FADA Releases January’23 Vehicle Retail Data

On YoY basis, total vehicle retail for Jan’23 grew by 14% YoY. All categories were in green with 2-Wheeler, 3-Wheeler, Passenger Vehicle, Tractor and Commercial Vehicles growing by 10%, 59%, 22%, 8% and 16% respectively. 

While the 2-Wheeler segment showed growth on YoY basis, it fell by 13% when compared to pre-pandemic level of January’20. This clearly shows that rural India is still not out of the wood. 

The 3-Wheeler segment has shown tremendous resilience and has almost clawed back to pre-pandemic levels with a de-growth of mere -3% when compared to January’20.  

Passenger Vehicle category continues to see robust growth despite entry level sub-segment which is yet to fire. 

Both, Tractor and Commercial Vehicles continue to grow above the pre-pandemic levels of January’20 by growing 9.5% and 6% respectively. 

On the global front, China’s re-opening will help better supply chain thus improving supply of vehicles and reducing vehicle waiting period. 

Budget 2023-24 will aid overall growth of Automobile retails in times to come. 

Bangalore, 6th February 2023: The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) released Vehicle Retail Data for January’23.  

January’23 Retails 

Commenting on how January’23 performed, FADA President, Mr. Manish Raj Singhania said, “January’23 witnessed total retail rising by 14% YoY but was still down by 8%, when compared to pre-covid month of January’20. All categories were in green with 2-Wheeler, 3-Wheeler, Passenger Vehicle, Tractor and Commercial Vehicles growing by 10%, 59%, 22%, 8% and 16% respectively on YoY basis. 

The 2-Wheeler category showed a growth of 10% YoY but when compared to 2021 and pre-covid month of January’20, it continued to see pressure as the same fell by 7% and 13%. While sentiments are improving at a snail’s pace and are better than what it was a year ago, rural market is yet to fully come to the party as cost of ownership has shot up significantly while disposable income has not increased in the same ratio. 

The 3-Wheeler segment has seen 60% growth YoY, 101% growth when compared to 2021 and is now slightly down by mere 3% when compared to pre-pandemic levels in January’20. EV fame-2 subsidy along with demand from commercial 3W space is fuelling healthy growth. 

The Passenger Vehicle segment continues to perform well with growth of  22% YoY, 10% from January’21 and 8% from pre-covid month of January’20. While good enquiry, healthy bookings and improved supplies are helping aid this segment, it is the entry level sub-segment which is still feeling the pinch. Apart from this, while waiting period for some models have come down, compact SUVs, SUVs and luxury vehicles continue to witness minimum waiting of 2-3 months.  

The Commercial Vehicle category has also shown robust growth by growing 16% YoY, 23% from January’21 and 6% from pre-covid month of January’20. Continued demand in the market due to replacement of fleet, growth in freight availability and government’s consistent push for infrastructure projects has helped the CV segment rise above pre-covid numbers.”  

Near Term Outlook 

With China’s factory activity once again gaining pace, global supplies of parts and semi-conductors will see a recovery thus aiding better vehicle supplies and lower waiting period in future. This will further fuel growth for the already healthy Passenger Vehicle category.  

The economic survey 2022-23 tabled in parliament said that rural wages will rise at a steady positive rate as inflation is expected to soften thus translating into rise in real wages. We are hopeful that this will have its rub-off effect with rise in 2-Wheeler sales going ahead.  

The recent announcements in Budget 2023-24 will help aid overall growth of Automobile Retails. Demand of entry level 2-Wheelers and entry level PV is likely to accelerate due to enhanced income tax rebate, budget allocation for vehicle scrappage policy and import duty exemption for manufacturing lithium batteries thus reducing EV acquisition cost. A reduction in surcharge at the highest IT slab will also benefit high end vehicle sales. Apart from this, the capital outlay of Rs 10 Lakh Cr for Infrastructure spending will help aid CV sales which is already witnessing an upswing.  

Godrej Tooling Partners With Toyota For Innova Hycross In India

~The business has supplied dies for the dash panel and main floor of the new Innova Hycross

Godrej & Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group, announced that its business Godrej Tooling has supplied dies to international automobile manufacturer Toyota for its new Innova Hycross. With the advancement in technology picking up across industries and the ‘Make-In-India’ push, Godrej Tooling aims to strengthen its partnership with global automobile manufacturers in support of their indigenous manufacturing initiatives.  The business has manufactured and supplied dies for Innova Hycross’ Dash panel and the Main floor at Toyota’s facility in Bangalore. Godrej Tooling has increased its investment by 10% YoY on R&D towards a portfolio of tools and dies with a special focus on the EV industry.

