Seco Component Guidance is a web-based tool that allows customers to upload 3D part models and receive instant tool recommendations. It uses advanced feature detection technology to analyze user-uploaded models, identifying features like pockets and edges.

Seco Component Guidance allows customers to upload 3D part models and receive instant tool recommendations tailored to their specific needs. A web-based application, this new tool performs complex calculations in the cloud, ensuring quick access and results without requiring a powerful PC. 

Optimal recommendations delivered instantly 

Seco Component Guidance uses advanced feature detection technology to analyse user-uploaded 3D part models. The application automatically identifies pockets, holes, edges and other part features, then provides tooling recommendations catered to the part’s specific design. 

Erik Ekqvist, Product Manager, Seco, said, “Component Guidance is a powerful tool that takes full advantage of the latest in technology.” The software can significantly streamline the procurement process. It will also prove a valuable tool in ensuring estimate accuracy, as manufacturers bidding on a new part can very quickly determine the associated tooling needs and costs.” 

Prioritising cost efficiency 

When determining tooling recommendations, Seco Component Guidance automatically identifies opportunities to produce multiple features with the same tool. Plus, the system takes a user’s purchasing history into account, allowing it to minimize costs by giving precedence to tools that are already on hand. 

Yash Dynamics Private Limited offers locally manufactured PTFE liners in India, reducing reliance on imports and offering high-quality, cost-effective solutions for automotive control cables in high-temperature, high-performance applications.

Automobile manufacturing is changing rapidly to meet the latest demands for luxury, safety, and long-lasting performance. Amenities like throttle, clutch brake systems, have become more standard.

PTFE liners allow the incorporation of these features into automotive control cables with greater efficiency and reliability. Both consumer demand and evolving markets drive the increased use of mechanical functions in cars. These advances require control cables to work harder at higher temperatures continuously for years. The use of control cables will continue to grow thanks to:

• Continuous advancements in vehicle features
• An expectation of comfort and ergonomics
• A drive toward longer warranties and decades of operational efficiency for system assemblies

In addition to vehicle components that are more futuristic and consumer-facing, new designs for fuel and braking systems, powertrains, chassis, and interiors also require high-performance cabling. Here, PTFE liners play key roles wherever cables need thinner but better and smoother liner materials that can withstand ever-increasing service temperatures.

Characteristics of PTFE liners that make them an excellent choice for automotive applications include:

• High/low-temperature resistance
• Chemical and hydrolysis resistance
• High dielectric properties
• Stress-crack resistance
• Dimensional stability
• Low permeability
• Low coefficient of friction

Indian market scenario

The present PTFE liners market for control cables is being served by limited international tube manufacturing companies, which makes any Indian automotive OEM company largely dependent on international sourcing, leaving them with:

1. Undetermined priced purchases and import costs
2. Import hassles
3. Forex Fluctuations
4. Ungoverned quality control
5. Long delivery period
6. Long-term stock planning
7. Fund blocking
8. Stringent availability

PTFE tube manufacturing challenges

Raw material sourcing presents a significant challenge. Most PTFE fine powder manufacturers worldwide already have technical support agreements with existing international PTFE tube manufacturers, leading to limitations in technical support, process expertise, equipment specifications, and more. Identifying candidates for raw material grades based on properties and standards for a specific application is also tricky for any PTFE tube manufacturer.

Manufacturing requirements are also a challenge. PTFE tubing demands strict quality parameters due to its application and tight tolerances. Key quality parameters of PTFE tubes are surface smoothness, ovality, tensile strength, elongation, concentricity, ID/OD maintenance, and long length for control cables. This makes the manufacturing technique and equipment highly complex.

Another major barrier to manufacturing PTFE tubes is that production technology is proprietary in nature, and machine lines are to be designed and developed jointly by PTFE tube manufacturers and raw material technical collaborators.

