Auto Monitor - 7 May 2012 by Infomedia18

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 ns Tur w o N

Vol. 12 No. 11

kly e e W

7 May 2012

w w w.amonl ine.in

40 Pages

FOCUS

` 50

INTERVIEW

TESTING

‘WE ARE LOOKING TO GROW BEYOND FINANCING BMW CARS’ Pg 9-10

Pg 8

Dan DeChristopher, MD & CEO, BMW Financial Services India

Made-in-India power for European cars Nabeel A Khan New Delhi

The engine has its blocks & head made of aluminum alloy instead of cast iron, which makes it lighter in weight. What’s more, its light weight combined with high speed empowers it to deliver more power Photograph: Nabeel A Khan

K Birla Group’s auto engine and transmission component manufacturing company, Avtec Ltd will be exporting two litre or below Euro V compliant diesel engines to an undisclosed European carmaker soon. The company is in advanced stage of discussion. Avtec had showcased Euro IV and Euro V engines during the Auto Expo held in New Delhi early this year. The engines have been developed with the technical design support from its European partner, Peugeot Citroën Moteurs (PCM). “We are to fi nalise the exports of Euro V complaint engines to a European carmaker and are exploring more customers for the engines there. The engine can be used in both sports utility vehicle and passenger cars. We would be able to finalise it by H1 (first half of the fiscal),” revealed Managing Director, Avtec,

Prabhakar Kadapa, MD, Avtec

Prabhakar Kadapa. The engine will be manufactured at the company’s Pithampur plant with around 90

percent localisation. The company is also planning to offer the Euro V engine in the US and other Asian markets where Euro V

emission norms are applicable. The engine has its blocks and head made of aluminum alloy instead of cast iron, which consequently makes it lighter in weight. What’s more, its light weight combined with high speed (around 6,000 RPM) empowers it to deliver more power. Avtec claims that the engine has been designed in such a way that it is compact in terms of size. The component manufacturer is

also talking to a number of carmakers in India to supply the Euro IV engine and might be able to bag a deal in the near future. With this, Avtec has taken its relationship with PCM to the next level. At the fi rst stage, the Indian component maker had developed two engines for gensets with support from PCM. As in the fi rst quarter of the fi nancial year, overall exports from India went down, the company has also felt a flat momentum in the exports. “We are observing a dip in the exports especially to the US market. But we hope that by the second quarter of the fiscal we would be seeing a better situation,” Kadapa anticipated. The company had expected a year-on-year growth of 40 percent in FY13, but till the fi rst quarter it had noted flat exports. Yet, based on the upcoming expansion and newer business, it hopes to achieve a growth of 40 percent in exports. Its exports revenue in the fi rst quarter stood at around $four million.

Fiat, Tata end distribution alliance Our Bureau Mumbai

Fiat is looking to establish a separate entity to take charge of the distribution and network development for Fiat branded cars in the Indian market. Development of the new Fiat dealer network for India will start progressively

ata Motors and Fiat have decided to put an end to their ‘bitter’ distribution alliance in India.

DATA MONITOR Top 5 3W Makers Company

Mar-11

Mar-12

Change

Bajaj

17,773

17,441

-1.87%

Piaggio

17,644

14,319

-18.84%

M&M

5,769

5,089

-11.79%

ATUL

1,989

2,514

26.40%

Scooters

1,825

1,812

-0.71%

Top 5 3W Exporters Company

Mar-11

Mar-12

Change

Bajaj

15,576

17,226

10.59%

Piaggio

1,521

2,177

43.13%

TVS

2,917

1,152

-60.51%

M&M

252

116

-53.97%

Atul

233.33%

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

Fiat’s engine production line at Ranjangaon

Italian car major Fiat is looking to establish a separate entity to take charge of the distribution and network development for Fiat branded cars in the Indian market. The partners will however continue to have manufacturing alliance with joint car and engine manufacturing capacity at Ranjangaon near Pune. As part of the growth plans and in order to provide greater focus

on the Fiat brand, Tata Motors will hand over the distribution and service responsibility for Fiat cars in India to a Fiat Group owned company being formed for the purpose. Development of the new Fiat dealer network for India will start progressively and the 178 existing Fiat-franchised Tata dealers in 129 cities will be encouraged to form the foundation of the future

network. Fiat will establish a separate entity for assuming responsibility for all commercial and service related activities from the current Tata-dedicated team assigned to manage the Fiat brand. Both, Fiat and Tata Motors will endeavor to ensure a smooth transition of sales and service support to customers and the dealer network, according to a company statement.

Announced in 2006, the Fiat-Tata joint venture also encompasses manufacturing activities located in Ranjangoan. The manufacturing plant uses technology by Fiat to produce Fiat and Tata cars in addition to engines and transmissions for both the domestic and export market. Fiat recently announced a contract to supply its small diesel engine to Maruti Suzuki and is looking to add other customers for its 1.3 litre multijet engine. In its ﬁve years of operation, the industrial JV has produced some 190,000 cars and 337,000 powertrains. Fiat manufactures and sells vehicles under the Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Abarth brands and light commercial vehicles under the Fiat Professional brand. Fiat Group Automobiles comprises five companies: Fiat Automobiles, Alfa Romeo Automobiles, Lancia Automobiles, Abarth & Co and Fiat Light Commercial Vehicles. All these companies are 100 percent owned by Fiat Group Automobiles SpA.

A to Z product range as per Customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designs, applications, sizes and Internationals Standards

EDITORIAL Reviving an icon

xpected things happen. And how soon these events unfold depends upon many factors. One such development is Fiat parting ways with Tata after about six years of alliance for manufacturing activities and management control of the former’s commercial and distribution activities. Tata Motors has been managing the distribution of the Fiat branded products in India through joint Tata-Fiat dealerships. As the joint initiative failed to support Fiat with the required numbers—the Italian headquartered company has called it a day. Fiat has been one of the strongest brands in India for ages as it was associated with power and elegance when compared with its peers. It had the highest recall among Indians as the waiting period was more than a decade. Afﬂuent new fathers used to book the car when they were blessed with baby girls, to be given as their wedding gifts later—that was the extent of people’s conﬁdence in the brand. Fiat’s association with Premier gained enough strength and established the brand further. It was a brand to reckon with, till Maruti came in to the passenger car space. When Fiat decided to invest in India in the mid-90s, the atmosphere was very conducive for new automotive launches. And the overwhelming response to the Uno launch only encouraged the company to believe that it would have long and successful innings in India. The company also wanted to establish a strong base in the country. However, things went topsy-turvy when the manufacturing operations of Uno at Kurla were hit by labour unrest. In the

meantime, Maruti capitalised on the long waiting period of Uno by ﬁelding Zen. And the move came as a big blow to Fiat. Even its next car, Palio did not fare well, as the issues faced by its headquarters had an adverse impact on its India operations. The alliance with Tata was to give new life to the ailing brand. However, it is back to square one now. Fiat states that it will establish a new company and develop a new dealer network for India. The 178 existing Fiatfranchised Tata dealers in 129 cities will be encouraged to form the foundation of the future network. The challenge is to woo the entrepreneurs to take up dealerships, as the brand has taken enough beating on various occasions, eventually losing customer conﬁdence. Fiat is known for its creativity, versatility and practicality but when it comes to India, it has been very unlucky. Hope the new avatar helps the world renowned brand to also revive its success story in India. Wishing you much pleasure reading. Do send us your feedback.

T. Murrali t.murrali@infomedia18.in

QUOTES Daniel Ammann, GM, CFO on restructuring of GM’s European operations

Mark Fields, Ford Americas’ President on need for increase in Ford’s Ecoboost engine production

“Everyone is waiting for a big bang, and I’m not sure there’s going to be a big bang per se. It’s a series of actions that we’re taking in getting the business where we want it.”

“EcoBoost engines are a key part of our plan to give customers the power of choice —from EcoBoost-powered vehicles and hybrids, to plug-in hybrids and full electrics”

FOUNDER & EDITOR, NETWORK 18 Raghav Bahl PRESIDENT & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, TV 18 Senthil Chengalvarayan EDITOR T. Murrali EDITORIAL TEAM Abhishek Parekh, Features Editor Nandita Rohit Kapadia, Senior Copy Editor SENIOR CORRESPONDENT Nabeel A Khan CORRESPONDENTS Bhargav TS CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Sirish Chandran, Bertrand D’Souza ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Varuna Naik SENIOR DESIGNER Mahesh Talkar CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER Mexy Xavier PHOTOGRAPHERS Neha Mithbawkar, Senior Photographer Joshua Navalkar BUSINESS CONTROLLERS Akshata Rane, Pukha Dhawan, Lovey Fernandes

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CONTENTS TESTING AVL to make India production hub for Compact series

AVL expects to earn an annual revenue of Euros 15 million by exporting testing and other products out of India in the next three years

GLOBAL WATCH Chinese showcase concepts for future Volkswagen

Three of the vehicle and concepts created by users of an online platform and further developed by Volkswagen, were on show at Auto China 2012

Eco-motoring to protect from downturn toll Uno Minda doubles spend on testing

Uno Minda Group is doubling its expenditure on testing for the financial year 2012-13 to `50 crore when compared with the previous financial year

HPI’s CO2Certificates, provide clear ‘at a glance’ information on the running costs, fuel consumption and environmental performance of a vehicle

Honda expects robust recovery

CORPORATE

Japan’s Honda continues to display a solid constitution and is planning a strong recovery during the forthcoming year, forecasting an all-time record of 4.3 m automobile sales

Tenneco Automotive eyes CV segment for aggressive growth

Tenneco Automotive India is planning to launch its exhaust systems by 2015, which will be manufactured from its existing plant in Hosur and in the upcoming facility in Chakan

Trelleborg’s new facility to make high-performance sealing

Trelleborg’s Bangalore facility will focus on a broad range of advanced sealing solutions like polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane and speciality materials

THE OTHER SIDE

Mahindra emphasises premium pre-owned car potential

Mahindra Firstchoice is in the process of evaluating an exclusive showroom for premium cars due to faster growth and expectations of exclusivity

Automakers to demo EV fast charging at EVS26

Major auto makers will support a single-port fast charging approach—called DC-fast charging with a Combined Charging System—for use on electric vehicles in Europe and the US

Trends that affect the industry: A segment-wise study With various automotive segments already facing demand-side sluggishness, the increase in vehicle prices is likely to weigh on demand recovery points out ICRA study

Nitin Prasad, MD, Shell Lubricants, India Prasad has held various roles within Shell, earlier as senior strategic advisor, leading important strategic projects like Chemicals Ventures, to product management for hydrocarbon solvents

Heavy Duty Tata RA 110 RR Rear Axle

Larger 430 mm dia Clutch

The perfectly balanced drivetrain

Tata G 1150 9-speed Gearbox

CUMMINS ISBe 227 HP Engine

The illustrations and photographs may show accessories and items of optional equipment which are not part of standard specifications. Due to printing processes, colours may vary slightly from those shown. All listed specifications are current and subject to change or upgrades without prior notice, in accordance with the Company's policy of continuous improvement.

*SMS charges as applicable, depending on the service provider.

For details, visit www.prima.tatamotors.com or email: prima@tatamotors.com or SMS* <PRIMA> to 5616161.

The latest offering from the world of Prima

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

INTERVIEW

“We are looking to grow beyond BMW brand car financing” BMW Group has committed additional investments in BMW Financial Services India. The company has also launched leasing services and a customer interaction centre to respond to its customers’ queries quickly. The financial arm of the German automobile major is looking to reach out to customers beyond BMW and expand its headcount to more than 80 employees this year. Nabeel A Khan recently spoke to Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, BMW Financial Services India, Dan DeChristopher to understand the company’s strategy. Excerpts from the interview: How are you planning take this business ahead? Well, I can tell you as an organisation we will be very much committed to the Indian market. I think we recognise it as a very important part for our growth. Our commitment can be seen in terms of new products and service levels that we are offering. We operate with three business lines: retail fi nance, commercial fi nance and insurance solutions (through cooperation partners). The services offered in India are significantly valuable to the premium clientele who require exclusive and flexible fi nancial solutions. Service excellence is the primary focus of operations across all business lines. We have solutions for retail automobile financing for BMW customers, fi nancing for fleet owners and commercial fi nancing for BMW dealerships. A nd recent ly, we have introduced BMW Lease for individuals and corporate customers and also doubled our investment to `530 crore for this

calendar year. What is your strategy to garner marketshare in this segment of business? We would try to gain as much as possible. However, it will totally depend on how quickly we are able process the service, how fast we fund the customers and how fast we pay to the dealership. For this, we have also launched Customer Interaction Centre. The beneﬁt of our Customer Interaction Centre is that one agent can answer all kinds of queries and the custom-

In our case when a dealer sells a car they send us the contract and we pay them within a few hours, while in case of banks it may take somewhere around three to four days

er doesn’t need to get puzzled when dialing different numbers as in case of outsourced centre. We will have only one number for all kinds of queries on a pan India level. Our service should be good in terms of the response to the queries of the customers. The other important thing is that, in our case when a dealer sells a car, they send us the contract and we pay them within a few hours while in case of banks it may take somewhere around three to four days. Will you be focusing only on BMW products for ﬁ nancing in India or other brands also?

We offer ﬁ nance to other vehicle brand as well. For example, a BMW dealer who also runs a dealership of another brand is a logical mode of reaching out to other customers. The pertinent issue for us would be to maintain our benchmark for lending after evaluating the credit proﬁ le of the customer. Are you planning to offer leasing service of pre-owned BMW cars? At this time, there is no plan to offer leasing of pre-owned cars but it could be possible in the future. We do it in some other markets.

Can you elaborate on your commercial fi nance service? Today we provide floor plan support to BMW dealerships and we also provide similar support to dealers of non BMW products. We would like to expand a little bit in terms of some new products. What percentage of BMW vehicles is financed by your company? Around 70 percent of total BMW vehicles are financed, of which we support about 40 percent. The rest is fi nanced by other sources like banks etc. The remaining 30 percent is bought on cash.

