Hitachi Automotive Systems (HAS) is expanding its aftermarket business in India. The latest to be launched in this segment is its Tokico-branded suspension range. HAS has a whole bouquet of offerings in this segment including ignition coils, glow plug timers, multi-function regulator, sensors & relays, fuel pumps, mass airflow sensors and shock absorbers.
HAS has always been vocal about their work towards sustainable urban development and a low carbon society. A case in point is when it had launched two powertrain technologies – variable valve timing controls and plug top ignition coils at their Chennai plant in 2015.
Mr. Bradley J. Maggart, President – HAS Asia, and Executive Officer – HAS, shared: “India is an important market for us. We are investing in solutions that contribute to the Indian society. Hence, we are evaluating the launch of at least two new products in the near future. In line with our expansion plans, we are happy to say that we have the latest technology in electrification and autonomous driving along with a range of engine technologies that are aimed to help reduce vehicle pollution in order to comply with BS-VI norms in the next two years.”
Automotive electronics
With a thrust on automotive electronics, Hitachi is planning to work aggressively on a range of platforms. The aim is to contribute to a connected future for people, vehicles and society that spells safety.
Mr. Maggart said: “We are equipped to support such technologies in advanced vehicles using our strengths in electronics technology. It will serve as a base to refine our product and system technologies in the fields of environment and safety.”
HAS is working in the areas of IoT platform, artificial intelligence, big data, infrastructure systems and security technologies. They manufacture electric powertrain systems for hybrid and electric vehicles too besides electrical equipment systems.
He added: “In the safety field, we have integrated vehicle control systems including brake and suspension systems besides drive power transmission systems.”
Growth strategy
An important part of HAS global business strategy is to accelerate business expansion with its growth plans in India.
A three-pronged method devised by the company is to target both existing and new customers, spread regional presence and increase product range.
Mr. Maggart shared: “We are focused on our customer base in India and hence we are looking to bring in and expand our new products by cross-selling to our current customers, develop new customers in cooperation with global footprint. Regionally, we will focus on enhancing local procurement of parts and production equipment to meet global quality. Then product wise, our target is to supply a full range of engine technologies to improve emissions and fuel economy to meet BS-VI norms and produce our latest designs on global standard manufacturing lines.”
In a bid to consolidate their ‘deepening the roots in India’ strategy, HAS is poised to set up a technical support center in Delhi to supplement the company’s Chennai operations and expand its presence in the northern region.
Mr. Maggart agreed: “We plan to increase the number of technical sales team by the end of FY 2018. We also plan to have technical discussions with our customers and under their requirements so that we can incorporate their feedback into the design.”
HAS is fully geared towards fulfilling the first phase of their facility investment which will be utilised by the year 2020. This includes installation of second VTC line for awarded business. Plans are afoot to invest in third VTC and coil lines for future business.