Yash Dynamics

Yash Dynamics Private Limited is an Indian company specializing in high-grade PTFE tubing and liners using advanced paste extrusion technology. Focusing on the Indian fluoropolymer industry, particularly for automotive OEMs, the company produces long-length PTFE extruded tubing at its facility in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, which includes a fully equipped quality assurance laboratory.

Currently operating two extrusion lines, Yash Dynamics plans to expand by adding two more lines each year. The company holds a technical agreement with India’s only PTFE fine powder manufacturer and offers a range of PTFE liners for various applications, including throttle and clutch cables etc. They provide prototype liners to automotive manufacturers before moving into larger production volumes.

Yash Dynamics has ISO 9001:2015 certification and uses high-quality PTFE fine powder to ensure durability and smooth operation. PTFE’s high melting point makes the products ideal for high-temperature environments, reducing issues like stiction commonly found in standard cables.

EMO Hannover 2025 will showcase the latest in automation, AI, and sustainable metalworking from September 22 to 26, offering future-ready solutions for global manufacturers.

EMO Hannover 2025, the world’s biggest production technology trade expo, will return from September 22 to 26, showcasing cutting-edge developments in automation, collaborative robots, 3D printing, and AI-powered process chains. As metalworking advances rapidly, the event will assist industry professionals in evaluating and implementing the most appropriate technology for long-term growth.

Dr. Markus Heering, Executive Director of VDW (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association), stated, “EMO is more than just a tradeshow. It is a unique international platform for dialogue between manufacturers and users. The show will include international exhibitors, expert-led forums, and focus zones on the major topics driving industry transformation.”

Empowering Industry Transformation
Companies worldwide are under pressure to modernise in response to rising prices, tougher emissions objectives, and increased global competition. EMO Hannover will exhibit solutions for advanced industries like aerospace, medical technology, and renewable energy, which require greater precision, productivity, and material innovation.

As factories struggle to find trained personnel, digital technologies and AI become increasingly important. EMO will assist decision-makers in reducing investment risks by demonstrating solutions that have been proven to boost efficiency and offer new business opportunities.

Focus on Automation and Sustainability
The programme will emphasise automation as a critical facilitator of both series and single-piece production. The Cobot Area will demonstrate how collaborative robots may help create efficient, adaptable systems.

Bertram Kawlath, President of the German Engineering Federation (VDMA), stated, “Mechanical engineering is an enabler of climate-friendly transformation. The sustainability area will include technology that cuts energy use while using renewable resources and circular economy ideas.

Digitalisation and Predictive Intelligence
With the increasing integration of IoT and AI, digital process chains improve transparency and enable predictive maintenance. EMO will feature innovative technology that assists manufacturers in increasing uptime and reducing operational hazards.

Ahead of the event, updates from participating companies and previews of their offerings can be found on the official website:
🔗 https://visitors.emo-hannover.de/en/landingpage/c-level

Siemens, part of a consortium, will equip the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail with advanced ETCS Level 2 signaling and telecom systems under a ₹4,100 crore contract awarded by NHSRCL.

The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) has awarded a landmark contract to a consortium comprising Dineshchandra R. Agrawal Infracon Pvt. Ltd., Siemens Limited, and Siemens Mobility GmbH to provide advanced signalling and telecommunications systems for India’s first high-speed rail project. The project spans the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor, which is a key component of the National Rail Plan 2030.

The deal, valued at ₹4,100 crore, includes Siemens Limited’s share of ₹1,230 crore. It covers signalling and telecom technologies design, installation, and long-term maintenance. The implementation timetable is 54 months, and Siemens will be responsible for 15 years of maintenance to maintain constant operating reliability.

Siemens will introduce the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, a cutting-edge train control and signalling technology that allows trains to travel at speeds of up to 350 km/h. The system allows for real-time supervision, smooth wireless communication, and centralised traffic control, considerably increasing efficiency and safety.