7 MAY 2012

Auto Monitor

TESTING

AVL to make India production Laboratory on Wheels hub for Compact series Our Bureau Chennai

Nabeel A Khan New Delhi

ngineering and testing equipment manufacturers, AVL List GmbH, is making India the hub for manufacturing Compact series testing equipment, and exporting them to the global markets. The company expects to earn an annual revenue of Euros 15 million by exporting these products out of India in the next three years. Compact series is a speciﬁc programme under which AVL manufactures the product portfolio which is customised for the markets, which are very price

sensitive and also do not need certain high-level applications. Under the Compact series, the company has started manufacturing a fuel conditioning system in India in July, while it had exported seven units last year. This number is expected to increase to 30 by this year end. AVL will be exporting Compact series to the world market from India except to the developed countries like Germany, US and Europe. The company will be exporting mainly to China, South East Asia, Eastern Europe, Korea and Thailand. “Right now the revenue from exports is very low, but we are very excited about its future. In

Shashi Singh, MD, AVL India

the next three years, we hope to earn an annual revenue of Euros 15 million from export in the next three,” Managing Director, AVL India, Shashi Singh told Auto Monitor in an interview. By October this year, AVL is going to add a fuel meter as the next product to be exported from India. The durability test of engines require efforts and costs. AVL is introducing a green way of testing durability of engines of all segments of vehicles. The green way of testing durability is done by using AC dynamometers instead of normal Eddy current dynamometers. This technology was previously used mainly for high-end development testing because of its higher costs, but AVL has come up with cheaper version with low peripheral around it, which can be used for durability test. With this equipment, the vehicle makers involved in manufacturing mass segment car engines can also go green. However, AC dynamometers is costlier than the Eddy dynamometers in terms of installation, but the operating of cost of the former is around 40 percent lower than the later. The cost difference can be recovered in around 18 months. The AC dynamometers generates electricity and feeds it back into the trail while Eddy dynamometers consumes electricity so it helps in reducing the electricity bills. AVL globally grew by 29 percent in FY11 from the engineering side to 34 percent. Germany supports the biggest share of revenue for AVL followed by China and the US.

he AutoTram is as long as a streetcar and as maneuverable as a bus. It doesn’t need rails or overhead lines because the “BusBahn” rolls on rubber tires and simply follows white lines on the street. Another plus is the fact that people waiting at stops will not have to breathe exhaust fumes in the future when a bus stops and starts again because tomorrow’s means of transport will be using electricity, hydrogen or a combination of various regenerative drives. In “Fraunhofer’s System Research for Electromobility” the AutoTram was used as an experimental platform. It was a component of the research collaboration of more than 30 Fraunhofer institutes. The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research has promoted this project with Euros 34.5 million from its Economic Policy Program II for a period of two years while Economic Policy Program I invested another Euros 14 million. A case in point is the lithiumion battery system that it built into electrical vehicles last week. Eleven Fraunhofer institutes each added their speciﬁc expertise to the project. Incidentally, these packs can also be used for passenger cars. Unlike cars that park an average of 23 hours a day, buses and trains are on the road the whole day so there isn’t much time to charge batteries. A potential solution is fast-charging stations

at bus stops in combination with dual storage units in the vehicle itself. The tram taps the quantity of energy it needs to make it to the next stop or the stop after that in only 20-30 seconds. During this time, passengers are getting in and out. When the tram stops, the silvery current collector on the roof moves upward and docks onto the source of electricity. Then small but strong electromagnets turn on. They generate enough power to press the contacts together enormously. This is where the resistance (and therefore heat development) is lower when high levels of energy of more than 1,000 amperes and 700 volts are transmitted. But where does the needed electricity come from? There is an energy storage device at the tram stop, and it slowly collects small amounts of electricity to avoid load peaks for the power generator wherever possible. Four Fraunhofer institutes—LBF, ISC and IWM, along with the Fraunhofer Institute for Transportation and Infrastructure Systems—have contributed their experience to developing a new type of mag netorheolog ica l motor generator clutch. All of this is being promoted by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

TESTING

Uno Minda doubles spend on testing is to enable the group to align its focus on testing with new safety and environment norms put no Minda Group, the across by the government. erstwhile NK Minda “Validation and testing expecGroup, is doubling its tation is increasing because of the expenditure on testsafety and environment norms. ing for the ﬁ nancial year 2012-13 So put together we are going to to `50 crore when compared with invest around `50 crore in all the the previous ﬁ nancial year. This units to enhance testing capabilities,” Chairman & Managing Director, Uno Mindo, NK Minda told Auto Monitor. The investment will be mainly in equipment. The company had last year decentralised its testing facilities, which has helped in increasing the overall efficiency and customer satisfaction. Now, the testing facilities are available within the premises where the production takes place therefore it is easier and more convenient for the High current regular flow test centre individual manufac-

Nabeel A Khan New Delhi

turing units. Centralised testing did have some benefits, however, it was not as smooth as it is required due to the need for lots of coordination. Minda feels that having an integrated testing facility instils confidence in the OEM customers and they recognise the suppliers for this. This indirectly helps in revenue generations also. It also makes the component makers self reliant as they don’t have to book a testing facility for the validation of their products. The component maker is focusing on environmental chambers for the electronic components. It has introduced low-cost automation to increase efficiency and is working on led-free soldering to comply with the safety of the environment. The company has recently opened a design centre in Taiwan to support the group companies. At present, it is in the process of increasing its manpower. The centre that commenced operations last year with two people has close to ten now. The centre is specially focussing on lighting product as this technology is expected to

Testing For Different Products Switches: For Switches to be able to perform under high current regular ﬂow, they are tested for capability to withstand currents for even higher specs. Electronics: Nowadays there are intelligent electronic systems in vehicles with embedded software, which need to be tested for electromagnetic interference testing. Uno Minda has been carrying out these tests in collaboration with its suppliers. Lamps: Dark zones in lamp illumination patterns leads to visibility hazard on road and therefore have a risk of accidents. The company’ lab is grow especially in LED, NHID and Zenon lighting systems. Selecting Taiwan as the destination for the design centre was based on the availability of skilled manpower, infrastructural and allied beneﬁts including tooling support. Minda feels that Tier II suppliers are much better in Taiwan when compared with India.

equipped with systems to ascertain right visibility patterns. It also has capabilities to suggests suitable optics. Emission Norms: Stricter emission norms, towards BSIII/ BSIV/BSV government stipulated regulations; company has in-house testing for this. CNG/LPG Kits: The company has test facilities to check speciﬁed pressures at which the regulators have to perform. Sensors: Sensors being supplied by company as part of start stop system are tested rigorously, to help the system achieve optimum level of emission. The Gurgaon-based company is manufacturing and supplying a range of components to OEMs as a Tier 1 supplier. The product range includes two-wheeler switches, four-wheeler switches, heater control panels, cigar lighters, lamps, horns, blow moulding components, electronic modules and alternate fuel systems.

Simulating real-world surfaces

hese days, cars are developed on computers, and to assist with this, designers want processes which generate realistic surfaces such as seat covers. Researchers have now developed high-resolution scanners which copy objects and fabric samples in a few minutes, converting them into virtual models. The light effects are startlingly realistic. When buying a car, customers are not just interested in its fuel consumption. They rather turn their attention to the car’s appearance. The interior fittings should have a quality look, the pattern on the seat covers should be subtle and understated and the leather-look dashboard should add a sense of luxury. Models used to be manufactured by hand, but that was time-consuming. And although computer simulation is faster, it takes time as well: real-world objects must fi rst be scanned at high resolution and then translated to the virtual world. Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD in Darmstadt aim to accelerate this process. They have developed two scanners which capture images of real objects with micrometer precision and use the data to generate deceptively lifelike virtual images. The first device, the HDR-ABTF scanner, is specifically designed to capture images of materials such as textiles and leather, lit from different directions, precisely and quickly. Computers can then be used to simulate how an object—for instance a car seat —covered in that material will look in changing light conditions. Both scanners have been developed from established processes which are more expensive or which take longer. A vehicle designer can then combine the image data with the computer model of a car seat and observe the material’s behavior when lit from any angle. There are already similar processes that use multiple cameras and considerably more light sources, but working with the equipment developed by Fraunhofer IGD is both simpler and faster. Within the period of just ten minutes, a new material can be scanned and translated to a virtual model. The meso scanner captures images of small three-dimensional objects. This innovative new scanner instead projects a much more detailed pattern of black and white stripes onto the object, each of which is just about a third of a millimeter or so across. Using a special lens in front of the projector, the object is scanned in much greater detail than before, achieving high resolution. Any hollows or wrinkles can be recorded with a depth measurement which has an accuracy of around 30 micrometers – which is two to three times more accurate than without the lens-shifting system. (Courtesy: Fraunhofer Institute)

7 MAY 2012

Auto Monitor

C O R P O R AT E

Bhargav TS & T Murrali Chennai

xhaust systems and ride control management systems manufacturer, Tenneco Automotive India is planning to enter the commercial vehicle segment in India. The company will be launching its exhaust systems by 2015, which will be manufactured from its existing plant in Hosur and in the upcoming facility in Chakan. In a recent interaction with Auto Monitor, Managing Director, Tenneco Automotive India, Abhijit Mukherjee said, “The emission regulations for commercial vehicles, off-road vehicles such as tractors and earthmovers and for stationary applications are very much progressive in the developed regions like Europe and North America. We believe that by 2015, the next emission level will be implemented worldwide and by that time Tenneco will be ready with the exhaust solution systems for the future emission norms.” Globally, the company supplies components to major commercial

vehicle manufacturers like Daimler, MAN, Caterpillar, John Deere and Navistar as these OEMs foresee a challenge in developing a technology to suit these vehicles in Indian conditions. The company is planning to relocate the Pune plant to Chakan, which will be a new location for the Emissions Control Engineering Centre. The new tech centre will support the emisAbhijit Mukherjee, MD, Tenneco Automotive India sions growth in India, while being integrated into Regeneration Unit for Exhaust the Tenneco global engineering (TRUE-clean) system, which is network, supporting the comrequired mainly on the commerpany’s global growth in this key cial vehicles side because of the technology market. fact that the duty cycles of these Commenting on the latest engines are short and runs in technology, Mukherjee said, low RPMs. This system provides “We have a full suite of technolodiesel particulate fi lter regengies, specifically on the Catalytic eration under any conditions Reduction (CR) systems, which is with reduced fuel penalty and based on liquid urea; we are also improved backpressure engine looking at Selective Catalytic performance, especially with Reduction (SCR) system, which cold-duty cycles in city traffic.” is based on solid fuel, and has The TRUE-clean system offers some ammonia embedded in the automatic active regenerating solid fuel. We also have a Thermal capabilities, and is unique in

Manipal offers campuswide access to MathWorks’ tools Our Bureau Chennai

anipal Institute of Technology in Karnataka has implemented a campus-wide license for the Matlab and Simulink product families from the leading developer of mathematical computing software, MathWorks. Using Matlab and Simulink, automotive engineers can speed up their embedded controller development and calibration, and deliver vehicles that meet market requirements for safety, comfort, functionality, fuel economy, and vehicle performance. “The campus-wide implementation of Matlab and Simulink is a major stride towards arming our students with the relevant engineering knowledge and the skills to ably compete with the best in the global job market,” said Associate Director (Development), Manipal Institute of Technology, Dr Vinod Thomas. “Engineering education needs to be in sync with the requirements of the industry. Globally, MathWorks has a strong focus on bridging the gap between the academia and industry sectors. By providing easy and campus-wide access to industry-standard software such as Matlab and Simulink, MIT is equipping its students with a blend of theory and real-world technology practices, making them industry-ready,” said Kishore Rao, Managing Director of MathWorks India. With the help of this software implementation, Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) has standardised on the same tools used by engineers and scientists across industries for technical computing, simulation and model-based design. MIT’s students will gain hands-on experience with software used widely in the industry, and MIT’s faculty can engage in research and devise curriculum based on their experiences with these tools. MathWorks’ tools are used in the area of control systems, physical processing, and technical computing across the industry. Thus, MathWorks working with academia will enable students with better knowledge of tools and more importantly how the tools are used for design of a control systems or communication equipments. This also allows students to take on their job roles effectively. Rao said, “We have got strong presence in the industry, which is giving us the opportunity to bridge the gap between academia and industry sectors.”

A Haas product

Photograph: Bhargav TS

Tenneco Automotive eyes CV segment for aggressive growth featuring flame stability control due to ion sensing. The system continuously monitors the diesel particulate fi lter’s temperature and when the system senses that the fi lter should be cleaned, the unit automatically initiates the regeneration process while maintaining proper temperatures and controls until the regeneration cycle is complete. To reduce the NOx level, the company currently uses the XNOx system, which reduces the air pollution to a certain extent. “We are using both airless and air resistant systems. The air resistant systems are developed in our China facility and that has some specific advantages in terms of cost. This is because we can provide some specific components instead of a full turnkey system, which reduces the overall cost. Recently, we have completed our technology centre dedicated for the commercial vehicles in China, where the regulations are similar like in India for the commercial vehicles in terms of cost and other parameters. So we think that there is an excellent opportunity for us here in India,” Mukherjee added.

The manufacturer is also setting-up a completely new technology centre in Chakan near Pune. According to Mukherjee, currently the application engineering work is carried out in the Chakan facility and soon it will be fully operational. The Chakan facility will concentrate on application engineering where the company will adopt the technologies either from US or Germany or from China to suit the Indian requirements. Tenneco started its Indian innings in 1995 and currently has ﬁ ve manufacturing plants and two Just-in-Time (JIT) facilities. In addition to Chennai, the company produces emission control components in Halol and Pune. Tenneco’s ride control products are manufactured in Bawal, Pune, Hosur, and Puducherry. At present the company directly supplies its ride control systems to the OEMs like Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, Nissan, Ford, Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Motors and General Motors. Soon the company will include major commercial vehicles manufacturers in its customer portfolio.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

AUTOPINION

Rare-earth metals trade and its impact Abdul Majeed Partner, Price Waterhouse

ver the last two years, rare-earth metals have moved from being a topic of discussion in R&D labs to becoming an important factor that could jeopardise international relations and ignite tensions in bilateral trade between China and its trading partners such as Japan, the US and EU. While these countries recently submitted a joint complaint to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) on China’s monopolistic control of rare-earth metals (the country controls 95 percent of supplies), the latter’s decision to restrict exports is set to disrupt the value chain across hi-tech industries. These range from catalytic converters and hybrid cars to superconductors and missile systems.

Rare-Earth Metals According to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), ‘rare-earth 80 000 80,000

minerals’ or rare-earth metals comprise a set of 15 chemical elements in the periodic table. These constitute lanthanides elements from lanthanum to lutetium (with atomic numbers 57 to 71). Along with chemically similar elements such as scandium (atomic number 21) and yttrium (atomic number 39), they total 17. Contrary to what their names suggest, all these metals appear in the earth’s crust regularly. Some such as cerium, neodymium and yttirum have more presence than lead. Metals such as lanthanum, praseodymium, samarium, europium and gadolinium are used in automotive applications including permanent magnets for electric motors, metal alloys, vehicle batteries, polishing agents as well as catalytic converters. While a majority of these 17 rare-earth metals are used only as enhancers (ie, they make other materials magnetic, add more shine and build resistance to high temperatures), the anticipated deployment of these in electric vehicles (mainly in permanent

Export Quota Of REOs (tonne)

70,000 60,000 , 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

Source: Chinese Ministry of Commerce

Periodic Table For Rare-Earth Elements

magnets and batteries) can substantially increase their demand in the next decade or two. Currently, almost all the mass produced pure electric vehicles (PEVs) in the market [including hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)] use permanent magnets made of rare-earth metals such as neodymium and dysprosium. Considering the design limitations in the engine compartment of these vehicles, permanent magnets are designed to meet speciﬁc size and weight criteria. This makes their substitution difﬁcult. The current generation of HEVs use Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are generally preferred for PHEVs and pure electric vehicles as they have more storage capacity and give better power output. The demand for both batteries will only increase with large-scale adoption of EVs in global markets. According to industry experts, NiMH batteries are expected to give way to Li-ion as the technology is becoming cheaper with penetration into high-volume segments of the market. Eg, Hyundai uses lithium polymer batteries in its Sonata hybrid model.

