First Issue – MARCH 2014
Editorial – Smart Move
Welcome to Auto Components India, the tenth title from Next Gen Publishing which also brings out Car India, Bike India and CV magazine. As the name denotes, the new magazine will primarily focus on the end-to-end value chain of the automotive components industry and allied segments such as machine tools, service tools, testing equipment, consumables and IT. In covering these sectors, ACI does not exactly neglect OEMs. Under the ‘technology’ and ‘innovation’ sections, recently launched vehicles are analysed with respect to contribution from vendors.
The cover story of the inaugural issue delves into counterfeiting, arguably, the most vexing issue confronting the automotive industry today. Starting an investigation from source, we examine the causes and the ambient environment sustaining this deep-rooted malaise. We also attempt to set out solutions with respect to education, regulation and enforcement. The automotive industry seems to be on the cusp of a mild recovery. It could well be a temporary respite, or the effects of a low base, but is welcome nevertheless. In this scenario, the RBI raising its policy repo rate by 25 basis points does not seem to send the right signals to industry. Industry leaders opine that it cannot always be a case of inflation control triumphing over much-needed measures to spur economic growth.
While the last calendar year proved to be a record of sorts for many of the world’s largest car makers in terms of global sales, performance was tepid in the domestic market for all except those in the luxury segment. While the farm equipment segment performed better, the scenario is mixed for two-wheelers and it is abysmally low in the commercial vehicle segment. Coming to the auto components space, while most tier-1 companies reeled under the slowdown, some tier-2 and tier-3 players have had to shut shop altogether. Undeniably, therefore, the situation is worrisome, but it does bring in its wake, enough opportunity to introspect and plot for the next wave of growth. Thinking out of the box could mean diversification into new industries or even to grow footprint outside India. We are happy to note that some of these measures are already being implemented. It is one of the foremost objectives of this magazine to bring you instances of enterprise, lateral thinking and best practices.
Do send us your views and comments. ACI aims to offer a 360-degree perspective of the industry. In this 2.0 world, more often than not, it will be you who will tell us what you want to read and hopefully, write for us as well. One of the ways to get in touch with us is through our spanking new website www.autocomponentsindia.com
Have a great Auto Expo!
T Murrali
Editor
t.murrali@nextgenpublishing.net