Godrej Tooling has had a long-standing partnership with Toyota since 2002. In 2002, the first Toyota Qualis localization plan for door inners and a front valence marked the beginning of the collaboration journey between the two leading conglomerates. Later, in the year 2005, the company supplied a few reinforcement and structural parts including A-Pillar, Front Cowl, and B-Pillar inner for Toyota’s Old Innova. By supplying dies for the new Innova Hycross’ Dash panel and Main floor, Godrej Tooling has been successfully meeting the stringent quality requirements of Toyota and has delivered high-quality components.

Pankaj Abhyankar, Senior Vice President and Business Head, Godrej Tooling, says, “With the launch of the new Innova Hycross project, we are delighted to continue our long-term partnership with Toyota. Any automobile's manufacture and assembly rely heavily on components, and Toyota is cognizant of this. Godrej Tooling has been successful in efficiently producing dies to make parts that are at par with Toyota's high global standards. We are optimistic about the future of our association and are eager to support Toyota in its upcoming endeavours. The focus on quality and continuous improvement has enabled us to become a key player in the design and manufacture of components."

With the industry rapidly shifting gears towards the adoption of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India, it has necessitated the development of new engines, battery boxes, and high-precision sheet metal parts, which, in turn, require new dies. 

Goa Using “Artificial Intelligence-Powered Robots”, Technology To Save Lives On Its Beaches

In a first-of-its-kind innovation, Drishti Marine, Goa's state-appointed lifeguard organisation, has introduced artificial intelligence (AI) in the form of Aurus, a self-driving robot and Triton, an AI-powered monitoring system, to augment its life-saving capabilities along Goa’s popular beaches and water bodies.  

The incorporation of AI-based support follows an increase in beach-related incidents due the rising numbers in domestic and foreign tourists flocking to the coastline. The past two years have witnessed over 1,000 rescue incidents along the coastal belt, which have required assistance from Drishti Marine’s lifesavers.  

Both the AI monitored camera-based systems can monitor the surroundings, assess and detect risks, share real-time information with on-duty lifeguards so they may respond faster to avoid tragic incidents. 

Developed by Drishti Works, a division of Drishti, AURUS mans the state's expansive coastal stretch. The new addition will aid in increased surveillance and crowd management of beaches.  AURUS is a self-driving robot developed to assist lifesavers by patrolling extensive non-swim zones and alerting tourists during high tide. It employs artificial intelligence to assist lifeguards in a variety of beach duties. AURUS will work alongside lifesavers in emergency circumstances, from patrolling to providing multilingual notifications. Furthermore, the AI bot bears a 100-kilo payload and hence also doubles up as a logistics support vehicle. Aurus has completed 110 hours of autonomous work along the coast, covering approximately 130 kilometres. 

Along with the AURUS, the TRITON AI system’s primary focus is to provide completely AI-based monitoring of non-swim zones, thereby, alerting tourists of the danger and notifying the nearest lifesaver. It will work in tandem with AURUS to provide comprehensive coverage of the beaches. TRITON will patrol non-swim zones, identify and transfer information to lifesavers and help them identify tourists entering the water during high tide and in danger-prone areas. 

“The main reason is to incorporate new technology under the banner of lifesaving to help to mitigate risks while assisting the manpower to be more effective in ensuring the safety and security of individuals on the beaches. The inclusion of AI highlights the progress made in the department of lifesaving. As society grows more and more reliant on technology, it’s only suitable to ensure it is appropriately applied in all sectors of life,” says Navin Awasthi, Operations Head of Drishti Marine. TRITON has so far completed 19,000 hours of runtime.  

AURUS and TRITON are operated by ‘tech lifesavers’ who are located in the central control room. The team decides the areas that AURUS and TRITON will patrol. On-site lifesavers are given the training required to operate basic aspects of the two technologies. AURUS is currently deployed at Miramar Beach in North Goa for assistance in beach closure, while TRITON is deployed at Baina, Velsao, Benaulim, Galgibag in South Goa and Morjim in North Goa.  