Sunil Mathur, Managing Director and CEO of Siemens Limited, commented, “We are pleased to work with NHSRCL on this renowned endeavour. This project demonstrates our dedication to the ‘Make in India’ goal and reaffirms our focus on sustainable, future-ready mobility solutions.”

ETCS Level 2 is a globally proven technology that is now in use in over 50 countries and is expected to play a critical part in India’s high-speed rail system.

Following the successful development of the world’s first energy chain made from recycled plastic, the motion plastics specialist igus is taking the next step: the company is converting its entire catalogue range of standard energy chain series E2.1 to the new recycled material igumid CG LW.

The European Union wants to establish a circular and climate-neutral economy by 2050 at the latest. Instead of producing waste, a functioning circular economy relies on the “cradle-to-cradle” concept. Consumables are returned to the natural and technical cycle to conserve valuable resources and raw materials. With the E2.1 energy chain series, which will be completely converted to recycled material this spring, igus shows that this is no longer a dream of the future. The company is taking this step after introducing the first energy chain made from recycled material in 2022. The energy chain series is now manufactured from the recycled material igumid CG LW. It consists of post-consumer recyclates, such as old fishing nets and discarded energy chains, which are recycled and processed into recyclables as part of the in-house “Change” programme.

More sustainability without additional costs or loss of quality
Energy chains made from sustainable materials have mechanical specifications comparable to those of standard chains and are available at the same price as the previous E2.1 series. Even in terms of wear behaviour, stability and continuous flexing cycles, the energy chains offer the same quality. The series is characterised by a long service life, particularly quiet operation, and easy filling and installation. “With this recycled chain series, we are enabling customers to make a contribution to the circular economy for plastics together with us,” says Jörg Ottersbach, Head of Business Unit e-chains at igus. “By switching to igumid CG LW, we are demonstrating that circular economy and cost-effectiveness are by no means mutually exclusive.

80% lower CO2 footprint
By opting for the E2.1 series, customers are making an important contribution to the sustainable production of the future. Compared to the standard material, the recycled material has an 80% lower CO2 footprint. igus itself is also driving forward its sustainability measures with the new products. The company is focussing on measures in all areas (Scopes 1 to 3), from using process heat and green electricity to adding more e-charging stations to modernising buildings.

Around 170t of material collected
As part of the “Chainge” programme, igus has been taking back end-of-life energy chains from all manufacturers since 2019. In 2022, an online platform was added to the recycling initiative, allowing customers also to recycle other components made of technical plastics when purchasing processed material in the form of regrind and regranulate. In addition to taking back old energy chains, igus also takes back old material as part of assembly orders. Around 170t of plastic have already been recycled via the “Chainge” platform. For its recycling programme, igus was awarded the Rhineland Business Prize in the sustainability category (2022) and took first place in the “Going Circular” recycling competition organised by the Cologne Chamber of Industry and Commerce (2023).

For over 100 years, Chicago Pneumatic Compressors (CP) has been a global leader in compressed air technology, delivering solutions that drive efficiency, precision, and sustainability across industries. From machine tools and welding to automation, robotics, and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, CP compressors help modern industrial operations and empower businesses to meet demands while preparing for a sustainable future.

Precision in machine tools and cutting tools
Precision is non-negotiable in the high-stakes world of machine tools and cutting tools. Chicago Pneumatics oil-injected screw air compressors power pneumatic tools like drills, wrenches, and air hammers, ensuring consistent performance in automotive and aerospace manufacturing. For cutting applications, such as laser and plasma cutting, CP compressors deliver clean, dry air, which is critical for achieving flawless results. Equipped with Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) and interior Permanent Magnet (iPM) motors, these compressors adjust to real-time air demands, reducing energy consumption by considerable amounts and enhancing tool longevity.

Supporting welding and fabrication
Welding and fabrication rely on compressed air for tasks like plasma cutting, sandblasting, and operating pneumatic tools. CP compressors provide high-volume, reliable airflow, ensuring strong welds and precise cuts. Their advanced filtration systems remove contaminants, delivering clean air that enhances weld quality and protects equipment. This reliability makes CP a trusted partner for fabricators working in demanding environments.

