Sogefi Group a leading global supplier of auto components has set up a new state of the art manufacturing facility, Allevard- IAI in Chakan, Pune.
Sogefi Group which designs, develops and produces filtration systems, flexible suspension components, air management and engine cooling systems entered into a51: 49 JV with group company Allevard Rejna Autosuspensions and Imperial Auto India in 2010 to manufacture elastic suspension components for the Indian automotive sector in India.
With a presence in 16 countries with 44 manufacturing sites and 9 R&D centers, the new facility is a testament to Sogefi Group’s strategy to expand its worldwide presence in the major automotive manufacturing centers.
With an investment of INR 25 crores the plant spread across 12,000 sq. meters is Sogefi Group’s third plant in India. The group has another JV facility with MNR based out of Bangalore for engine filtration and its third facility is based out of Gurgaon for air & cooling systems.
The Pune plant will manufacture Stabiliser Bar and Torsion Bar for passenger cars and utility vehicles. These two components form the most critical parts of the suspension system. To start with, the new plant will manufactures suspension systems for Tata Motors Ltd, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, Fiat and Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd. Plans are also underway to serve the needs of Sogefi Group’s other global customers, including General Motors, Renault-Nissan, Ford by providing local supply to their India and Asia Pacific facilities.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rodolfo De Benedetti, Chairman, Sogefi Group, said “The growing importance of Indian automotive market gives this country a central position in CIR and Sogefi Group’s global strategy. Pune is an ideal location for our new plant because the city provides a strong infrastructure and a rich talent pool of skilled workforce in the automotive sector.”
Mr. Emanuele Bosio, CEO, Sogefi Group, said “Our new plant represents a key milestone in Sogefi Group’s long-term vision of investing in fast growing markets and aligning our manufacturing footprint with the needs of our global customer base.”
Mr. Aman Mehtani, Managing Director Allevard-IAI, said, “We are happy to be associated with Sogefi Group. The new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant has been set up as per the best in Industry standards and is equipped to meet current and future expectations of our customers.”
The new plant currently employs 75 people and will be doubled to 150 along with planned investment of INR 8 crores, from now through 2017.