Interview with Dr Surinder Kapur, Chairman, Sona Group

Breaking through the US market with the EPAM was a big achievement for the Sona Group. What are the new product innovations that you plan to showcase at the Auto Expo?

We are going to showcase our patented product, EPAM (Electric Power Assist Module) and T-EPAM, which is an integrated design of ECU, torque sensor, motor and reduction gear train all in one housing which provides assistance to the driver while steering off-highway or farm vehicles.

This technology is a major development in the off-highway vehicle segment. This steering module will help the farmers and the drivers to maneuver the vehicle with ease and comfort. The electric power assist module makes the job of the driver simpler compared to the manual steering system.

We recently showcased this technology at the AgriMach where we received positive feedback from the farm community. This kind of response and feedback from our customers motivates us greater efficiencies and superior technological advancements.

What does Sona as a Group expect from the Fair in terms of visitors and business?

This time the Auto Expo has been organised to international standards which demarcate the audience in two parts, one which is more interested in the launch of new vehicles and the other that is more keen to visit ancillary and components stalls.

Do you think separate motor and component shows will affect visitor flow?

The separation of the two shows will lead to better-quality footfalls and business prospects. This will highlight the importance of the component segment and bring alive the hardwork that goes into making the final product.

This year we are going to showcase our breakthrough technology to our customers and suppliers. We are hoping to engage in valuable business deals and prospects this year with our new technological developments. 

Will it be the biggest stall taken by the company at the components show?

This time, we are having a combined stall of 126 square metres for the Sona Group and JTEKT as against 89 square metres at the last expo. The space allocation has been restricted due to the ongoing Defence Expo. Otherwise we had planned to take a bigger space of 200 square metres. Nevertheless, we hope to make a significant statement with the display this time around.