Driving automation and robotics
The shift toward automation is reshaping industries, and CP compressors are at the forefront, powering pneumatic systems for robotic assembly lines and material handling. In smart factories, CP’s smart technologies, such as ICONS for real-time monitoring and E-Control for centralised compressor management, minimise downtime and optimise energy use. These systems align with Industry 4.0 principles, enabling predictive maintenance and data-driven decision-making, ensuring seamless automation.

Enabling process automation
Process automation in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and electronics requires clean, contaminant-free air. CP’s compressors, equipped with advanced filtration and air dryer systems, meet these stringent requirements, ensuring sterile environments for pharmaceutical production and contamination-free air for food processing. These features support precise control and compliance with industry standards, enhancing productivity and safety.

Leading the EV revolution
The electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing significant growth, particularly in markets such as India. CP compressors power robotic arms and pneumatic tools for assembling battery packs and electric motors with precision. They also support EV infrastructure, from cooling systems in charging stations to battery recycling processes, promoting a circular economy. Designed to withstand harsh conditions, such as high temperatures and humidity, CP’s compressors are tailored for reliability and efficiency.

Commitment to sustainability
Sustainability is at the heart of Chicago Pneumatic Compressors. Our VSD compressors, paired with iPM motors, reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions, offering significant cost savings. Energy recovery systems repurpose waste heat for industrial processes, further minimising environmental impact. Tools like Architect conduct air audits to identify energy losses, helping businesses optimise performance and achieve sustainability goals. These innovations make CP a leader in eco-friendly industrial solutions.

A legacy of excellence
Chicago Pneumatic’s century-long legacy is built on innovation and reliability. Their compressors power diverse applications, ranging from machine tools and welding to automation and electric vehicles, setting new standards in efficiency and sustainability. As industries evolve, CP remains a trusted partner, delivering solutions that drive progress and prepare businesses for a connected, eco-conscious future. Chicago Pneumatic compressors are more than equipment—they are catalysts for innovation, efficiency, and sustainability

The OEM Update team went on a guided tour at the sprawling premises of Omega Seiki Mobility’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for electric three-wheelers—both passenger and cargo variants—located in Chakan, Pune. Established in 2022, this is the company’s fourth plant overall and first outside Haryana. Embracing advanced manufacturing technologies, the Pune facility has a production capacity of 500 vehicles per month, translating to 6,000 cars annually, with plans to scale this up to 30,000 cars per year.

The strategic intent behind setting up this plant in Pune was to better serve clients in western and southern India. This unit rolls out the entire range of Rage electric vehicles, including passenger and cargo three-wheelers. Omega Seiki Mobility’s growing 3W portfolio features Rage Rapid, Rage Frost, and Rage Swap models.

Omega Seiki Mobility’s Chakan manufacturing facility is over 50,000 square feet and employs approximately 250 people. It develops and manufactures the Rage+ series and the passenger electric vehicle Stream. 

The Pune plant represents a significant investment of approximately ₹40 crore, with OSM outlining plans to invest an additional ₹190 crore over the next three years. The plant utilises automated manufacturing systems for logistics, material handling, fabrication, painting, assembly, and quality assurance. 

The Pune plant is strategically positioned in Omega Seiki Mobility’s long-term growth vision, particularly as it looks to scale its manufacturing capabilities and expand its footprint in western India. Being close to major automotive and industrial hubs such as Chakan, Mumbai, and Nashik, this location allows for seamless supply chain integration, access to a skilled workforce, and proximity to key OEM and Tier 1 partners. The plant is designed to cater to increasing demand in both domestic and export markets.

The Pune facility also helps deepen collaborations within the Chakan industrial ecosystem, where the parent company of OSM operates plants focused on steel and auto components. This proximity to internal capabilities and external partners enhances R&D efforts and enables faster prototyping, testing, and refinement of electric three-wheeler products, both passenger and cargo. It allows OSM to build localised products and deliver solutions tailored to evolving last-mile and intra-city transport needs.

