Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

20 years of experience in automotive 2Ws, having witnessed the transition from Bs4 to BS6, to safety-critical upgrades, and finally to EVs.

Q2. How would you describe the structural changes in global automotive supply chains over the past few years?

A lot of electronic content increases, connected vehicles, and software are part of the Automotive industry.
EVs and advanced safety features are the future of automobiles.

Q3. What new challenges are emerging in sourcing critical EV components such as batteries, semiconductors, and electronics?

EV's biggest challenge is dependence on imports from China/Taiwan. With the rupee weakening, imports are rising, driving up EV costs. All OEMs have still not yet achieved a breakthrough with profitability.

Q4. How are technologies like AI and automation reshaping strategic sourcing and contract management?

Automation has already started for basic routine procedures, such as RFQs, cost estimates, and cost comparisons.
All supplier performance is maintained through the software.
AI is yet to be implemented and is under evaluation.

Q5. How are companies balancing cost pressures with increasing ESG expectations across the supply chain?

Consolidation and efficiency improvements are the key to mitigating inflation. Reshaping supply chains, removing non-value services, and helping to manage ESG expectations.

Q6. In what ways are traditional competitive boundaries shifting as technology, electrification, and globalization reshape the industry?

•    Mechanical controls are shifting to software control
•    Data management through software
•    Connected vehicles help better understand the customer's driving requirements, enabling easier new designs
•    Reverse auctions, global trade supporting better competition

Q7. If you were an investor looking at companies within the space, what critical question would you pose to their senior management?

•    Vision of growth
•    Diversification
•    Risk mitigation