Growing China Dominance

Source: Lynas Corp

of REOs is, currently, very small as compared to China. This has resulted in the latter emerging as a key player in international markets to fi x and control prices of rare-earth metals. Its imposition of quotas and duties has led to increase in prices of several rare-earth elements. The Chinese government also maintains secrecy on the actual reserves and resources of rare-earth metals in its territory. This creates uncertainty in global markets. Some manufacturers have been proactive in considering new sources. To counter increasing prices, Honda Motor has collaborated with Japan Metals and Chemical Co to start its fi rst recycling programme for rare earth-metals used in hybrid vehicle batteries. Toyota, the world’s largest producer of hybrid cars, has also started its research on reducing usage of rare-earth elements in its hybrid vehicles. If its perfects the technology, this could make its hybrid and EV line-up cost-competitive. Other initiatives by Japanese firms such as Toyota Tsusho include a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Canada’s Matamec Exploration to carry out feasibility in kipawa rare-earth project in Quebec. The rare-earth mine in the province is expected to have a lifespan of 13 years along with good processing facilities. Also, India and Japan signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in Feb 2011 to collaborate on developing rare-earth metals. Apart from a tariff waiver of 94 percent on trade between both the coun-

tries, the FTA has provisions for Japanese companies to develop rare-earth metals in India. Normally, after a complaint is brought before the WTO, a 60-day period is given to both the parties to consult with each other and work out an agreement. If this proves unsuccessful, the WTO forms a panel to give its ruling on the case and any resulting appeals can further take up to two to three years. The Chinese hold on production and exports of rare-earth oxides will be a cause of concern for auto manufacturers as they have to plan and strategise their raw material inputs. This is crucial as they are already constrained in choosing production locations based on rising production costs. Right now there is no guarantee on the amount of rare-earth metals available to them. The latest report from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce shows some stabilisation in export quotas (between 2010 and 2012) with a marginal increase. According to the latest guidelines, to avail their export quota, rare-earth producers in China have to meet certain pollution control standards. This has met with some scepticism by both its domestic rare-earth industry and international trading partners. Either way, the country needs to offer both its domestic industry and international trade partners a better deal. (The author is the Head, Automotive Practice, Price Waterhouse. Views expressed are personal.)

Being the world’s largest producer of rare-earth metals, China has a chokehold on their production. Some of its policies, related to rare-earth metals, are aimed at creating jobs and developing domestic industry as well as stopping illegal mining and smuggling. Apart from exercis- Applications Of Rare-Earth Elements In Car Components ing its control over foreign direct investment in the domestic rareearth industry, the country has also placed restrictions on export quotas of rare-earth products. For instance, between 2005 and 2009 [(the overall export quota of Rare-Earth Oxides (REOs) was reduced by more than 20 percent (from 65,700 tonne to about 50,000 tonne)]. In July 2010, this was further reduced to an export quota of only 30,258 tonne (a 40percent decrease from 2009). For 2011, the nominal quota was set at 30,246 tonne. The global production of REOs is highly concentrated geographically, with the majority of producers located in the Inner Mongolia region of China. While several rare-earth companies are emerging in other countries (the EU, Japan and Australia), their reﬁning and processing capacity

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

C O R P O R AT E

New Trelleborg facility to make high-performance sealings Bhargav TS Bangalore

n a bid to develop, manufacture and supply high-performance sealing solutions for automotive, aerospace and industrial applications Trelleborg Sealing Systems (TSS) has set-up a new manufacturing facility in Bangalore. The company already has three manufacturing facilities in India to manufacture and supply hydraulic and pneumatic sealing products. Setting-up the new plant is part of Trelleborg’s continued long-term strategy to invest in markets with favourable growth potential. Using proven leading-edge development and manufacturing processes, the site will focus on a broad range of advanced sealing solutions like polytetraf luoroethylene (PTFE), polyurethane and speciality materials. The facility will serve the needs of Trelleborg’s existing customers by providing local support and supply to their Indian plants, and just as importantly, to local manufacturers. After inaugurating the new facility, the President and CEO of Trelleborg, Peter Nilsson said, “We believe that India has highly favourable long-term growth opportunities and our strong global platform will be further reinforced by this facility. This unit continues our commitment to the growing manufacturing sector in India.” In the new facility the com-

pany can manufacture sealings of diameter from six mm to 450 mm. Sealings are said to be safety critical components in the automobiles; in some vehicle systems seals must withstand extreme pressures up to 1,800 bar. The sealings that are manufactured by Trelleborg are used in common rail systems (for both diesel and gasoline engines) and in fuel injection systems. It also supplies custom moulded gaskets and diaphragms for cylinder heads, air induction systems, super chargers, turbochargers and valves. Most of these solutions have been engineered to withstand system pressures, partial vacuum and designed to provide compatibility with fuel and crank case vapours. On the other hand, to reduce the noise vibration in the automobiles, the company is constantly working on mass dampers and other sealing systems. Trelleborg’s patented damping material enables the next generation engines to be cleaner and run more smoothly and quietly. The Managing Director of Trelleborg Sealings Solutions India, Bony Paul said, “The state-of-the-art facility will help us to further improve our offering to industry in India and enables us to locally manufacture high-technology products currently being offered to our global customers.” The company is also setting up its new Engineered Systems facility in Bangalore, which will develop, manufacture and supply

Trelleborg board members at the inauguration

Setting-up the new plant is part of Trelleborg’s continued long-term strategy to invest in markets with favourable growth potential. Using proven leadingedge development and manufacturing processes, the site will focus on a broad range of advanced sealing solutions industrial anti-vibration systems with a focus on rail and moulded components for a variety of industry segments. The company started its India operations in 1994, with Rollon Hydraulics as the sole authorised distributor. Rollon started introducing Trelleborg Sealing Solutions products to a wide segment in the industrial sector and supplied to aerospace and defence, earth moving machines, machine tools, plastic injection moulding machines, agricultural machinery, material handling equipments, hydraulic cylinders, steel mills, and cement plants. Later in 1997, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions entered into a Joint venture with Rollon Hydraulics to manufacture PTFE based seals in India at Bangalore and the outcome was a joint venture partnership known as Trelleborg Sealing Solutions Seals and Bearings India Pvt Ltd. In the year 2005, Trelleborg Sealing solutions, a group member of Trelleborg AB Sweden bought over distribution business run by Rollon Hydraulics and the company name was changed to Trelleborg Sealing Solutions India Private Ltd handling both distribution and manufacturing business. Currently, the company also offers an unrivalled selection of online tools and apps free-ofcharge. Based on Trelleborg’s

(Top) Trelleborg facilities from the outside (Middle& Bottom)Inside the facility

expertise in sealing technology, the resources are designed speciﬁcally to meet engineers’ needs, making their jobs easier. “We have devoted signiﬁcant investment into developing our online tools and mobile phone apps,” said Director Global Marketing & Communications for Trelleborg

Sealing Solutions, Robert Zahiri. “Creating tools that make engineers’ lives easier is our main goal. We are a company of engineers, and I think this gives us an advantage when we’re creating these tools. We try to produce tools that really add value to an engineer’s work.”

Japan offers technical expertise in developing high-speed corridors Our Bureau Chennai

apanese Government is looking at sharing and exchange of technical experts and technology, especially in respect of development programme of India for the high speed corridors of expressways, Senior Vice Minister of Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport & Tourism, Government of Japan, Me Ken Okuda, has said. Okuda, accompanied by delegates from his Ministry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan met the Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Jitin Prasada, in New Delhi recently. Both the ministers agreed and acknowledged the need to enhance the cooperation in pursuance of the decisions taken in the Prime Minister-level meeting held last year. At the meeting, the emphasis was on infrastructure development and cooperation between the two countries, especially in roads sector. Referring to the statements of the Ministry of Road Transport

& Highways in the First IndoJapan Ministerial level Economic Dialogue, Okuda mentioned that the operationalisation of the cooperation and undertaking cooperation activities was possible once the two countries sign the cooperation agreement at the earliest. According to Prasada, the various objectives and the focus areas that have been identiﬁed for prioritised operationalisation are development of the high speed expressway corridors, use of modern technology for Intelligent Transport System (ITS) including Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) and tolling system. Referring to the huge National Highways & Ex pressways Development Programme of India, he said that funding of these projects would require some ﬁ nancing solutions and perhaps this would be the area where Japan could suggest some solutions. He also informed that tolling of all the expressways and highways was not the only workable model in India and there was a need for alternative solutions for generating revenues to

sustain development. Perhaps dual use of land alongside the road and expressways, as also space available under the elevated expressways could be utilised for real estate and commercial development. He inquired about Japanese model available in this context and invited their views and exchange of expertise in this area. Prasada emphasised that considering the population of vehicles on road in India, de-congestion is a constant requirement that India has to overcome. Land acquisition is another constraint. On inquiring about the situation in Japan and the measures they have taken to tackle the same, Okuda said that dual use of land alongside the road for real estate development was very less in Japan and such dual purpose was also regulated by certain rules and regulations, which come into play. However, in Central Tokyo this has been done. Okuda also informed that in Japan some private railway companies, which undertake development of railway network, have undertaken packages

for dual use of the land alongside the tracks for commercial and real estate development. In case of new projects that are g reenf ield in nature, perhaps dual use of land is possible in cases where the proposed road is going through the congested cities or connecting the industrial/research or educational hubs. in such cases, the model for development of real estate and commercial structures alongside the roads and under the elevated roads are possible in Japan. He assured that there are various models available the world over and if given an opportunity, a study would be carried out by the Japanese experts to identify some suitable solution for India. Prasada said that India has the prime objective of containing the road accidents and is looking forward to ensure road safety. He inquired about the situation in

(L) Minister, Jitin Prasada with Me Ken Okuda, Senior Vice Minister, Japan

Japan and the measures undertaken by them to reduce the road accidents ensuring road safety. The visiting dignitary informed that usually the Japanese undertook surveys for the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) and identify the black spots. He offered that such surveys could also be undertaken for other technical assistance and ﬁ nancing solutions. It was mentioned that JICA could be the channel for supporting such cooperation activities and exchange of experts and ﬁ nancial assistance. While concluding, he assured that signing of Agreement for the agreed cooperation activities would be expedited.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

STUDY

Future potential, growth prospects overides present uncertainities Revati Kasture Head, Industry Research Vishal Srivastav Deputy Manager Kunal Maheshwari Analyst

CARE Research observed that stiff competition has restricted manufacturers in adopting aggressive price hikes, and the average prices have remained more or less stable in last eight-10 years

he automotive industry globally is among the key sectors of any economy and the growth in the sector mirrors the overall buoyancy in the economy. The last one decade was encouraging for India as the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GDP clocked growth of over eight percent for most of the periods. Buoyancy in the economy has fuelled growth in income levels and consequently pushed the demand especially for products like consumer durables and automobiles. Owning a car, which was considered to be a status symbol for rich income group, gradually became a utility for middle and upper middle income class population. This gradual transformation was on the back of rise in the number of target households, which was estimated to have increased by around 15-17 per cent on CAGR basis during FY02-10 period combined with wide product offerings in affordable price bands. Rising on these favourable factors, the domestic Passenger Vehicle (PV) witnessed a healthy growth of around 15 percent during the FY02-12, barring marginal blips in FY09 and FY12 when industry growth was impacted due to economic uncertainties.

Factors that propelled growth in personal vehicle category: Modernisation & transport infrastructure constraints The passenger vehicle category has witnessed a surge over the last decade primarily on the account of robust growth witnessed in Indian economy. The economic growth was primarily driven by high growth in services and manufacturing sectors. As these sectors were majorly located in urban areas, high level of population migrated from rural and semi-urban areas in search of attractive employment opportunities. Further, inability of public transport infrastructure to support the growing demand cropped up the need for personal vehicles in a big way. In addition to this, rise in the income levels owing to growth in employment coupled with favourable financing options swelled the target consumer segment for PV industry, which increased by almost

Owning a car, which was considered as a status symbol initially, gradually became a utility for middle and upper middle income class population three folds during FY02-FY10 period as per CARE Research estimates, leading to spurt in the demand for PVs. Wide product offerings at affordable price also prompted growth in the demand. The Indian car market is highly price sensitive. Over the last one decade Indian car market has w itnessed innumerable new launches mainly in the affordable small and mid-size car segment. The potential customers for these segments have been primarily the middle class population which has witnessed strong surge during last one decade. Further, growing demand has also prompted highest number of model launches in these two segments at affordable prices, which in turn led to strong competitive scenario in the industry. CARE Research observed that stiff competition has restrict-

ed manufacturers in adopting aggressive price hikes, and the average prices have remained more or less stable in last eight10 years.

India yet to catch up with global counterparts in PV penetration Inspite of PV industry witnessing a strong growth over last one decade, the penetration levels lag behind to some of the emerging auto markets like Russia, China, Malaysia and South Korea. During 2010, the penetration of PVs in India were around 15 per thousand, which was much lower than the identical markets, indi-

cating that healthy grow th prospects still persist for the manufacturers in medium to long term period. PV industry is expected to grow in the range of nine-10 percent during next ďŹ ve year period. CARE Research believes, the short term uncertainty hovering over the industry owing to economic scenario would fade away in medium term period and industry is estimated to post a growth of around nine-10 per cent on a CAGR basis during next ďŹ ve year period ie FY12-FY17 period.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

C O R P O R AT E

Mahindra emphasises premium pre-owned car potential Our Bureau Mumbai

ahindra First Choice is in the process of evaluating an exclusive showroom for premium or D segment and above cars, as the segment is growing faster than the overall used car market and have different dynamics compared to

car in the lower segment. This way, it is consolidating forces to strengthen its presence in the premium pre-owned car segment. The dealership network of Mahindra’s used car venture would be expanded to around 600 from current 180 odd over the next couple of years. Explained Vice PresidentOperations & Network, Mahindra First Choice Wheels, Yatin

Chadha, “Given the growth potential and customer interest for pre-owned premium cars, it is imperative for us to evaluate the segment and look for ways of increasing our customer engagement in the segment.” “It is imperative for customers to realise the beneﬁt of opting for a used car. For the price of a hatchback, a potential customer could get a premium sedan without compromising on warranties and quality that comes with a new car,” he added. He said that one of the biggest challenges for any used car dealer is establishing his/ her credibility and ‘differentiation’ factor in a competitive market. Though there has been a major distortion in the used car market in recent months due to growing preference for diesel powered cars, Chadha is of the opinion that older

diesel cars require more maintenance compared to similar aged petrol cars and hence the price differential may not grow beyond a point. OEMs are focussed on expanding their respective brands in the organised used car business in the recent years. Most premium car manufacturers including Mercedes, BMW and Audi have are keen to tap the growing interest among customers for pre owned brands and have already launched their respective brands in the used car market. In addition to limited period warranties, organised used car brands like Mahindra First Choice Wheels offer services that enable a customer to sell old cars based on a scientifically determined valuation with option for quick payment, park & sell option, fi nance on used cars, assistance for correctness and legal validation of documents, insurance on used cars and supply & fitment of a wide range of car accessories. Mahindra FirstChoice offers 24x7 road side assistance that, subject to specific terms and conditions, assures the certified used car buyer that should the

It is imperative for customers to realise the benefit of opting for a used car. For the price of a hatchback, a potential customer could get a premium sedan without compromising on warranties and quality that comes with a new car— Yatin Chadha, VP-Operations & Network, Mahindra First Choice Wheels car break-down, he will be provided assistance. It also has retail ﬁ nance relationships with major banks and NBFCs in the country. It has been looking to expand its network of superstore with wider vehicle display and choice of accessories and ﬁ nancing available on a wider variety of cars from different manufacturers.

Skoda’s ‘If You Drink, We Drive’ Our Bureau Mumbai

koda Auto India has offered a service for its brand owners in Mumbai—‘If You Drink, We Drive’, whereby an exclusive chauffeur service will be extended to Skoda owners to get home after enjoying matches in clubs and restaurants located anywhere in the city. This unique has been offered from 27 April to 27 May. This service is applicable only to those customers who will be driving to the venues in their Skoda cars. Followed by a stringent veriﬁcation process, a chauffeur will be made available for the customer, waiting to drive them home in the comfort of their own car.

Greaves Cotton joins hands with Samil Korea Our Bureau Mumbai

reaves Cotton has tied up with Samil Korea in order to emerge as a comprehensive infrastructure player. The division is looking to have a technology transfer effective April, 2012. “We are constantly working on expanding our product portfolio so as to meet customer demands. The strong thrust provided by the government to the construction and infrastructure sector has further catalysed our strategy. This tie-up is a positive step taken to ensure that our products are backed by world class technology that ultimately translate into increased customer beneﬁt,” said Managing Director & Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, Greaves Cotton, Sunil Pahilajani.