Zero-defect manufacturing

The facility focuses on zero-defect manufacturing and begins with building strong processes and disciplined quality control systems. Every vehicle goes through multiple quality gates during assembly, where rigorous checks are conducted at each stage. OSM follows a strong SOP-driven approach supported by visual management systems and poka-yoke mechanisms to eliminate human error. The internal audit systems and end-of-line testing were in place to ensure that no vehicle left the plant without meeting strict quality benchmarks.

OSM has heavily invested in building a skilled and quality-conscious workforce. Regular training, cross-functional skill development, and real-time feedback loops help the teams identify and correct even the smallest deviations early in the process. This combination of process discipline, preventive quality measures, and a well-trained team forms the backbone of a zero-defect approach and helps OSM deliver reliable and durable electric vehicles.  

Automation and robotics for seamless production

While many manufacturers opt for fully automated setups, OSM has consciously integrated selective automation in areas requiring precision and consistency while still relying heavily on a well-trained workforce for core assembly and quality operations. This combination was seen as maintaining flexibility, adapting to product changes, and ensuring high levels of craftsmanship in every vehicle produced.

The EV component assembly lines used a combination of skilled manpower and selective automation. Repetitive and precision-driven tasks like torquing and battery pack sealing were automated, while trained workers handled assembly, inspection, and adjustments. This setup helps OSM maintain quality, reduce rework, and speed up turnaround times. It also keeps the system flexible for new product variants and design changes.

Battery production and assembly

OSM is the only company offering all three battery options—fixed, fast, and swappable—across its product range. It caters to a wide spectrum of customer needs, from fleet operators to last-mile delivery services. One of the key innovations is OSM’s proprietary fast-charging technology, which enables a full charge in just 15 minutes. This breakthrough is particularly valuable for commercial applications where vehicle uptime is critical.

Additionally, OSM’s in-house developed battery platform, OSM NRG, delivers the widest range in its segment—up to 300 kilometres on a single charge. This reduces range anxiety and enhances operational efficiency. They have also partnered with cell technology providers and energy companies for the high performance and safety of battery systems.

Battery recycling technology

Battery recycling is a key part of OSM’s sustainability vision. To ensure the safe, responsible, and efficient recycling of end-of-life batteries, OSM has partnered with Attero, one of India’s leading e-waste and lithium-ion battery recycling companies. This collaboration helps OSM recover valuable materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, reducing dependency on raw material imports and minimising environmental impact.

At the Pune plant, dedicated systems are in place to safely collect, store, and dispatch used batteries for recycling. Employees are trained to handle batteries at the end of their life cycle, ensuring they are properly categorised for second-life use or recycling.  

Green and sustainable initiatives

Sustainability is a key focus at OSM’s Pune facility. They are working toward integrating solar-powered systems across its plants to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources. The goal is to transition a significant share of energy consumption to clean, renewable sources and lower the overall carbon footprint.

This initiative is part of a broader plan to build a green manufacturing ecosystem. As an electric vehicle manufacturer, aligning production processes with clean mobility goals is essential. The gradual shift to solar energy is expected to play a major role in supporting future growth.

Modular or scalable manufacturing setups for rapid capacity expansion

Modular and scalable manufacturing is central to OSM’s operations. The Pune plant is designed for phased capacity expansion without disrupting existing production. A cell-based layout allows quick replication and scale-up as demand increases. This setup supports rapid response to market requirements for new model launches or higher production volumes.

Additional land next to the current facility will help key suppliers located within the Chakan industrial belt ensure uninterrupted logistics and component availability.

