizer, diesel) and dull growth in non-agricultural sources of income have combined to reduce disposable incomes in the rural market - the primary demand centre for motorcycles (particularly the entry segment

of bikes) - resulting in deferment of purchase decision. At the same time, the overall weakness in economic sentiment too is proving to be the 2W industry’s nemesis, the way it is playing truant to most consumer goods segments falling under the rubric of ‘discretionary spending’.

Trends in Market Share Movement Market Share (Motorcycles Segment): The Indian motorcycles segment continues to be dominated by Hero MotoCorp which has maintained its market share at ~55 percent in the domestic motorcycles segment over the last several years, despite intensifying competition. The top three players accounted for 89.4 percent of the industry’s volumes in 6m, 2012-13 (92.0percent in 2007-08), with Honda emerging as the third largest player, having overtaken

TVS since October 2011. In the 75-125cc segment of motorcycles (that represented 83.9 percent of total motorcycles sales volumes in 6m, 2012-13), Hero MotoCorp continues to be a strong market leader with a share of 61.7percent in 6m, 2012-13 (64.5 percent in 6m, 2011-12). In the >125cc segment of motorcycles, while Bajaj Auto continues to account for a bulk of the segment’s volumes (44.2 percent in 6m, 2012-13), it has been ceding market share to Honda and Yamaha, over the last one year.

Market Share (Scooters Segment): Overall, Honda continues to maintain its leadership position in the scooters segment through its flagship brand Activa (besides Aviator and Dio) enjoying a market share of 50.8 percent in 6m, 2012-13 (43.1 percent in 201011). While capacity constraints at the company’s plant at Manesar

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Two-Wheeler Industry

(Haryana) was restricting its volume growth till around May 2011, commencement of commercial production at its new plant at Tapukara (Rajasthan) thereafter has allowed the company to cut down the waiting period on its models. Since July 2011, Honda has been consolidating its market position in the scooters segment with continuous gain in market share recorded over the last four quarters. Four new scooter brands have been launched in the Indian market over the last one year viz., Hero MotoCorp’s Maestro, Suzuki’s Swish, Piaggio’s Vespa and Yamaha’s Ray. While this may result in shrinkage of market share gap between the market leader and others over time, we expect Honda to maintain its dominating position in the scooters segment over the medium term.

Overall, the last one year has been characterized by greater traction in new product launches and focus on expansion of customer touch points by most 2W OEMs. As a marketing strategy, OEMs centered their attention on brand building to generate customer pull rather than on below-the-line discountsled push. The market share deck did get ruffled during 6m, 2012-13 reflected in the increase in market share of Honda (19 percent market share in 6m, 2012-13 Vs 15 percent in 2011-12) at the expense of Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto and TVS. However, the sales strategies proposed to be adopted by OEMs in the ensuing festive season would have a more decisive impact on the market share distribution in the remainder of the fiscal.

Capacity Expansions and Investments: Several industry

Delay in onset of monsoons, depressed yield on certain crops, rise in cost of inputs and dull growth in nonagricultural sources of income have combined to reduce disposable incomes in the rural market participants have announced greenfield capacity expansion plans in recent periods: Hero MotoCorp plans to invest Rs. 15 billion over the next two years towards establishing facilities in Rajasthan and Gujarat; Honda is in the process of setting-up its third manufacturing facility in

Karnataka; Yamaha too is settingup a new plant in Tamil Nadu at an investment of Rs. 15 billion.

Together, these three OEMs will add 4 million units of additional 2W capacity over the next two years, representing 22 percent addition on existing industry capacity. This apart, the new product development/ refurbishment expenses are also expected to increase as OEMs scramble to launch new products in a bid to generate consumer interest and sustain market share. ICRA expects these large investments to exert pressure on the industry’s profitability metrics over the near term as volume growth moderation further takes root in the absence of immediate demand triggers.

Outlook: Overall, ICRA expects the domestic 2W industry to report a more moderate volume growth of 5-6 percent in 2012-13 as

demand slowdown as well as base effect catches up with the industry that has demonstrated a strong volume expansion over the last three years at cumulative annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.8 percent. Over the medium term, the 2W industry is expected to report a volume CAGR of 9-11 percent to reach a size of 24-26 million units (domestic + exports) by 2016-17, as we believe the various structural positives associated with the domestic 2W industry including favourable demographic profile, moderate 2W penetration levels (in relation to several other emerging markets), under developed public transport system, growing urbanization, strong replacement demand and moderate share of financed purchases remain intact.

(Courtesy: ICRA)

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HMSI deepens its roots in India Our Bureau New Delhi

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fter touching ten million units sales mark, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt Ltd (HMSI), further strengthened its thrust on the Indian market and inaugurated its new technical centre at Manesar production facility. The Japanese company has emerged as one of the fastest growing two-wheeler maker in India in the last few months.

Honda sees India as its centre of global operations and is allocating maximum resources to develop HMSI as an export hub to achieve further growth of its motorcycle business in Sri Lanka, Nepal, Latin America, and Europe

The two-wheeler maker is also looking at making India as an export hub.

The company is also evaluating setting up additional facilities to help itself emerge as the largest two wheeler manufacturer in India with annual sales of around 10 million units annually by 2020, according to company officials.

Recently, President & Chief Executive Officer, Honda Motor Company, Japan, Takanobu Ito shared Honda’s Vision 2020 which is ‘to provide good products to our customers with speed, affordability and low Co2 emissions.’ Honda has shared its vision to develop India as the ‘Center of global 2wheeler operations’.

The new technical centre is a step forward in developing India’s contribution to global operations of Honda. With this, Honda aims to produce not only 2wheelers of highest quality with Honda’s latest technologies but use the material and the parts procured in India, for domestic and export markets.

To facilitate closer coordi-

nation and synergy of operations in an eff icient manner, Honda Research and Development India (HRID) – a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda R&D, Japan is shifting its entire two wheeler operations in India to the new technical centre.

T he compa ny already has two factories in Gurgaon, and Tapukara in Rajasthan, with an annual capacity of 2.8 million units. It is building a third facility in Narsapuram in Karnataka, which will add 1.2 million to its capacity by 2013.

President & Chief Executive Officer, HMSI, Keita Muramatsu said ”The new technical centre shall standardise, optimise & synergise our ‘glocalised’ approach in India with Honda’s cutting edge R&D capabilities across the globe and a deep understanding of local environ-

Keita Muramatsu, President & CEO, HMSI,

ment to give mobility to a billion Indians at a faster pace.”

The two-wheeler maker has witness substantial growth in the sales since its split with the Indian partner Hero Group. In the period of April-Sept of this fiscal, HMSI grew by 49 percent much higher than the two wheeler industry, which reported a single digit growth rate of

3.12 percent in the like period.

The company witnessed seven percent point jump in its domestic market share to 19 percent.

The company’s first motorcycle for India, Dream Yuga has played a vital role in the growth.

Since the launch four months ago, the company has sold over one lakh units of the bike which translated into five-fold growth

Agenda for Technical Centre 1. With Simplicity, Honda will utilize the local sourcing and production infrastructure with innovation to the maximum extent to create products that directly respond to the needs of local customers in India.

2. With Concentration, Honda will work towards reducing input costs by controlling cost of mass production parts yet maintaining highest quality on sourcing from its auto component suppliers.

3. With Speed, Honda will accelerate introduction of new models while successfully reducing the new model development time gap.

4. Communication and close coordination between Sales, Engineering, Purchase, Quality and R&D under one roof will lead to greater synergy and increased efficiency of operations. in the mass (100-110 cc) segment since AprilSept 2012. Looking at current enquiries and healthy bookings in both rural and urban areas, Honda has ramped up daily production of Dream Yuga and is confident of three lakh unit sales in this fiscal.

HMSI is looking to increase its market penetration by adding 500 outlets and expanding its network to around 2,000 sales & service touchpoints across India by the end of this fiscal. In addition to existing five regional offices, it is also planning to have seven new zonal offices, in addition to the recently inaugurated zonal offices at Chennai, Bhopal and Ahmedabad that will help the company in amassing local market intelligence, strategising regional approach and implementation faster.

Thrust On Exports The two-wheeler maker is confident of maintaining double digit growth rate and expects to grow at around 30 percent this fiscal and sell 27.5 lakh units in FY13 over FY12. “Our rapid expansion to 27.5 lakh unit production in current fiscal has been possible due to overwhelming customer trust in our brand. Now, as only Honda in India, HMSI is committed to realising ‘The Power of Dreams’ of million Indians in future too,” President & Chief Executive Officer, HMSI, Keita Muramatsu said.

Honda sees India as its centre of global operations and is allocating maximum resources to develop HMSI as an export hub to achieve further growth of its motorcycle business in Sri Lanka, Nepal, Latin America, and Europe.

HMSI will commence CKD exports to Honda’s new JV Company in Bangladesh in 2013 end to quickly respond to the diversifying needs of customers.

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Toyota greets festivities with limited edition variants Our Bureau New Delhi

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onsidering the importance of the festive season, especially in an otherwise dreary year for the automobile industry, Toyota has introduced limited edition variants of Etios, Corolla Altis and Fortuner.

The Etios TRD Sportivo

Limited Edition gets front bumper spoiler, aerodynamic side skirt and two-tone rear bumper spoiler. It will also sport 15” smoked alloy wheels, roof ornament, body side graphics and silver shift knob. The limited edition Etios will be available in two colours, White and Symphony Silver and will be priced at `6.25 lakhs for the petrol variant and `7.31 lakhs for the diesel variant,

1,200 units of the Etios limited edition and Innova Aero will be sold while 500 units of the limited edtion Corolla Altis will be made available up to December both prices ex showroom Delhi.

Only 1,200 exclusive units of the Limited Edition vehicle will be sold, till the month of December.

Only 500 exclusive units of the Corolla Altis Limited Edition will be sold till December. Based on the J grade, the limited edition Altis will be available in both petrol and diesel variant and will be priced at `11.51 lakhs for the petrol and `12.90 lakhs for the diesel variant, ex showroom Delhi.

Corolla Altis Limited Edition will be available in three colours, Champagne Mica Metallic, Silver Mica Metallic and Super White.

New features will include SRS airbags for both driver & passenger, 5.8” DVD Touchscreen Audio

System with Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry, Limited Edition Emblem, four spoke steering wheel, Seat belt with pre-tensioner and force limiter.

Toyota has also launched a limited edition of its SUV Fortuner. The TRD Sportivo Limited Edition Fortuner will be available in 4x2 Manual and Automatic Transmission priced at `21.75 lakhs and `22.60 lakhs ex showroom Delhi. It will come

in two colours, Super white and Silver Mica Metallic. Only 600 exclusive units of the Limited Edition vehicle will be sold till Dec 2012. New features include front bumper spoiler, rear roof spoiler and rear bumper spoiler.

The company also launched the Innova Aero Limited Edition last month and only 1,200 exclusive units of the Innova Aero Limited Edition will be on sale till Dec 2012.

Bosch launches over 100 service outlets in North India Our Bureau New Delhi

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osch Automotive Aftermarkets (AA) recently announced the launch of over 100 service centres in North India including ten outlets in Delhi.

Punjab, C ha nd iga rh & Panchkula will see the launch of 43 odd outlets. While Uttar Pradesh will have the largest share with the inauguration of 47 service centres. The move establishes Bosch S Muralidharan, VP (automotive aftermarket), Bosch A A’s agg ressive plans for service network expansion across the length and breadth of the country through the service route.

These service centres will provide service to multi-brand vehicles across different segments of unit repair (Fuel Injection Systems, Auto Electrical Units) and entire vehicular repair. Reaching out to the needs of the entire automotive spectrum, the service outlets include BCS (Bosch Car Service – for in-depth diagnosis and consequent repair & service of passenger cars), ECS (Express Car Service - regular & quick car service needs of a customer), EBS (Express Bike Service – for two wheeler), BDS (Bosch Diesel Service – for heavy and medium diesel commercial vehicles) and EM (Electronic Module – for Auto electrical repair and maintenance).

