OEMs are facing new challenges to improve the existing technologies and develop next-generation ones for the new mobility in shorter times. Reducing market responding time along with new complexities are paving the way for virtual simulation, which displaces physical tests and prototypes by virtually replicating product development, testing and manufacturing with simulations. Emmanuel Leroy, Executive Vice-President Industry Solutions at ESI Group, explains, “We enable our customers to drastically reduce every additional physical prototype by using our solutions. In the end, only one physical prototype is required to validate the whole concept. We envision that one day we may be able to virtually certify a product from end to end.” Excerpts:

Q) How did the Covid impact the software and services businesses of ESI Group?

The Covid pandemic has accelerated the need for more digitalisation within the industrial market. It has also somehow accelerated the readiness level of our customers and made solutions such as virtual prototyping even more relevant. Indeed, we enabled the continuity of our clients’ business. The use of virtual prototyping allowed them to continue designing, testing and prototyping their products. Our human-centric approach – one of ESI Group’s four outcome solutions – was particularly used by our customers to ensure the continuity of their businesses: using virtual reality to experience the product from home.

During pandemic times, we also provided our CFD (computational fluid dynamic) solutions to help investigating different scenarios to demonstrate the effect of occupant proximity, ventilation systems and contamination avoidance unique to each office and plant environment. ESI Group developed different virtual scenario, based on its facilities in India, to optimise the return to offices and on plant – especially on a car assembly line.

How the growing complexity of part process is influencing the virtual testing?

We notice that the automotive industry is facing more and more draconian regulations, disruptive technologies, intensifying competitions and shortening response time. Coupled with these, customers are getting more demanding on quality, reliability, safety and production deadlines in the business. Indeed, end users are no longer looking for products but for results (flight hours instead of engines, number of possible kilometres instead of electric car, etc.) and they seek for committed and responsible automakers to motivate their buys. At ESI Group, we have understood these preoccupations and we have defined four primary solutions answering our customers’ expectations.

The first one is the Pre-certification and Validation, enabling gains in performance and productivity. The purpose is double: meeting certification and validation requirements like crash, safety and fatigue issues in the first attempt and then increasing productivity with predictive models and process automation.

The second outcome is Smart Manufacturing, which enables to establish the right manufacturing processes to meet the performance indicators for industrial products and processes.

The Human-Centric Product and Process Validation, our third outcome, focuses on humans by implementing an operator-centric approach to ensure the efficiency of assembly, maintenance operation and the safety of human interactions.

The last one, Pre-experience, is the most advanced solution of ESI Group. Here, our customers and the operators do not look at the product itself, but virtually experience a product, component, subsystem or system under numerous conditions and environments.

Using these approaches, we identify industry challenges from the customer’s perspective and support them in achieving their results.

Finally, as products are getting more complex, one of our strengths is our end-to-end multi-material assembly solution with modelling of different materials (steel, aluminum, composite) and manufacturing processes, covering all the product development cycle.

What will be the growth drivers for the internal combustion engine-driven vehicles business?

Safety is essential and will remain a key driver in the future. Today, the active safety is gaining traction owing to the regulations and overall trends. There is an increasing demand for smart integrated safety, which caters to both active and passive what?

Alongside there are regulations on Co2. In Europe, the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) Norm is challenging and will eventually be implemented in other countries. Regarding Co2 reduction, we focus part of our research and innovation around engine efficiency, aerodynamics and light-weighting, as we did with Bentley for instance.

OEMs are also looking to reduce the manufacturing cost and development time which are leading demand for virtual prototyping, digital twin and shifting OEMs’ investment from hardware to software. The end-to-end value and the digital continuity from the early design to the production is essential to achieve these goals.

OEMs are exploring possibilities to manufacture ICE vehicles and EVs on the same line. Being a solution provider for the smart manufacturing process, how do you see this as a challenge?

Some OEMs assemble EV and ICE vehicles on the same line and look for flexibility, while others use completely dissociated platforms. We, consequently, must find the right strategy regarding their requirements. The new upcoming challenges in CASE mobility manufacturing will bring even more complexities from components to manufacturing. We have to consider the complexity to train the operators: our virtual reality solutions are key here. We help our customers by providing training, on both ICE vehicles and EVs manufacturing processes to their team, even from different place around the world, gathered on the same interface. This solution gathers all stakeholders (from operators to QHSE officers and plant managers) around the same product. This immersive tool helps getting complementary feedbacks early on in the process.

Where do you find more competencies or comfortability — in the complete vehicle design or component design?

Clearly, we are positioning ourselves on the whole vehicle design as it gives the most significant benefit for the OEM and other customers. We are talking about an end-to-end value that we can demonstrate on full scale CAE demonstrators. When it comes to a standalone component, the complex interactions between components and environment are not well taken into account and can lead to reduced predictiveness. In this case, we come up with a holistic view of the problem itself. It is how we defined the four outcome solutions introduced earlier.

Do you think that virtual prototypes will, at a 100 percent, completely replace physical ones ?

