Economic upliftment

less experienced drivers which come at a lower cost. The two make an incredibly powerful value equation that justifies the adoption of AMT. An AMT also makes a flexible concept as it is mounted on a manual transmission. At the OE level, there is no need to have two special configurations. They would have one configuration of manual gearbox on top of which they can add the AMT system which makes it highly cost effective. With experienced drivers becoming more and more expensive, AMT allows junior drivers to find a place. There’s a broader choice to make. From our penetration in India, we can say that it is attractive for the drivers to drive a vehicle which is fitted with an AMT. It offers a comfortable environment. It is a winning situation for all.

Q. New CV types that you think will make a good application for AMT in India? A.

AMT is getting recognition as far as city buses are concerned. This will be soon followed by inter-city buses as well. Manufacturers are evaluating AMT for trucks as well. The need is to have an electronically driven and controlled engine in order to be able to connect the AMT with it. A dialogue between the two is necessary. Majority of the engines are currently controlled mechanically. With the move to Euro IV, there will be a need to adopt electronically driven and controlled engines. Once that happens, an entire spectrum of vehicles will open up for AMT application. AMT on trucks is right now under validation. It ensures smoother shifting of gears. In markets like Europe, AMT has penetrated into almost 80 per cent of trucks. In the case of auto transmission, it