Bosch through its strategy of PARTS (a robust range of genuine vehicle spares), BYTES (vehicle diagnostics) and services (workshop concept and training) has presence worldwide offering comprehensive solutions pertaining to automotive systems and vehicle repair. The company has 16 training centres country wide where the workshops have easy access to the latest technology know how.

S Muralidharan, Vice-President (automotive aftermarket), Bosch Ltd said, “We are extremely bullish on the growth of our business and believe that service as a category has lot of potential which we can leverage and are hence robustly expanding our network.

Through our aggressive expansion plan we wish to fill the vacuum in the automotive service space & hope to continue the momentum in future too.”

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Transportation sector to emerge as key user for smart card technologies Our Bureau Mumbai

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he plan to put RFID tags embedded on the windshields of every car would soon be mandated in the country. These tags would include vehicle information, toll collection details. The tags would be helpful for the purpose of toll collection, parking and for the implementation of economic road pricing in congested areas,” said CEO, National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project (NATRIP), NR Gokarn during discussions on ‘SmartCards Technologies for Transit Applications’ at the recent SmartCards Expo in New Delhi.

Some of the key participants in the seminar included Director General, C-DAC, Dr Rajat Moona, Deput y Director Genera l, National Informatics Centre (NIC), Dr Mahesh Chandra, Deput y Director, Railway Board, SK Das, Member Technical, National Highway Authority of India, AS Verma and Vice President—Business Development and IT,Delhi Integrated Multi Modal Transit System Ltd, Bhaskar Basak.

Director General, C-DAC, Dr Rajat Moona elaborated on the operating system, SCOSTA, built by C-DAC especially for smart cards transport applications. “SCOSTA is a part of the egovernance initiative of the government wherein the government has decided to create smart card based driver’s licenses and vehicle registration certificates across the country.”

Electronic toll collection system is aimed at reducing the service delivery time at RTOs significantly. Ministry of road transport& highways has been facilitating the process of computerization of approximately 975 RTOs across the country, according to C-DAC’ Chandra.

NIC has established vehicle state registers and a national register that include vehicle details, insurance data and driver’s license details. Records of more than 9,98,06,214 vehicles can be accessed through the national register, Chandra revealed.

World over, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and smart cards technologies are being used for transit applications to provide increased convenience to the end users. In India, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and NHAI have decided to use RFID technology, for toll collection on the entire National Highways network. India has huge road network, consisting of National Highways (70,934 kms) and State Highways (1,31,899 km). RFID technology will enable toll collection without the vehicle stoping, ensuring seamless travel and efficient toll collection. According to a study by the IIM, Kolkata, and the Transport Corporation of India, delays at toll plazas cost the economy an estimated `87,000 crore every year.

SmartCards Expo is the world’s second largest Smart Cards Expo. The expo along with two international conferences on RFID & smart cards technologies for transit applications,

and mobile payments & e-payments - Indian Perspective over the three day period witnessed around 200 global exhibitors and over 6,000 visitors from 25 countries from SmartCards industry and related fields.

SmartCards Expo 2012 is organised by Electronics Today, National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) is the knowledge partner and is sponsored

by Department of Electronics & Information Technolog y, Government of India.

Smart cards, Biometrics and RFID technologies are now fast

According to IIM, Kolkata and TCI study, delays at toll plazas cost the economy an estimated `87,000 crore every year penetrating in a variety of socioeconomic applications. Some of the on-going projects using these technologies promoted

by Government of India include (approximate potential in brackets): national ID (1.2 billion), driving and vehicle registration (300- 500 million), e-Passports (100 million), public distribution system (100 million), financial inclusion (400 million), health insurance for BPL (30 million) and unique identification number (600 million).

The Indian mobile phone population, growing annually at 100 million, and expected to touch

one billion by 2012 end, provides excellent opportunity for various stakeholders in mobile payments & related applications, for meeting expectations of masses at the bottom of the pyramid. Another encouraging trend is the growing rural mobile penetration, opening up vast rural market potential, yet to be fully explored.

The thrust being provided by RBI to mobile banking by moving up the upper limit on mobile payment transactions, which will encourage banks to design innovative mobile banking solutions.

Similarly, RFID technology applications in India are spreading in a big way. The International Conference on RFID and Smart Card Technologies for Transit Applications, covered topics like toll collection, automatic fare collection, common mobility card applications and strategies to promote them in India.

SmartCards Expo is also being co-sponsored by organ-

izations such as – Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI); AIDC Technologies Association of India(AIDC); The Institution of Electronics & Te l e c om mu n i c a t i o n s Eng i neers ( IET E ); onsu mer E lect ron ics a nd Applia nces Ma nufacturers Association(CEAMA); ssociation of Unified Telecom Services Providers of India(AUSPI); Te l e c o m Equipment Manufacturers Association of India(TEMA); Communications and Manufacturing Association of India(CMAI); DECT Forum India; IPTV India Forum; Telecom Users Group of India(TUGI); ITU-Apt Foundation of India; Smart Card Alliance, USA (SCA); Advanced Card Technology Association of Canada (Act-Canada); Asia Pacific Smart Card Association, Shanghai (APSCA); Hong Kong Smart Card Federation of China (SCFC); Global Platform, Europe; EUROSMART, (Brussels).

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Dürr painting technology: Not just for car bodies

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ürr is the general contractor for a fully automatic paint shop for plastic parts for Volkswagen AG in Wolfsburg.

Volkswagen uses ma in ly water-based paints and an environmentally friendly process in this facility. Bum-pers, fuel tank covers and small parts for the new Golf are to be painted.

The production line is aligned to the requirements of small parts painting. It includes cleaning and applying primer, the technology for base and clear coat application, as well as the oven and the workspace equipment. From the primer to the base coat, waterbased paints are used, while the clear coat area uses a 2-component solvent-based paint.

Paint application is carried out by 24 EcoRP L033 robots.

Through the application of SnowClean and flame treatment, plastic parts can be optimal-

The primer application of 2K water-based paint is carried out by EcoBell3 atomizers in high rotation mode and without high voltage. With the EcoLCC2, minimal colour loss and optimum transfer efficiency can be achieved during painting ly prepared for painting, this means cleaning and activating the surface for paint adhesion.

SnowClean in this case replaces the previously common chemical pre-treatment plant. As a result the use of chemicals and water can be completely dis-

pensed with. This procedure eliminates the risk of residual water on the part to be painted

and therefore reduces the quality risk for subsequent painting.

The primer application

of 2K water-based paint is carried out by EcoBell3 atomizers in high rotation mode and

Dry seperation technology saves energy in the paint booth through air recirculation in any automotive pianting booth. The dehumidifying oven produces an additional energy savings effect through drying with cold, dry air without high voltage. In conjunction with the EcoLCC2 linear colour changer, minimal colour loss per colour change and optimum transfer efficiency can be achieved during painting.

Dry Seperation Process The EcoDryScrubber, the dry separation of overspray, is also included in this line. This technology saves energy in the paint booth through air recirculation. The dehumidifying oven produces an additional energy savings effect through drying with cold, dry air. This better absorbs the moisture of the water-based paint.

In this case the oven is heated up to only 40 to 50°C in contrast to the usual 80°C. This eliminates the cooling zone downstream of the oven which, in addition to energy, also saves space as the line is shortened by 30 percent. Through the combination of SnowClean, EcoDryScrubber and dehumidifying drying, the painting of plastics is virtually free of process water. This is new and trendsetting for the painting of plastic parts.

The plastic component paint shop in Wolfsburg, commissioned by V W in the first quarter of 2012, will come into operation in August 2013.

Dürr is a mechanical and plant engineering group that holds leading positions in the world market in its areas of operation. It generates around 80 percent of its sales in business with the automotive industry. It also supplies the aircraft, machinery, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries with innovative production and environmental technology. The Dürr Group operates in the market with four divisions. Paint and Assembly Systems plans and builds paintshops and final assembly systems for the automobile and aircraft industry. Application Technology provides automated paint application, sealing, and glueing with its robot technologies.

Machinery and systems from the Measuring and Process Systems division are used in balancing and cleaning processes, in engine and transmission manufacturing and in final vehicle assembly, among other areas. The fourth division, Clean Technology Systems, is focused on processes to improve energy efficiency and on exhaust air purification.

(Courtesy: Dürr)

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STUDY

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Consolidation in the Global Dietmar Ostermann Global Automotive Advisory Leader Christopher Recktenwald Director Sudarshan Mhatre Senior Associate

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he 2012 global automotive industr y is poised for grow th while marked by cautious optimism. Despite the situation in Europe, global automotive production is forecast to hit records each year through 2017. Global vehicle assembly should increase this year by up to five million units, driven by NA and BRIC production increases.

Indeed, for the first time in history, All major automotive markets have recovered from 2009 lows, except for Europe emerging market vehicle assembly exceeded established market assembly and

is expected to do so in the future.

Looking further out, vehicle assembly is expected to grow by 40percent and reach 100 million units around 2017. Global capacity utilization is also expected to slightly increase to about 85percent in the same time frame.

Autofacts® expects North American vehicle production to increase steadily for the next five years. The world’s largest assembly market, China, will likely expand with the largest share of volume growth during that timeframe. Vehicle production in China is expected to double during the next five to 7 years, despite a slowdown in early 2012.

The underlying reality in China is that wealthier households are expected to grow the fastest at over 20percent compound average growth rate (CAGR), tripling the number of potential automotive buyers every 4 to 5 years.

Conversely, volume in Europe will probably remain under pressure during the next two years.

It’s likely to decline by about 5per-

cent in 20122. We don’t expect automobile production to reach pre-recession levels until 2016.

Indeed, Europe faces serious challenges in right-sizing its automotive industry. The euro zone debt crisis is impacting European automotive sales, particularly in Southern European markets.

This in turn is impacting many European suppliers who rely heavily on OEMs that serve the Southern European region.

Additionally, Japan, a traditional automotive powerhouse, faces challenges with a decreasing population, flat economic growth, and a continually unfavourable exchange rate. Key Japanese auto makers are aggressively planning to localize assembly in foreign markets to counter exchange rates. Japan experienced a nearterm boost in 2012, enabling the region to recover assembly lost during the earthquake/tsunami disaster of 2011, but the longerterm outlook is not as bright.

OEMs continue to consolidate and globalize platforms, increas-

Capital Expenditure (capex) /Revenues by Region, 2007-2011

Global Light Vehicle Assembly Outlook (2007-2018, millions)

ing volume per platform steadily to over 1,000,000 units per year.

Supplier competition is therefore expected to increase due to fewer, larger new business opportunities. OEMs will also likely expect higher volumes to translate into improved pricing that could pressure supplier margins.

Even with fewer platforms, we

may see more and newer vehicles. Vehicle nameplate life cycles are shortening.

Passenger car lifecycles are now between five and six years, with refreshes every two to three years. Nameplates and market entries per platform are growing, especially in Europe, where luxury market entries will likely

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Automotive Supply Industry 2012 OEMs will need to introduce more technologies into their vehicle programs.

Fuel efficiency, weight reduction and advanced infotainment are a few examples where OEMs expect suppliers to lead the innovation, design, development, and scale-up of advanced technologies for global platforms increase by 35percent during the next five years. Therefore, suppliers focused on interior and exterior trim as well as their mold makers will need to cope with greater complexity, but more business opportunities.

With the uncertain global economy, many automotive suppliers are taking a cautious approach to spending. Overall, supplier capacity investment has not recovered to pre-recession levels. Capital expenditures (capex) as a percent of sales were 5.3 percent for the Global 100 in 2007; that dropped to a low of 4.3 percent in 2010. In 2011, it crept back to 4.9 percent — still well below pre-recession levels.