Virtual prototypes are step by step replacing physical prototypes. Nevertheless, I think physical prototypes remain today essential to certify the product at the very end of the development phase. To give an example, in 2019 Renault succeeded a 5-star rating of its Clio 5 on the Euro NCAP safety certification test with a single physical prototype, the one needed for the consumer test. Virtual certification is a topic discussed within the automotive ecosystem, allowing to solely relying on the simulation from end to end. But we are not at that point right now.

Which is your largest market for automotive business?

The automotive industry is the most significant contributor to our total revenues. Today, Japan is the largest market for our automotive business. However, India has been an important market for ESI, and it has been growing quite well over the years.

Most of our engineering developments teams, for both our software and our platforms, are based in India.

What are the challenges in the business?

The increasing complexity I mentioned before is definitely a challenge, but it also brings opportunities to us. Our end-to-end multi-material, multiprocess solutions and chaining capabilities are key to overcome the challenges of the automobile market. Due to the ever growing content of electronics, system simulations and systems of systems techniques are improving as well. Our focus is to strengthen our collaboration with partners in the ecosystem to support the customers in solving their complex problems. (MT)

India’s automobile industry has witnessed a dip is sales number in the passenger and commercial vehicle segments in FY24 and H1FY25. However, experts from CareEdge Ratings opine that this dip is no alarming for the overall industry as it is a cyclical downturn and the industry will bounce back. 
Commenting on the same during a virtual press conference, Senior Director Ranjan Sharma said, “The automobile sector has exhibited a mixed trend in H1FY25. While the two-wheeler industry has zoomed ahead at a healthy year-over-year growth rate of 16 percent, primarily driven by strong rural demand on the back of higher rural income levels, the passenger vehicle (PV) industry after witnessing healthy growth in past 2-3 years, has entered the slow lane during H1FY25 with wholesale volume growth slowing down to 2 percent on year-over-year basis due to subdued demand for entry-level cars and elevated inventory levels at dealer’s end. While two-wheeler volume growth is expected to remain healthy during FY25, overall PV volume growth is expected to continue to remain muted in FY25.”
“The commercial vehicle (CV) sector experienced significant growth post-pandemic, with approximately 30 percent growth in FY22 and FY23. FY22's growth was driven by a low base effect due to the pandemic's impact in FY21, while FY23 saw robust growth on a higher base. However, the momentum appears to have plateaued. Last year, the sector recorded a slight decline of around 1 percent and the current half-year shows a further decline of approximately 3 percent, primarily driven by a drop in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment. Meanwhile, the medium and heavy commercial vehicle (MHCV) segment has remained relatively stable,” he added. 
He also noted that infrastructure spending and increased construction activity in the second half of the fiscal year, supported by heightened government investment, could lead to some improvement. Nevertheless, for FY25 as a whole, CV volumes are expected to remain in negative territory, with an estimated decline upto 3 percent.
Commenting on how the dip in sales will fare for the overall automobile industry, he stated, “The two-wheeler segment is performing well overall. However, major CV and PV players are doing well individually, though volume growth is expected to remain neutral for a year or two, as this is cyclical. The sectors witnessed such fluctuations every 2-3 years but there is no alarming concern for the overall sector. Moreover, there are no significant concerns from a credit quality standpoint. These companies are large, have diversified portfolios and maintain a strong financial risk profile.”
He added, “The PV sector witnessed significant growth in the past couple of years, driven by its cyclical nature. The growth rate for FY25 is projected to be around 3 percent with a similar trajectory expected for FY26. The LCV segment, being more price-sensitive, has been particularly affected, showing sharper declines. For FY25, the sector is expected to close with a decline of about -1.5 percent to -2 percent. Looking ahead to FY26, even under the best-case scenario, growth is likely to remain subdued, with only minimal improvements expected, driven by the same underlying factors.”
Alluding to the performance of the electric vehicle (EV) segment, he said, “EV volumes have shown healthy growth, particularly in two-wheelers and e-buses. However, this growth has come from a very low base. Even in FY24, EV penetration remains modest with two-wheelers at approximately 5.4 percent and other segments, including passenger and commercial vehicles, at around 2 percent each. The slower pace of growth and penetration can be attributed to challenges such as underdeveloped EV charging infrastructure and the high cost of EVs compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which continue to act as significant bottlenecks.”
 

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Dana India has announced the completion of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in Chakan, Pune. The initiatives aimed at improving road safety and infrastructure in accident-prone areas and reiterates Dana India’s vital role in promoting sustainable development and community safety, both in Maharashtra and across India. 

In an effort to lower the risk of accidents for over 3,600 residents and tourists, Dana India built 30 tall solar lighting at Chakan's Alandi Phata Chowk. This project is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN, including Goal 13: Climate Action and Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. Additionally, Dana India put up metal barriers and traffic safety signs in the industrial region of Chakan. Approximately 250,000 commuters are anticipated to benefit each day from these actions, which also support Goals 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. 