“Both AURUS and Triton are largely support systems. The device has the potential to save lives, especially during peak season when lifeguards must monitor and patrol wide portions of the beach that are swamped with visitors. The two AI-based systems have increased team efficiency and enabled wider coverage. We hope that as the systems improve, they will become an essential part of every beach, making our beaches the best protected in the world.”, Navin Awasthi also said 

Drishti intends to deploy 100 Triton units and 10 AURUS units on the beaches of Goa this year.

Blue Dart Launches “Digital Prepaid Card” For Seamless Online Transactions

Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asia's premier express air-integrated transportation and distribution express logistics company announced the launch of “Digital Prepaid Card”. The launch is towards helping customers manage their booking with real-time visibility of payments and balance along with a view of the summary and ledger. This digital prepaid card is a hassle-free option for the customer featuring an instant recharge mode along with an OTP for high security, and can be recharged as per fluctuating business needs with no minimum balance requirement.  

The Blue Dart portal has a convenient and intuitive user interface that helps with quick on-boarding and offers same-day shipping options as well. It has SMS notifications on transactions to provide increased visibility and security for users. With this launch, Blue Dart expects to Go-Green with digital billing, reducing sales administration, and giving customers the time to focus on their core businesses. The digital prepaid card technology is smart, secure, easy and fast, this development will accelerate the logistics industry to a great extent. 

Ketan Kulkarni, Chief Commercial Officer, Blue Dart said, "Blue Dart has been the nation’s Most Preferred Logistics Service Provider and a trailblazer in the industry. With the recent 5G launch in India, a new ecosystem with related technologies will kick-start the process of digitalisation in the logistics industry over the next decade. Our Digital Prepaid Card offering is a step in this direction that will bring a lot of ease, security, and reliability for our customers. Delivering excellence in a digital world is the strategic option that will drive our tech and automation initiatives on the product front.” 

Technology has always been a major swivel at Blue Dart, and the pandemic has only helped thrust its innovation further to augment the customer experience. Blue Dart’s innovation has always remained consistent towards creating technology-led future ready solutions that would sustain the supply chain and other business requirements for its customers.  

Odysse Electric Vehicles Introduces B2B Connected “Electric Scooter TROT” For Last Mile Connectivity

* Comes equipped with Low speed electric motor and loading capacity of 250 Kg. 

* Offers 3 years of warranty on battery and 1 Years warranty on powertrain 

* Prices start from Rs. 99,999 (Ex-showroom Mumbai) 

Odysse Electric Vehicles, India’s fastest-growing electric vehicle manufacturer, announced the launch of B2B electric two-wheeler Odysse TROT priced at INR 99,999. This most durable heavy-duty bike has been specially designed for last-mile logistics with a loading capacity of up to 250kg. The average mileage of the vehicle is 75 KM and it is IOT connected which enables tracking, Immobilization, Geo-Fencing along with other latest features.  

The TROT is powered by a 250 Watt electric motor that has a top speed of 25 kmph. The electric scooter features a drum brake at the front and a disc-brake on the rear side. For ease of charging, the company has included a 60V 32Ah waterproof detachable battery that can be charged 60% in 2 hours and entirely in about 4 hours, delivering 75km range on a single charge. The 60V32AH IP67 battery pack ensures incomparable Long-Life and makes it highly reliable for B2B use. 

The TROT is loaded with cutting-edge technology and features that can be further customised to meet the various needs of delivery sector. The TROT is a vehicle designed to cater to the niche requirements of delivery. From heavy items such as gas cylinders, heavy hardware equipment, water cans etc. to day-to-day items such as groceries, medicines etc. Odysse is offering additional customized accessories that can seamlessly and safely carry these products. 

The electric scooter is available in four colours – Yellow, Black and Red and Maroon, the electric two-wheeler is a perfect amalgamation of trendy looks and a sturdy build. To ensure maximum comfort for the rider, TROT comes with features such as smart BMS, IoT tracking device, LED odometer, etc.  

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Nemin Vora, CEO, Odysse Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd., “The COVID-19 pandemic has fuelled the growth of e-commerce and last-mile deliveries, it has become priority for businesses in the delivery segment to consistently innovate, reduce operational costs, and increase efficiency. Moreover, shifting to electric vehicles is the environment friendly change that people and companies aim to pledge. With our new electric two-wheeler – Odysse TROT, we aim to electrify last mile delivery for businesses in India. Marking our entry into the B2B EV segment, it is a one-of-its-kind scooter that is set to disrupt the market. we are all prepared to make the most of this growth by bringing disruptive products such as the TROT and set new benchmarks in the segment.” 