Construction Equipment Division Greaves Construction Equipment division manufactures a wide range of compaction and concreting equipment. The complete range of concrete equipment like transit mixers, concrete pumps, batching plants are manufactured at the company’s Gummidipoondi (Tamil Nadu) facility. The division also manufactures the complete range of compaction equipment like vibratory soil compactors, heavy tandem rollers, light tandem rollers at Gummidipoondi. Greaves construction equipment is mainly used for construction of roads, bridges, buildings, ready mix concrete applications. The company caters to the service and spare parts requirement of customers through their large network of qualiﬁed and trained service engineers located a various branches and dealerships.

7 MAY 2012

Auto Monitor

TECHNOLOGY

Automakers to demo EV fast charging at EVS26 Thinner thermal insulation

lobal automakers from the United States and Germany will demonstrate fast-charging technology that will enable the recharging of most electriﬁed vehicles with compatible systems in as little as 15-20 minutes. Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Porsche and Volkswagen have agreed to support a harmonised single-port fast charging approach—called DC-fast charging with a Combined Charging System—for use on electric vehicles in Europe and the United States. Live charging demonstrations will be conducted during the Electric Vehicle Symposium 26 (EVS26) to be held on 6-9 May, 2012. The combined charging system integrates one-phase AC-charging, fast three-phase AC-charging, DC-charging at home and ultrafast DC-charging at public stations into one vehicle inlet. This will allow customers to charge at most existing charging stations regardless of power source and may speed more affordable adoption of a standardised infrastructure. The International Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has chosen the Combined

Charging System as the fast-charging methodology for a standard that incrementally extends the existing Type 1-based AC-charging. The standard is to be officially published this summer. ACEA, the European association of vehicle manufacturers has also selected the Combined Charging System as its AC/ DC-charging interface for all new vehicle types in Europe beginning in 2017. The charging system design was based on the collaborative review and analysis of existing charging strategies, the ergonomics of the connector and preferences of US and European customers. The combined charging system was developed for all international vehicle markets and creates a uniform standard with identical electrical systems, charge controllers, package dimensions and safety mechanisms. The system maximises capability for integration with future smart grid developments through

Honda develops first technology to prevent traffic jams

onda Motor Co, Ltd. has announced the successful development of the world’s fi rst technology to detect the potential for traffic congestion and determine whether the driving pattern of the vehicle is likely to create traffic jams. Honda developed this technology while recognising that the acceleration and deceleration behaviour of one vehicle influences the traffic pattern of trailing vehicles and can trigger congestion. In conjunction with the Research Centre for Advanced Science and Technology at the University of Tokyo, Honda conducted experimental testing of a system utilising the technology to detect the potential for traffic congestion. The test results demonstrated that the system helped increase the average speed by approximately 23 percent and improved trailing vehicles fuel efficiency by approximately eight percent. With the goal to bring this technology to market, Honda will begin the fi rst public-road testing of the technology in Italy and Indonesia in May and July of this year, respectively, to verify the effectiveness of the technology in minimising vehicle congestion. Rather than providing information to help the driver avoid existing congestion based on current traffic information, the system monitors the acceleration and deceleration patterns of the vehicle to determine whether the driver’s driving pattern is likely to create traffic congestion. Based on this determination, the system provides the driver with appropriate information, including a colour-coded display through the on-board terminal, to encourage smooth driving, which will help alleviate the intensity of acceleration and deceleration by trailing vehicles, thereby helping to prevent or minimise the occurrence of vehicle congestion. The positive effect on minimising congestion and fuel efficiency improvement can be further increased by connecting the on-board terminals to cloud servers to make the driver aware of and in sync with the driving patterns of vehicles ahead by activating the ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) system at the right time to maintain a constant distance between vehicles at the most appropriate interval. Traffic congestion causes not only a delay in arrival time but also an increase in CO2 emissions and a higher potential for rear-end collisions. Striving to realise “the joy and freedom of mobility” and “a sustainable society where people can enjoy life,” as stated in the Honda Environmental Vision, Honda will work toward the establishment of a congestion-free mobility society all around the world.

I common broadband communication methods regardless of the global location of the charging system. The combined charging approach will reduce development and infrastructure complexity, improve charging reliability, reduce the total cost-of-ownership for end customers and provide low maintenance costs. Commercially available combined charging stations are projected to be available later this year. All committed OEMs have vehicles in development, which will use the Combined Charging System. First vehicles using this technology will be launched in the market in 2013.

n Germany, the rising cost of heating has sparked a renovation boom. In order to lower energy costs, more and more homeowners and auto owners are investing in insulation facades. But the typical insulation layers on the market have one drawback: they add bulk. The 20-cm-thick outer skin changes the building’s visual appearance and can result in significant follow-up costs—with a need to fit new, deeper window sills and sometimes even roof extensions of the home or hoods of cars. Fraunhofer researchers are now developing fi lms for a material that will insulate homes without much additional structural alteration: Vacuum Isolation Panels,(VIPs). The panels are only two centimetres thick and yet perform just as well as a classic 15-cm-thick insulation layer made from polyurethane foam. The inner workings of the VIPs are made mostly from pyrogenic silica. A high-tech fi lm holds the material together and makes it air-tight. Dr Klaus Noller from the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVV

in Freising and Prof Gerhard Sextl from the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC in Würzburg have been involved with the development of VIPs since the very beginning. They now want to ready the panels for cost-effective mass production. At present, these expensive VIPs are employed only where a space saving is worth the money: for example in high-end refrigerators and freezers. The new fi lm is easier to produce because it is made up of just two plastic fi lms with three barrier layers: one aluminium-coated plastic fi lm is coated with a micrometer-thin layer of Ormocer—an ISC invention—and then coated again with aluminium. Now researchers want to simplify the production process further and carry out long-term tests. The results should be available in just a few months.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

STUDY

Trends that affect the industry: A segment-wise study Segment-Wise Impact

Subrata Ray Senior Group Vice President

In an environment where the northward movement of inflation, fuel prices & interest rates has been the nemesis of the Indian automobile industry at large, the 2W industry has been the most resilient so far. The growth has been supported by favourable demographics, under developed public transport system & growing urbanisation

caused ﬁ rst by the tsunami in Japan (in March 2011), then by production disruption at the country’s largest PV manufacturer Maruti Suzuki (intermittently over the June-October 2011 period) and then by ﬂoods in Thailand (disrupting production output of select OEMs during the November-January 2012 period). Assuming there are no additional supply shocks and as consumers adjust to the new normal char-

acterized by relatively higher vehicle prices and high fuel costs; demand sentiment is likely to get some relief on the interest rate front during 2012-13. Over the medium term, ICRA expects the PV industry to record a volume CAGR of ~11 percent (domestic + export) over 2011-16E (inclusive of 2011-12E, a year in which volume growth is likely to be low at around three percent). Commercial Vehicles: After registering a strong 30 percent+ volume growth over 2009-10 and 2010-11, the growth in the CV industry has somewhat slowed down during the current fiscal. In 11m, 2011-12, the domestic CV industry posted a volume growth of 18.6 percent YoY supported by 26.9 percent growth in the LCV segment and a fairly muted 9.2 percent growth in the M&HCV segment. Steadily rising interest rates, contracting industrial output and a considerable increase in vehicle prices along with high base of previous years have been the main factors constraining grow th. The sharp rise in overall cost of ownership combined with almost stagnant freight rates are exerting pressure on the profitability and cash f lows of f leet operators. ICRA’s channel check suggests that several operators have postponed their expansion plans in view of the prevailing high interest rates and slower industrial output. Capacity utilisation has gradually declined and freight rates continue to remain stagnant despite rise in operating expenditure for operators. On the ﬁ nancing front, some of the ﬁ nanciers have also tightened

ICRA Growth Projections Across Sectors (approx)

12 10 8 6 4

CAGR (2011-16)

LCV

M&HCV

2 PV

% Growth

n expected lines, the Union Budget for 201213 proposes to hike the Central Excise Duty on manufactured goods from 10 percent to 12 percent. This has increased the prices of automobiles. With various automotive segments, particularly passenger vehicle and M&HCV segments, already facing demand-side sluggishness, the increase in vehicle prices is likely to weigh on demand recovery. However, the fact that despite industry apprehensions, no increase in duty on diesel cars has been proposed, this should continue to drive faster growth of diesel-engine vehicles vis-à-vis petrol-powered ones till such time as the large differential between petrol and diesel prices persists. Notwithstanding the above, the government’s continued thrust on rural development remains a key positive as the proportion of automobile sales in the rural markets is steady growth momentum. This apart, the increased budgetary allocations towards the infrastructure sector is also likely to partially mitigate the muted level of industrial activity as step-up in expenditure of on roads & highway infrastructure will not only increase demand for M&HCVs (for construction) but also improve connectivity enabling easier freight movement. From the OEMs’ standpoint, the hike in excise duty has not come at the best of times. To facilitate demand recovery, OEMs may have to absorb a part of the excise duty hike which is likely to exert pressure on their proﬁtability. Overall, while the duty changes can have a short term impact, the long term demand in the sector will be driven by macro parameters like overall health of the economy, employment and demographic trends, interest rates, inf lation and fuel costs etc.

Amongst the various automobile segments in India, the PV segment is the largest by value and accounts for nearly half the size of the ~`2,300 billion auto OEM segment, followed by the commercial vehicle segment and the two-wheeler (2W) segment that together account for the balance half in an almost equal proportion. Thus, given the large size of the PV segment, its pace of growth has a relatively higher inﬂuence on the growth prospects of the overall automobile sector in India. Passenger Vehicles: After recording a robust 20 percent+ volume growth in 2009-10 and 2010-11, the domestic PV segment volumes grew at a slow pace of three-percent in 2011-12 marred both by circumspect consumer sentiment that impacted demand as well as supply constraints

lending norms in addition to the rise in interest rates. Overall, the near term risks against M&HCV demand have increased significantly, though structurally, the demand drivers over a longer period remain intact. Given the current environment where the growth in industrial activity remains low and the operating environment for fleet operators remains weak, ICRA expects the industry to defer capacity addition. As a result, the outlook over the near term appears subdued which may result in a slowdown in new vehicle sales. Amongst segments, M&HCV segment which tends to be influenced more by macro-economic indicators is likely to register a weaker performance over the near term as against the steadily growing LCV segment. The proliferation of the huband-spoke model, improving last mile connectivity and strong demand originating from rural segment is likely to drive demand in the LCV segment over the medium term. Over the medium term, ICRA expects the M&HCV segment to grow at a volume CAGR of 9.511.5 percent and the LCV to grow at a volume CAGR of 11-13 percent (domestic + exports) over the next five years. Two-Wheelers: The domestic 2W industry recorded a volume growth of 14.8 percent (YoY) in 11m, 2011-12; which although healthy, was significantly lower than the 25 percent+ volume growth rates seen in 2009-10 and 2010-11. In an environment where the northward movement of inflation, fuel prices and interest rates has been the nemesis of the Indian automobile industry at large, the 2W industry has been the most resilient so far. The growth has been supported by various structural positives associated with the domestic 2W industry including favourable demographic profi le, moderate 2W penetration levels (in relation to several other emerging markets), under developed public transport system, growing urbanisation and expected strong replacement demand, besides moderate share of fi nanced purchases. ICRA expects these strengths, coupled with the OEMs’ thrust on exports, to aid the 2W industry to report a volume CAGR of 10-12 percent over the medium term to reach a size of 21-23 million units (domestic + exports) by 2015-16e. (Courtesy: ICRA)

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Answers for industry.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

Volvo celebrates history with ÖV4

n 14 April 1927, the first mass-produced Volvo car rolled off the production line at the Lundby factory in Göteborg, Sweden. Today, 85 years later, the Volvo Group is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of commercial vehicles and Volvo Car Corporation sells almost 500,000 cars each year. Back then, at 10am on 14 April 1927, Sales Manager, Hilmer Johansson drove the ﬁ rst mass-produced ÖV4 model through the factory gates in Lundby in Göteborg. Now, 85 years later, the same model will pass through exactly the same gates to celebrate Volvo’s birth-

The two companies have continued to grow in different directions. Volvo Car Corporation is now in the premium segment and last year sold around 450,000 cars in 120 countries, with the US as its single largest market

(L) The Lundby Factory in 1927 (R) The Lundby Factory today

day. President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation, Stefan Jacoby and President and CEO of the Volvo Group, Olof Persson will be behind the wheel. “It’s a fantastic car, but it’s easy to see how much has changed over the last 85 years,” says Stefan Jacoby, who recently premiered the new V40 at the Geneva Motor Show. The Volvo Group and Volvo Car Corporation are two companies with a long shared history. However, what was at that time one company began as a very unpromising project,

because Volvo’s founders Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson had no direct experience of cars or the automotive industry. During its ﬁ rst year of production, Volvo sold a very modest 300 cars. However, in the following year business really began to take off, when the company also started manufacturing trucks and buses. Even back then, Volvo realised that the key to success lay in exports. “Our roots are still very important to us. Around 30,000 of the Volvo Group’s 120,000 employees

work in Sweden, but 95 percent of our products are sold outside the country,” said Olof Persson. The equivalent ﬁgures for Volvo Car Corporation are 14,500 employees in Sweden out of a worldwide total of 21,500. Around 87 percent of all Volvo Car Corporation’s sales take place outside Sweden. In 1999, the Volvo Group sold its car business. Since then, the two companies have continued to grow in different directions. Volvo Car Corporation is now in the premium segment and last year sold around 450,000 cars in

120 countries, with the USA as its single largest market. The Volvo Group produces trucks under the Volvo, Renault Trucks, Mack and UD Trucks brands, together with buses, construction equipment, drive systems for marine and industrial applications and components for aircraft engines. With a turnover of SEK 310 billion, the Volvo Group is the world’s second largest manufacturer of heavy trucks and Sweden’s largest company. The group has production sites in 20 countries and sales organisations in 190.

Chinese showcase concepts for future Volkswagen

he ‘People’s Car Project’ (PCP) that was launched in China 11 months ago, registered 33 million visitors to the website and submitted more than 119,000 ideas. Three of the vehicle and technology concepts were created by users of an online platform and further developed by Volkswagen, were on show at Auto China 2012: These concepts are the Hover Car, the Music Car and the Smart Key. With the Hover Car, an environmentally-friendly two-seater city car, which hovers just above the ground, Volkswagen is presenting the study of a zeroemissions vehicle that could in

Chinese showcase concepts for the Volkswagen of the future: VW Smart Key

the future travel along electromagnetic road networks. “The creative ideas from the ‘People’s Car Project’ give us a valuable insight into the wishes of Chinese drivers,” said Head of Design at Volkswagen Group China, Simon Loasby. “The trend is towards safe cars that can easily navigate overcrowded roads and have a personal, emotional and exciting design.” The ‘Music Car’ expresses is equipped with organic light emitting diodes, the exterior colour of the vehicle changes with the driver’s choice of music. More than ever, the car thus becomes a means of self-expression and a fashion statement for young drivers.

