Tell us about your R&D efforts.
The engineers at TCI work on technologies ranging in specificity and complexity - from one channel ABS solutions for two wheelers to highly sophisticated technologies for domains such as ADAS. The organization is poised to be a key contributor in the development of innovative technologies that react quickly and reliably in difficult traffic situations and reduce accidents and fatalities. Adding value with its understanding of the local market and customers, TCI is also emerging as a Center of Competence for two-wheeler markets and for customised products for the BRIC countries.
What industry trends are you looking at in near future?
The Government has recognized safety as an important area of focus, given the growing number of fatalities in road accidents. ABS became mandatory for new commercial vehicles since 2014. The Government's recent draft notification mandates all new two wheeler models (125 cc and above) manufactured from April 2017 and all existing two wheeler models manufactured on or after April 2018 be fitted with anti-lock braking systems.
Emissions are another important focus area. In September this year, the Government of India and SIAM provided an overview of the Automotive Mission Plan 2016-26, which envisages the adoption of BS V emission norms by 2019 and
BS VI for passenger cars, the implementation of ‘end of life' policy for old vehicles and projects $80 billion in capex investments in the auto industry. Globally, Continental has been supporting OEMs in meeting stringent emission standards, such as Euro 6. Specifically in India, Continental is ready with the required technologies in meeting upcoming legislation in view of Government of India's announcement on skipping BS V (Euro 5) and advancing BS VI (Euro 6) norms to 2020.
Automotive electronics is an emerging area for the Indian automotive industry. The major areas that increased electronics will impact include safety, communication and powertrain.
As the electronic content in vehicles increase, a number of new and advanced features can be introduced, which could prove to be the game changer for the Indian auto sector. For example the electronic horizon (eHorizon) from Continental with which connected vehicles can adjust to traffic situations or react to hazards that are outside the driver´s field of vision or the range of the vehicle sensors.
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