New Delhi: In a convergence of minds at the SAP Automotive Innovation Day held on March 20th at Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi, industry luminaries gathered to dissect the future of mobility in India. Under the hand of Heiko Flohr, Sr. Vice President, Head Discrete Industry Product Management, SAP, the discussion unfolded into a multifaceted exploration of the challenges and opportunities confronting the automotive sector.
“Mobility is a value creator across the globe and it’s changing rapidly because there are five societal megatrends which are impacting mobility,” -Tapan Sahoo, ED – Engineering, Maruti Suzuki India, said. He emphasized the importance of sustainability in mobility, highlighting the impact of the societal megatrends like urbanization, digitalization, and rising middle class. His words encapsulated the essence of the discussions to follow, emphasizing the imperative of adapting to societal shifts while maintaining a focus on sustainability.
D Suresh of Spark Minda, said, “In India, we are working in nearly all propulsion technologies.” This acknowledgment of India’s prowess in innovation underscored the country’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in mobility, he added.
Rajarshri Moitra, Chief Commercial Officer, Bridgestone India Pvt Ltd, said, “We’ve transitioned from being a pure tyre selling company to a sustainable solutions company,” reflecting the industry’s tilt towards holistic and environmentally conscious approaches.
Sumantra Bibhuti Barooah, Consulting Editor, ETAuto, brought attention to the valuable role startups can play in shaping the industry’s trajectory. “Startups are not only disruptors but they are increasingly playing a very crucial role in the overall development of the industry,” Barooah emphasized, shedding light on the collaborative efforts driving innovation and transformation within the sector.
The discourse centered on the increasing integration of software in vehicles, recognizing both its challenges and opportunities. Emphasis was also placed on the necessity of transparent industry networks and collaborative workspaces between OEMs and suppliers. Speakers highlighted the critical role of synergy in driving product development processes forward.
The conversation further explored retail models, advocating for omnichannel experiences that prioritize customer satisfaction. Speakers stressed the significance of seamless customer experiences across various touchpoints, labeling it as crucial for success in the industry.
Additionally, advancements in transportation, particularly in last-mile mobility solutions and cargo transportation, were discussed. Participants highlighted innovative solutions emerging from startups, signaling a transformative shift in the transportation sector.
Throughout the dialogue, there was a resounding call for adaptation, collaboration, and innovation. Participants expressed a collective drive towards sustainable progress, encapsulating the sentiment with one participant remarking, “It’s all about growth.”