Larger companies are playing it safer; capex investments in the Global 100 remain tight while smaller companies increased their spending beyond 2007 levels. Private companies also seem to be investing less conservative-

ly than public companies.

In North America, where sales have been solid, suppliers aren’t yet celebrating. North American supplier’s capex/sales are only back up to 3.9 percent.

In Europe, suppliers are justifiably hesitant to invest in capacity. Capex as a percentage of revenues in Europe is typically higher than in North America, yet still well below pre-recession levels. Supplier capacity investments remain tight in Japan and Korea as well.

In China, OEMs and suppliers both continue to expand. Chinese suppliers spent a whopping 10.5 percent of revenues on capex in 2011. That’s a record, well above 2007’s rate and more than double the overall average. We’ve seen supply shortages as a result of slow capacity restoration around the rest of the world, although inadequate supply chain transparency is also an issue.

Segments where capacit y ca n not be added quickly—e.g. microchips and integrated circuits to door locks and specialty steels—experienced capacity shortages.

Additionally, PA12 resin for nylon applications, including fuel and brake components, was critically tight due to a chemical plant explosion in Germany. A component shortage arose due to a fire at an interior supplier plant in Michigan, and carpet shortages occurred due to flooding at a plant in Pennsylvania.

OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers appreciate supply chain transparency now more than ever. Too often in the last year they found themselves relying on the same

Supplier Consolidation Pressures by System

Tier 2, Tier 3 or raw material supplier plant.

Making cars more efficient, safe and fun Looking ahead, OEMs will need to introduce more technologies into their vehicle programs.

Fuel efficiency, weight reduction and advanced infotainment are a few examples where OEMs expect suppliers to lead the innovation, design, development, and scaleup of advanced technologies for global platforms.

After the electric vehicle hype, we’ve already seen an emphasis on improving conventional powertrain technology.

Advanced small displacement internal combustion engines, often with direct injection and turbo-charging, 7-9 speed and CV transmissions, and stop/start technology are gaining market share. OEMs will continue to integrate these kinds of solutions quickly. For example, direct injection penetration will likely

increase from 31 percent to 47 percent between 2011 and 2018.

Similarly, 7+ speed & CVT transmissions will probably increase from 12percent to 21percent in the same time frame.

In 2011 the number of automotive supplier M&A deals broke the 300 mark, up from 278 in 2010.

That’s a faster growth rate than the industry as a whole in 2011, as we reported in PwC’s M&A Driving Report, which looks at deal activity more broadly across the sector.

Strong transaction levels continued in the first half of 2012, and we expect deals to reach about 270 globally for the full year. While down from 2011, this still reflects strong consolidation activity in 2012. Deal values will likely top last year’s level, in part driven by the very prominent, recently announced divestiture of DuPont Automotive Coatings, a global leader in automotive OE and aftermarket paint. Strong deal levels in 2011 are likely to be sustained in 2012.

Overall, deal activity in 2011 was significantly driven by North American suppliers. US bankruptcies were not a factor during the last two years, in contrast to 2008 and 2009.6 Instead, US deal activity was driven by companies with healthy balance sheets.

That contrasts with Europe, where supplier distress is playing a role. Overall, major transactions are taking place on both sides of the Atlantic, with five of the top automotive supplier transactions in the last 12 months (July 2011June 2012) focusing on European assets, a repeat from last year’s strong run for European suppliers. Both Asian and North American acquirers are targeting European suppliers, and European suppliers’ role as a buyer has dropped significantly.

Asian suppliers are increasingly becoming both buyers and targets. More firms are seeking entry into emerging markets, and several Chinese suppliers also achieved the scale to take on

Auto Monitor

Four key actions to take: 1. Develop and leverage global capability and scale This isn’t only true for the largest Tier 1 players—mid-size and larger suppliers, Tier 1 and 2 need to make this a focus too. Operating across regions can help companies stay profitable. More importantly, OEMs are increasingly relying on global suppliers to support global platforms. That can mean architectures or platforms with over 70 percent global common parts—and suppliers will need to be able to engineer subsystems into these platforms for vehicles around the world with changing requirements.

Several subsystems need to be produced in low-cost locations in every major geography around the world.

2. Establish and grow a strong presence in China.

We’ve said this before, but the importance of participating in the Chinese automotive market bears repeating. Most of the global growth is happening in the world’s largest automotive market and the race for a share is going full throttle. There are really two automotive markets in China: The global joint-venture vehicle market and the China domestic vehicle market. Smart suppliers participate in both with differentiated and market appropriate offerings.

3. Invest in future technology.

OEMs are looking to suppliers to help develop the next generation of automotive technology and to help make cars safer, more fun and more fuel efficient. Companies that don’t develop their ability to innovate and partner with automakers can expect to lose out on preferred supplier status. That means getting left behind when the next generation of global platforms starts gearing up.

4. Be savvy about strategic capacity growth.

In some parts of the world, like North America, capacity is tight. While many suppliers are staying conservative and enjoying high utilization and profitability, some are missing out on profitable growth opportunities. With supply shortages an issue, many markets growing, and technology requirements increasing, careful investments in increasing capacity could pay off. local and global consolidation, the later with the objective to gain technology and market access.

North American automotive suppliers, particularly those in the Global 100, are the strong-

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est potential buyers in 2012, as they have regained the financial and operational muscle to make acquisitions after three years of double digit growth in the home market. That’s unchanged from

2011. PwC saw record EBITDA improvement of North American suppliers from 2010 to 2011, continuing last year’s trend of improvement in earnings. It’s not just a matter of cash. Many sup-

pliers also maintain high buyer attitude scores – meaning the mindset is right for acquisitions.

Fourteen of the most likely global consolidators are located in North America. In contrast, only five are located in Europe.

That points to the challenging situation in Europe. Europeanbased Global 100 suppliers are on average higher on our potential distress scale, and in some cases, restructuring or financial assistance may be needed. These distressed suppliers are more likely to be acquisition targets or are more apt to divest assets to bargain hunters seeking attractive assets or North American suppliers have the highest buyer scores; European, Japanese and Korean suppliers are not as strong.

In fact, six of the top 12 Global 100 potential divestors are from Europe. Some are portfolio players, who in-turn are investing into new, cutting edge technologies, while others are divesting to raise cash. A number of Japanese companies also have high potential distress and divest scores due to the challenges of 2011 related to Japanese OEM recalls, the tsunami in Japan and the flood in Thailand. Chinese suppliers on average have lower buyer scores, because of their relative

small size and lack of experience in overseas transactions. Their multi-year booming market increased their strength. Some Chinese suppliers may continue to grow organically, while some leading large Chinese suppliers are considered strong consolidators and have in fact undertaken several domestic and international transactions. That’s now accelerating, with two of this year’s most likely 25 global consolidators located in China.

Several more Chinese suppliers fill our global top 50 consolidator list.

Many companies that did well last year continue to maintain their strength. Several Global 100 suppliers made significant improvements to their buyer scores. Of the 25 Global 100 suppliers scoring high as consolidators, 14 were also included in last year’s potential buyer line up.

Companies whose scores deteriorated tended to be located in Japan or Europe.

One of several good predictors of a supplier’s buyer score is the company’s customer base.

Suppliers who diversify outside of automotive have better scores than those with a strong or exclusive automotive focus. Suppliers heavily dependent on European

North American suppliers are the strongest potential buyers in 2012, as they have regained the financial and operational muscle to make acquisitions after three years of double digit growth in the home market sales have lower scores this year than those with global or non-European sales. And suppliers associated with particular troubled European OEMs are the least likely to have the financial muscle to make acquisitions.

In a trend that we believe will continue, half of the top 10 deals in both North America and Europe were powertrain related in 2011. This sector has many strong potential buyers and the largest number of participants —as well as a rich array of potential targets.

Among 350 powertrain system suppliers, nearly one in seven scored as a strong divestor or is potentially distressed. Five of the top 12 Global 100 potential divestors are principally powertrain suppliers. We also broke down scores for powertrain suppliers by subsystem. Most activity in 2012 will likely come from the engine cooling, air management, engine electronics, and injectors and throttle systems. Financials alone aren’t driving powertrain transactions. As we’ve noted, conventional powertrain technology advancements are key to OEMs’ strategies for fuel efficiency. Deals based on key technologies or the potential for innovation are dominating.

China, in particular, was extremely active in the powertrain space. More than half of the acquisitions by Chinese buyers in the last 18 months targeted powertrain systems.

Following a strong 2011, the chassis system segment also looks promising for deals.

Chassis suppliers improved their EBITDA margins the most from 2010 to 2011, with earnings up 10percent. The three largest deals from July 2011 – June 2012 all involved chassis systems.

As with powertrain, there are many potential strong buyers and several potential divestors or potentially distressed suppliers as targets. The sub-segments with the most potential for deal activity include suspensions, brakes, steering and exhaust systems.

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TECHNOLOGY

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Lubricants from vegetable oil

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il-independence is the dream of many countries that lack raw materia ls.

Nevertheless, black gold still retains its dominant role as a power source, and also serves as a basic material for the chemical industry. In order to change this, researchers started the “Integrated BioProduction” project. At the Fraunhofer Centre for Chemical-Biotechnological Processes CBP in Leuna, the pilot plant-scale production of epoxides, made from domestic vegetable oils, begins in October.

The intermediate chemical products support the production of lubricants, surfactants and emulsifiers.

Chemical-Enzymatic Process Epoxides are highly reactive organic compounds comprised of a triple ring with two carbon atoms and one oxygen atom.

Among other things, the chemicals industry uses them for the production of lubricants for vehicles and engines, as well as surfactants and emul-

sif iers for detergents a nd cleansers. Until now, epoxides have been based primarily on source materials procured from petroleum. Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB have engineered a chemical-enzymatic process that now enables vegetable oil-based production, at lower temperatures and under more environmentally-friendly conditions.

The Fraunhofer Centre for Chemical-Biotechnological Processes CBP in Leuna has made this technology ready for industrial application. Starting October 2012, the findings obtained in the laboratory will be scaled up to an even larger volume. Quantities of up to 100 litres will be possible at the new centre. That corresponds to a 70 kilogram-batch of epoxides.

In the laborator y this reaction yielded batches only in the grams range. The 14 partners in the “Integrated BioProduction” project will be working until April 2014 on engineering a process for procuring epox-

ides, made from domestic vegetable oils, for industry use.

Using byproducts from the food industry The foods that are suitable for epoxides production include, for exa mple, the oils of must a rd, elder seed, crambe (Abyssinian cabbage) and dragonhead.

To some extent, these oils emerge from food produc t ion as by-products, but are not themselves used as food.

The epoxide is procured in Leuna from fluid oils, or fatty acids as well, with the aid of chemical-enzymatic epoxidation. In contrast to the established, pure chemical variety, the enzyme lipase here catalyzes peracid, the

epoxidation medium. The main benefits are that the enzyme is easier and more efficient to handle. In comparison to many other chemical reactions, they operate at moderate temperatures, at neutral pH values and under normal pressure. At the same time,

the enzymes conduct the epoxidation only on the designated sites in the molecule, and without side reactions.

“Even if the petrochemical process can never be completely replaced – the potential for sustainable raw materials in the

The 14 partners in the “Integrated BioProduction” project will be working until April 2014 on engineering a process for procuring epoxides, made from domestic vegetable oils, for industry use. Starting October, the findings obtained in the laboratory will be scaled up to production volume chemicals industry is immense. In 2009, roughly 14 million tons of vegetable oil was used for chemical-technical products, compared to about 400 million tons of mineral oil in the same year. To reduce the dependence on petroleum and carve out potential savings in CO2 equivalents, the industry needs ultramodern biorefineries. In Leuna, we are creating just the right processes for this,” explains Dr Katja Patzsch, group manager for biotechnological processes at CBP.

