HD Hyundai prioritizes the essence of human dynamics, comfort intelligence, and the creation of a prosperous future for successive generations.

Rajiv Chaturvedi
Vice President – Sales and Marketing, After Sales & Parts, Hyundai Construction Equipment India

How do you describe the current state of the construction equipment industry?
India is charting an impressive growth trajectory, especially evident in the robust investment pouring into infrastructure and mining sectors. Despite the industry’s upward path, there have been challenges, notably inflation and geopolitical tensions, causing some disruptions. However, the country’s adept diplomatic management has effectively navigated these hurdles, notably controlling inflation through the RBI’s measures. The recent quarter displayed a notable easing of inflation, coupled with the RBI maintaining the repo rates at a steady 6.4-6.5%. This stability bodes well for corporate sectors, industries, particularly the construction equipment industry. Reflecting on the post-Covid period, there were significant obstacles such as escalated ocean freight costs, supply shortages, disrupted supply chains, and soaring fuel prices, which imposed immense pressure. Comparing that challenging phase to the present industry landscape, we find ourselves in a more favorable position, characterized by greater comfort and a tangible growth phase.

What are your growth priorities for the next five years?
HD Hyundai India commemorated its 50-year milestone since its establishment in 1973, marking a pivotal shift in our brand identity, values, and the unveiling of our new logo. This transformation encapsulates the essence of HD, symbolizing Human Dynamics. Our trajectory ahead is anchored in harnessing human dynamics to realize the aspirations of future generations, especially focusing on the forthcoming era. At the core of this vision is our commitment to leveraging human potential, channeling it towards innovative solutions that offer unparalleled comfort and intelligence to our clientele. As we delve into futuristic realms, our products, technologies, and expansion strategies are meticulously crafted to cater to evolving customer requisites and preferences. Our goal extends beyond mere functionality; it encompasses the holistic experience—enabling ease in equipment utilization, maintenance, and disposal throughout its lifecycle.

You said your priority is based on technology and comfort for customers, India is a very cost centric market. How do you manage between quality and cost?
When considering quality and cost, it’s crucial not to view them in isolation. India, while undeniably a price-sensitive market, is also experiencing positive growth, with a segment of customers who appreciate the value of technology and superior quality. What’s important to convey is that while the initial acquisition cost might be slightly higher, it’s essential to illustrate to the customer the long-term benefits this equipment offers in terms of reliability over its lifecycle. Reliability directly impacts costs by reducing frequent maintenance and breakdowns, providing a more dependable solution that ultimately saves money for the customer. Customers seek machinery that enhances productivity, enabling them to complete tasks efficiently. The crux lies in technology and quality delivering increased productivity, consequently adding value for the customer. Additionally, when technology contributes to higher productivity while minimizing fuel costs, it becomes a significant advantage. For instance, our excavators, namely the R215L and HX380, received the prestigious Yellow Dot Awards from Equipment Times, not primarily for being the lowest-cost options, but for the remarkable value they offer. These models empower customers to finish jobs faster, enhance productivity, and achieve better fuel economy, all supplemented with further value additions. One notable aspect is the incorporation of advanced digital solutions in both models. These innovations allow customers to manage, monitor, and troubleshoot their entire machine ecosystem independently, with our support. The high-track system generates alerts and enables customers to provide feedback, ensuring prompt and customer-centric solutions. We prioritize customer needs, ensuring agility and swift responses to their requirements, rather than dictating our visits based on convenience. 

There has been a shortage of skilled labor. What are your initiatives in training and skilling for skilled labour?
In light of the current unemployment rates in India and the untapped potential among young individuals lacking proper skills, addressing this gap becomes a critical concern. It’s unfortunate that despite their potential, many of these individuals lack opportunities. Through various communications and discussions, especially at Excon and within our industry, I strongly believe that it’s our responsibility to act. Within ICEMA, where our focus lies on skill-building initiatives, our participation is vital. At HD Hyundai, we’ve taken proactive steps. Our network comprises 38 dealerships across India, and we’ve embarked on a mission to identify unskilled youth eager for guidance. These individuals, often without direction, are sourced by our dealerships from colleges and institutes. The Takshila Initiative, championed by HD Hyundai, ensures these individuals receive comprehensive support. From sponsoring their travel to our Chakan factory to covering their entire stay and training expenses, our dealerships facilitate their journey. The Takshila Initiative brings together top-notch engineers specializing in construction equipment. Through rigorous classroom sessions, hands-on training, factory exposure, and machine operations, these individuals are groomed comprehensively. They become adept at aggregates repair, electrical systems, and overall equipment servicing. After 1-2 months of intensive training, they emerge as certified service engineers for construction equipment, earning due recognition and respect. 

With increasing number of construction and infrastructure projects in the country, how are meeting with scalability for the rising demand of your products?
Over the past 15 years, our dealers have grown alongside us, forming a crucial pillar of Hyundai’s strength: our customer relationships. Our engagement with them has been unparalleled. We meticulously track customer requirements over a two-year horizon, diving deep into upcoming projects, anticipated equipment demands, and even insights into the new products and attachments our customers seek. This meticulous process, a form of funneling technique, captures the voice of our customers through the conduit of our dealers and field teams. Their insights are then centralized at our headquarters, allowing us to distill and summarize the expected demand on the horizon.