Finance minister Arun Jaitley’s debut Union Budget may not have had any big-bang announcements for the automotive sector but the proposed allocations for infrastructure and the focus on the MSME sector have drawn kudos. The cover story details just what 16 captains of the Indian auto industry – OEMs and components makers – have to say about the Budget and where the sector could be headed.

In line with the FM’s focus on infrastructure, we reveal how Siddhi Vinayak Logistic, one of India’s largest truck transport operators, aims to grow its business, and why the Nashik-based Ashoka Buildcon is confidently eyeing a $ 1 billion order book from State road projects.

Given the uptick in sales in June (detailed segment-wise charts provided in the issue), industry  mood is good and consumer sentiment is up, after nearly two-odd years. A few component makers seem to be replicating this positive movement: while Continental Automotive Brake Systems is looking to bring some of its latest global products to India, miniature and small-sized ball bearings maker NMB-Minebea India is betting big on growth prospects here. India has also drawn Copart, one of the world’s leading internet auction bidding companies – our first report reveals all.

A couple of exclusive interviews too. Andy Palmer, Nissan’s chief planning officer, speaks on India’s growing role in the Japanese’s carmaker’s global growth plan, and Philippe Divry, senior VP, AB Volvo and board member of VE Commercial Vehicles, on the company’s India innings. 

Meanwhile, with Tata Motors’ all-new Zest set for launch, we speak to the core engineering team which believes the sedan has what it takes to make it big in the market.   

Plenty of two-wheeler info too. Along with the latest updates on India Yamaha Motor’s new Blue Core tech and HMSI’s latest CD 110 Dream commuter, we reveal how US-based engine maker Synerject is talking tech and business with some Indian two-wheeler OEMs.

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