A leader in SAE Level 4 self-driving vehicle software for heavy-duty vehicles, Torc Robotics, an independent subsidiary of Daimler Truck, is opening a technology and software development centre in Stuttgart, Germany. In regards to the development, Gianenrico Griffini spoke to Michael Fleming, CEO, Torc Robotics, and Peter Schmidt, Head of Autonomous Technology Group, Daimler Trucks.

In an interview dating back to October 2019, you said you were in the phase of testing Class 8 autonomous driving on the public road. What stage are you currently working in? What results did you achieve so far?
Michael Fleming: Since we last met at the North American Commercial Vehicle Show in Atlanta in 2019, we have been safely testing a fleet of autonomous trucks daily on public roads in the US. We are developing autonomous truck technology to navigate for long-haul, hub-to-hub transport – our target use case. Typical driving scenarios, such as lane changes and complex merges, have been tested intensively and have proven that Torc’s autonomous driving software can safely navigate on highways. Recently, we have expanded our features and are now running and demonstrating L4 autonomous trucks with enhanced capabilities in more complex scenarios on surface streets, ramps and turns at controlled intersections. Our routes have expanded to multiple states: Virginia, New Mexico and Texas. Each area provides us with unique traffic and environmental conditions for testing. We have also expanded our simulation testing – allowing us to safely simulate thousands of traffic scenarios and reinforce capabilities on public roads.

Can you describe your technical solutions for Class 8 autonomous driving? Is a high degree of redundancy a key pillar of your Level 4 autonomous driving strategy?
Michael Fleming: The virtual driver is the Automated Driving System (ADS), which enables the vehicle to perform driving tasks. This includes software and hardware. Torc’s software stack is also known as the virtual driver. The automotive grade hardware includes computers, sensors and other hardware necessary for the virtual driver to perceive the world around it, localise and make behavioural decisions to perform driving tasks.

Peter Schmidt: Yes, in our opinion, redundancy is a must for autonomous trucks. It is the only way to ensure maximum safety. Here we do not compromise. Our engineers at Daimler Truck North America have done a phenomenal job in the past few years, successfully developing the first scalable autonomous truck platform with critical safety systems. Based on Freightliner’s industry-leading flagship truck, the autonomous-ready Cascadia with redundant functions represents the foundation for autonomous trucking. This truck has a second set of critical systems, such as steering and braking, and continuously monitors and assesses the health of these systems. In case of interruption or errors, the newly developed redundant systems will be able to safely control the truck.

What does the launch of the cross-functional TAAC (Torc Autonomous Advisory Council) mean? Does it mean you have already achieved a robust roadproof autonomous technology level that must be translated into transport operators’ reality?
Michael Fleming: We believe in developing technology to create sustained innovation in freight transport. This means working closely with leaders in shipping and logistics to define the best way to integrate with the freight network. With members of the TAAC, we are exploring solutions for hub-tohub operations, fleet logistics and fleet maintenance services. These are the capabilities beyond the technology for driving that are necessary for commercialisation. The TAAC supports Torc’s goal to be the first scalable, profitable, commercialised L4 truck solution. We are collaborating with key freight industry players who will provide strategic insights to Torc as we integrate with the freight network and tackle challenges beyond highway driving.

Peter Schmidt: With Torc now involving leading logistic companies, we are entering the next phase, focusing on specifically defining the real-world use case of the autonomous system of the future. We are on the right path and, together with our collaborators, we share the pioneering spirit and the willingness to succeed in autonomous trucking.

Can you outline a timetable for deploying hub-to-hub selfdriving trucks on daily interstate operations in the US?
Peter Schmidt: We are aiming to commercialise autonomous trucks on the road within this decade. In the US, we expect autonomous trucking to be a reality on a bigger scale by 2030. Already, from the middle of the decade onwards, we could see the first trucks running freight with customers, and we could then see the market ramp-up subsequently. While the go-to-market timing is determined by our partners, we will make sure our autonomous-ready Freigthliner is available in time.

Michael Fleming: Building on what Peter said, our timeline to deploy hub-to-hub self-driving trucks on daily interstate operations is not determined by a specific target date but by safety first. We will bring autonomous trucks into customer operations only when it is safe to do so.

What do you need from the legislator to speed up the introduction of self-driving trucks? What is it still missing?
Michael Fleming: At Torc, we want to be part of the solution, but we need to strike a balance of pushing innovation while keeping safety at the forefront. We’re happy to be thought leaders in sharing our own very stringent guidelines for testing and safety plans and helping to educate state and federal officials on the importance of autonomous trucking to society.