Skill and upskilling

People are OSM’s greatest asset, and continuous skill development is central to OSM’s manufacturing excellence. OSM runs structured training programs in collaboration with technical institutes, where employees are trained in EV-specific systems such as battery management, high-voltage safety, and diagnostics. On-the-job training, classroom sessions, and hands-on workshops are regularly conducted to ensure that the workforce is equipped with foundational knowledge and practical exposure to the latest technologies.

In addition, they follow a “train the trainer” model to ensure efficient knowledge cascades across teams. As new processes, tools, or equipment are introduced, speciality training modules are rolled out immediately so employees are never left behind. Cross-functional learning is encouraged across the plant to promote agility and adaptability.

Future

With the expansion plan of producing 3,00,000 vehicles annually, OSM has acquired additional land adjacent to the current facility. The existing plant layout has been planned to support phased expansion, and this new space will allow them to add new assembly lines and infrastructure.

Another advantage of OSM is its strong ecosystem in the Chakan industrial belt. Many key suppliers and logistics partners are located nearby, ensuring smooth coordination and faster turnaround times. This proximity minimises supply chain disruptions and allows for quick scalability. 

Traditional mechanical systems can be energy-intensive and prone to wear and waste, resulting in environmental drawbacks. However, implementing energy-efficient solutions can lead to environmental benefits, lower operational costs, and increased system reliability. Piyush Garg, Managing Director of Balaji Switchgears, has provided a practical guide in collaboration with Schneider Electric Solutions, highlighting the importance of sustainability and quality in power machine gears, motors, and transmission systems.

A practical guide with Schneider Electric solutions
With industries shifting toward greener, energy-efficient practices, the components of power machines, including gears, motors, and transmission systems, are evolving to meet sustainability standards.

These components are crucial in manufacturing and material handling for HVAC systems and transportation applications. Sustainable practices in this area are reducing energy consumption, increasing equipment life, and lowering environmental impact.

As a partner of Schneider Electric, Balaji Switchgears has witnessed firsthand the company’s leadership in this space. Schneider Electric’s range of innovative products empowers businesses to adopt eco-conscious systems without compromising performance.

Why does sustainability in gears, motors, and transmissions matter
Traditional mechanical systems can be energy-intensive and susceptible to wear and waste. Sustainable practices aim to improve energy efficiency, reduce material usage and waste, extend equipment life through smarter design, and facilitate maintenance and recyclability.

Incorporating these goals into the core of mechanical design will lead to environmental benefits, lower operational costs, and increased system reliability.

Energy-efficient motors
Electric motors consume a significant portion of the world’s electricity. Therefore, improving efficiency can lead to substantial energy savings.

Reference: Schneider Electric’s Altivar Process ATV600 and ATV900 series are smart variable speed drives designed to optimise motor performance while significantly reducing energy use. These drives feature real-time energy monitoring, smart control to adjust motor speed based on load, and Integration with automation systems for predictive maintenance.

These drives can reduce motor energy consumption by up to 30%, especially in pumps, compressors, fans, and other heavy-duty applications.

Gear optimisation and advanced transmission systems
Gear optimisation is vital for the efficient transfer of power. Sustainable gear systems aim to reduce friction and material loss while enhancing durability.

Sustainable practices include using surface treatments to reduce friction and extend lifespan, designing compact and modular gearboxes to minimise material waste, and opting for lubrication systems in automated gears that minimise environmental harm.

Reference: Schneider Electric’s Lexium 32 and Lexium 62 Servo Drives offer high dynamic performance while minimising energy waste. Engineered for applications that demand precision and speed—such as robotic arms, conveyor systems, and PacDrive solutions—these servo drives enhance sustainability by improving operational accuracy and optimising energy efficiency through advanced motion control.

Lightweight and recyclable materials
The use of lighter and more recyclable materials in motors, housings, and gearboxes can significantly reduce environmental impact.

• Aluminum and composite materials are being used instead of heavier metals
• Modular component design allows for easy replacement and recycling
• Design for disassembly supports circular economy practices Schneider Electric incorporates these design principles into their enclosures and motor housing systems to promote ease of recycling and reduced environmental burden at end-of-life.

