Reiterating its commitment to localization in India, technology company Continental today inaugurated its new line for the production and assembly of Electronic Control Units (ECU) for two-wheeler and passenger car Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The new production line is part of its Bangalore Central Electronics Plant, Continental’s largest plant in India, catering to automotive OEMs across India. This strategic step towards “In the market, for the market” is also its next step in localizing ABS/ESC after system assembly started in Gurgaon last year.
Continental has been pursuing a long-term strategy globally towards “Vision Zero” – a future with zero accidents – through innovations and ongoing improvement of components and systems making a decisive contribution to greater road safety. In view of its expertise in active and passive safety systems, the company sees itself as a key driver in reducing the number of traffic-related fatalities, injuries, and road accidents through a more widespread use of technologies.
The impending need of safety features in vehicles, driven primarily by government mandates, will see the ABS market in India growing exponentially in the near term. Continental is well-equipped to support this growth. In 2016 Continental set up a line for localization of ABS assembly, besides ESC systems, at its existing plant in Gurgaon. ESC, although yet to be mandated in India, will be next step to provide more comfort and safety to the driver, and will see an uptake in the next five years. The production lines are also capable of producing ESC. Continental is localizing the entire value chain starting from marketing to R&D to design according to local customers’ requirements.
According to Prashanth Doreswamy, market head of Continental India and MD, Continental Automotive, India, “We have been growing steadily in the Indian market, and will continue to increase our manufacturing capacity to cater to the growing demand of the market. Localization is at the core of our strategy for India, and we are fully equipped with solutions and technologies that aid safe, efficient and intelligent mobility. Innovative technologies and intelligent systems are imperative for future mobility in which life is protected and injuries are prevented.”
Says Harald Lichtinger, head of operations BU VED, Continental, “The pace of adoption of safety technologies has accelerated in India, thanks to the growing consumer awareness and a concerted effort by the industry and Government. Continental has successfully partnered with OEMs in other markets like Europe, Americas and China, bringing down fatality rates and shaping automotive industry trends. Our technology, expertise and production capabilities will support a similar mission in India. Our investment will also result in job opportunities through direct and indirect employment.”
With steady investments, commitment to technological innovation and localization of the value chain, the company has been growing at a quick pace in India. Today, the tier 1 automotive supplier, tire manufacturer and industrial partner operates across India – with over 7,000 employees across 15 locations, including eight plants that cater to the Indian market, and a Technical Center that supports global R&D.
Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2017, Continental generated preliminary sales of around €44 billion and currently employs more than 233.000 people in 56 countries.