The creative ideas from the ‘People’s Car Project’ give us a valuable insight into the wishes of Chinese drivers. The trend is towards safe cars that can easily navigate overcrowded roads and have a personal, emotional and exciting design—Simon Loasby, Head of Design, VW Group, China The ‘Smart Key’, also developed under the PCP and currently on show in Beijing, takes up the trend towards the stronger integration of online technologies in vehicles: the slim nine mm key has a highresolution touchscreen, which keeps the driver up to date on the fuel situation, climate conditions and the car’s security via the 3G network. The driver can also monitor the vehicle from a bird’s eye perspective through realtime satellite transmission. “The ‘People’s Car Project’ in China marks the beginning of a new era in automobile design”, commented Director of Marketing, Volkswagen Group and the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, Luca de Meo. “We are no longer just building cars

VW Music Car

VW Concept Hover Car

for, but also with customers and at the same time initiating a national dialog which gives us a deep insight into the design preferences, needs and requirements of Chinese customers,” de Meo said. Due to high demand and the exceptionally good quality of the contributions, the PCP, which was originally scheduled to run for one year, has been indeﬁ nitely extended. In addition, a new project phase will be launched during the coming months, when users will not only be able to submit their design, personalisation and connectivity ideas for tomorrow’s mobility, but will also be able to contribute sug-

gestions about the environment. The drafts will ﬁ rst be evaluated by the entire user community. In a second step, experts will then assess the concepts and award prizes to the winners. “In a long-term context the findings of the ‘People‘s Car Project’ w ill inf luence Volkswagen’s product strategy,” de Meo explained. “The design of our models will, however, continue to ref lect the tradition of the Volkswagen brand. If at some time in the future we are to produce a vehicle from the ‘People’s Car Project’, it will be a combination of customers’ opinions and brand tradition,” de Meo added.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

Eco-motoring to protect from downturn toll

he March Budget has seen fuel prices reach record highs this year, adding to the toll the economic downturn is having on household budgets. Helping people save their pennies, as well as the environment, vehicle information expert HPI is urging motorists to turn to eco-motoring. To support used car buyers in their quest to reduce their carbon footprint—and combat soaring fuel costs—HPI’s CO2Certificates, provide clear ‘at a glance’ information on the running costs, fuel consumption and environmental performance of a vehicle. Provided as standard with the market leading HPI Check, the CO2 Certificates have been updated with the Budget’s new fuel prices to ensure used car buyers are armed with the full facts. “In today’s climate consumers are also focused on CO2 emissions for fi nancial reasons, not just to save the planet,” believed Consumer Director for HPI, Kristian Welch. “But choosing a greener car can be a complex business. Used car buyers need to be realistic about the sort of driving they are planning on doing before buying their next car. They should be thinking about what size of engine is really necessary and whether they drive short distances in town or longer journeys

on the open road. This will affect the style of vehicle buyers choose, as well as affecting the long-term motoring costs.”

tax band, keeping you informed of the running costs and environmental impact,” continued Kristian Welch.

Petrol Vs Diesel?

Consider The Alternatives...

Many motorists may not realise that although petrol engines give out more CO2, they produce less particulates than diesel engines, and particulates can have as detrimental an effect on the environment as CO2 emissions. For those doing short urban trips in built-up areas, petrol engines are likely to be a better choice for emitting less pollutants, advises HPI, with diesel engines better suited to long, open road driving. Use of higher quality fuels may also prolong the life of your engine and help maintain it in the long run.

Calculate Running Costs Buyers should also consider that larger vehicles and performance cars have higher running costs, as well as being more expensive to repair and insure. Added to this they are also likely to be more polluting and cost more to tax each year. “When purchasing a larger or performance-spec vehicle, make sure you do your research into the miles per gallon (mpg) you could expect and its tax band. As part of your HPI Check report we will tell you the average fuel costs per year of the vehicle and its relevant

Today, there are alternative fuel types to the traditional petrol and diesel, including LPG, electric and hybrid vehicles. LPG is a low carbon content fuel that produces fewer emissions and can save motorists around 40 percent compared with petrol and 20 percent compared with diesel fuel costs. LPG vehicles gain discounts on London Congestion Charges and some parking schemes as well as cheaper road tax for some vehicles. For the environmentally conscious motorist, electric cars may be the best option, as they have zero emissions at point of use. They are cheaper to run, costing around two pence a mile and they can have lower maintenance costs, as well as the added bonus of paying zero road tax and congestion charges. And with the Governments outlined policy for a recharging network for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, this option has taken a step forward as a viable option for the UK motorist. Hybrid cars are part electric battery and part conventional cars and have proved to be the most popular alternative to con-

HPI’s Guide To Eco-Motoring • Consider the type of fuel you • use and your style of driving. Diesel is more energy efﬁcient than petrol, but is less suitable for short journeys

Smooth and steady. Avoid stopping and starting, as this uses more fuel and produces more CO2 . Anticipate the ﬂow of trafﬁc and keep a steady speed

• Clear your car of unnecessary clutter—on average, every 50 • Idling increases emissions so kg of extra weight increases avoid doing it—switch off the petrol consumption by up to engine if you can do so safely two percent • Driving in the highest gear • Check your tyre pressure is appropriate and changing gear correct to increase efﬁciency early can boost fuel economy by up to three percent • Accelerate gently to reduce • Avoid over-revving, as higher revs use more fuel • • Reduce your speed. The average car consumes 38 percent more fuel at 70 mph than it does at 50 mph ventional vehicles. They reduce fuel consumption by using electric power, but with a petrol engine as well, there is no need to worry about running out of juice. On average, hybrids improve fuel economy by around 20-25 percent, and signiﬁcantly reduce emissions, compared to an equivalent non-hybrid model. Kristian Welch concluded, “With so many choices facing motorists when it comes to making greener car buying decisions that also suit their budget and lifestyle, it’s no wonder that people are unclear about the options. Our

fuel consumption Using air conditioning increases fuel consumption by 10 percent. Instead, open windows or use the fan, but close them at high speeds CO2Certiﬁcate has been designed to help used car buyers gain access to clear and concise information at the point of sale, making it easier to compare vehicles and make informed decisions. “Eco motoring is a major focus for manufacturers and consumers alike. The rising cost of fuel and road tax means greener motoring choices can also make a lot of sense for consumer wallets. Our guide to eco-motoring offers drivers everyday changes they can make to the way they drive, helping to cut emissions and reduce fuel consumption.”

Driving with one hand on the James Kamsickas is new IAC Group global CEO wheel: a fatal distraction?

new academic report out recently reveals that motorists who drive whilst eating at the wheel see their reaction times doubled. The study, commissioned by esure car insurance and carried out by scientists at the University of Leeds using a driving simulator, has found that participant’s reaction times increased by 44 percent when eating behind the wheel. For example, if a motorist’s reaction time was five seconds on average when driving with two hands on the wheel it would increase to just over seven seconds when eating at the wheel. The report, entitled ‘Two Hands Better Than One’, reveals that when sipping a drink, reaction times of the motorist increased by over a fi fth (22 percent) compared to when driving with both hands fi rmly on the wheel. These increased reaction rates are most likely due to the additional visual demand experienced with drinking and eating such as unwrapping the food or tipping the bottle up in order to drink from it. Drivers were 18 percent more likely to experience poorer lane control—unable to maintain a steady central lane position— whilst drinking behind the wheel. Participants made the most corrections to their steering when talking on a mobile-device, having to make a quarter more adjustments to keep their steering in line with the road markings ahead. Accompa ny ing resea rch from esure revealed that a worrying 79 percent of motorists do

It is widely accepted that the distraction of talking on a hand-held mobile phone may increase accident risk—hence the introduction of legislation in the UK. The results suggest that driving with one hand impacts driving behaviour not understand the legislation around driving with one hand on the wheel; almost a third of Brits (32 percent) are not sure whether eating whilst driving is an illegal activity and a further 27 percent were unsure of the rules around smoking. The study also showed that 17 percent of motorists think it is acceptable to drive with just one hand on the wheel with almost half (47 percent) admitting they do this regularly. Over a third (36 percent) of British motorists have taken their hand off the wheel to use the touch screen on their sat nav and one in ﬁve (20 percent) admit they had strayed to smoking whilst driving. Eight percent of Brits have had an accident or near miss when ﬁddling with the car radio. Head of Risk and Underwriting at esure car insurance, Mike Pickard said, “Results from these driving simulator tests give great cause for concern and indicate

how dangerous it is for motorists to engage in activities that involve driving with just one hand on the wheel. “We are appealing for all motorists to take the time to properly plan their car journey before leaving the house. Eat before you step into the car and plan regular breaks at service stations to help fuel any cravings whilst behind the wheel.” Prof Samantha Jamson at the University of Leeds, said, “It is widely accepted that the distraction of talking on a hand-held mobile phone may increase accident risk—hence the introduction of legislation in the UK. Other activities that involve taking one hand off the wheel, such as eating or drinking, may also cause distraction, particularly when drivers take their eyes off the road in order to reach for or unwrap items. “The results we obtained suggest that driving with just one hand on the wheel impacted on the driving behaviour of the participants in this study.”

Regional Differences Over a ﬁ fth of Scots (22 percent) admit they often take their hand off the wheel to smoke whilst driving —the highest of any region polled. Almost one in ten people from the West Midlands (nine percent) revealed they have taken their hand off the wheel to apply make-up or hair gel whilst driving. About 15 percent of Londoners admit they have had an accident or near miss because they have been driving with just one hand on the wheel - the highest of any region polled.

nternational Automotive Components (IAC) Group has appointed Ja mes K Kamsickas as Chief E xecut ive Of f icer (CEO). Kamsickas previously served as global co-chief executive ofﬁcer and president of North America and Asia. He takes over from Jens Hohnel, who served as global co-chief executive ofﬁcer and president of Europe and retires after more than 40 years in the automotive and vehicle interiors supplier industry. Hohnel will continue with the organization in a special advisory role until April 2013 to ensure a smooth transition.

Playing The Key Role Kamsickas and Hohnel have successfully helped to establish and secure IAC Group’s position as a leading Tier I supplier. In addition to executing numerous major acquisitions and integrations of distressed companies related to the founding and growth of IAC Group’s global operations, Kamsickas effectively guided IAC Group through the 2008-2009 economic crisis in North America. During this time, IAC Group played a key role in consolidating the North American automotive interior supply space. Also, he initiated the company’s expansion in Asia, creating regional headquarters, technical centres and new manufacturing facilities in three of the continent’s largest countries.

The Leader Previously the head of Lear

Corporation’s Interior Systems Division, which became IAC Group North American and Asian operations in 2007, Kamsickas held a number of leadership roles within the organisation, including as a vice president in its GM, Ford and Chrysler customer divisions and vice president of operations of Lear’s Seating, Electrical and Interiors divisions. Also, he served in several key positions in the development of Lear’s European operations, including international assignments in Germany, Sweden and Austria.

About IAC Since the creation of IAC Group Europe in 2006, Hohnel was instrumental in the company’s formation, including the successful integration of multiple strategic acquisitions in Europe and subsequent success through the 2010 consolidation of the company’s regional operations into one global organisation. IAC Group is a leading global supplier of interior and exterior trim. Its 2011 sales were $4.4 billion. The company operates 76 manufacturing facilities in 15 countries. I AC employs approx imately 23,000 people around the world and is headquartered in Luxembourg. IAC has one technica l/engineering centre in Hinjewadi, Pune, India. Additionally, the company operates three manufacturing facilities in Chakan, Pune and Manesar, Har yana. IAC has approximately 600 employees in India.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

Honda expects robust recovery

onda Motor Co, Ltd announced its consolidated financial results for the ﬁ scal fourth quarter and the ﬁscal year ended 31 March 2012 recently.

Fiscal Fourth Quarter (1 January - 31 March 2012) Summary Despite the unfavourable currency effects due to the appreciation of the Japanese yen and increase in R&D expenses, consolidated operating income for the fiscal fourth quarter (1 January to 31 March, 2012) amounted to Japanese Yen 111.9 billion (£855.7m), approximately 2.4 times greater than the same period of last year (46.2 b), primarily due to the motorcycle business, which saw an increase of 10.6 percent on the previous year. This marked record-high unit sales globally for any quarter, increased unit sales across power products, increased revenue in the automobile business mainly

in Japan and North America and decreased internal administrative expenses.

Fiscal Year (1 April, 201131 March, 2012) Summary Despite the increased revenue in the motorcycle business, consolidated operating income for the whole fiscal year (1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012) declined by 59.4 percent compared to the previous fiscal year and amounted to 231.3 billion yen (£1.76 b), primarily due to the impact of decreased automobile production due to the Great East Japan Earthquake and the flooding in Thailand, increased R&D expenses and the unfavourable currency effects due to the appreciation of the Japanese yen. Consolidated net income attributable to Honda Motor Co., Ltd. for the fi scal year amounted 211.4 billion yen (£1.61b), a 60.4 percent decrease from the previous fiscal year. Honda plans for year-end cash dividends of JPY 15 per share

Whilst production and profits were severely affected by external factors during the last fiscal year, Honda continues to display a solid constitution and is planning a strong recovery during the forthcoming year (£0.11). Together with the quarterly cash dividends of JPY 15 for the fi rst, second and third fiscal quarters, the total cash dividends to be paid for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2012 are planned to be JPY 60 per share (£0.45), which is an increase of JPY six per share from the annual dividends paid for the year ended March 31, 2011. The year-end dividends are matters to be resolved at the general shareholders’ meeting.

Forthcoming Fiscal Year Forecast (1 April, 2012-31 March, 2013) Summary Whilst production and proﬁts were severely affected by external factors during the last ﬁscal year, Honda continues to display a solid constitution and is planning a strong recovery during the forthcoming year, forecasting an all-time record of 4.3 m automobile sales (compared to 3.1 m during the previous year). This will be driven by new model changes for major models and the introduction of new models, coupled with expansion of production capacity in North

America and China. Increases in motorcycle and power product unit sales to 16.6 m and 6.3 m respectively are also planned. The total operating income (proﬁt) forecast for Honda’s forthcoming FY13 period is 620 billion yen which represents a 168 percent increase from the Yen 231.3 billion in the FY12 period. In the context of the extraordinary natural disasters during FY12 however which greatly affected Honda, this forecast increase to

Yen 620 billion in FY13 is more comparable and in context with the FY11 fi scal year operating income of Yen 569.7 billion, and so represents a more understandable nine percent FY13 forecast increase on that period. The total cash dividends for the fiscal year ending 31 March, 2013 are planned to be JPY 76 per share, an increase of JPY 16 from the annual dividends to be paid for the fiscal year ended 31 March, 2012.

Industry to debate future technology trends at SMMT Summit

en ior i nter nat iona l executives from Ford, I ntel l igent E nerg y, Renault and Volkswagen Group will debate the range of ultra-low carbon technologies that will continue the industry’s rapid progress in slashing CO2 emissions from new cars in a session at the SMMT’s International Automotive Summit on 12 June, 2012 as part of the Innovation in Ultra-Low Carbon Technology stream, supported by EDF Energy.

Innovation in Ultra-Low Carbon Technology From next generation petrol and diesel engines through hybrids and electric vehicles to hydrogen fuel cell technologies, the global automotive industry is investing heavily in the R&D and market preparation needed to develop a global ultra-low carbon vehicle ﬂeet. Delivering the vision—taking technologies to market will explore the portfolio of products coming to market and examine why different vehicle manufacturers are backing different technologies. Open ing t he session, Director of Future Technologies, Volkswagen AG, Professor

Wolfgang Steiger will speak about the company’s multi-technology approach from developing the internal combustion engine to plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles. The approach backs the forecast of the Automotive Council’s Technology Roadmap that sets out the developments necessary to meet the challenging forthcoming European emission targets. Discussing the significant contribution next generation petrol and diesel engines can make to lowering global vehicle emissions, Vice President Product Development, Ford of Europe, Barb Samardzich will discuss the company’s compact ICE development plans examining the drivers behind Ford’s new UK-designed and engineered one-litre EcoBoost powerplant. The new engine builds on UK R&D expertise to deliver CO2 emissions of 109-114g/km while providing the same power as a normally-aspirated 1.6-litre petrol engine. Focussing on the growing demand for electric vehicles, Renault’s Global Head of EVs, Thierry Koskas, is expected discuss the decision-making process, strategic vision and technology driving Renault’s

From next-gen petrol & diesel engines through hybrids & EVs to hydrogen fuel cell technologies, the global automotive industry is investing heavily in the R&D to develop a global ultralow carbon vehicle fleet exciting development of a raft of pure electric vehicles. CEO at leading power technology company Intelligent Energy, Henri Winand will round off the presentation with an insight on the development and deployment of fuel cell electric vehicles, and the infrastructure needed to bring them to market. Having pitched their thoughts, the four speakers will take audience questions for a topical debate on industry’s technological progress and the market demand for ultra-low carbon vehicles, chaired by the broadcaster Justin Webb.

