Autocar Professional’s September 15 issue is out!

The September 15 issue is eminently readable. It brings you the tale of the end of a saga, the beginning of a new innings and everything in between. This 56-page issue encapsulates the key challenges across Auto Inc and how India is paving its path amidst a chip-wrecked global crisis.

End of a Chapter
The top story is of Ford hanging its boots in India after 25 years and over $2 billion losses in 10 years. We get you a detailed analysis on why the American OEM failed to crack the dynamics of the Indian market.

Despite having a clutch of good products, find out how Ford misjudged the realities and complexities of the price-sensitive Indian car market.

Semiconductor chipping away sales
Barely has the industry emerged from the devastating impact of the pandemic when a continuing challenge is assuming new dimensions: the global semiconductor crisis. The ongoing supply-demand   mismatch in the PV market is directly related to this shortage.

We bring you a detailed report on how the crisis is also impacting the affordability aspect of new cars and the reasons that led to the shortage of semiconductors.

All charged up
Meanwhile –

-Tata Motors is taking forward its EV ambitions aggressively with the 2021 Tigor EV with enhanced battery capacity and an ARAI-certified range of 306km. We speak to Anand Kulkarni, Vice- President, Product Line, Electric Vehicle and ALFA Architecture - Passenger Vehicle Business, Tata Motors.

-Ampere Electric aims to scale up its EV portfolio with its 26 percent stake in MLR Auto which makes electric cargo and passenger three-wheelers.

-As Simple Energy launches its ‘One’ e-scooter claimed to have the highest range globally, Autocar Professional gets behind the start-up’s progression and future strategies.

Vocal for local
How is the Indian component industry gearing up to be future-ready?

-There is a change of guard at ACMA. Sunjay Kapur, the new President of ACMA, who is also Chairman of Sona Comstar,  details the strategies to achieve Atmanirbharta, upskill workforce and why the Tier 2 and Tier 3 supply chain needs to invest in technology.

-In a comprehensive study aimed at enhancing India suppliers’ global competitiveness, SIAM-ACMA have shortlisted 12 product categories that have the potential for increased localisation.

-But as the automotive landscape goes through a sea-change and prospects of alternate fuels gain traction, Dr Reji Mathai, Director of Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), outlines the new initiatives by the organization.  He says, ‘One solution fits all is unlikely’ … a phased approach is what he bets on in India’s drive to a greener tomorrow.

What’s the buzz?
Plenty more to read in this editon.

-M&M is overhauling its HR template and looking at reducing hierarchy, making the organisation flatter and bringing in skill versatility amongst the workforce.

-AkzoNobel is taking forward the sustainability theme in vehicle refinishing as it combines technology, digitisation and experience to maximise potential and productivity.

How you can read this issue 
Autocar Professional magazine is also available through all good newsagents and for download from Magzster. You can also buy one-off copies of Autocar Professional magazine – contact Ganesh at ganesh@haymarketsac.com. Alternatively, never miss an issue – subscribe to Autocar Professional magazine today.