The “Integrated BioProduction” project The project “Integrated BioProduction” is sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection BMELV. The spotlight of the research activities is on increasing the use of sustainable raw materials – primarily domestic plant-based oils – for production of synthetic components for the chemical industry. In the first phase, which ends April 2012, the researchers selected and evaluated relevant plant oils, developed and tested chemical and biotechnological conversion processes on the laboratory scale, and identified suitable catalysts. In the second phase, scheduled until 2014, the focus shifts to optimization and the adjusting selected processes to a scale that is relevant to industry; here, the Fraunhofer Centre CBP acts as the interface.

Starting October 2012, the large-scale facilities and processes will be tested in conjunction with project partners Addinol Lube Oil GmbH, Dracosa AG, DHW Deutsche Hydrierwerke GmbH Rodleben, Taminco GmbH, Umicore AG & Co. KG, Linde Engineering Dresden GmbH, Eucodis Bioscience GmbH, Thüringer Landesanstalt für Landwirtschaft (Agricultural Institute for the State of Thüringen), InfraLeuna GmbH, Martin Luther University HalleWittenberg, the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology KIT. (Courtesy: Fraunhofer Institute)

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22 OCTOBER 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

Lexus LS saloon priced at £71,995 for base version

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he LS 600h L Premier model is specified with the widest range of comfort items available on any Lexus. This includes the world first Lexus ‘climate concierge’ system which uses infra-red sensors to monitor the facial temperature of each occupant of the car. Using this information it then individually adjusts the four zone climate control, seat heaters/coolers and the heated steering wheel to provide each occupant with the most comfortable ambient tem-

‘Climate concierge’ system on the Lexus uses sensors to monitor the facial temperature of each occupant of the car and then individually adjusts the four zone climate control, seat heaters/ coolers and the heated steering wheel for the right feel and comfort

perature as quickly as possible.

In the rear, passengers benefit from electrically operated reclining rear seats, including electric footrests. The left-hand rear passenger seat also features a power lumbar massage function with remote control.

The new Lexus LS, with prices starting from £71,995 for the LS 460 Luxury; and the full hybrid LS 600h L Premier grade is available from £99,495. The LS range includes an F Sport model, combining sporting

exterior and interior design elements with numerous dynamic enhancements. The full hybrid LS 600h is available in a single trim level, the long-wheelbase L Premier model. Its Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain features a 5.0 litre V8 engine and delivers 439bhp (327kW) The LS 600h L Premier is fitted with an Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system with collision avoidance assist. It is designed to help the driver avoid an accident, or if the worst happens,

mitigate the consequences of a collision, with vehicles or pedestrians. It can operate across a wide range speeds, and in daylight or darkness. Lane-Keep Assist and Blind Spot Monitor systems are also included in the standard specification.

LS 460 The LS 460 is available in two trims, Luxury and F Sport and is powered by a 382bhp (285kW) 4.6-litre V8 Dual V V T-i petrol engine. It has been reintroduced

into the UK line-up in response to customer demand.

The Luxury is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlamps, and LED daytime running lights. Cabin comfort is assured with leather upholstery, four zone climate control featuring nanoe technology, and air conditioned electrically adjustable front seats (16-way for driver and 14-way for front passengers). The interior is lit by the world’s first Dynamic Illumination System with soft

white interior lamps and a dynamic instrument panel lighting that moves and changes in intensity in line with vehicle start-up and switch-off. On-board entertainment is provided by a 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system with DVD player, DAB tuner, Bluetooth and USB/Aux ports. Satellite Navigation and onboard entertainment information is presented on a 12.3-inch central display - the largest on the market today.

The LS 460 F Sport builds on the Luxury specification with 19-inch F Sport alloys, Brembo brakes, a lateral damping system, a Torsen limited slip differential, and suspension modifications. The exterior look of the car is augmented with F Sport design elements, including a more aggressive front spindle grille and sports styled bumpers. The interior has a sportier look too, with a dark cabin finish, perforated leather seats and steering wheel; Lexus scuff plates, aluminium pedals, and an aluminium effect finish on the dashboard.

Options The LS 600h L Premier can be specified with a night view system, which captures images of the night time field of view using a near-infra red camera and displays the night vision images on the 12.3-inch central display.

This feature provides the driver with a view of hazards outside of the direct beam of the headlights. Metallic or mica paint is an option across all models in the LS range.

Eight exterior colours are available for the new LS Luxury and Premier: arctic pearl, sonic silver, celestial black, mesa red, mercury grey, atlantic blue and obsidian black. The F Sport model has a range of seven exterior colours, including the newly available F Sport White.

In the cabin Luxury and Premier models can be specified with black, light grey, ivory, topaz brown or white upholstery. F Sport models have sport black upholstery as standard, but can be specified with sport white. F sport models feature aluminium dashboard inserts as standard, regardless of interior upholstery.

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22 OCTOBER 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

Vauxhall, Cold Consortium offer hot deals on cool conversion

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aux hall has partnered with conversion specialist The Cold Consortium Ltd to produce its coolest commercial vehicle to date, a refrigerated Movano, Vauxhall’s largest panel van, available in a range of load lengths and roof heights.

Developed specifically for the fresh and frozen produce indus-

tries, wholesalers and traders can now lease the vehicle from just £120 per week. Managing Director, The Cold Consortium, Ian Gardner has been demonstrating the vehicle at London’s historic Smithfield meat market, taking six orders for the new conversion in the first month.

“We’ve worked closely with Vauxhall to develop a compelling

new type of Movano for customers, and there’s been a great deal of interest in our demonstrator vehicle,” Gardner explains.

“Customers enjoy being able to have a hands-on look around the Movano and see it in action. This means it’s really easy to visualise how useful an asset it could be to their business.”

The comprehensive conversion features a number of market specific features and is available in either chilled or deep freeze configurations. The epoxy resin panels, impregnated with Envirocare-Bactericide, provide a waterproof and durable finish to the load space, along with pallet protection for the floor and aluminium threshold protection. The low floor height makes the vehicle’s rear easy to access, while the 1100kg payload means it can handle demanding delivery routes. The use of a GAH slim roof-mounted condenser means the Movano still maintains a low roofline and with operating tem-

peratures of +0˚C to +8˚C (chiller version), and as low as -25˚C (deep freeze version), the produce stays as fresh as possible.

“Our new relationship with The Cold Consortium has expanded the already impressive range of custom and bespoke solutions available to Vauxhall’s commercial vehicle customers,” said Brand Manager, Vauxhall Commercial Vehicles, Steve Bryant. “It allows the purveyors of every kind of fresh produce from dairy farmers to butchers - to

deliver their products to customers at different locations, safe in the knowledge that the vehicle is reliable, efficient and affordable.”

Vauxhall provides a full Aftersales service to all fleet customers, while The Cold Consortium takes care of any refrigeration queries. Gardner will have a brand new demonstrator vehicle in place every four to five months, and will also be raising awareness of the new conversion via promotional material and flyers.

Mike Whittington takes over as MD at MercedesBenz retail group

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ercedes-Benz in the UK has promoted Mike Whittington to the role of Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Retail Group with effect from 1 January 2013. He is currently Sales Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars, and replaces Neil Williamson who moves to become Vice President Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars in South Africa.

Whittington joined MercedesBenz in June 2007 after previously holding management positions in Toyota, Lexus a nd Peugeot.

Hav ing joined the brand as Director, Network Mike Whittington Operations,Mike worked across the group’s brands to complete its network investment programmes and develop the business growth strategies. In June 2010 Mike was appointed to his current role of Sales Director, where he has led the brand’s sales team to become the fastest-growing mainstream premium brand, which has a current 4.5 per cent share of the UK new car market.

Marcus Breitschwerdt, President and CEO Mercedes-Benz UK, said: “Mike has a wide breadth of experience gained over the years with different brands, as well as experience of our own dealer network. He has been a key figure in successfully driving our record-breaking UK sales growth over recent years.

Marcus continued: “Mike takes over from Neil Williamson, who is moving within the global Daimler family to head up the passenger cars business in South Africa. Over the past seven years, Neil has worked tirelessly to drive performance and standards within our own Retail Group, making significant improvements in process, capability and customer service as well as increasing sales.

“Mike and Neil’s appointments show that top talent is recognised and developed within the company, and I’d like to offer them both my personal congratulations.”

Mike Whittington commented: “I’m very excited to have the opportunity to lead the fantastic team at Mercedes-Benz Retail Group during a period of enormous change for Mercedes-Benz. We’ve got some great cars like the New A-Class in showrooms, and are pioneering new techniques to better serve our customers.

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22 OCTOBER 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

Volvo celebrates 25th anniversary of airbag innovation

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he first Volvo car equipped with an airbag left the assembly line in 1987 - and since then the company has extended the technology with several world-firsts.

Volvo was first with both the seat-mounted side airbag and the Inflatable Curtain (IC) - and in 2012 the technology’s 25th anniversary was celebrated with the introduction of the groundbreaking pedestrian airbag in the all-new Volvo V40. “It is the first time airbag technology has been used to help protect vulnerable road users, in this case pedestrians, outside the car,” says Senior Manager for Interior safety, Volvo Car Corporation, Lennart Johansson.

Johansson, who was part of the pioneering work in the 1980s, adds: “The benefit of modern airbag technology is that it takes very little space and still helps provide a good level of protec-

tion that can be optimised for the occupant and the crash situation.

However, when we see a need for enhanced protection we always search for a total safety solution.

The airbag is one solution and it can be combined with other measures.”

Another recent example is the new knee airbag in the all-new Volvo V40. It is designed to distribute the load on the driver’s lower body in a frontal collision.

The airbag has been a standard feature in all cars for several years, but in the early days both the technology and its reliability created intense debate. At that time, many of these anxieties were justified.

“Getting an airbag to deploy is not a challenge, but making it deploy at exactly the right moment is,” explains Lennart Johansson, adding: “In recent years, the timing and the performance level of inflation have

been in focus. And in modern airbag technology, the inflation level can be adapted to match crash severity.” The use of sophisticated radar and cameras in recent cars paves the way for the possibility of activating protective safety systems even before the impact if necessary.

A look in the rear-view mirror shows that the first airbag solutions emerged back in the early 1950s. However, the technology was far from mature. One 1955 patent describes a system similar to today’s, but with the significant exception that the driver himself had to deploy the bag by pressing a button. Another early debate focused on the use of a pyrotechnic charge to inflate the airbag with gas.

A controversial bill in the United States in 1984 speeded up the airbag development process. Focusing on the dangers of not using the safety belt, the bill stipulated that within three years new cars must be equipped with protective safety devices that did not have to be activated by the occupants.

The airbag was quickly recognised by many observers as the best solution and some even believed that it even would

replace the three-point safety belt that was invented by Volvo Car Corporation back in 1959.

However, Volvo successfully argued that the best safety result would be achieved by co-operation between the safety belt system and airbag technology.

“More airbags will not necessarily improve the overall safety level. It is important to regard the airbag as part of a systematic approach where the car’s structure, the safety belts, the airbags and other details such as the steering column interact to ensure optimum absorption of the collision forces in an accident,” comments Lennart Johansson.

In the early 1990s, the airbag became standard equipment in the Volvo 850. In 1994, Volvo Car Corporation took the technology further by introducing a side airbag that is integrated in the seat backrest, ready to help protect the chest in a side impact. “We took a huge step forward by making the side airbag part of our patented Side Impact Protection System that is integrated in the body structure,” says Johansson.

By then, it was already time for the next world-first from Volvo Car Corporation - the Inflatable Curtain (IC).

The IC is designed to enhance head protection for both front and outer rear seat occupants in a side impact. In some car models, it is also helps protect the occupants in a rollover situation.

The roof-mounted version was introduced when the new Volvo S80 was launched in 1998 and is a standard feature in all Volvo models except the C70. Instead, the convertible Volvo C70 is equipped with door-mounted inflatable curtains that are deployed upwards in a side collision and remain inflated to help provide protection if the car rolls over. Volvo has taken this technology another step further by extending the curtain to also provide enhanced protection in offset collisions and for children in the rear seat.

