Tier 1 supplier Schaeffler India has appointed Sharad Bhatia as the new Head of Vehicle Lifetime Solutions (VLS), effective 2 December 2024.

In his new role, he is tasked to lead Schaeffler India’s efforts to strengthen presence in the mobility ecosystem.

Bhatia comes with over 24 years of experience in the automotive parts industry and will be instrumental in expanding Schaeffler India’s VLS business on the back of his deep expertise in aftermarket service parts sector.

Harsha Kadam, MD & CEO, Schaeffler India, said, “We are delighted to welcome Sharad Bhatia to Schaeffler India as Head of Vehicle Lifetime Solutions. The Vehicle Lifetime Solutions business is an important business division for the strategic growth of Schaeffler in India. His extensive background in the aftermarket business, combined with his experience in multinational markets, aligns well with our strategic goals. Sharad’s leadership will be pivotal in strengthening and enhancing the agility of our VLS business, further reinforcing our commitment to sustainable motion technology solutions in India.”

Sharad Bhatia, added, “I am excited to join Schaeffler India at a time when the automotive industry is rapidly transforming. My focus will be on expanding our aftermarket solutions portfolio by leveraging advanced motion technology to deliver value and innovation. I look forward to working closely with the talented team at Schaeffler India to strengthen our Vehicle Lifetime Solutions division and provide our customers with sustainable, reliable, and forward-looking solutions.”

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Steelbird Hi-Tech India, a leading manufacturer of two-wheeler helmet and riding gear, has launched the FEC-3 full-face helmet in India, featuring safety certifications across three international and domestic standards at prices starting INR 4,499.

The FEC-3 holds triple homologation under DOT (FMVSS No. 218), ECE 22.06 and BIS (IS 4151:2015) standards. The outer shell is constructed using a PC-ABS blend material designed to meet global impact criteria.

It features an aerodynamic profile, an integrated inner sun shield operated by a side slider mechanism, and a polycarbonate main visor featuring an anti-scratch coating paired with a Pinlock 30 anti-fog lens.

The helmet comes with a Double D-Ring fastening system, a visor locking mechanism, a quick-release visor system, a wind deflector and a nose protector. The model is produced in three sizes: Medium (580 mm), Large (600 mm) and XL (620 mm).

Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director of Steelbird Hi-Tech India, said, "Diwali is a celebration of new beginnings, and we wanted to mark this festive season by introducing a product that reflects our continued commitment to rider safety and innovation. With the FEC-3, we are bringing together three important safety certifications, premium features and an aggressive sporty design in a single helmet. Our objective has always been to make advanced safety accessible to riders while ensuring that they do not have to compromise on styling, comfort or quality. We believe the FEC-3 will resonate strongly with today's motorcycle enthusiasts."

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Steelbird Hi-Tech India, one of the leading helmet manufacturers, has announced that its SBA-20 model has achieved cumulative sales exceeding 1 million units since its launch in January 2024.

The SBA-20 features a high-impact thermoplastic outer shell paired with a high-density Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) liner. Certified under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) safety specification IS 4151:2015, the helmet incorporates a flip-up mechanism, dynamic airflow ventilation, an integrated inner sun shield, a micrometric buckle and a polycarbonate rear spoiler.

It comes with a replaceable and washable interior liner, a wind deflector, reflective neck pads for low-light visibility and an anti-scratch polycarbonate main visor in smoke or chrome options. The model is sold across Steelbird's retail and dealer network in multiple sizes and finishes, with prices ranging between INR 1,869 and INR 2,459 depending on the variant.

Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director, Steelbird Hi-Tech India, said, "The SBA-20 crossing the 10 lakh sales milestone is an important achievement for us and a reflection of the trust consumers continue to place in Steelbird. Our endeavour has always been to develop helmets that bring together safety, comfort, design and accessibility. The SBA-20 reflects this approach by offering riders a practical and stylish product for their everyday journeys. This milestone encourages us to continue innovating, strengthening our product portfolio and contributing to a stronger culture of helmet use and road safety in India."

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SMK Helmets has launched the Ares dual-sport helmet in India, introducing three variants comprising Ares Solid, Ares Claw and Ares Infinity across 18 colour options in gloss and matte finishes at prices starting at INR 6,950.

The helmet utilises an Energy Impact Resistant Thermoplastic (EIRT) outer shell produced in two shell sizes to match rider head proportions, backed by a multi-density EPS liner. The model meets ECE 22.06, DOT and ISI safety standards.

The Ares dual-sport features include an emergency quick-release system for cheek pads to assist first responders, a detachable sun peak, a main visor with a quick-release mechanism and an integrated internal sun visor.

For the Indian market, the helmet includes a Pinlock 70 lens fitted as standard. Additional specifications consist of an internal switch for the chin vent to accommodate chin-mounted cameras, removable and moisture-wicking inner liners, eyeglass grooves and options for either a double D-ring or stainless-steel quick-release buckle. The helmet weight figures stand at 1,575 grams for sizes XS to M and 1,625 grams for sizes L to XXL.

The Ares Solid is priced at INR 6,950, while the Ares Claw and Ares Infinity graphic variants are priced at INR 7,250. The range is available through SMK's authorised dealer network in sizes ranging from XS to XXL.

Sidhartha Bhushan Khurana, Managing Director & CEO, SMK, said, "We've been receiving enquiries about the Ares almost every day since we first showed it, well before it was ready to sell. Riders today want one helmet that works for the commute and the weekend ride out of the city in tougher terrains, and that's what the Ares is built for. Launching it alongside two new decals, Claw and Infinity, gives riders a real choice from day one, not just a single colour to wait on."

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In India’s fast‑growing premium automotive market, owning a luxury vehicle is no longer just about the drive, it’s about safeguarding the engineering excellence behind it. Edel Assurance, a specialist in extended vehicle warranties, has established itself in this critical space by offering long‑term protection for mechanical and electrical components in premium cars once the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

Founded a decade ago, Edel Assurance has built its expertise around marquee brands such as BMW, Mercedes‑Benz, Range Rover, Audi, Jaguar and Land Rover. Its extended warranty plans are designed to give owners peace of mind well beyond the standard coverage period, ensuring that sophisticated components are repaired or replaced through authorised manufacturer workshops only.

Unlike motor insurance, which covers accident‑related damages, extended warranties address the everyday risks of component failures, a distinction that becomes vital for luxury vehicles where repair costs can run into lakhs. Edel Assurance offers flexible coverage ranging from three to ten years with policy values tailored to the vehicle category.

Annual plans typically range from INR 100,000–150,000 for entry‑level premium cars to INR 700,000–800,000 for high‑end models with most customers opting for policies in the INR 200,000–300,000 bracket. The cost is positioned in relation to the vehicle’s value and the potential expense of component replacements, while remaining competitive with similar warranty offerings

"When customers purchase a premium vehicle, they are investing in technology, engineering and an ownership experience," said Founder and CEO Sujeet Nair. "Our role is to provide an added layer of assurance once the manufacturer warranty comes to an end. There is also a clear need in the market to understand the difference between insurance and warranty, particularly when it comes to mechanical and electrical failures," he added.

With its nationwide presence and tie‑ups with authorised workshops, Edel Assurance is positioning itself as a trusted partner for India’s luxury car owners. The company is now strengthening its brand visibility and communication efforts to highlight extended warranties as an essential part of long‑term premium vehicle ownership.

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