The electric scooter is offering a 3-years warranty on battery, and 1 Years warranty on Powertrain. The TROT can be purchased pan India from Odysse's dealers and stores. 

GO FIRST Operates “Special Fights For The G20 Summit”

GO FIRST (formerly known as GoAir) is honoured to have the opportunity of operating charter flights for the G20 summit, being hosted by India this year.  

GO FIRST has always stood up to the task of serving the nation and its interests. Previously, the airline partnered with the government to operate Vande Bharat Mission flights that repatriated Indians, in addition to Air Bubble operations that evacuated stranded Indians from the Gulf countries in 2020. GO FIRST was also instrumental in critical Covid vaccine movement across the country during pandemic. 

Mr Kaushik Khona, Chief Executive Officer, GO FIRST said, “It is a matter of great pride for us, that GO FIRST has been chosen to operate charter flights for the G20 summit. We at GO FIRST feel proud and honoured to be chosen to serve the nation and the government.” 

This year, holding the Presidency for G20, India will host the 18th G20 Heads of State and Government Summit in New Delhi. The motto for this year’s summit, under India’s presidency is “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” The Group of 20 comprises of 19 countries and the European Union, which together present around 85% of the global GDP. Along with the G20 members, numerous guest countries and international organizations have also been invited. 

Aiming For A Completely “Climate-Neutral Vehicle”: Vitesco Technologies Is Part Of The Polestar 0 Project

* Unprecedented cross-industry alliance of suppliers and research institutions  

* Initiator Polestar plans climate-neutral vehicle across entire value chain  

* Vitesco Technologies to develop CO2-free power electronics for the project  

* Open networks: Vitesco Technologies shares its expertise in life cycle engineering  

Vitesco Technologies, a leading international supplier of modern powertrain technologies and electric mobility solutions, has joined the Polestar 0 project, an auto industry initiative to create the world’s first completely climate neutral vehicle. As an expert in its field, Vitesco Technologies has been selected as a collaboration partner to develop the power electronics with the target to achieve a zero-carbon emissions inverter for the production vehicle application in 2030. 

"Vitesco Technologies with its know-how will be able to make a major contribution to this ambitious goal for moving the industry toward complete carbon-neutrality," explains Andreas Wolf, CEO of Vitesco Technologies: "At the same time, we see the Polestar 0 project as far more than just a milestone on the road to climate neutrality. In our eyes, it is also an exciting pilot project for entirely new forms of collaboration in open networks."  

Vitesco Technologies has set the goal of being carbon neutral across its entire value chain by 2040. This means, not least, making all products climate neutral step by step. Vitesco Technologies already has more than eight years of experience in the field of life cycle assessment. The company will share this extensive know-how through the Polestar 0 project.  

A wide range of institutions are collaborating together in an unprecedented open network to support this initiative: Research institutes, investors, government organizations and companies – large automotive groups and suppliers as well as small start-ups. Together, they aim to identify and eliminate all climate-damaging factors in the lifecycle without exception: from raw material extraction, material processing and production to transport and product disposal.  

“We are delighted to publicly announce Vitesco Technologies as a partner to the Polestar 0 project”, said Hans Pehrson, Head of the project at Polestar, a Swedish premium electric vehicle manufacturer founded by Volvo Cars AB and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Ltd. “A fully sustainable society requires us to work together in unprecedented ways, and we are joining forces with those who are equally determined to make that vision a reality. Vitesco Technologies, with their extensive electrification experience combined with their commitment to sustainability, is an excellent match for Polestar in this project.”  

Vitesco Technologies has several projects already underway in which cross-functional teams are developing appropriate processes, structures, methods, tools and use cases for specific products and components. One example is the Circular Electronics project to achieve complete recyclability of electronic components.  

"For the power electronics in the Polestar 0 project alone, we are analyzing around 10 sub-assemblies with more than 1,000 components," explains Mike Brighton, the responsible project manager at Vitesco Technologies. "Furthermore, we are examining the use of natural fibers and biologically produced plastics, to name just one of the many aspects of this research project. We are very confident that Vitesco Technologies will be able to make a significant contribution to the Polestar 0 project and derive a key benefit of this collaboration by enhancing our development and manufacturing capabilities. We will continue to take leading and decisive actions on sustainability within our design, manufacturing, value chain and products."