Airbag technology has changed a great deal since it was introduced 25 years ago - and Volvo has been one of the key players in the refinement process. “Airbag performance has been improved significantly. Today’s technology is much more adapted to the collision sequence and the way occupants are moved by the crash forces. After 25 years, refining the airbag technology is a vital part of our aim to build the safest cars in the world,” explains Johansson.

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22 OCTOBER 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

Chevrolet delivers eighth straight quarter of record global sales

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hevrolet sold more than 1.25 million vehicles worldwide in the third quarter of 2012, a 3.1 percent increase over last year’s record-setting third quarter, marking the eighth consecutive quarter of record-breaking sales.

The growth of the Chevrolet brand around the world continues to out-pace other large

In the US, Chevrolet sold 458,721 vehicles in the quarter, an increase of 2.1 percent, led by record sales of its brands including best ever monthly sales for Volt, Cruze, Sonic and Spark

mainstream automotive brands.

The Cruze continues to be the best-selling Chevrolet nameplate with more than 550,000 sold so far this year and more than 1.65 million sold since the car was launched. Sales of the Spark mini-car, Aveo/Sonic small car and 2013 Malibu mid-size sedan are rising as more vehicles become available in dealer showrooms around the world. The launch of the Colorado mid-size truck in Thailand has propelled the brand to monthly sales that far exceed the brand’s total incountry sales in 2011.

In the United States Chevrolet sold 458,721 vehicles in the quarter, an increase of 2.1 percent, led in large part by record sales of its passenger cars including best ever monthly sales for Volt, Cruze, Sonic and Spark. In China, Chevrolet sold 152,328 units in

the quarter, an increase of 3.7 percent. In Brazil, Chevrolet sales are on the rebound with more than 182,906 sold in the third quarter, up 13.5 percent. Later this month, the brand will introduce the all-new Onix, a small hatchback that will offer consumers easy-to-use connectivity through Chevrolet MyLink.

The momentum in Russia continues to build with the launch of seven new products this year. Chevrolet sold 58,453 vehicles in the third quarter, an increase of 28.8 percent. In Mexico, Chevrolet sold 44,387 vehicles in the quarter, an increase of 14.3 percent.

Chevrolet will continue its product transformation in the United States with the launches of 13 new or significantly updated models in 2013 including the all-new Impala, all-new

Silverado light-duty pickups and the all-new SS rear-wheel drive performance sedan.

In Europe, Chevrolet launched 10 new cars in just 18 months.

Today, Chevrolet has one of the freshest line-ups in the industry, and the product offensive will continue in 2013 with the new, restyled Spark and the allnew Chevrolet Trax, small SUV, arriving at European Chevrolet showrooms in spring next year.

Chevrolet records more than 60 percent of its sales outside the U.S. market.

Established in the US by Swiss émigré Louis Chevrolet in 1911,

the brand celebrated its centenary in 2011. The brand was re-launched in Europe in 2005.

It is represented with a total of 2,500 sales and service outlets in Western and Central Europe.

The European Chevrolet lineup includes the Spark city car, the small Aveo sedan and hatchback, the compact Cruze sedan and hatchback, the Orlando family van, the Captiva SUV, t he Camaro and Cor vette sports cars and the extendedrange Volt electric car. In 2012, Chev rolet is launching the Cruze station wagon and the Malibu mid-size sedan.

Europcar set to add new Range Rover Evoque to Europcar fleet

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vailable at selected branches around the UK, corporate customers will be able to drive in comfort and style as these new vehicles come onto the Prestige from Europcar fleet later this year. The Range Rover Evoque is already receiving critical acclaim for its contemporary design, combined with the space and luxury interior that only a top class 4x4 can deliver. Adding it to the Prestige from Europcar fleet makes it accessible to businesses that may need a 4WD or want to create a more stand-out impression.

The Range Rover Evoque is already receiving critical acclaim for its contemporary design, space and luxury interior that only a top class 4x4 can deliver

Corporate Customer Focus “Over the next few months we will be adding more great prestige vehicles to our Prestige from Europcar fleet, ensuring our corporate customers have access to some of the most desirable cars on the road today,” said Ken McCall, Managing Director, Europcar UK Group.

“The convenience of prestige car hire, available from many of our national network of locations, means business travel doesn’t have to be stressful and tiring. And the new additions planned for our Prestige fleet reinforce our commitment to this sector of the business travel marketplace.”

BorgWarner BERU Systems Diesel Cold Start Components: Always a clean solution.

Less emissions

More driving pleasure

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Auto Monitor

40

22 OCTOBER 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

Vauxhall unveils Cascade convertible

V

au x h a l l re c ent l y unveiled pictures of its Cascada full-size convertible that will launch the company into a fourth new sector this year, following on from its Ampera, Mokka and ADAM models. The Cascada is a full four-seat, fabric-roof convertible which at nearly 4.7 metres in length is longer than an Audi A5 Convertible and positions Vauxhall in a sector that it hasn’t occupied since the 1930s.

An all-new 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, producing 170PS and 280Nm of torque, and marking the first outing of Vauxhall’s MGE (Mid-Size Gasoline Engine) family, will be the highlight of a four-engine range.

There will be a high-quality fabric hood, with superior acoustic and thermal insulation thanks to a special layer of polyester fleece between the outer and inner linings. Making the Cascada a practical year-round car, the hood can be opened in just 17 seconds at speeds up to 30mph by an interior switch, or via a button on the key fob.

At 4697mm long and 1840mm w ide (excluding mirrors), Cascada has a broad stance and elegant lines. With the top down, it has a perfectly clean profile with no roof-top cover or visible roll-over protection disturbing the car’s silhouette aft of the steeply-raked A-pillar.

The subtle ‘blade’ on the Cascada’s lower body side is mirrored by a sharp crease that swings upward and meets with the wraparound rear light cluster. A gently rising waistline is highlighted by a chrome strip that borders the cockpit, marking the boundary

between roof-top and body.

‘Most convertibles look good with the top down, but many seem clumsy with their roof up,’ said Malcom Ward, Vauxhall’s British Director of Exterior Design. ‘Thanks to its high quality, aerodynamically clean soft top with a perfect, seamless profile, the Cascada cuts a fine figure when it’s closed.’

Cascada’s bonnet tops a deep front grille with bold chrome applications. The fog lights are carried in two overturned ‘sharkfin’ elements, which are enhanced by chrome inserts. Using LED technology, the daytime running lights in the headlamps and the rear lights incorporate Vauxhall’s ‘wing’ signature. In the rear, the LED modules are diffused to give a solid and sharp light signal typical of cars in the premium sector. A chrome strip linking the boot-mounted light units matches a similar bar across the front of the car.

The instrument cluster tops a wing-shaped panel which flows into the doors and frames the area around each front occupant. All-new, deeply contoured seats are available in a range of embossed fabrics and leathers, and customers have the option of ergonomic, Nappa-leather trimmed seats, which can be heated or ventilated. An Easy Entry system allows access to the rear seats, and electric seat belt presenters make securing front occupants less of a chore.

With a minimum load volume of 280 litres with the roof down, and up to 350 litres roof up, the Cascada is an exceptionally practical convertible. In addition, the rear seats benefit from Vauxhall’s FlexFold system, which electrically releases and folds down the 50:50 split rear seats, allowing longer objects to be carried with ease.

In the cabin, several large storage spaces are available: one in each door and one under the

instrument panel, and thanks to the use of a standard Electronic Park Brake across the range, a further cubby is located between the front seats.

Chassis and dynamics Maximising torsional stiffness in a convertible’s body is critical to maintaining a high standard of vehicle dynamics. Despite being significantly larger, the Cascada’s body is 43 per cent stiffer torsionally and 10 per cent more resistant to bending forces than the Astra TwinTop, Vauxhall’s last open-topped car. Impressive underbody reinforcement comprises crossed steel bars and strengthened rocker panels, which also contribute towards a significant reduction in NVH (Noise Vibration Harshness).

Distinguishing the full-size Cascada from the compact-class Astra TwinTop is a wheelbase which is 71mm longer and front/ rear tracks which are 56mm and

70mm wider respectively, benefiting handling and stability.

Vauxhall’s HiPerStrut front suspension, first used in the 325PS Insignia VXR, will also be standard across the Cascada range. The system separates damping and steering functions, reducing torque steer, while also improving steering feel and cornering control. In addition to this, the Cascada’s electric power steering module is mounted direct to the rack for greater feel and precision.

The Cascada can be equipped with a range of wheels, from 18to 20-inch in diameter, mated to brake disc sizes up to 326mm (front) and 325mm (rear).

A broad range of powertrains will be available from launch for the Cascada. At entry level, a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 140PS, and up to 220Nm. Vauxhall’s 2 CDTi (165PS) diesel engine, which can also be found in Insignia and Zafira Sports Tourer models, is available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, producing up to 380Nm of torque on overboost.

But the highlight of Cascada’s engine line-up will be the allnew 1.6 SIDI Turbo ECOTEC petrol engine. The first production engine from Vauxhall’s MGE (Mid-Size Gasoline Engine) family, the unit offers major improvements in torque, linearity and overall efficiency.

It produces a maximum 170PS from 1650-3200rpm and 280Nm of torque, again thanks to an overboost function. Initially this engine will only be available with a new, low-friction automatic sixspeed gearbox.

Auto Monitor

22 OCTOBER 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

42

Jeep unveils Grand Cherokee S-Limited

P

lans to continue the success of the Jeep range of 4x4 vehicles have been announced, with details of a new Grand Cherokee ‘Sports Line’ version, the S-Limited.

Designed to sit competitively in the ‘sports-styled’ premium SUV segment of the hotly contested 4WD market, the new Grand Cherokee S-Limited will offer all the presence of Jeep’s sports styling, but without the large capacity petrol engines seen in outright performance versions such as the 6.4-litre V8-powered Grand Cherokee SRT. T he new Jeep Gra nd Cherokee S-Limited comes with an assertive yet attractive sports appearance, taking many styling cues from the recent SRT version, while offering some of the more desirable product

highlights from the rest of the Grand Cherokee range in terms of fuel economy, 4x4 capability, safety, technology and comfort.

Real carbon fibre trim surrounds passengers with style and craftsmanship, demonstrating how the S-Limited is designed from the outset to offer greater style and equipment for a more attractive price than its competitors.

Refurbished Interiors The interior of the new S-Limited features a leatherwrapped heated steering wheel and ventilated sports-styled Nappa leather seats. Bright, racing style pedal pads add to the sporty, performance-oriented look inside the cabin.

Further standard features include Quadra-Lift air suspension, Quadra-Trac II four

wheel drive system, cross-path detection, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, Uconnect navigation, black gloss 20-inch alloy wheels, 825watt Harman-Kardon audio system with 19 speakers and three sub-woofers, power tailgate, and distinctive black grille and rear light bar.

Powered by Jeep’s proven

237bhp, 2987cc V6 CRD diesel engine with new-generation, 1.8-bar injectors and MultiJet II technology developed by Fiat Powertrain, the new Grand Cherokee S-Limited will cost £44,595 (OTR) when it goes on sale this month.

Positioning “Styled and targeted to the

important sports-line SUV sub-segment and with a high level of equipment on offer, the S-Limited is very attractively priced and positioned,” says Nigel Land, brand director, Jeep Chrysler UK. “With its sporting look this new addition will complete the Grand Cherokee range while appealing to a whole new group of customers.”

Samuelsson appointed Volvo Car Group President &CEO

T

he Board of Directors of Volvo Car Group has appointed Håkan Samuelsson, currently Board member, as new President & CEO effective immediately. Stefan Jacoby will leave Volvo Car Group after an amicable agreement with the Board of Directors.