Commenting on the development of an ultra-low carbon transport network, Manager of B2C Product Development, EDF Energy, Bethan Carver said, “The electriﬁcation of transport will require the development of innovative technologies to enable motorists to maximise the cost and carbon saving potential of plug-in vehicles. Energy suppliers will play a key role in the development and deployment of these technologies and associated customer offers”.

Along with opening keynote speeches from BMW Board Member, Global Sales and Marketing, Ian Robertson and Board of Management, Robert Bosch GmbH, Peter Tyroller experienced heads from the world of automotive will be seated on the panels for other streams at the Summit covering The changing Face Of Vehicle Retail, supported by GForces Web Management, and Growth In The Supply Chain, supported by KPMG LLP.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

G L O B A L WAT C H

International auto round-up Ford spins off Visteon’s Saline plant with joint venture Ford is spinning off a former subsidiary’s Saline plant business and helping create a joint venture for minority-owned suppliers in Detroit as part of the sale. Ford took charge of the Saline plant, formerly occupied by Visteon, as part of a 2005 bail-out of its former parts subsidiary. The automaker has struggled to rid itself of several Visteon assets, including the Saline site. The JV Ford brokered between supplier Faurecia North America and Wayne-based Rush Group will be called Detroit Manufacturing Systems LLC. Rush Group, owned by Mohawk Indian tribe descendant Andra Rush, will be the majority owner. Detroit Manufacturing Systems will employ about 500 workers at the Gateway Industrial Centre on Southﬁeld Road in Detroit beginning this summer. Nearly all employees associated with the business have been offered

employment, according to Ford. Faurecia will acquire operations at the Saline plant to become Ford’s third-largest supplier. The plant generates more than $one billion annually supplying cockpit modules, instrument panels, door panels and centre consoles for a dozen vehicle programs assembled at eight North American Ford plants. The Saline plant is owned by Automotive Components Holdings LLC, a temporary business managed by Ford. ACH will transfer the business on June 1 to Faurecia, which will lease the property. Ford set-up ACH as a holding company for the former Visteon properties it wanted to sell or close. The automaker searched for a buyer for its Saline operations for many years, including a failed deal with Johnson Controls in 2008. Faurecia North America, a unit of Nanterre, France-based Faurecia SA, will supply parts to the joint venture, which in turn will provide Ford with interior parts such as door panels and

Mazda, Sollers form production JV for Russia Mazda will set-up a joint venture with Russian automaker, Sollers to produce vehicles for Russia as it pushes further into emerging markets. The initial production capacity from the joint venture would be 50,000 vehicles when it begins operations toward the end of the year and reach 70,000 per year later. Financial details on the venture were not disclosed. The venture will produce Mazda’s CX-5 SUV, the next-generation Mazda6 mid-sized car and a Sollers brand vehicle for sale in Russia. In 2011, Mazda sold about 40,000 vehicles in Russia, a yearon-year rise of about 60 percent, making it company’s second-largest market in Europe. Russian car sales are expected to grow about six percent this year to 2.8 million vehicles, according to both government and independent forecasts, with the market seen reaching four million vehicles by 2015. Sollers has entered similar ventures with other automakers recently including Ford to take advantage of government incentives to boost local production. Mazda, which produces more than 70 percent of its vehicles

Mazda, which produces more than 70 percent of its vehicles in Japan and exports more than three-quarters of that, has been looking to boost its overseas output capacity to make its profits less dependent on yen exchange rates in Japan and exports more than three-quarters of that, has been looking to boost its overseas output capacity to make its proﬁts less dependent on yen exchange rates. The Hiroshima-based company announced plans last June to build a factory in Mexico and is also working to lift its output in China. In March, Mazda sold $1.9 billion in new stock, the proceeds of nearly half of which it plans to use to pay for production bases overseas and to improve domestic factories.

cockpits. Faurecia will receive more than $one billion in business from the automaker as part of the deal. Faurecia, the world’s sixth-largest automotive equipment supplier, provides the global automotive industry with seats, interiors, exhaust systems and exterior parts.

Renault-Nissan to acquire control of Russia venture Renault-Nissan, a partner of Russia’s largest automaker AvtoVAZ, has struck a deal that will enable it to acquire control of the company in 2014. Paris-based Renault and Nissan have agreed to invest about $750 million over two years to obtain a majority holding in a new venture with AvtoVAZ’s Russian stakeholders that will control the automaker. Under the terms of the deal, Russia’s state-owned Rostekhnologii agreed to restructure more than $1.5 billion of AvtoVAZ’s debt. The deal would expand Renault-Nissan’s presence in Russia’s fast-growing market, which is expected to overtake Germany to become Europe’s largest. Renault teamed up with Togliatti-based AvtoVAZ, formerly GM’s partner, in 2008 when it paid $one billion for a 25 percent stake after relations between GM and AvtoVAZ soured. Russian auto sales collapsed during the global downturn to 1.4 million in 2009 but rebounded to 2.65 million in 2011—with AvtoVAZ selling nearly 600,000 of those vehicles. Together with Renault and Nissan, the partners sold 880,000 vehicles in Russia last year, taking 30 percent of the market. In ﬁve years, they aim to have a combined 40 percent share. The deal is non-binding, but the partners expect to sign a deﬁ nitive agreement before the end of the year that would set out the terms for Renault-Nissan to obtain 67 percent stake in the joint venture, amounting to 50.01 percent of AvtoVAZ by mid-2014.

Ford will open $450M Thailand plant Ford is looking to kick start $450 million auto plant in Thailand, part of its strategy to boost sales in Asia. The 215,000square-foot plant is Ford’s second plant in Thailand, and one of eight new manufacturing facilities Ford will open by 2015 across the Asia Pacific and Africa region as part of its global expansion. The Dearborn automaker will launch production of the new Ford Focus at the Thai plant; it’s already being built at five other Ford facilities around the world. The vehicles are part of the plan to launch 50 new vehicles and powertrains in Asia Pacific and Africa by mid-decade, according to a company statement. Along with China and India, Thailand serves as one of the key global production and export hubs for Ford. Ford Thailand Manufacturing has an initial production capacity of 150,000 vehicles; the plant increases the company’s annual capacity in Thailand to 445,000. That makes Ford one of the largest producers and exporters of vehicles in the country. Ford predicts that in the Asia-Africa region, auto sales will double by the end of the decade. Since 2007, Ford has

invested more than $1.5 billion in Thailand. Ford is the secondlargest automotive investor in the country, with cumulative investments totalling more than $2.5 billion. The facility has the potential to support up to 11,000 new jobs, including 2,200 direct jobs with Ford and 8,800 indirect jobs through its supplier and dealer networks. There are already 1,600 workers onsite, preparing for production launch. Ford plans to buy up to $800 million worth of components locally through Thailand’s automotive manufacturing supplier network.

585 million) factory and foundry in China that will produce as many as six million brake discs a year. The plants, on the outskirts of the eastern China city of Nanjing, will employ 1,000 workers when they reach full capacity. The project was launched in 2009, when Brembo signed an agreement with Donghua Automotive Industrial Co to build the manufacturing complex. Brembo entered China in 2,000 when it formed a joint venture with Yuejin Motor Group. That partnership produces brake components for cars and commercial vehicles.

Mercedes leads BMW in US luxury sales

GM China JV to build microvans in Egypt, India

Mercedes-Benz regained the US luxury-vehicle sales lead for the year over the BMW brand with April deliveries rising 24 percent. US sales of Mercedes vehicles rose to 22,336 last month, while BMW deliveries increased 12 percent to 21,062. Toyota’s Lexus brand, the top luxury seller for 11 years through 2010, slipped 0.1 percent to 17,551. Mercedes and BMW, which overtook Lexus last year to become the top-selling luxury brand in the US, are competing for the 2012 sales crown. BMW fi nished the fi rst quarter with 36 vehicle lead over Mercedes. April results lifted Mercedes sales for the year 17 percent to 83,849, giving the automaker a 1,238 vehicle lead after four months over BMW, which had a sales increase of 16 percent. Lexus deliveries rose 2.6 percent to 66,647 during the fi rst four months of the year. The results exclude Daimler’s Sprinter vans and Smart cars and BMW’s Mini brand, which aren’t luxury vehicles. Mercedes sales were helped by deliveries of the updated C-class sedan, up 23 percent, and M-class sport-utility vehicle, up 54 percent, the automaker said in a statement. The BMW and Mercedes sales race extends beyond the US borders. The two are locked in a global battle along with the Audi luxury brand. Audi deliveries rose 15 percent in the US last month to 11,521, the 16th consecutive month of record sales, the premium brand said in a statement. After four months, Audi’s sales this year rose 16 percent to 40,991, pushing it past GM’s Cadillac brand at 40,817. Cadillac fell 25 percent to 9,851 in April as the luxury brand suffered from the elimination of old models before new ones reach dealers later this year. Honda said in a statement that sales for its Acura brand rose 4.9 percent to 12,175 last month. Porsche, the sports car maker, sold 3,437 vehicles in the US, an 8.4 percent increase, the company said in a statement. Nissan’s Infiniti sold 7,129 vehicles, a 5.4 percent gain from a year earlier, the Japan-based company, said in a statement. Ford Motor Co. sold 6,308 Lincolns in April, a 13 percent decline from a year earlier, according to a statement from the automaker. Land Rover deliveries rose 10 percent to 3,292, while Jaguar sales declined 14 percent to 1,073.

GM’s Chinese microvan joint venture plans to launch production at two plants in India and Egypt using kits imported from China. In July, SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile Co will start producing the C300 microvan in Egypt using knockdown kits shipped from the venture’s Qingdao plant. In August, the joint venture’s Indian plant will begin assembling the CN100 with kits supplied by its Liuzhou plant. In China, the C300 is dubbed the Wuling Rongguang, while the CN100 is called the Wuling Hongguang. Both models are ﬁve-seat microvans, although the C300 is bigger than the CN100. With the two CKD plants scheduled to begin production, SGMW expects to export more than 20,000 vehicles this year, up from 14,000 units in 2011. SGMW is headquartered in Liuzhou in southwest China’s Guangxi region. SAIC Motor holds a controlling 50.1 stake, while General Motors holds a 44 percent share. The city of Liuzhou owns the remaining 5.9 percent stake. As China’s largest microvan maker, SGMW sold 1.3 million microvans last year, grabbing a 45 percent share of the domestic microvan segment. Currently SGMW’s major export markets are Egypt, Columbia, Ecuador, Chile and Peru.

Brembo opens brake factory, foundry in China Italy’s Brembo Group has opened a Euro 70 million (Yuan

Volvo says China expansion on track as profit drops Volvo is on track to meet its long-term goal of boosting sales more than fourfold in China after reporting a fall in 2011 earnings due to costs related to its expansion. Volvo was bought by Zhejiang Geely Holding Group from Ford in 2010. It plans to boost annual output from over 400,000 cars to more than 800,000 by 2020. Volvo sold 47,000 vehicles in China in 2011 out of 449,255, but China was the fastest-growing market, up 54 percent. The US market grew 25 percent to 67,273 units while secondlargest market Sweden was up 11 percent to 52,894. Volvo said the sales network in China was expanding and that construction at a plant in Chengdu had begun. Geely is also parent of listed Geely Automotive Holdings. The automaker said the 2011 proﬁt was hit by research and development costs and industrial capacity to support its expansion plans. Volvo sees global economic uncertainty continuing to affect consumer conﬁdence this year, with the European car market expected to decrease and the U.S. market projected to improve.

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

N A M E R I C A N A S S E M B LY

AUTOFACTS Global Automotive Outlook, 2009 Q1 Release PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

North America Assembly Tracking 3 -2012 (Tracking by Brand & Nameplate) March 2012 Ownership Org/

Last 3 Months

YOY

Assembly

YOY

Volume

% Chg

Share %

Share Chg

15,614

56.3%

1.1%

Ford Mustang

9,006

28.0%

Mazda Mazda6

6,608

123.8%

Brand & Nameplate AutoAlliance International (USA)

Year to Date

YOY

Assembly

YOY

Volume

% Chg

Share %

Share Chg

YOY

Assembly

YOY

Volume

% Chg

Share %

0.3

41,688

57.2%

1.1%

Share Chg

0.3

41,688

57.2%

1.1%

0.6%

0.1

23,223

48.8%

0.3

0.6%

0.1

23,223

48.8%

0.6%

0.5%

0.2

18,465

69.2%

0.1

0.5%

0.1

18,465

69.2%

0.5%

0.1

BMW (Germany)

29,056

11.8%

2.1%

0.1

82,235

28.9%

2.1%

0.2

82,235

28.9%

2.1%

0.2

BMW X3

13,758

22.6%

1.0%

0.1

38,917

44.8%

1.0%

0.2

38,917

44.8%

1.0%

0.2

BMW X5

10,976

5.8%

0.8%

(-0.0)

30,745

20.5%

0.8%

0.0

30,745

20.5%

0.8%

0.0

BMW X6

4,322

-1.8%

0.3%

(-0.0)

12,573

10.1%

0.3%

(-0.0)

12,573

10.1%

0.3%

(-0.0) 0.8

Chrysler Group LLC (USA)

220,182

9.0%

15.5%

0.0

603,005

23.6%

15.3%

0.8

603,005

23.6%

15.3%

Chrysler 200

12,669

7.8%

0.9%

(-0.0)

32,518

21.7%

0.8%

0.0

32,518

21.7%

0.8%

0.0

Chrysler 300

7,480

2.3%

0.5%

(-0.0)

22,261

175.0%

0.6%

0.3

22,261

175.0%

0.6%

0.3 (-0.1)

Chrysler Town & Country

10,108

-5.8%

0.7%

(-0.1)

26,296

-0.2%

0.7%

(-0.1)

26,296

-0.2%

0.7%

Dodge Avenger

8,855

-4.1%

0.6%

(-0.1)

23,883

30.1%

0.6%

0.1

23,883

30.1%

0.6%

Dodge Caliber

-100.0%

(-0.4)

-100.0%

(-0.4)

-100.0%

(-0.4)

Dodge Caravan

17,824

9.0%

1.3%

0.0

48,546

11.7%

1.2%

(-0.1)

48,546

11.7%

1.2%

(-0.1)

Dodge Challenger

4,590

83.2%

0.3%

0.1

12,029

30.2%

0.3%

0.0

12,029

30.2%

0.3%

0.0

Dodge Charger

9,035

-4.1%

0.6%

(-0.1)

24,932

-6.2%

0.6%

(-0.2)

24,932

-6.2%

0.6%

(-0.2) (-0.2)

Dodge Dakota

-100.0%

(-0.2)

-100.0%

(-0.2)

-100.0%

Dodge Dart

Dodge Durango

4,569

-43.6%

0.3%

(-0.3)

