2012 Electronics Special: HSCI looks forward to increased sourcing from Indian vendors

In an email interview with Autocar Professional, Jnaneswar Sen, senior vice-president – Sales & Marketing, Honda Siel Cars India (HSCI), speaks about the growing impact of automotive electronics which are filtering down from high-end models to compact cars. Also, the likelihood of increased sourcing from Indian suppliers.

HSCI, which is keen to drive speedier growth in India, is aiming for near- 100-percent localisation and a greater focus on locally produced cars, with imports and part-imports taking somewhat of a back seat in the near future.

How does HSCI perceive the changing trends in automotive electronics in the Indian market?

Electronics closely interface with automobile development in the areas of engine, transmission, chassis, active safety, driver assistance, passenger comfort and infotainment systems. Continuous innovations in each of these areas have consistently contributed to improving vehicle performance and enhancing overall driver experience.

Which car segments are dictating the type of electronics that go into them?

The Indian market is extremely competitive and features in areas of active safety, passenger comfort and infotainment systems like ABS, EBD, Auto AC and navigation systems are being offered in the compact segment as well. Driver assistance features like lane assist, speed assist, blind spot detection, park assist and adaptive cruise control are presently being offered only in the premium segments.

Is HSCI looking at sourcing car electronics from Indian suppliers?

Multinational automotive electronics vendors like Bosch, Continental, Delphi are investing in setting up R&D and manufacturing capability in India and we can look forward to a higher number of components being sourced locally in future from them.

Indian suppliers are also developing their capabilities and based on comparable quality and competitive cost can have a good business case.

SHOBHA MATHUR