Håkan Samuelsson has 35 years of experience from leading positions in the automotive industry, most recently as Chairman & CEO of MAN SE between 2005 and 2009. Since 2010 he is an independent member of the Board of Directors of Volvo Car Group.

No other business is as demanding, complex and full of challenges as the automotive industry- Håkan Samuelsson “I see major opportunities for Volvo Cars to improve profitability, and accelerate our growth plan in China specifically. I am convinced that Håkan Samuelsson’s thorough experience and leadership will help us increase performance,” says Li Shufu, majority shareholder and Chairman of the Board.

“My time on the Board has provided me with insight in the Volvo brand and the company.

My focus will be on execution and performance, to secure profitability and meet our sales objectives. No other business is as demanding, complex and full of challenges as the automotive industry. I look forward to leading Volvo Car Group in the most exciting period of its history,” says Håkan Samuelsson.”

Auto Monitor

22 OCTOBER 2012

N O R T H A M E R I C A N A S S E M B LY

44

AUTOFACTS Global Automotive Outlook PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

North America Assembly Tracking 8-2012 (Tracking by Brand & Nameplate) August 2012 Ownership Org/

Last 3 Months

YOY

Assembly

YOY

Volume

% Chg

Share %

Share Chg

AutoAlliance International (USA)

9,634

-22.4%

0.7%

Ford Mustang

5,546

-40.1%

Mazda Mazda6

4,088

29.4%

Brand & Nameplate

Year to Date

YOY

Assembly

YOY

Volume

% Chg

Share %

Share Chg

YOY

Assembly

YOY

Volume

% Chg

Share %

(-0.3)

33,587

12.0%

0.9%

Share Chg

(-0.1)

103,581

38.0%

1.0%

0.4%

(-0.4)

21,653

-7.7%

0.1

0.6%

(-0.2)

66,015

22.1%

0.6%

0.3%

0

11,934

0

82.5%

0.3%

0.1

37,566

79.1%

0.4%

0.1 (-0.2)

BMW (Germany)

27,563

4.1%

1.9%

(-0.2)

66,371

-5.9%

1.7%

(-0.5)

200,432

10.4%

1.9%

BMW X3

14,133

21.1%

1.0%

0

38,031

22.9%

1.0%

0

102,442

30.5%

1.0%

0.1

BMW X5

9,230

-16.6%

0.7%

(-0.3)

19,622

-31.9%

0.5%

(-0.4)

69,069

-5.5%

0.7%

(-0.2)

BMW X6

4,200

12.6%

0.3%

(-0.0)

8,718

-19.4%

0.2%

(-0.1)

28,921

-3.4%

0.3%

(-0.1)

Chrysler Group LLC (USA)

220,101

28.9%

15.5%

1.5

582,013

19.4%

15.3%

(-0.2)

1,599,734

21.6%

15.4%

(-0.0)

Chrysler 200

13,523

-6.5%

1.0%

(-0.2)

40,649

27.1%

1.1%

0.1

101,420

22.0%

1.0%

0

Chrysler 300

8,886

126.7%

0.6%

0.3

21,099

37.7%

0.6%

0.1

61,520

71.8%

0.6%

0.2

Chrysler Town & Country

13,610

16.1%

1.0%

(-0.0)

29,608

3.7%

0.8%

(-0.1)

79,251

9.0%

0.8%

(-0.1)

Dodge Avenger

10,457

44.1%

0.7%

0.1

25,441

73.5%

0.7%

0.2

71,368

46.9%

0.7%

Dodge Caliber

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.5)

-

-100.0%

-

Dodge Caravan

21,104

12.9%

1.5%

(-0.0)

48,063

13.2%

1.3%

(-0.1)

131,723

16.5%

1.3%

(-0.1)

Dodge Challenger

4,704

2.4%

0.3%

(-0.0)

11,012

-16.9%

0.3%

(-0.1)

31,901

7.3%

0.3%

(-0.0)

Dodge Charger

8,936

46.7%

0.6%

0.1

23,417

3.3%

0.6%

(-0.1)

63,432

1.1%

0.6%

(-0.1)

Dodge Dakota

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.2)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.2)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.2)

0.1 (-0.5)

Dodge Dart

10,097

-

0.7%

0.7

21,409

-

0.6%

0.6

22,890

-

0.2%

0.2

Dodge Durango

5,257

-11.3%

0.4%

(-0.1)

13,534

-29.1%

0.4%

(-0.3)

32,833

-40.4%

0.3%

(-0.3)

Dodge Journey

9,169

-9.0%

0.6%

(-0.2)

33,250

8.1%

0.9%

(-0.1)

88,943

24.3%

0.9%

Dodge Nitro

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.2)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.2)

-

-100.0%

-

0

Fiat 500

7,674

34.7%

0.5%

0.1

22,089

37.7%

0.6%

0.1

56,672

57.4%

0.5%

0.1

Fiat Freemont

3,929

9.5%

0.3%

(-0.0)

12,295

17.7%

0.3%

(-0.0)

35,150

105.5%

0.3%

0.1

Jeep Compass

5,918

134.2%

0.4%

0.2

19,057

-22.8%

0.5%

(-0.3)

75,447

6.6%

0.7%

(-0.1)

Jeep Grand Cherokee

19,444

5.9%

1.4%

(-0.1)

61,261

45.2%

1.6%

0.3

163,745

52.2%

1.6%

0.3

Jeep Liberty

5,776

-19.8%

0.4%

(-0.2)

24,396

36.2%

0.6%

0.1

78,695

65.2%

0.8%

0.2 (-0.0)

(-0.2)

Jeep Patriot

4,748

157.3%

0.3%

0.2

12,666

-28.9%

0.3%

(-0.2)

64,919

16.3%

0.6%

Jeep Wrangler

5,859

11.4%

0.4%

(-0.0)

18,124

42.4%

0.5%

0.1

51,131

29.5%

0.5%

0

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

11,623

28.4%

0.8%

0.1

30,313

41.5%

0.8%

0.1

81,659

24.6%

0.8%

0

Lancia Flavia

2,203

-

0.2%

0.2

2,478

-

0.1%

0.1

3,406

-

0.0%

0

Lancia Grand Voyager

792

-

0.1%

0.1

1,669

-

0.0%

0

4,826

-

0.0%

0

Lancia Thema

5

-

0.0%

0

13

-

0.0%

0

934

-

0.0%

0

Chrysler Group LLC (USA)

220,101

28.9%

15.5%

1.5

582,013

19.4%

15.3%

(-0.2)

1,599,734

21.6%

15.4%

(-0.0)

Ram Cargo Van

932

156.7%

0.1%

0

2,670

635.5%

0.1%

0.1

7,668

2012.4%

0.1%

0.1

Ram Pickup

45,455

62.7%

3.2%

0.9

104,285

39.3%

2.7%

0.4

281,731

29.3%

2.7%

0.2

Volkswagen Routan

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

3,215

10.6%

0.1%

(-0.0)

8,470

-26.9%

0.1%

(-0.1)

Daimler AG (Germany)

21,313

34.1%

1.5%

0.2

51,271

48.6%

1.3%

0.2

131,302

33.5%

1.3%

0.1

Freightliner Sprinter

889

11.0%

0.1%

(-0.0)

2,127

11.6%

0.1%

(-0.0)

6,174

13.1%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

3,864

5.0%

0.3%

(-0.0)

11,304

43.0%

0.3%

0

28,264

29.0%

0.3%

0

Mercedes-Benz M-Class

13,800

44.2%

1.0%

0.2

32,040

55.1%

0.8%

0.2

82,920

40.0%

0.8%

0.1

Mercedes-Benz R-Class

2,760

50.0%

0.2%

0

5,800

43.6%

0.2%

0

13,944

18.3%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Ford Motor Company (USA)

240,520

3.9%

17.0%

(-2.1)

659,498

3.0%

17.3%

(-3.0)

1,763,194

3.2%

17.0%

(-3.1)

Ford C-MAX

3,168

-

0.2%

0.2

3,850

-

0.1%

0.1

4,015

-

0.0%

Ford Crown Victoria

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.7)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.8)

-

-100.0%

-

0

Ford Edge

17,242

13.9%

1.2%

(-0.0)

43,044

3.8%

1.1%

(-0.2)

117,640

5.9%

1.1%

(-0.2)

Ford Escape

31,628

33.1%

2.2%

0.3

72,982

-3.2%

1.9%

(-0.5)

205,599

-2.8%

2.0%

(-0.5) (-0.2)

(-0.7)

Ford E-Series

13,251

-9.6%

0.9%

(-0.3)

32,110

4.9%

0.8%

(-0.1)

98,448

2.3%

0.9%

Ford Expedition

7,197

32.6%

0.5%

0.1

16,690

31.8%

0.4%

0

45,457

25.7%

0.4%

0

Ford Explorer

21,131

19.0%

1.5%

0

53,580

28.8%

1.4%

0.1

136,626

27.5%

1.3%

0.1

Ford Fiesta

13,831

39.1%

1.0%

0.2

32,878

7.6%

0.9%

(-0.1)

90,799

13.0%

0.9%

(-0.1)

Ford Flex

2,474

-13.0%

0.2%

(-0.1)

7,154

-5.1%

0.2%

(-0.1)

22,177

11.8%

0.2%

(-0.0)

Ford Focus

25,951

-3.3%

1.8%

(-0.4)

76,146

22.2%

2.0%

0

188,789

44.4%

1.8%

0.3

Ford F-Series

85,821

26.6%

6.1%

0.5

216,330

23.8%

5.7%

0.1

545,368

16.4%

5.3%

(-0.3)

Ford Fusion

5,161

-64.5%

0.4%

(-0.8)

60,187

-15.8%

1.6%

(-0.7)

184,126

-3.5%

1.8%

(-0.5)

Ford Ranger

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.8)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.8)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.8)

Ford Taurus

8,889

30.5%

0.6%

0.1

24,502

41.0%

0.6%

0.1

63,732

26.9%

0.6%

0

Lincoln Mark LT

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

118

6.3%

0.0%

(-0.0)

224

-20.3%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Lincoln MKS

208

-82.0%

0.0%

(-0.1)

3,347

9.8%

0.1%

(-0.0)

10,156

27.5%

0.1%

0

Lincoln MKT

171

-54.2%

0.0%

(-0.0)

1,678

49.2%

0.0%

0

5,281

57.9%

0.1%

0

Lincoln MKX

3,418

19.4%

0.2%

0

7,328

-10.7%

0.2%

(-0.1)

19,597

-13.4%

0.2%

(-0.1)

Lincoln MKZ

18

-98.9%

0.0%

(-0.1)

5,207

-30.3%

0.1%

(-0.1)

19,040

-11.6%

0.2%

(-0.1) (-0.0)

Lincoln Navigator

961

24.8%

0.1%

0

2,367

8.5%

0.1%

(-0.0)

6,120

-8.8%

0.1%

Lincoln Town Car

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.1)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.1)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.1)

Mazda Tribute

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

Mercury Grand Marquis

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

Fuji Heavy Industries (Japan)

27,664

24.3%

2.0%

0.1

62,861

19.2%

1.7%

(-0.0)

189,097

27.2%

1.8%

0.1

Subaru Legacy

5,237

30.0%

0.4%

0

10,931

17.4%

0.3%

(-0.0)

33,543

19.4%

0.3%

(-0.0)

Subaru Outback

13,250

44.1%

0.9%

0.2

30,104

36.3%

0.8%

0.1

88,949

36.4%

0.9%

0.1

Subaru Tribeca

420

4.7%

0.0%

(-0.0)

932

-25.4%

0.0%

(-0.0)

2,790

-31.9%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Toyota Camry

8,757

1.5%

0.6%

(-0.1)

20,894

4.0%

0.5%

(-0.1)

63,815

24.4%

0.6%

0

General Motors Company (USA)

296,676

-1.3%

20.9%

(-3.8)

793,533

5.9%

20.9%

(-3.0)

2,204,294

5.6%

21.3%

(-3.3) (-0.2)