More than 300,000 individuals now have better road visibility and safety thanks to the installation of road divider railings at strategic locations like Endurance Chowk. This programme promotes Goal 3: Well-being and Good Health. Goal 7: Accessible and Sustainable Energy Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals and Goal 15: Life on Land. In order to significantly improve evening safety for an estimated 300,000 people, Dana India additionally installed street lighting in strategic areas across Endurance Chowk and the Chakan Industrial Area. These initiatives support both Goal 15: Life on Land and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. 

Gajanan Gandhe, Country Head and Vice President, Dana India, said, “These initiatives represent a significant step towards improving road safety and promoting sustainability in the Chakan community. At Dana India, we are committed to driving meaningful change and enhancing the quality of life for the people of Pune while supporting the global sustainability agenda.”

aerpace Industries Ltd has announced that Sanjay Takale, Director of aerpace Racers and a distinguished racer, will compete in the four-wheel category of the Dakar Rally 2025, which is recognised globally as the pinnacle of motorsport.

Takale's long motorsport career spans three decades and includes over 75 national and international triumphs. Among his numerous achievements is the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship Production Cup from 2013. In 2022, he became the first Indian invited to the FIA Motorsport Games, finishing 8th in Rally4 among participants from 72 nationalities. Takale's involvement in the Dakar Rally is a landmark success for Indian motorsport, cementing his position as a global hero. This development also demonstrates aerpace's dedication to nurturing cutting-edge talent and innovation.

Apart from his personal accomplishments, Takale is committed to developing new talent through aerpace Racers, an initiative of aerpace Industries. As Director, he aims to develop an innovative and sustainable motorsport culture.

Takale said, “Dakar is more than a race – it’s a dream that pushes the limits of human and machine capabilities. Representing India on this unparalleled platform is both a privilege and a responsibility. With aerpace’s unwavering support, I hope to inspire a new wave of motorsport enthusiasts to chase their dreams and redefine boundaries.”

The Bus and Car Operators Confederation of India (BOCI), the apex body representing passenger transport operators across the country, has re-elected Prasanna Patwardhan as its National President and announced its new National Committee list for a three-year tenure. The other key members of the National Committee include A Afzal (National Vice President), Dharmaraj D R (General Secretary), Harsh Kotak (Treasurer) and Babu Panikar (Additional Secretary).

Since its founding in 2016, BOCI has played a significant role in promoting the settlement of important problems that transport companies confront, such as infrastructural difficulties, taxation and regulatory barriers. The company is also leading new projects to improve passenger last-mile connection and encourage the use of environmentally friendly transport options like electric vehicles (EVs). With a vision that is firmly based on sustainability, innovation and teamwork, BOCI hopes to solidify its position as the force behind revolutionary developments in the passenger transport industry. 

Outlining the association’s vision for the betterment of the passenger transport industry, Patwardhan, who retains his position as National President, said, “I am deeply honoured to continue serving as the National President of BOCI, and I thank the members for their continued trust and support. The passenger transport industry is at a transformative juncture, requiring concerted efforts to adapt to evolving mobility needs. Public transport, as a pillar of sustainable and inclusive mobility, is central to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. BOCI is committed to strengthening the ecosystem by advancing solutions such as Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and enhanced last-mile connectivity, ensuring that public transport becomes more accessible, seamless and efficient for all. This tenure will focus on fostering innovative practices, driving meaningful collaborations, and establishing international partnerships to ensure our industry remains aligned with global advancements and emerging trends. As we gear up for 2025, our collective efforts will be directed toward addressing industry challenges, enhancing operational efficiencies, and creating a sustainable roadmap that empowers both operators and passengers. Together, we will continue to elevate the standards of the sector, ensuring it significantly contributes to India’s growth story.”

The complete list of members of the new National Committee is as follows:

1. Prasanna Patwardhan, National President
2. A Afzal, National Vice President
3. Dharmaraj D R, General Secretary
4. Harsh Kotak, Treasurer
5. Babu Panikar, Additional Secretary
6. Gurmeet Singh, Joint Secretary
7. D Maran, Joint Treasurer
8. Siddiq Gandhi, Joint Treasurer
9. Harish Sabharwal, Senior Vice President – North
10.  Anurag Agarwal, Senior Vice President – East
11.  Kiran Desai, Senior Vice President – West
12.  Manoj Padikkal, Senior Vice President – South
13.  Anjit Bora, Sr. Vice President – North-East
14.  Rajesh Parashar, Vice President – Stage Carriage
15. Kanwarjit Singh Sawhney, Vice President – Tourist Buses
16. Anil Dixit, Vice President – PPP Model
17. Malik M Patel, Vice President – Tourist Taxi
18. Navsharan Garcha, Vice President – School Bus
19. M Ramanathan, Vice President – Maxi Cab
20. Rijas A J, Vice President – Intercity
21. Sartaj Lamba, Executive Member
22. Mahendra Jalwania, Executive Member
23. N P Gautam Kiran, Executive Member
24. Hari Prakash Dubey, Executive Member
25. Ameet Sahoo, Executive Member