10,805

-51.2%

0.3%

(-0.4)

10,805

-51.2%

0.3%

0.1

(-0.4)

Dodge Journey

13,076

11.4%

0.9%

0.0

33,607

22.6%

0.9%

0.0

33,607

22.6%

0.9%

Dodge Nitro

-100.0%

(-0.2)

-100.0%

(-0.2)

-100.0%

0.0

Fiat 500

6,977

99.8%

0.5%

0.2

19,246

220.2%

0.5%

0.3

19,246

220.2%

0.5%

0.3

Fiat Freemont

4,278

183.3%

0.3%

0.2

15,286

912.3%

0.4%

0.3

15,286

912.3%

0.4%

0.3

Jeep Compass

14,058

27.9%

1.0%

0.1

35,111

32.5%

0.9%

0.1

35,111

32.5%

0.9%

0.1

Jeep Grand Cherokee

21,510

37.8%

1.5%

0.3

62,599

63.2%

1.6%

0.4

62,599

63.2%

1.6%

0.4

(-0.2)

Jeep Liberty

10,004

50.5%

0.7%

0.2

31,416

83.5%

0.8%

0.3

31,416

83.5%

0.8%

0.3

Jeep Patriot

12,266

40.5%

0.9%

0.2

35,745

56.8%

0.9%

0.2

35,745

56.8%

0.9%

0.2

Jeep Wrangler

7,338

8.2%

0.5%

(-0.0)

19,956

19.6%

0.5%

0.0

19,956

19.6%

0.5%

0.0

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

11,354

9.1%

0.8%

0.0

31,148

11.9%

0.8%

(-0.0)

31,148

11.9%

0.8%

(-0.0)

Lancia Flavia

281

0.0%

0.0

281

0.0%

0.0

281

0.0%

0.0

Lancia Grand Voyager

951

0.1%

0.1

1,899

0.0%

0.0

1,899

0.0%

0.0

Lancia Thema

0.0%

0.0

915

0.0%

0.0

915

0.0%

0.0

Ram Cargo Van

1,249

0.1%

0.1

3,187

0.1%

0.1

3,187

0.1%

0.1

Ram Pickup

40,651

11.0%

2.9%

0.1

108,545

20.9%

2.7%

0.1

108,545

20.9%

2.7%

0.1

Volkswagen Routan

1,057

-66.5%

0.1%

(-0.2)

2,794

-59.9%

0.1%

(-0.1)

2,794

-59.9%

0.1%

(-0.1)

Daimler AG (Germany)

16,689

25.4%

1.2%

0.2

48,168

35.5%

1.2%

0.2

48,168

35.5%

1.2%

0.2

Freightliner Sprinter

849

6.9%

0.1%

(-0.0)

2,424

13.4%

0.1%

(-0.0)

2,424

13.4%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

3,520

27.5%

0.2%

0.0

10,240

37.6%

0.3%

0.0

10,240

37.6%

0.3%

0.0

Mercedes-Benz M-Class

10,560

30.4%

0.7%

0.1

30,720

42.8%

0.8%

0.1

30,720

42.8%

0.8%

0.1

Mercedes-Benz R-Class

1,760

6.3%

0.1%

(-0.0)

4,784

7.2%

0.1%

(-0.0)

4,784

7.2%

0.1%

(-0.0) (-2.5)

Ford Motor Company (USA)

235,405

-10.1%

16.6%

(-3.5)

650,579

2.0%

16.5%

(-2.5)

650,579

2.0%

16.5%

Ford C-MAX

0.0%

0.0

0.0%

Ford Crown Victoria

-100.0%

(-0.7)

-100.0%

(-0.7)

-100.0%

(-0.7)

Ford Edge

13,037

-23.8%

0.9%

(-0.4)

42,598

-4.5%

1.1%

(-0.2)

42,598

-4.5%

1.1%

(-0.2)

Ford Escape

31,217

2.4%

2.2%

(-0.1)

87,324

7.7%

2.2%

(-0.2)

87,324

7.7%

2.2%

(-0.2)

Ford E-Series

15,656

-14.3%

1.1%

(-0.3)

37,527

-14.1%

0.9%

(-0.3)

37,527

-14.1%

0.9%

(-0.3)

Ford Expedition

6,493

-3.7%

0.5%

(-0.1)

17,003

19.6%

0.4%

0.0

17,003

19.6%

0.4%

0.0

Ford Explorer

19,834

21.1%

1.4%

0.1

48,397

32.9%

1.2%

0.1

48,397

32.9%

1.2%

0.1

Ford Fiesta

12,368

20.9%

0.9%

0.1

34,641

17.5%

0.9%

0.0

34,641

17.5%

0.9%

0.0

Ford Flex

2,723

71.4%

0.2%

0.1

8,173

31.1%

0.2%

0.0

8,173

31.1%

0.2%

0.0

Ford Focus

20,617

5.7%

1.5%

(-0.0)

60,612

136.2%

1.5%

0.8

60,612

136.2%

1.5%

0.8

Ford F-Series

66,433

-10.6%

4.7%

(-1.0)

196,240

7.4%

5.0%

(-0.5)

196,240

7.4%

5.0%

(-0.5)

Ford Fusion

30,321

13.0%

2.1%

0.1

71,489

-5.1%

1.8%

(-0.4)

71,489

-5.1%

1.8%

(-0.4)

Ford Ranger

-100.0%

(-0.8)

-100.0%

(-0.8)

-100.0%

(-0.8)

0.0

Ford Taurus

8,682

6.7%

0.6%

(-0.0)

21,864

17.9%

0.6%

0.0

21,864

17.9%

0.6%

0.0

Lincoln Mark LT

-27.8%

0.0%

(-0.0)

-36.0%

0.0%

(-0.0)

-36.0%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Lincoln MKS

1,565

1.2%

0.1%

(-0.0)

3,839

30.1%

0.1%

0.0

3,839

30.1%

0.1%

0.0

Lincoln MKT

588

72.4%

0.0%

0.0

2,165

45.5%

0.1%

0.0

2,165

45.5%

0.1%

0.0

Lincoln MKX

1,991

-40.5%

0.1%

(-0.1)

7,541

-14.6%

0.2%

(-0.1)

7,541

-14.6%

0.2%

(-0.1)

Lincoln MKZ

3,080

-27.8%

0.2%

(-0.1)

8,690

-13.1%

0.2%

(-0.1)

8,690

-13.1%

0.2%

(-0.1)

Lincoln Navigator

774

-29.0%

0.1%

(-0.0)

2,365

-17.5%

0.1%

(-0.0)

2,365

-17.5%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Lincoln Town Car

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

Mazda Tribute

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

Mercury Grand Marquis

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

27,454

16.5%

1.9%

0.1

79,995

17.6%

2.0%

0.0

79,995

17.6%

2.0%

Subaru Legacy

17,805

25.4%

1.3%

0.2

51,906

22.8%

1.3%

0.1

51,906

22.8%

1.3%

0.1

Subaru Tribeca

380

-40.2%

0.0%

(-0.0)

1,154

-38.9%

0.0%

(-0.0)

1,154

-38.9%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Toyota Camry

9,269

6.1%

0.7%

(-0.0)

26,935

12.8%

0.7%

(-0.0)

26,935

12.8%

0.7%

(-0.0)

311,401

0.1%

22.0%

(-1.9)

861,812

9.6%

21.8%

(-1.5)

861,812

9.6%

21.8%

(-1.5) (-0.2)

Fuji Heavy Industries (Japan)

General Motors Company (USA)

0.0

Buick Enclave

6,342

-15.9%

0.4%

(-0.1)

17,487

-12.7%

0.4%

(-0.2)

17,487

-12.7%

0.4%

Buick LaCrosse

6,296

-18.3%

0.4%

(-0.1)

13,766

-19.0%

0.3%

(-0.2)

13,766

-19.0%

0.3%

(-0.2)

Buick Lucerne

-100.0%

(-0.3)

-100.0%

(-0.3)

-100.0%

(-0.3)

Buick Regal

1,363

-6.6%

0.1%

(-0.0)

4,796

228.5%

0.1%

0.1

4,796

228.5%

0.1%

0.1

Buick Verano

4,971

0.4%

0.4

14,040

0.4%

0.4

14,040

0.4%

0.4 (-0.2)

Cadillac CTS

5,286

-21.9%

0.4%

(-0.1)

14,771

-17.7%

0.4%

(-0.2)

14,771

-17.7%

0.4%

Cadillac DTS

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

Cadillac Escalade

1,134

-43.2%

0.1%

(-0.1)

3,721

-21.3%

0.1%

(-0.0)

3,721

-21.3%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Cadillac Escalade ESV

644

-6.9%

0.0%

(-0.0)

1,854

10.1%

0.0%

(-0.0)

1,854

10.1%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Cadillac Escalade EXT

245

-8.2%

0.0%

(-0.0)

632

-13.2%

0.0%

(-0.0)

632

-13.2%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Cadillac SRX

7,665

-6.7%

0.5%

(-0.1)

22,940

12.9%

0.6%

(-0.0)

22,940

12.9%

0.6%

(-0.0)

Cadillac STS

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

Cadillac XTS

Chevrolet Avalanche

2,092

-7.3%

0.1%

(-0.0)

6,391

10.5%

0.2%

(-0.0)

6,391

10.5%

0.2%

Chevrolet Aveo

7,200

19.8%

0.5%

0.0

20,911

42.8%

0.5%

0.1

20,911

42.8%

0.5%

Chevrolet C2

-100.0%

(-0.4)

-100.0%

(-0.3)

-100.0%

(-0.0) 0.1 (-0.3)

7 MAY 2012

March 2012 Ownership Org/ Brand & Nameplate

Auto Monitor

N A M E R I C A N A S S E M B LY

Last 3 Months YOY Share Chg

Volume

Assembly Share %

Chevrolet Camaro

7,234

-29.0%

0.5%

(-0.3)

24,662

-17.2%

0.6%

(-0.3)

24,662

-17.2%

0.6%

Chevrolet Captiva

5,560

87.5%

0.4%

0.2

14,072

73.6%

0.4%

0.1

14,072

73.6%

0.4%

0.1

Chevrolet Colorado

4,260

50.3%

0.3%

0.1

12,147

29.9%

0.3%

0.0

12,147

29.9%

0.3%

0.0

Volume

YOY % Chg

Year to Date

YOY % Chg

Assembly Share %

YOY Share Chg

Volume

YOY % Chg

Assembly Share %

YOY Share Chg (-0.3)

Chevrolet Corvette

1,359

-7.5%

0.1%

(-0.0)

3,343

8.9%

0.1%

(-0.0)

3,343

8.9%

0.1%

(-0.0)

Chevrolet Cruze

26,505

0.6%

1.9%

(-0.2)

76,148

6.8%

1.9%

(-0.2)

76,148

6.8%

1.9%

(-0.2)

Chevrolet Equinox

23,752

-0.1%

1.7%

(-0.1)

67,979

8.0%

1.7%

(-0.1)

67,979

8.0%

1.7%

(-0.1)

Chevrolet Express

7,952

14.5%

0.6%

0.0

20,663

11.1%

0.5%

(-0.0)

20,663

11.1%

0.5%

(-0.0)

Chevrolet HHR

-100.0%

(-0.5)

-100.0%

(-0.6)

-100.0%

(-0.6)

Chevrolet Impala

17,503

-10.0%

1.2%

(-0.3)

50,173

-7.1%

1.3%

(-0.3)

50,173

-7.1%

1.3%

(-0.3)

Chevrolet Malibu

21,602

0.4%

1.5%

(-0.1)

65,945

39.4%

1.7%

0.3

65,945

39.4%

1.7%

0.3

Chevrolet Silverado

56,139

6.5%

4.0%

(-0.1)

147,482

17.6%

3.7%

0.0

147,482

17.6%

3.7%

0.0

Chevrolet Sonic

9,038

0.6%

0.6

25,870

0.7%

0.7

25,870

0.7%

0.7

Chevrolet Suburban

6,001

-13.1%

0.4%

(-0.1)

15,820

19.4%

0.4%

0.0

15,820

19.4%

0.4%

0.0

Chevrolet Tahoe

11,648

19.8%

0.8%

0.1

30,637

21.6%

0.8%

0.0

30,637

21.6%

0.8%

0.0

Chevrolet Traverse

8,904

-25.0%

0.6%

(-0.3)

23,866

-21.1%

0.6%

(-0.3)

23,866

-21.1%

0.6%

(-0.3)

Chevrolet Volt

1,186

51.7%

0.1%

0.0

3,533

77.9%

0.1%

0.0

3,533

77.9%

0.1%

0.0

GMC Acadia

8,307

-9.6%

0.6%

(-0.1)

22,281

-6.6%

0.6%

(-0.1)

22,281

-6.6%

0.6%

(-0.1)

GMC Canyon

1,047

20.9%

0.1%

0.0

3,062

15.8%

0.1%

(-0.0)

3,062

15.8%

0.1%

(-0.0)

GMC Savana

3,649

12.2%

0.3%

0.0

9,081

11.9%

0.2%

(-0.0)

9,081

11.9%

0.2%

(-0.0)

GMC Sierra Pickups

24,790

21.4%

1.7%

0.2

63,037

26.3%

1.6%

0.1

63,037

26.3%

1.6%

0.1

GMC Terrain

11,887

5.9%

0.8%

(-0.0)

33,890

13.9%

0.9%

(-0.0)

33,890

13.9%

0.9%

(-0.0)

GMC Yukon

5,412

16.5%

0.4%

0.0

14,708

9.8%

0.4%

(-0.0)

14,708

9.8%

0.4%

(-0.0)

GMC Yukon XL

3,132

-23.5%

0.2%

(-0.1)

9,279

3.7%

0.2%

(-0.0)

9,279

3.7%

0.2%

(-0.0)

Opel-Vauxhall Ampera

1,296

0.1%

0.1

2,825

0.1%

0.1

2,825

0.1%

Saab 9-4X

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

Honda Motor Company (Japan) Acura CSX

0.1 (-0.0)

158,678

40.3%

11.2%

2.5

460,242

37.6%

11.6%

1.7

460,242

37.6%

11.6%

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

1.7

Acura MDX

7,199

11.0%

0.5%

0.0

20,089

13.3%

0.5%

(-0.0)

20,089

13.3%

0.5%

(-0.0)

Acura RDX

1,920

7.6%

0.1%

(-0.0)

2,002

-62.8%

0.1%

(-0.1)

2,002

-62.8%

0.1%

(-0.1)

Acura TL

3,721

-41.3%

0.3%

(-0.2)

13,442

37.8%

0.3%

0.1

13,442

37.8%

0.3%

0.1

Acura ZDX

109

-16.8%

0.0%

(-0.0)

332

-28.0%

0.0%

(-0.0)

332

-28.0%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Honda Accord

38,253

68.9%

2.7%

1.0

110,229

55.3%

2.8%

0.7

110,229

55.3%

2.8%

0.7

Honda Civic

42,939

120.1%

3.0%

1.5

127,617

83.5%

3.2%

1.2

127,617

83.5%

3.2%

1.2

Honda Crosstour

2,644

10.1%

0.2%

0.0

7,701

33.4%

0.2%

0.0

7,701

33.4%

0.2%

0.0

Honda CR-V

32,497

36.9%

2.3%

0.5

89,484

35.1%

2.3%

0.3

89,484

35.1%

2.3%

0.3

Honda Element

-100.0%

(-0.2)

-100.0%

(-0.2)

-100.0%

Honda Odyssey

14,288

4.4%

1.0%

(-0.0)