Buick Enclave

4,762

-30.9%

0.3%

(-0.2)

14,790

-22.3%

0.4%

(-0.2)

43,772

-16.8%

0.4%

Buick LaCrosse

4,996

-20.5%

0.4%

(-0.2)

13,631

-9.6%

0.4%

(-0.1)

39,290

-9.1%

0.4%

(-0.1)

Buick Lucerne

-

-

-

-

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.2)

Buick Regal

2,192

-18.2%

0.2%

(-0.1)

5,333

11.9%

0.1%

(-0.0)

13,887

27.0%

0.1%

0

Buick Verano

5,878

-

0.4%

0.4

13,954

-

0.4%

0.4

38,245

-

0.4%

0.4

Cadillac ATS

1,728

-

0.1%

0.1

2,399

-

0.1%

0.1

2,399

-

0.0%

0

Cadillac CTS

5,968

-24.3%

0.4%

(-0.2)

13,435

19.9%

0.4%

(-0.0)

37,536

-10.1%

0.4%

(-0.1)

Cadillac DTS

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.1)

Cadillac Escalade

839

-54.5%

0.1%

(-0.1)

4,617

5.1%

0.1%

(-0.0)

11,115

-8.3%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Cadillac Escalade ESV

289

-69.8%

0.0%

(-0.1)

2,285

-1.8%

0.1%

(-0.0)

5,811

10.1%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Cadillac Escalade EXT

240

32.6%

0.0%

0

713

32.3%

0.0%

0

1,673

-0.4%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Cadillac SRX

7,823

-6.0%

0.6%

(-0.1)

23,909

3.9%

0.6%

(-0.1)

61,863

7.9%

0.6%

(-0.1)

Cadillac STS

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

Cadillac XTS

4,669

-

0.3%

0.3

10,846

-

0.3%

0.3

12,654

-

0.1%

0.1

Chevrolet Avalanche

3,103

22.4%

0.2%

0

8,726

14.2%

0.2%

(-0.0)

17,209

-3.5%

0.2%

(-0.0)

Chevrolet Aveo

7,742

18.6%

0.5%

0

21,682

24.5%

0.6%

0

55,911

27.2%

0.5%

Chevrolet C2

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.3)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.3)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.3)

0

Chevrolet Camaro

9,818

-11.9%

0.7%

(-0.2)

20,803

-22.7%

0.5%

(-0.3)

63,428

-15.5%

0.6%

(-0.3)

Chevrolet Captiva

3,357

1.7%

0.2%

(-0.0)

14,142

49.5%

0.4%

0.1

40,286

73.8%

0.4%

0.1

22 OCTOBER 2012

August 2012 Ownership Org/ Brand & Nameplate

Auto Monitor

N O R T H A M E R I C A N A S S E M B LY Volume

YOY % Chg

45

Last 3 Months Assembly Share %

YOY Share Chg

Volume

YOY % Chg

Year to Date Assembly Share %

YOY Share Chg

Volume

YOY % Chg

Assembly Share %

YOY Share Chg

Chevrolet Colorado

4,165

-1.7%

0.3%

(-0.1)

12,080

18.8%

0.3%

(-0.0)

32,266

18.9%

0.3%

(-0.0)

Chevrolet Corvette

1,919

28.5%

0.1%

0

3,673

1.1%

0.1%

(-0.0)

9,800

8.5%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Chevrolet Cruze

27,624

-4.5%

1.9%

(-0.4)

66,321

-6.3%

1.7%

(-0.5)

193,545

-1.0%

1.9%

(-0.4)

Chevrolet Equinox

21,496

-9.3%

1.5%

(-0.4)

55,851

8.0%

1.5%

(-0.2)

166,697

8.2%

1.6%

(-0.2)

Chevrolet Express

6,755

-15.0%

0.5%

(-0.2)

28,129

25.2%

0.7%

0

67,135

23.8%

0.6%

Chevrolet HHR

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.3) (-0.4)

0

Chevrolet Impala

16,753

-13.7%

1.2%

(-0.4)

39,504

-7.8%

1.0%

(-0.3)

121,378

-8.5%

1.2%

Chevrolet Malibu

25,425

31.3%

1.8%

0.2

56,692

6.1%

1.5%

(-0.2)

164,559

13.9%

1.6%

(-0.1)

General Motors Company (USA)

296,676

-1.3%

20.9%

(-3.8)

793,533

5.9%

20.9%

(-3.0)

2,204,294

5.6%

21.3%

(-3.3)

Chevrolet Silverado

52,041

9.8%

3.7%

(-0.2)

132,274

4.6%

3.5%

(-0.5)

352,344

3.2%

3.4%

(-0.6)

Chevrolet Sonic

13,092

140.1%

0.9%

0.5

26,787

391.3%

0.7%

0.5

71,558

1212.5%

0.7%

0.6

Chevrolet Suburban

2,004

-66.1%

0.1%

(-0.3)

14,714

-13.6%

0.4%

(-0.2)

41,452

4.5%

0.4%

(-0.1)

Chevrolet Tahoe

3,488

-57.1%

0.2%

(-0.4)

21,549

-22.1%

0.6%

(-0.3)

72,200

3.8%

0.7%

(-0.1)

Chevrolet Traverse

7,015

-44.9%

0.5%

(-0.6)

21,120

-33.1%

0.6%

(-0.4)

62,381

-26.1%

0.6%

(-0.4)

Chevrolet Volt

3,688

54.0%

0.3%

0.1

8,223

171.2%

0.2%

0.1

17,379

175.8%

0.2%

0.1

GMC Acadia

6,921

-14.2%

0.5%

(-0.2)

22,412

5.6%

0.6%

(-0.1)

60,004

-0.2%

0.6%

(-0.1) (-0.0)

GMC Canyon

593

-66.3%

0.0%

(-0.1)

2,001

-51.2%

0.1%

(-0.1)

7,064

-21.1%

0.1%

GMC Savana

1,537

-24.5%

0.1%

(-0.1)

5,917

13.5%

0.2%

(-0.0)

22,896

28.9%

0.2%

0

GMC Sierra Pickups

23,180

22.6%

1.6%

0.1

59,773

9.7%

1.6%

(-0.2)

156,414

12.3%

1.5%

(-0.1)

GMC Terrain

11,934

8.6%

0.8%

(-0.1)

26,602

10.7%

0.7%

(-0.1)

79,691

11.1%

0.8%

(-0.1)

GMC Yukon

1,802

-68.7%

0.1%

(-0.3)

8,753

-32.8%

0.2%

(-0.2)

31,458

-8.9%

0.3%

(-0.1)

GMC Yukon XL

677

-81.5%

0.0%

(-0.3)

7,859

-16.4%

0.2%

(-0.1)

22,644

-4.2%

0.2%

(-0.1)

Opel-Vauxhall Ampera

1,163

238.1%

0.1%

0.1

2,034

116.6%

0.1%

0

6,350

488.5%

0.1%

Saab 9-4X

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

-

-100.0%

-

Honda Motor Company (Japan)

148,814

36.0%

10.5%

1.5

402,068

81.4%

10.6%

3.5

1,150,285

71.8%

11.1%

Acura CSX

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-100.0%

-

0 (-0.0) 3.2 (-0.0)

Acura ILX

3,330

-

0.2%

0.2

12,092

-

0.3%

0.3

16,804

-

0.2%

0.2

Acura MDX

5,475

43.9%

0.4%

0.1

16,385

78.7%

0.4%

0.1

49,737

50.2%

0.5%

0.1

Acura RDX

4,449

83.3%

0.3%

0.1

11,106

175.7%

0.3%

0.2

21,326

100.6%

0.2%

0.1

Acura TL

1,433

-58.3%

0.1%

(-0.2)

7,150

-0.5%

0.2%

(-0.0)

27,755

35.2%

0.3%

0

Acura ZDX

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

120

-64.6%

0.0%

(-0.0)

752

-12.6%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Honda Accord

35,242

31.1%

2.5%

0.3

95,182

88.3%

2.5%

0.9

270,371

86.5%

2.6%

0.9

Honda Civic

32,701

69.6%

2.3%

0.7

88,011

94.9%

2.3%

0.9

279,157

94.7%

2.7%

1.0

Honda Crosstour

1,684

100.7%

0.1%

0

5,169

50.7%

0.1%

0

19,654

82.7%

0.2%

0.1

Honda CR-V

34,990

38.0%

2.5%

0.4

89,130

85.5%

2.3%

0.8

237,461

75.0%

2.3%

0.7

Honda Element

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-100.0%

-

Honda Odyssey

13,199

-4.2%

0.9%

(-0.2)

38,739

38.6%

1.0%

0.1

113,455

44.7%

1.1%

0.2

Honda Pilot

14,692

20.9%

1.0%

0

36,331

47.4%

1.0%

0.2

103,147

35.0%

1.0%

0.1

Honda Ridgeline

1,619

42.6%

0.1%

0

2,653

133.7%

0.1%

0

10,666

80.6%

0.1%

0

Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea)

70,863

29.8%

5.0%

0.5

178,864

18.2%

4.7%

(-0.1)

474,527

18.5%

4.6%

(-0.1)

Hyundai Elantra/i30

13,959

23.5%

1.0%

0.1

34,185

23.4%

0.9%

0

87,331

5.5%

0.8%

(-0.1)

Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea)

70,863

29.8%

5.0%

0.5

178,864

18.2%

4.7%

(-0.1)

474,527

18.5%

4.6%

(-0.1)

Hyundai Santa Fe

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.8)

2,743

-90.1%

0.1%

(-0.8)

48,324

-31.7%

0.5%

(-0.4)

Hyundai Santa Fe/ix45

12,806

-

0.9%

0.9

12,906

-

0.3%

0.3

12,906

-

0.1%

0.1

Hyundai Sonata/i40

21,295

1.4%

1.5%

(-0.2)

56,558

-2.7%

1.5%

(-0.4)

150,166

2.0%

1.4%

(-0.3)

(-0.1)

Kia Optima

10,930

-

0.8%

0.8

34,659

-

0.9%

0.9

85,926

-

0.8%

0.8

Kia Sorento

11,873

-1.1%

0.8%

(-0.1)

37,813

-0.4%

1.0%

(-0.2)

89,874

-9.9%

0.9%

(-0.3) (-0.2)

Mitsubishi Motors Corp (Japan)

3,331

-21.0%

0.2%

(-0.1)

7,158

-43.8%

0.2%

(-0.2)

17,554

-41.9%

0.2%

Mitsubishi Eclipse

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.1)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.1)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.1)

Mitsubishi Endeavor

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.2)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.2)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.1) (-0.0)

Mitsubishi Galant

1

-99.9%

0.0%

(-0.1)

3,828

17.6%

0.1%

(-0.0)

14,224

12.2%

0.1%

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

3,330

-

0.2%

0.2

3,330

-

0.1%

0.1

3,330

-

0.0%

0

Nissan Motor (Japan)

121,203

5.9%

8.5%

(-0.9)

334,643

16.7%

8.8%

(-0.3)

887,355

20.8%

8.6%

(-0.1)

Infiniti JX Series

3,137

-

0.2%

0.2

10,124

-

0.3%

0.3

19,992

-

0.2%

0.2

Nissan Altima

30,403

-7.8%

2.1%

(-0.6)

73,837

-7.8%

1.9%

(-0.6)

215,382

5.1%

2.1%

(-0.3)

Nissan Armada

2,525

36.7%

0.2%

0

5,489

17.4%

0.1%

(-0.0)

14,604

7.6%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Nissan Frontier

9,710

68.1%

0.7%

0.2

26,386

74.6%

0.7%

0.2

65,549

71.4%

0.6%

0.2

Nissan March

5,133

-12.2%

0.4%

(-0.1)

13,849

15.1%

0.4%

(-0.0)

46,177

139.4%

0.4%

0.2

Nissan Maxima

5,772

-12.4%

0.4%

(-0.1)

