Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

I am a mechanical engineer with a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Mechanical Engineering, completed in 1998. Additionally, I completed my Master's in Thermal Engineering (Specializing in IC Engines) in 2001. 

I began working in the auto OEM industry in January 2002. I worked with Hyundai Motor India Ltd., Daimler India Commercial Vehicles Ltd., Volvo-Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd., Assystem Technologies (PSA Group), Escorts – Kubota India Pvt. Ltd., and Olectra (BYD) Greentech Ltd. I have worked with Passenger Car OEMs, Commercial Vehicle OEMs, Agriculture, and Construction Equipment, as well as Electric Heavy Commercial Vehicles (EHCV – E Buses and E Trucks).

Q2. How is the demand for fleet electrification evolving, and what procurement models are emerging?

Demand is there, as are more challenges. We used to purchase HT Battery components and electrical and electronic components through Global Procurement (From China & Europe). We used to purchase the other components from India itself.

Q3. How is the localization of battery cell and pack manufacturing evolving in India post-PLI, and what partnerships are shaping the market?

Normally, we used to import the cell modules for China as per our capacity requirement. Here, we used to assemble in the main assembly line. Then, it will have testing to ensure the quality. So many overseas partners are available, like BYD, CHTC, etc

Q4. How are investments in digital supply chain platforms, real-time tracking, and control towers growing across OEMs and Tier-1s?

We previously had a universal Supply Chain platform for Global Procurement, Logistics (Export-Import), warehouse, and commercial operations across the entire OEM as well as Tier 1 industries.

Q5. How are companies managing critical component risk in new EV facilities? Give examples

We used to purchase all critical components from China & Europe only.

The following components are

• VCU (Vehicle Control Unit)
• CAN (Controlled Area Network)
• HVDB (High Voltage Distribution Board)
• 4 in 1 Junction Box (Steering / Brake / Acceleration / Electric Lamps - Functional Junction Box)
• BMS (Battery Management System)
• BCS (Battery Cooling System
• MCU (Motor Control Unit)

Q6. What opportunities are emerging in circular economy startups serving auto/EV sectors—especially in India and Southeast Asia?

• Technology development
• Availability of HT Batteries
• Charging Infra Development

Q7. If you were an investor looking at companies within the space, what critical question would you pose to their senior management?

• Investment Capacity
• Supply Chain to handle the global Procurement
• EXIM
• Manufacturing
• Execution
• Key Sales & Corporate Sales
• After Market