44,690

19.0%

1.1%

0.0

44,690

19.0%

1.1%

0.0

Honda Pilot

14,119

11.3%

1.0%

0.0

40,484

4.6%

1.0%

(-0.1)

40,484

4.6%

1.0%

(-0.1)

Honda Ridgeline

989

-37.5%

0.1%

(-0.1)

4,172

-12.5%

0.1%

(-0.0)

4,172

-12.5%

0.1%

(-0.0)

55,941

0.7%

3.9%

(-0.3)

171,113

13.6%

4.3%

(-0.1)

171,113

13.6%

4.3%

(-0.1)

Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea)

(-0.2)

Hyundai Elantra/i30

11,183

-13.6%

0.8%

(-0.2)

29,813

-1.4%

0.8%

(-0.1)

29,813

-1.4%

0.8%

(-0.1)

Hyundai Santa Fe

7,346

-25.2%

0.5%

(-0.2)

24,579

-6.9%

0.6%

(-0.2)

24,579

-6.9%

0.6%

(-0.2) (-0.2)

Hyundai Sonata/i40

18,547

-1.3%

1.3%

(-0.1)

58,041

3.5%

1.5%

(-0.2)

58,041

3.5%

1.5%

Kia Optima

10,005

0.7%

0.7

29,056

0.7%

0.7

29,056

0.7%

0.7

Kia Sorento

8,860

-36.8%

0.6%

(-0.4)

29,624

-22.0%

0.7%

(-0.4)

29,624

-22.0%

0.7%

(-0.4)

Mitsubishi Motors Corp (Japan)

1,335

-68.7%

0.1%

(-0.2)

5,877

-50.7%

0.1%

(-0.2)

5,877

-50.7%

0.1%

(-0.2)

Mitsubishi Eclipse

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

Mitsubishi Endeavor

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

-100.0%

(-0.1)

Mitsubishi Galant

1,335

-30.4%

0.1%

(-0.1)

5,877

-24.3%

0.1%

(-0.1)

5,877

-24.3%

0.1%

(-0.1)

118,551

7.6%

8.4%

(-0.1)

344,300

17.9%

8.7%

0.0

344,300

17.9%

8.7%

0.0

Infiniti JX Series

2,921

0.2%

0.2

3,306

0.1%

0.1

3,306

0.1%

0.1

Nissan Altima

31,154

-4.2%

2.2%

(-0.3)

89,914

10.5%

2.3%

(-0.1)

89,914

10.5%

2.3%

(-0.1)

Nissan Armada

2,083

-3.7%

0.1%

(-0.0)

6,339

7.7%

0.2%

(-0.0)

6,339

7.7%

0.2%

(-0.0)

Nissan Frontier

8,780

40.6%

0.6%

0.1

21,689

44.0%

0.5%

0.1

21,689

44.0%

0.5%

0.1

Nissan March

6,092

149.5%

0.4%

0.2

21,903

603.4%

0.6%

0.5

21,903

603.4%

0.6%

0.5

Nissan Motor (Japan)

Nissan Maxima

6,745

-6.5%

0.5%

(-0.1)

20,524

9.1%

0.5%

(-0.0)

20,524

9.1%

0.5%

(-0.0)

Nissan NV-Series

411

-79.5%

0.0%

(-0.1)

2,173

-26.5%

0.1%

(-0.0)

2,173

-26.5%

0.1%

(-0.0) (-0.1)

Nissan Pathfinder

2,413

-42.6%

0.2%

(-0.2)

7,692

-29.8%

0.2%

(-0.1)

7,692

-29.8%

0.2%

Nissan Pickup

7,614

100.4%

0.5%

0.2

19,450

72.5%

0.5%

0.2

19,450

72.5%

0.5%

0.2

Nissan Sentra

11,774

-13.6%

0.8%

(-0.2)

37,449

-17.2%

0.9%

(-0.4)

37,449

-17.2%

0.9%

(-0.4)

Nissan Tiida

15,821

123.0%

1.1%

0.6

45,991

148.0%

1.2%

0.6

45,991

148.0%

1.2%

0.6

Nissan Titan

2,426

-30.0%

0.2%

(-0.1)

7,336

-7.5%

0.2%

(-0.0)

7,336

-7.5%

0.2%

(-0.0)

Nissan Tsuru

4,474

-31.6%

0.3%

(-0.2)

13,360

-34.4%

0.3%

(-0.3)

13,360

-34.4%

0.3%

(-0.3)

Nissan Versa

14,879

-10.1%

1.0%

(-0.2)

41,473

-4.2%

1.0%

(-0.2)

41,473

-4.2%

1.0%

(-0.2)

Nissan Xterra

804

-61.4%

0.1%

(-0.1)

5,271

-20.7%

0.1%

(-0.1)

5,271

-20.7%

0.1%

(-0.1)

Suzuki Equator

160

-20.0%

0.0%

(-0.0)

430

-10.4%

0.0%

(-0.0)

430

-10.4%

0.0%

(-0.0)

Tesla Motors (USA)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

Tesla Roadster

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

158,418

29.6%

11.2%

1.8

439,817

27.5%

11.1%

0.9

439,817

27.5%

11.1%

0.9

7,916

5.3%

0.6%

(-0.0)

22,623

8.3%

0.6%

(-0.0)

22,623

8.3%

0.6%

(-0.0) (-0.1)

Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan) Lexus RX Series Toyota Avalon

3,440

-18.2%

0.2%

(-0.1)

9,876

-14.3%

0.2%

(-0.1)

9,876

-14.3%

0.2%

Toyota Camry

34,927

85.1%

2.5%

1.0

103,039

86.8%

2.6%

1.0

103,039

86.8%

2.6%

1.0

Toyota Corolla

33,717

57.7%

2.4%

0.7

83,434

38.4%

2.1%

0.3

83,434

38.4%

2.1%

0.3

Toyota Highlander

12,383

19.9%

0.9%

0.1

34,547

15.7%

0.9%

(-0.0)

34,547

15.7%

0.9%

(-0.0)

Toyota Matrix

2,171

56.0%

0.2%

0.0

6,502

40.1%

0.2%

0.0

6,502

40.1%

0.2%

0.0

Toyota RAV4

17,220

7.2%

1.2%

(-0.0)

46,155

3.0%

1.2%

(-0.2)

46,155

3.0%

1.2%

(-0.2)

Toyota Sequoia

2,166

40.4%

0.2%

0.0

6,097

36.6%

0.2%

0.0

6,097

36.6%

0.2%

0.0

Toyota Sienna

12,658

-1.2%

0.9%

(-0.1)

37,825

3.4%

1.0%

(-0.1)

37,825

3.4%

1.0%

(-0.1)

Toyota Tacoma

14,843

30.0%

1.0%

0.2

38,635

18.8%

1.0%

0.0

38,635

18.8%

1.0%

0.0

Toyota Tundra

10,995

-0.1%

0.8%

(-0.1)

32,954

10.3%

0.8%

(-0.1)

32,954

10.3%

0.8%

(-0.1)

Toyota Venza

5,982

4.3%

0.4%

(-0.0)

18,130

25.6%

0.5%

0.0

18,130

25.6%

0.5%

0.0

68,415

34.6%

4.8%

0.9

163,832

28.1%

4.1%

0.3

163,832

28.1%

4.1%

0.3

Volkswagen Beetle

9,074

0.6%

0.6

18,100

0.5%

0.5

18,100

0.5%

Volkswagen Bora

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

-100.0%

(-0.0)

Volkswagen (Germany)

0.5

Volkswagen Golf/Jetta Variant

14,112

-7.4%

1.0%

(-0.2)

34,389

-10.3%

0.9%

(-0.3)

34,389

-10.3%

0.9%

(-0.3)

Volkswagen Jetta

32,929

-7.4%

2.3%

(-0.4)

80,243

-10.3%

2.0%

(-0.6)

80,243

-10.3%

2.0%

(-0.6)

Volkswagen Passat

12,300

0.9%

0.9

31,100

0.8%

0.8

31,100

0.8%

0.8

Total Light Vehicle

1,417,139

8.7%

100.0%

3,952,663

17.4%

100.0%

3,952,663

17.4%

100.0%

Type III Composite Cylinders ADVANCED LIGHTWEIGHT STORAGE SYSTEM

Driving range of Commercial Vehicles up tp 1500 km without refuelling Benefits of Dynecel速 Cylinder Includes Lightweight 70% lighter than Type 1 cylinders.

Significantly safer by design.

High Strength to weight ratio.

Resistant to Hydrogen embrittlement.

Non-Permeable,Seamless aluminium liner.

Extreme resistant to chemicals.

Size Flexibility.

No Retesting for 20 years.

True fast fill capability.

Improved driving behaviour.

Highest Storage Capacity for given diameter of any

More space to add 9-10 seats for buses.

lightweight cylinders on market.

8*W205 = 1640 liters

4*W320 = 1280 liters

Auto Monitor

7 MAY 2012

CLASSIFIEDS

Anticorrosive Equipment Pvt. Ltd. Foundry Division

Capabilities Machine Molding Sand Core Shooter Green Sand Molding No Bake Process 200kg/hr melting Mechanized Pouring 6ton/hr sand plant Mold Box - custom size Parts weight 2kg-135kg Fettling Facility Vibro Finish CNC Machining VMC Machining Pattern Making Carbon Silicon Analyzer Spectro Analysis

Materials Cast Iron S.G. Iron

Quality Sand Casting Parts

We specialize in manufacturing 2kg-135kg sand cast parts as per requirement. Our highly mechanized plant is best suited for low weight high quantity parts to meet growing need of Indian Auto Industry.

Anticorrosive Equipment Pvt. Ltd. Foundry Division 730/731, G.I.D.C. Phase II, Gundlav-396 035, Dist: Valsad, Gujarat, India. Ph: +91 99099 19155 www.anticofoundry.co.in info@anticofoundry.co.in

The leading source for automotive parts, components & accessories.

7 MAY 2012

Auto Monitor

CLASSIFIEDS

triveni RUBBER

Achieving Excellence Through Technical Innovation

ADVERTISERS’ LIST Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details Ace Manufacturing Systems Ltd

Pg No

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details

Ferromatik Milacorn India

W: www.adea.in

Anticorrosive Equipment Pvt. Ltd

T: +91-09909919155 E: info@anticofoundry.co.in W: www.anticofoundry.co.in

Ashfa Corporation

T: +91-79-27522437 E: clamp@chamundaequip.com

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BIC

Litel Infrared Systems Pvt Ltd

M And M Auto Indus Ltd T: +91-124-4763200 E: corporate@mandmsprings.com W: www.mandmsprings.com

Nagata India Pvt Ltd

Ningbo Jialilai Machinery Manufacture Co., Ltd

Osram India Pvt Ltd.

T: +91-09871474036 E: pankaj.pandey@osram.com W: www.osramindia.com

Premier Ltd

T: +91-20-66310000 E: mtdsales@premier.co.in W: www.premier.co.in

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T: +91-22-66561866 E: charu.gulati@tatamotors.com W: www.tatamotors.com

The Supreme Industries Limited 36

T: +91-22-27645006 W: www.siemens.com/automotive-excellence

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Ecocat India Pvt Ltd

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

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T: +91-120-4147414

T: +91-124-4369592 E: prao@nagata.co.in W: www.nagataindia.com

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T: +91-2827-287081 E: info@jyoti.co.in W: www.jyoti.co.in

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Coatec India

Pg No 15

Micromatic Grinding Technologies Ltd

T: +91-80-39127800 E: info@igus.in W: www.igus.in

Jyoti Cnc Automation Pvt. Ltd.

Mahindra Genio

Metro Tyres Ltd 5

T: +91-22-24397575 E: rahul.rao@greavescotton.com W: www.greavescotton.com

IMTMA

T: +886-37-542-988 E: sh69032.tw@msa.hinet.net W: www.auroral-sinter.com.tw

Advertiser’s Name & Contact Details T: +1800-2096006 W: www.mahindrasmallcv.com

T: +91-253-6618100 E: sales@foxindia.net W: www.foxindia.net

Igus India Pvt Ltd

E: ashfa91@hotmail.com W: www.ashfacorp.com

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Getting Personal with Nitin Prasad, MD, Shell Lubricants, India If not in the auto industry, where would you be? I started my career in Semiconductors at the height of the technology boom in Silicon Valley. Being in that environment, working on all of the bleeding edge game of changing ideas that really gave me a passion for the way technology is transforming our everyday lives. Even in cars today, we can see a big difference from a decade ago. So today, I am fortunate to work in an industry where my two passions come together... but if not in the auto industry, I would go back to Technology

What car do you drive? What do you dream of driving? I have always loved and owned sports cars from the Subaru WRX, Honda S2000 to Nissan 350Z. Having recently moved to India, I am in the hunt for a new car so all suggestions are welcome! My dream car is a Ferrari 458 Your most recent indulgence… I love drinking and collecting ﬁ ne wine. My recent indulgence was a case of Chateau Laﬁte 2008, which I am convinced will be one of the best years ever

What are you currently reading? I am a voracious reader and have a long list of books that I keep going through, but I have just started reading ‘Great By Choice’

What is Mr Nitin Prasad doing when not talking auto? More than likely, dreaming or thinking of the next big idea!

Outdoor activity you would miss ofﬁce for… That is easy—Golf! But I could easily throw in sailing or skiing or scuba diving. All these pastimes I ﬁ nd very relaxing; just being out in the open, enjoying the weather and challenging myself against the elements

Where did you go for your last holiday? I recently went to Sri Lanka. I have been there several times over the years and it is absolutely beautiful. The variety of landscapes, world heritage sites and game parks, all consolidated in a relatively small area is truly amazing and makes every trip enjoyable

You get angry when… I rarely get angry, but when I do, it is largely due to the callousness or insensitivity of an individual in the way they treat others. I do believe everyone has pride in what they do, whatever it may be, and we should respect that

What is the one thing you would like to change about you? Many things and nothing at all

Best thing to have happened to you…

Illustration: Sachin Pandit

The best thing that happened to me was meeting my wife! Every day she supports me in so many ways!

7 MAY 2012

THE OTHER SIDE

In Person Nitin Prasad is the Managing Director, Shell Lubricants, India. In his current position Nitin is responsible for leading the Shell Lubricants growth plan in India. A seasoned commercial professional with several years experience in the Oil and Chemical industries, working across different countries as well as different nt industries, Prasad graduated as an engineer from m Georgia Institute of Technology, USA and is also o in possession of an MBA from Insead, Singapore. re. Prasad has held various roles oles within Shell; earlier as senior strategic advisor, or, leading important strategic projects like Chemicals emicals Ventures, to product management for hydrocarbon solvents. In his last stint (before before ratcoming to India), he was operating out of Singapore, where he had been serving company ass Regional General Manager for Chemicals Supply Chain for all of Asia Paciﬁc, as well as the Middle East.

An experience I won’t forget… Back in 2009, I had the good fortune of taking a trip to Antarctica. We were on a boat that sailed from the southern tip of Argentina through the Drakes and on to the peninsula tip of Antarctica. We then spent six days going from point-to-point exploring the various parts of this magnificent continent. I have travelled to many different countries but never seen anything like that before. The pristine landscape, untouched by man, covered with glaciers and thousands of icebergs was truly breath-taking. There were seals, hundreds and thousands of penguins (including some baby penguins), whales and all sort of interesting wildlife that, having no concept of humans (or fear!), would just go about their normal activity so you can truly appreciate the animal. Of course a quick dip was called for and would have been fun by itself had I not been challenged for a second round in the freezing water! The experience does have its fair share of challenges from motion sickness, to the physical nature of hiking around in the snow to the extreme cold weather, but it was the trip of a lifetime!

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