Pricol gears up for BS VI, inks MoU with Kerdea Technologies for O2 sensor

Pricol Ltd has announced a new exclusive licensing agreement with Kerdea Technologies for oxygen (O₂) sensors. According to the company, with Kerdea’s patented technology in oxygen sensors and Pricol’s manufacturing capabilities, this product will be locally manufactured to cater to combustion engine applications in the two-wheeler and three- wheeler vehicle segments in India.   

With this strategic partnership, Pricol plans to expand its sensors portfolio in India and be ready for the upcoming Bharat Standard (BS) VI emission norms which the Indian government is set to implement by April 1, 2020.

The oxygen or O₂ sensor, is designed to constantly monitor the oxygen content in the exhaust gases from the engine. O₂ sensors help to maintain the right air-fuel mixture so that the engine runs efficiently with emissions well within the regulatory norms.

Commenting on the MoU, Vikram Mohan, managing director, Pricol said, “In a fast-changing environment, it is critical to draw upon the highest level of expertise to design the technologies of tomorrow. We are excited to partner with Kerdea to bring innovative, ground-breaking technologies to our Indian customers. This licencing partnership will contribute to our constant efforts to deliver robust, technologically advanced and cost saving products in India. After the rollout of BS VI norms by 2020, Pricol is expecting to add over US$ 60 to 70 million to its topline with a healthy EBITDA margin with the products developed through Kerdea’s technology.”

Signing the MoU, Dr Douglas M. Carnes, CEO, Kerdea Technologies said, “We are extremely happy to partner with Pricol to create a transformation in the O2 sensor market and thereby create a pollution-free India with the use of O₂ sensors. This licensing partnership will help us expand our footprint in India by redefining fuel efficiency and emission control and thereby improve product performance for the two-wheeler and three-wheeler vehicle segment in India.”

The Coimbatore-based Pricol supplies its products to the two-, three- and four-wheeler, commercial vehicle, tractor, and construction and industrial tooling segments across the global market. The company has 30 patents, 8 manufacturing units and 5 international business offices worldwide including in India, Indonesia, Brazil, USA, Germany, Singapore, Thailand and Japan.