Digital monitoring and predictive maintenance
Smart technology can decrease downtime and energy waste by proactively identifying potential issues before they escalate into failure.

Cloud-based solutions enable users to monitor system health in real-time, receive alerts for abnormal motor or transmission behaviour and schedule maintenance proactively, reducing the need for reactive repairs. With integrated sensors and analytics, companies can extend equipment life and avoid costly unscheduled maintenance, resulting in energy and material savings.

Reuse and recycling of components.
Sustainability doesn’t end at product design—it continues through the end-of-life phase.

Through its Environmental Data Program, Schneider Electric promotes recycling and reuse by extending the life cycle of drives and motors and designing components using technically appropriate and sustainable materials.

Their label is awarded to products that have full environmental declarations, low toxicity, and support for extended lifespan. This helps customers choose products with transparent sustainability credentials.

Smart integration and system optimisation
Efficient systems are about individual components and their interconnectedness. Companies can optimise their processes by integrating motors, drives, and gearboxes into a unified control architecture.

With Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Automation Expert, engineers are empowered to create digital twins of their systems, enabling simulation of energy usage, optimisation of drive and motor pairing, and automation of energy management across production lines. Such holistic approaches ensure savings are maximised, and systems only operate when necessary.

The path to a more sustainable future in gears, motors, and transmission lies in making smarter and more informed choices. Companies such as Schneider Electric are helping industries transition by providing high-efficiency motors, intelligent drives, and recyclable materials with digital tools for long-term monitoring and maintenance.

Engineers, plant managers, and sustainability officers alike who adopt these practices deliver measurable benefits, including reduced energy costs, extended equipment lifespan, and a lower environmental footprint. Sustainable industrial mechanics is no longer a vision for the future; it has become a practical and effective strategy for today’s manufacturing landscape.

MSMEs have a huge market share in the manufacturing industry. To advance the entire industry, MSMEs have to bring their best game. Leaders from Electronica Finance Limited (EFL) share insights on empowering MSMEs through tailored financial solutions, which help with digital lending and strategic initiatives to drive technology adoption.

How does your flagship “Machinery Loan” product support technology upgrades and digital transformation for small and medium manufacturers?
The Machinery Loan catalyses modernisation, enabling SMEs to adopt cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, remain competitive, and scale sustainably in a digital-first economy. EFL’s “Machinery Loan,” “One Loan,” and “Machinery Leasing” products are strategically designed to support technology upgrades and digital transformation for small and medium manufacturers (SMEs). They motivate SMEs to automate and digitise. By funding the acquisition of automated and digitally integrated machines, EFL loan and lease facilities enable manufacturers to implement Industry 4.0 technologies.

SMEs can access modern equipment, enabling them to upgrade from legacy systems to state-of-the-art technologies, thereby improving productivity and efficiency. Compliance and quality also improve, as new machinery often comes with enhanced precision, consistency, and compliance with international quality standards. This is crucial for manufacturers looking to enter export markets or meet the demands of digital supply chains so that ‘Make in India’ becomes a success.

Flexible repayment terms and tailored EMIs make it easier for SMEs to adopt advanced technologies without straining their cash flow. Options for moratorium periods and collateral-free lending can lower the barrier to entry for digital transformation.

In a globally competitive environment, access to timely and flexible finance is crucial. How does EFL ensure that MSMEs can secure funds quickly for capital expenditure (capex) and working capital needs?
To thrive in a fast-paced market, MSMEs must combine smart financial planning with accessible, tech-enabled, and tailored funding options. By selecting EFL financing solutions, they ensure agility, resilience, and competitiveness on a global scale. Leveraging specialised loan products, MSMEs can access EFL specific Machinery Loans, Equipment Finance, leasing, or Term Loans specifically designed for purchasing fixed assets. Solutions like EFL Business Loans and WCDL provide working capital, offering liquidity for day-to-day operations. Digital lending apps, such as EFL Clik, and platforms like EFL Raftaarr, make it easier for MSMEs with limited collateral or formal credit history to access funding.

