BorgWarner Secures Major VCT Programme Awards In Europe And China

BorgWarner Secures Major VCT Programme Awards In Europe And China

BorgWarner has broadened its variable cam timing portfolio through two newly secured contracts in Europe and China, reinforcing its position in the hybrid and internal combustion engine sectors. One agreement extends production and raises output volumes for a premium European automaker’s V6 platform, while the other represents a competitive replacement for a Chinese original equipment manufacturer’s 1.5-litre turbocharged gasoline unit.

The technical foundation for both awards is the centre-bolt Cam Torque Actuated system, which departs from conventional oil-pressure-based designs. By streamlining internal lubrication channels, the architecture achieves quicker cam phase adjustment, more dependable locking mechanism engagement and lower lubricant consumption, all of which contribute to measurable gains in thermal efficiency across both electrified and conventional powertrains.

Production for the European V6 family, which serves premium and sports vehicle segments with power ratings spanning 260 to 375 kilowatts, is already active. The enhanced supply agreement, including the enlarged volume commitment and an extended production horizon, will become effective in January 2027, covering both hybrid and gasoline-only iterations of the engine.

The Chinese programme, slated to enter production in September 2026, involves a high-volume 1.5-liter turbocharged engine line that underpins numerous sport-utility and sedan models destined for the domestic market. This victory over the prior supplier was attributed to the system’s fuel-saving characteristics, combined with localised manufacturing operations and a more competitive overall cost structure.

Henk Vanthournout, Vice President of BorgWarner Inc. and President and General Manager, Drivetrain and Morse Systems, said, “These awards underline the long-term competitiveness of our VCT portfolio across both hybrid and combustion powertrains. They reflect the quality, reliability and cost competitiveness our customers continue to value in our VCT and timing drive solutions.”

Sriram Viji Appointed President Of ACMA India, Anjali Singh Named President-Designate

ACMA India

The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), the apex body representing component manufacturers in the country, has appointed Sriram Viji, Managing Director, Brakes India, as President for the 2026–27 term.

The industry body also named Anjali Singh, Executive Chairperson of ANAND Group and Gabriel India, as President-Designate. 

Vinnie Mehta, Director General, ACMA, said, “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Sriram Viji and Mrs. Anjali Singh to their new roles. Their rich industry experience and strategic vision will guide ACMA as the sector navigates geopolitical uncertainty and the evolving mobility landscape. I am confident that their leadership will strengthen our engagement with Government and industry partners to diversify supply chains, improve access to critical raw materials and enhance India’s global competitiveness.” 

Sriram Viji, President, ACMA, said, “It is an honour to lead ACMA as India strengthens its position as a trusted partner in global automotive value chains. Our priority is to deepen local capabilities and accelerate investment in advanced technologies, R&D and innovation, while embedding sustainability across the industry. As electric, connected and new-energy mobility create fresh opportunities, we must move beyond adapting to change to shaping it. Together with our members, we will work to position India as a global hub for high-value manufacturing and next-generation mobility solutions.”

MAHLE Starts E-Compressor Production In India

MAHLE

German automotive supplier MAHLE has established an e-compressor production facility in Coimbatore, which it claims makes it the first company to manufacture the component in India.

The German firm has invested EUR 7 million in the site to produce e-compressors, which regulate thermal management, battery life, charging speeds and driving range in electric vehicles.

The production line has a capacity of over 300,000 e-compressors annually to supply domestic and international vehicle manufacturers. The launch creates 50 jobs, aligning with the Indian government's ‘Make in India 2.0’ manufacturing initiative.

The Coimbatore facility already produces starter motors, alternators, controllers and traction motors for two-wheelers and three-wheelers. Following the setup of an R&D facility in 2023 for product validation, MAHLE has outlined plans for women to represent 75 percent of the plant's total workforce by 2027.

The company entered India in 1958 through a piston manufacturing joint venture and now has expanded its operation across 15 locations in the country with 5,900 employees.

Ivan Lenehan, Vice-President, MAHLE Powertrain and Charging, India, China & East Asia, said, “India continues to play an increasingly important role in the global mobility transformation. This facility strengthens our presence in one of the world’s most dynamic automotive markets and reinforces our commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.”

Milind Mhaiskar, MD, MAHLE Electric Drives India, said, “This production facility underscores our focus on localisation and customer-centric innovation. The success of this project reflects the dedication of our teams and our collaborative approach with business partners.”

Imperial Auto Appoints Sandeep Bathla As Chief Global Operations Officer

Sabdeep Bathla

Delhi NCR-based fluid transmission provider Imperial Auto has appointed Sandeep Bathla as its new Chief Global Operations Officer.

In his new role, Bathla will oversee manufacturing operations and direct programs to update automation, expand production capabilities and streamline supply-chain networks across company facilities. He will report to Vikram Wagh, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Imperial Auto.

Bathla brings over three decades of industry experience to the role and previously served as Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer at Plasser India, following management roles at Blue Star, Motherson Sintermetal Technology and Eicher Tractors. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Kurukshetra and a PhD from European International University, Paris.

Vikram Wagh said, “As Imperial Auto continues to scale its operations and strengthen its position in global markets, building a future-ready and high-performing manufacturing organisation will be critical. Sandeep brings extensive experience across manufacturing and the automotive industry, along with a strong understanding of operational excellence. His leadership will be instrumental in enhancing our manufacturing capabilities, improving responsiveness and creating greater value for our customers.”

The executive change aligns with Imperial Auto's plans to expand its international manufacturing footprint and engineering capabilities.

Ambarish Gupta

Tier 1 automotive supplier Lumax Auto Technologies, part of the DK Jain Group, has further strengthened its management team by onboarding Ambarish Kumar Gupta as the new Vice-President – Operations.

Gupta comes with over two decades of experience in the automotive industry, with senior roles across financial operations.

The industry executive has worked with the likes of Forvia Faurecia, Marelli, Brose, Magna Steyr, Infosys, L&T Technology Services, BlueBinaries Engineering & Solutions and PGUB Management Consulting, among others.

In his new role, he will be responsible for advancing futuristic automotive electronics, strengthening operations and making the company future-ready.

Gupta will also support Lumax Auto Technologies’ innovation, technology and operational excellence roadmap.