Interview with Mr. Madhav Kulkarni (MD)
TEM : Thank you for joining us, Mr. Kulkarni. To begin, could you share a brief
overview of Nexteer Automotive’s presence in India?
Madhav Kulkarni: Certainly. Nexteer Automotive has been operating in India since
1995, initially focusing on supplying half-shafts to Maruti Suzuki. Over the years,
we’ve expanded our footprint to include manufacturing facilities in Bangalore, Pune,
and Chennai. Our product portfolio has grown to encompass electric and hydraulic
power steering systems, steering columns, driveline systems, and advanced driver
assistance systems (ADAS).
TEM: How has Nexteer adapted to the evolving automotive landscape in India,
especially with the shift towards electric power steering (EPS)?
TEM : The Indian automotive industry is undergoing significant transformation, with
a clear shift towards EPS due to its benefits in fuel efficiency and integration with
ADAS features. Recognizing this trend, we’ve invested in our Chennai facility to
produce EPS systems, catering to both domestic and international markets. This
strategic move aligns with our commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving
needs of our customers.
TEM: Could you elaborate on the significance of the Chennai plant in Nexteer’s
global operations?
Madhav Kulkarni: The Chennai plant, inaugurated in January 2019, is a testament to
our dedication to the Indian market. Covering an area of 8,336 square meters, it’s our
third manufacturing facility in India and the 26th globally. This plant enhances our
ability to deliver high-quality EPS and driveline products, ensuring faster and more
responsive service to our customers.
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