What support can financial institutions provide to industry players looking to serve the global market?
Finance institutions act as strategic growth partners, providing confidence, capability, and connections along with capital. Their support can bridge the gap between local manufacturing potential and global market opportunities. We at EFL provide a range of facilities to support export-related MSMEs. This includes funding under credit guarantees to facilitate access to export credit, such as the EPCG and MOOWR schemes. We help clients avail themselves of government export incentives, duty refunds, and subsidies under various schemes. Through our global network access, we introduce clients to international banks that have partnered with EFL. Additionally, we offer working capital optimisation through tailored working capital loans linked to export orders or international purchase agreements.

What trends are you observing in MSME lending in India post-COVID, and how are these impacting your product development strategy?
Post-COVID, the MSME lending landscape in India has undergone significant structural shifts driven by digital adoption, evolving borrower behaviour and proactive government support. There has been a shift toward collateral-free lending, as cash flow stress following the pandemic led to a rise in demand for unsecured loans. Government schemes, such as the CGTMSE and the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS), catalysed this trend. A greater sector-specific focus also emerged, with some industries, such as healthcare, logistics, and e-commerce sellers, showing strong resilience while others struggled. This led to the creation of sector-specific lending products. Additionally, there has been a growing need for working capital flexibility, with MSMEs demanding more flexible, just-in-time financing to manage unpredictable business cycles.

What measures are in place to help first-time borrowers or young entrepreneurs in manufacturing navigate loan processes more easily?
We have introduced several measures to simplify the loan process and reduce barriers for firsttime borrowers and young entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector. These include dedicated MSME lending products with lower eligibility criteria and flexible terms specifically designed for first-time borrowers. We also offer flexible repayment and moratorium options to ease financial pressure during the initial stages of the loan. Additionally, we use alternative data for credit assessment, incorporating GST returns, bank transaction history, and e-invoices to evaluate creditworthiness beyond traditional credit scores.

What are your strategic goals for expanding financial inclusion among MSMEs as India positions itself as a global manufacturing hub?
We are transitioning from being a transactional lender to becoming a strategic partner in our customers’ growth. Our commitment is to help MSMEs become globally competitive with modern financial tools tailored to their needs, seamless digital connectivity for faster operations and financial agility, as well as credit strategies that support resilience and enable scaling. We’re here to support customers’ journeys by enabling export-led growth opportunities, offering financial literacy and expert advisory to help with decisionmaking, designing products that fit the unique requirements of manufacturing businesses, and making access to finance easier through collateral-free and cash-flow-based lending. Our digital platforms simplify credit access, and we’re expanding our reach to serve underserved and informal MSMEs—so that no matter where customers are in their journey, they have the support to grow stronger and go further.

Max Aerospace is set to establish a helicopter manufacturing plant in Nagpur with a ₹8,000 crore investment, expected to create 2,000 jobs and begin operations by 2026.

Max Aerospace & Aviation Private Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Maharashtra State Industries Department to establish a helicopter manufacturing plant in Nagpur, with an estimated investment of ₹8,000 crore. Operations at the plant are planned to commence in 2026.

Industries Secretary P. Anbalagan and Max Aerospace Chairman Bharat Malkani signed the Memorandum of Understanding in the presence of Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and other senior officials.

The manufacturing facility will be built in stages within the MIHAN-SEZ (Multimodal International Cargo Hub and Airport in Nagpur). The initiative is estimated to provide around 2,000 direct and indirect job opportunities over the following eight years.

The proposed plant will cover the complete helicopter manufacturing lifecycle, including assembly, integration, and MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) services. It intends to complement the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ objectives by increasing indigenous aerospace capabilities.

Max Aerospace intends to include worldwide technological collaborations and advanced technologies at the Nagpur site, and support skill development while building a local aviation ecosystem.