15,703

-7.8%

0.4%

(-0.1)

48,553

4.8%

0.5%

(-0.1)

Nissan NV-Series

585

-51.2%

0.0%

(-0.1)

1,677

-64.9%

0.0%

(-0.1)

5,019

-52.8%

0.0%

(-0.1)

Nissan Pathfinder

5,057

57.0%

0.4%

0.1

13,308

63.3%

0.3%

0.1

29,017

23.7%

0.3%

0

Nissan Pickup

9,571

86.1%

0.7%

0.3

21,798

58.8%

0.6%

0.1

53,714

70.3%

0.5%

0.1

Nissan Sentra

11,704

-18.7%

0.8%

(-0.4)

41,620

9.0%

1.1%

(-0.1)

106,204

-1.9%

1.0%

(-0.2)

Nissan Tiida

14,865

8.0%

1.0%

(-0.1)

43,712

-0.7%

1.1%

(-0.3)

107,099

49.0%

1.0%

0.2

Nissan Titan

3,485

51.0%

0.2%

0.1

8,340

37.8%

0.2%

0

22,023

23.8%

0.2%

0

Nissan Tsuru

3,663

-16.4%

0.3%

(-0.1)

9,911

-19.9%

0.3%

(-0.1)

27,451

-35.5%

0.3%

(-0.2) (-0.0)

Nissan Versa

12,922

-9.0%

0.9%

(-0.3)

39,554

67.8%

1.0%

0.3

105,427

19.0%

1.0%

Nissan Xterra

2,511

-2.6%

0.2%

(-0.0)

8,805

39.0%

0.2%

0

19,834

22.5%

0.2%

0

Suzuki Equator

160

-15.8%

0.0%

(-0.0)

530

-14.5%

0.0%

(-0.0)

1,310

-9.7%

0.0%

(-0.0) (-0.0)

Tesla Motors (USA)

138

-20.7%

0.0%

(-0.0)

240

-50.8%

0.0%

(-0.0)

240

-81.0%

0.0%

Tesla Model S

138

-

0.0%

0

240

-

0.0%

0

240

-

0.0%

Tesla Roadster

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

-

-100.0%

-

Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan)

153,644

53.5%

10.8%

2.6

409,924

65.2%

10.8%

2.9

1,151,509

65.3%

11.1%

Lexus RX Series

7,584

72.2%

0.5%

0.2

20,774

85.4%

0.5%

0.2

58,455

54.6%

0.6%

0.1

Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan)

153,644

53.5%

10.8%

2.6

409,924

65.2%

10.8%

2.9

1,151,509

65.3%

11.1%

2.9 (-0.0)

0 (-0.0) 2.9

Toyota Avalon

3,152

-16.7%

0.2%

(-0.1)

7,934

-8.2%

0.2%

(-0.1)

25,199

4.2%

0.2%

Toyota Camry

33,658

59.7%

2.4%

0.6

93,342

72.4%

2.5%

0.7

265,162

107.2%

2.6%

1.1

Toyota Corolla

35,607

67.6%

2.5%

0.8

92,173

83.0%

2.4%

0.8

242,959

92.3%

2.3%

0.9

Toyota Highlander

12,646

19.5%

0.9%

0

32,009

25.8%

0.8%

0

89,762

41.3%

0.9%

0.1

Toyota Matrix

1,142

-48.8%

0.1%

(-0.1)

4,033

-29.6%

0.1%

(-0.1)

13,848

15.5%

0.1%

(-0.0) 0.4

Toyota RAV4

15,688

272.3%

1.1%

0.8

43,207

327.8%

1.1%

0.8

121,868

81.5%

1.2%

Toyota Sequoia

2,624

39.3%

0.2%

0

6,664

30.3%

0.2%

0

16,882

48.5%

0.2%

0

Toyota Sienna

12,215

-3.3%

0.9%

(-0.2)

31,863

2.3%

0.8%

(-0.2)

93,162

19.3%

0.9%

(-0.0)

Toyota Tacoma

16,379

90.4%

1.2%

0.4

39,901

75.5%

1.0%

0.3

106,450

62.4%

1.0%

0.3

Toyota Tundra

8,639

61.0%

0.6%

0.2

25,942

102.8%

0.7%

0.3

78,722

51.9%

0.8%

0.1

Toyota Venza

4,310

6.5%

0.3%

(-0.0)

12,082

13.0%

0.3%

(-0.0)

39,040

26.1%

0.4%

0

Volkswagen (Germany)

76,271

44.8%

5.4%

1.0

221,291

42.6%

5.8%

0.9

497,235

40.2%

4.8%

0.6

Volkswagen Beetle

10,907

173.1%

0.8%

0.4

33,948

464.3%

0.9%

0.7

67,912

1028.9%

0.7%

Volkswagen Bora

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

-

-100.0%

-

(-0.0)

-

-100.0%

-

0.6 (-0.0)

Volkswagen Golf/Jetta Variant

15,409

12.1%

1.1%

(-0.0)

45,132

5.8%

1.2%

(-0.2)

100,174

-1.3%

1.0%

(-0.2)

Volkswagen Jetta

35,955

12.1%

2.5%

(-0.1)

105,311

5.8%

2.8%

(-0.4)

233,743

-1.3%

2.3%

(-0.5)

Volkswagen Passat

14,000

400.0%

1.0%

0.8

36,900

442.6%

1.0%

0.8

95,406

860.1%

0.9%

0.8

Total Light Vehicle

1,417,735

16.7%

100.0%

-

3,803,322

21.1%

100.0%

-

10,370,339

22.0%

100.0%

-

22 OCTOBER 2012

CLASSIFIEDS

Auto Monitor

47

Tej Control Systems Pvt Ltd Plot No.329/331, Road No.25, Wagle Industrial Estate, Thane(W) - 400 604.

Tel. +91 22 2583 8191 to 98, Fax: +91 22 25838199 Email: tivs@tejcontrol.com, vision@tejcontrol.com Website: www.tejivs.com

The leading source for automotive parts, components & accessories.

Auto Monitor

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Ace Micromatic Group

22 OCTOBER 2012

ADVERTISERS’ LIST

48 Pg No 1, BC

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Jyoti CNC Automation Pvt. Ltd.

Pg No 19

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Patvin Engineering (P) Ltd

T: +91-80-40200555

T: +91-2827-287081

T: +91-22-27780310

E: customercare@acemicromatic.com

E: info@jyoti.co.in

E: patvin@patvin.co.in

W: www.acemicromatic.net

W: www.jyoti.co.in

W: www.patvin.co.in

Auto Serve 2012

40

Kalpa Industries

38

Philips Electronics India Ltd.

T: +91-44-42444555

T: +91-1334-231517

T: +1800-102-2929

E: autoserve@cii.in

E: info@larexcables.com

W: www.philips.co.in

W: www.ciiautoserve.in

Kalsi Automotive Pvt Ltd

15, 34

Phoenix Contact India Pvt Ltd

T: +91-11-28116427

T: +91-11-30262700

E: technology@borgwarner.com

E: jasdeep@kalsiengg.com

E: response@phoenixcontact.co.in

W: www.beru.borgwarner.com

W: www.kalsiengg.com

W: www.phoenixcontact.co.in

Borgwarner Beru Systems-Beru Ag -

Carl Zeiss India Pvt Ltd

39

31

Komax Automation India Pvt. Ltd.

T: +91-80-43438102

T: +91-124-4599100

E: imtndia@zeiss.co.in

E: info.dei@komaxgroup.com

W: www.zeiss.co.in

W: www.komax.com

Dhoot Transmission Pvt Ltd

13

Larsen & Toubro Limited

E: sales@dhoottransmission.com

T: +91-09967800456

W: www.dhoottransmission.com

E: SM.Haridas@larsentoubro.com

30

Productivity Buzz

Pg No 22

10

25, 32

42

T: +91-80-66246600 E: augustin@imtma.in W: www.imtma.in

FIC

Rohan Standox Autolack

16

T: +91-22-65803331 E: sales@spraytec.net W: www.spraytec.net

W: www.larsentoubro.com

Dolphin Special Machine

24

Safexpress Private Limited Makino Auto Industries Pvt Ltd

T: +91-9884814431 E: natarajan@dolmatic.com

T: +91-120 6519685

W: www.dolmatic.com

E: makino@makino.in

Ecocat India Pvt Ltd

37

W: www.safexpress.com

Sandvik Coromant India 12

T: +91-20-66743300

E: rupali.kavi@sandvik.com

W: www.ecocat.com

E: info@markspryor.com

W: www.sandvik.coromant.com/in

29

T: +91-124-4391500

W: www.markspryor.com

Meiban Engineering Technologies Pvt

E: fccrico@fccrico.com

T: +91-80-26860600

W: www.fccrico.com

E: sales-turning@meibanengg.com

Ferromatik Milacron India Pvt Ltd

17

T: +91-79-25890081

W: www.senormetals.in

Shri Ram Polytech 27

E: info@shrirampolytech.com W: www.shrirampolytech.com E: anil.batra@minda.co.in

18

Shriram Pistons & Rings Ltd

W: www.minda.co.in

Mipox Abrasive India Pvt. Ltd.

E: s.narayanan@fiemindustries.com

T: +91-80-65830898

W: www.fiemindustries.com

E: rag-rao@mipox.co.jp

5

14

E: aarti.anandan@shrirampistons.com

Tata Motors Ltd.

E: charu.gulati@tatamotors.com

23

W: www.tatamotors.com

E: sales@foxindia.net

T: +91-80-23516083

W: www.foxindia.net

E: mmcindia@mmc.co.jp

T: +91-4562-2443300

W: www.mitsubishicarbide.com

E: prathap1234@yahoo.co.in

20

Molex Incorporated

T: +91-80-40431252

TVS Srichakra Ltd

21

W: www.gwindia.in

E: adam.ong@molex.com

T: +91-240-2556227

W: www.molex.com

E: varroc.info@varrocgroup.com

26 Napino Auto & Electronics Ltd.

T: +91-22-67962751

46

T: +91-124-2290050

T: +91-80-40322500 E: info@guhring.in W: www.guhring.in

FIC : Front Inside Cover BIC : Back Inside Cover BC: Back cover

28

T: +91-124-4121626

E: info@napino.com

E: imtiaz.ahmed@wagner-group.com

W: www.godrejtoolings.com

Guhring India Private Limited

35

W: www.varrocgroup.com

Wagner

E: trmktg@godrej.com

9

W: www.tvstyres.com

Varroc Engineering Pvt Ltd

T: +86-28-8789-5088

E: info@gwindia.in

7

T: +91-22-66586195

W: www.mipoxindia.com

MMC Hardmetal India Pvt Ltd

T: +91-253-6618100

Godrej & Boyce Mfg. Co. Ltd.

33

T: +91-11-23315941

T: +91-9991702453

G W Precision Tools India Pvt Ltd

36

T: +91-11-23316801

T: +91-120-4787100

W: www.milacronindia.com

Fox Solutions

47

T: +91-288-2730251 E: sales@senormetals.in

W: www.meibanengg.com

Minda Management Services Ltd.

E: salesfmi@milacron.com

Fiem Industries Ltd

Senor Metals Pvt Ltd 11

3

T: +91-20-27104725

E: alok@ecocatindia.com

FCC Rico Ltd

6

T: +1800-113-113 E: suyash.srivastava@safexpress.com

W: www.makino.in

Marks Pryor Marketing Technology

T: +91-129-4266500

43

W: www.napino.com

BIC

Padmini VNA Mechatronics Pvt. Ltd. T: +91-124-3207398

W: www.wagner-group.com

41

World Courier India Pvt Ltd

8

T: +91-80-43438607

E: sales@padminiengg.com

E: ripudaman@worldcourier.co.in

W: www.padminivna.com

W: www.worldcourier.com Our consistent advertisers

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

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