Denso develops first product in India, plans new plant after 2020

Among the exhibits by Japanese supplier Denso Corporation at the Auto Expo Components Show at Pragati Maidan was a vehicle finder and security system for two-wheelers.

This product called Doko (Japanese for "Where is it?”) is the first product developed by Denso in India. It will be launched by May. Though it is specifically developed for India, it could also be introduced in other major two-wheeler markets in Asia.

The solution has been developed by Denso’s technical centre set up in Manesar with an investment of Rs 150 crore in 2012. The centre covers development for powertrains, electric and electronic systems, information and safety systems, and small motors. “ We are already supporting certain global projects of Denso,” says Takao Nojiri, deputy managing director, R&D Center, Denso International India.

Denso’s last major investment in India was of Rs 300 crore to set up a plant at Jhajjar, Haryana in 2013. The company's next major investment could be made soon after 2020. “Yes, of course, 2020 onward, we need to invest for a new production plant in India,” Yoshitaka Kajita, MD, Denso International India, told Autocar Professional. The plant could come up in Gujarat, which is emerging as an automobile production hub. “We have not yet decided. We are now watching how customers are moving,” says Kajita.