Sustainability is embedded in our ethos, shaping our products, processes, and organizational practices
Rajiv Chaturvedi
Vice President- Sales & Marketing, After Service & Parts, HD Hyundai Construction Equipment India
What was your focus for this bauma CONEXPO INDIA, and how do you feel about the response so far?
Our primary focus at Bauma CONEXPO INDIA was to launch a series of new products and showcase our advancements in the market. This Expo was strategically significant, as it took place following the formation of a new government and at a time when optimism surrounding infrastructure growth in India was high. We aimed to seize this opportunity by rebranding ourselves from Hyundai Construction Equipment to HD Hyundai Construction Equipment, marking the beginning of a new chapter for our company. As part of this rebranding, we introduced a new logo and a premium royal grey color for our machines, symbolizing modernity, progress, and quality. Our exhibit was one of the largest at the Expo, allowing us to display a wide range of products and engage with key industry stakeholders. The response has exceeded our expectations. While the first day was dedicated to setting up, by the second day, we were fully immersed in discussions with customers from across the country. These interactions led to machine bookings, facilitation ceremonies, and a wave of positive momentum. The third day has been equally busy, reinforcing the success of our efforts.
What are your initiatives towards sustainability in your products?
Sustainability is at the core of our business ethos, reflected in both our product development and manufacturing processes. At our smart factory in Chakan, we’ve implemented energy-efficient systems, including zero effluent release mechanisms and extensive solar power installations. These steps are part of our broader commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring responsible production practices.
Our focus on sustainability extends to our product range, with a strong emphasis on advanced technologies such as hydrogen-powered excavators, which are key to the future of construction. Additionally, we’re making significant investments in hybrid, electric vehicle (EV), and flex-fuel solutions to diversify our offerings and contribute to a sustainable economy. These efforts are aligned with government initiatives promoting hydrogen and renewable energy, particularly in Maharashtra. Our vision is to lead the industry globally, setting new standards for environmental sustainability and innovation.
How are you maintaining scalability to meet the increasing demand for your products?
Scalability is a critical factor in the rapidly advancing infrastructure field, and we’ve implemented a well-rounded strategy to stay ahead. Our marketing and dealer teams monitor key infrastructure projects, such as road contracts and national infrastructure pipelines, to forecast demand accurately.
By leveraging this data, we estimate the equipment required for individual projects, taking into account both existing machinery and the increasing demand for new equipment. This process involves an in-depth analysis of project requirements, market-specific needs, and industry conditions. We formulate quarterly rolling plans that align production schedules with market fluctuations, ensuring we can swiftly adapt to demand shifts. This flexibility allows us to maintain a steady flow of equipment and meet our customers’ expectations.
How do you balance cost and quality compared to competitors in a price-sensitive market?
Cost and quality balancing is a challenging aspect in a price-sensitive market like India, but it’s a challenge we are equipped to meet. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality, evident in our hydraulics, structural components, IoT capabilities, and diagnostic systems, all of which contribute to the machines’ performance, reliability, and longevity.
Our smart factory leverages advanced technologies to produce high-quality equipment while ensuring cost-efficiency. We believe in value selling, demonstrating how our machines provide long-term benefits that extend throughout their lifecycle. Customers see the value in investing in premium equipment that offers exceptional performance, reduced maintenance expenses, and superior resale value. Moreover, our extensive network of rebuilding centers ensures affordable solutions for aging machines, further enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
What policy suggestions would you make to the government for the construction equipment industry?
To promote the growth and competitiveness of the construction equipment industry, the government needs to address the issue of low-cost imports undermining the local market. Protective policies should be established to shield domestic manufacturers from unfair competition, while simultaneously encouraging investment in technology and innovation. A PLI scheme for the construction equipment sector would provide a strong incentive for manufacturers to focus on capital expenditure (CAPEX) and R&D, driving long-term growth and fostering technological innovation.
Moreover, the establishment of certification standards for safety, reliability, and sustainability would enhance the industry’s global standing. These steps would enable Indian manufacturers to compete effectively with global players, expand exports, and strengthen India’s reputation as a key hub for advanced construction equipment.
What are your skilling initiatives and future investments in this area?
Developing a skilled workforce is integral to our operations, as advanced construction equipment demands expertise in handling and maintenance. Our training centers, supported by workshops, provide practical, hands-on experience. We have also partnered with educational institutions to equip operators and technicians with industry-relevant skills and knowledge.
Beginning with our collaboration with IESC, we’ve significantly scaled up internal skilling programs. Our facilities now feature enhanced training infrastructure, new-age curricula, and immersive digital simulators to keep pace with technological advancements.
We’ve designed training modules encompassing electrical, hydraulic, mechanical systems, engines, troubleshooting, and fabrication, along with safety and environmental compliance. These programs prepare participants to tackle industry challenges effectively.
The Takshila Initiative embodies our commitment to nurturing talent. Expanded to include dealership networks and even customers, it fosters technical and service excellence. Beyond core skills, we’ve prioritized soft skills and sales training, empowering our teams to communicate the value of our products effectively.
Cutting-edge products need advocates who can articulate their benefits and features. This is where Takshila Sales and Takshila Technical Service programs step in, ensuring our workforce excels in both technical expertise and effective communication.
