SEG Automotive unveiled a suite of innovative products designed to cater to India's dynamic automotive market. The launch showcases the company’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for efficiency and sustainability in a sector marked by rapid electrification and hybridisation.
The new products include a high-efficiency alternator, a drive control unit, a 48V electric drive system for light electric mobility (LEM), and a 3-in-1 electric drive unit aimed at passenger vehicles.
We had a discussion with Ferdinando Sorrentino, Global CEO, SEG Automotive and Anil Kumar MR, Managing Director for India, on how these solutions reflect the company’s strategic focus on adapting to diverse market demands while leveraging its extensive expertise in automotive technologies.
Driving Efficiency With High-Efficiency Alternator
The high-efficiency C8M alternator, a cornerstone of SEG’s new portfolio, is designed to optimise energy utilisation in hybrid and electric vehicles. With an efficiency rating of up to 77%, this alternator stands as a benchmark in the industry. Such advancements not only reduce energy losses but also contribute to significant fuel savings and CO₂ emission reductions. This product is tailored to address the increasing power requirements in commercial vehicles, where air-conditioned cabins and higher electrical demands are becoming standard. SEG's ability to localise production ensures cost-effectiveness and accessibility for Indian customers.
Enhancing Integration With 48V Electric Drive & Control Unit
SEG’s drive system and control unit aims to improve system performance and integration across vehicle platforms. The 48V electric drive system targets the burgeoning LEM market, offering a scalable solution for applications ranging from e-rickshaws to light cargo vehicles. This system, with a configurable power range from 6 kW to 14 kW, with torque ranging from 80-134 Nm, provides the flexibility needed for diverse use cases in urban and peri-urban environments. SEG’s commitment to safety is evident in its adherence to ASIL-B standards, which ensure robust protection and reliability under Indian conditions.
The Control Unit addresses the growing complexity of automotive systems, ensuring seamless operation and adaptability. As electrification progresses, the need for intelligent control systems that maximise efficiency and safety becomes increasingly critical. The drive control unit complements SEG's broader portfolio, allowing for modular solutions that can be customised to meet specific requirements.
Passenger Segment To Benefit From 3-in-1 Drive Control Unit
The 3-in-1 electric drive unit, designed for passenger vehicles, integrates a motor, inverter, and control unit into a compact system. This innovation simplifies vehicle architecture, reducing weight and improving energy efficiency. Scalable from 100 kW to 250 kW, the unit is positioned to meet the needs of electric passenger vehicles in both domestic and global markets. SEG’s investment in local production facilities further underscores its readiness to support India’s transition to cleaner mobility.
Path To Hybridisation & Electrification
The discussion highlighted SEG’s strategic approach to hybridisation as a transitional solution towards full electrification. Anil Kumar emphasised that hybrid technology, while intermediate, will play a crucial role in meeting stringent corporate average fuel consumption (CAFE) norms in India. SEG’s offerings cater to this trend, focusing on providing compact, high-performance systems tailored to hybrid configurations. While some Indian OEMs view hybridisation as a stopgap, SEG anticipates its growing relevance in the short to medium term, driven by cost-of-ownership considerations and regulatory pressures.
Regional Dynamics & Challenges
Sorrentino acknowledged the regional disparities in electrification adoption, citing differences in market readiness across South America, North America, and India. He emphasised the importance of a flexible strategy that aligns with local conditions, infrastructure, and consumer preferences. SEG’s ability to localise production and its portfolio of modular, adaptable solutions positions it to respond effectively to these regional challenges.
SEG Automotive’s latest offerings underscore its dual commitment to supporting legacy internal combustion engine (ICE) technologies while advancing electrification and hybridisation. With a strategy focused on localisation, modularity, and sustainability, the company aims to be a strong player in India’s automotive transition.
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