Recently, Daimler Truck subsidiary Torc Robotics announced the opening of a technology and software development centre in Stuttgart. How can you use the know-how acquired in the US for European autonomous driving operations?
Michael Fleming: For now, we remain laser-focused on developing autonomous trucking for deployment on US highways. The team in our Stuttgart office will support these efforts, tapping into the amazing talent pool of software and product development specialists in one of Germany’s prime automotive regions. This is the primary reason we decided to open an office in this location.

Peter Schmidt: Later on, we can then leverage our position as a global player and transfer the know-how and experience acquired in the US to bring autonomous trucking into other markets, for example, to Europe. However, due to different legislations and infrastructure, we expect other markets outside of Europe to become viable sooner. For the near-term, we are focused on commercialisation in the US and believe this focus will help us reach our goal here by 2030.

Gianenrico Griffini is the editor of Vie&Trasporti (Italy) and a technical journalist specialising in commercial vehicles. He is also the Chairman of International Truck of the Year consortium.

Harvinder Pal Singh, Chief Business Officer, Orbitsys Technologies, spoke to Bhushan Mhapralkar, Editor, Motoring Trends, regarding the products and solutions his company offers to the automotive industry to enhance operational efficiency and lower costs.

What is the cloud-based dealer management software Orbitsys offers?

Orbitsys provides a comprehensive, cloud-based Dealer Management System (DMS) designed to streamline operations for OEMs, EV companies, auto dealerships and multi-brand workshops. Our platform integrates key functions like lead management, sales and after-sales operations and customer relationship management (CRM) into a single, seamless system. This allows businesses to move away from scattered tools and spreadsheets, improving efficiency and decision-making. The cloud-based nature of our DMS ensures real-time data accuracy, security and accessibility, enabling dealerships to stay agile in a rapidly evolving market.

Additionally, our mobile applications for OEMs, dealerships and vehicle owners foster better communication, enhancing customer experience and operational effectiveness. As the industry shifts towards electrification and digital transformation, Orbitsys equips businesses with the tools they need to adapt, scale and stay ahead of the competition.

How does the software sit with the OEMs and dealers in terms of optimising operations to streamline sales processes and to deliver high-quality service?

Our DMS seamlessly connects OEMs and dealers, optimising operations, streamlining sales and enhancing service quality. For OEMs, it provides real-time data and analytics, ensuring better dealer performance tracking and smoother order processing. It integrates with ERP/SAP systems, standardises workflows and enhances dealer support, creating a more efficient and data-driven ecosystem.

For dealers, the system automates lead management, sales, invoicing and service operations, reducing turnaround times and improving customer experience. The built-in CRM centralises customer data, enabling personalised service and higher retention. With cloud-based accessibility, dealers can manage operations from anywhere, improving efficiency across multiple locations.

The result is faster sales cycles, stronger dealer-OEM collaboration and a superior customer experience. All these help to drive business growth and profitability.

What are the comprehensive tools that are offered along with the software?

Orbitsys offers a suite of tools that empower OEMs and dealers to run their operations smoothly. These include Lead Management System that captures, tracks and nurtures leads for higher conversions. Sales and Inventory Management that automates pricing, invoicing and stock control for real-time accuracy. Workshop and Service Management that schedules appointments, tracks repairs and manages spare parts. CRM and Customer Engagement that centralises customer data to enable personalised service and retention. Also, mobile apps that are designed for dealership users, OEMs and customers to ensure seamless connectivity.

Tools such as these work cohesively to enhance efficiency, drive sales and improve customer satisfaction. They make Orbitsys a complete digital solution provider for the automotive industry.

What are the opportunities Orbitsys is tapping in view of the transformation the auto industry is going through?

The auto industry is undergoing a massive transformation, driven by the rise of EV brands, used car dealerships and multi-brand workshops – each facing unique challenges in scaling, customer engagement and operational efficiency. Orbitsys is at the forefront of this shift, offering tailored DMS solutions that eliminate inefficiencies and streamline business operations.

For electric vehicle (EV) brands, our specialised DMS includes Battery Management, Charging Infrastructure Integration, Energy Management and Telematics. These are features that are absent in conventional systems. By centralising operations, reducing costs and improving efficiency, Orbitsys is helping EV businesses to scale up faster and to enhance customer experiences, driving adoption of new technology.

For used car dealerships, Orbitsys solution simplifies inventory management, sales tracking, customer interactions and after-sales service, creating a seamless and profitable ecosystem. Integrated data insights improve decision-making while our platform ensures dealers can efficiently manage their growing business.

For multi-brand workshops, the company offers a comprehensive CRM-DMS solution that handles customer relationships, parts inventory, workflow automation and service tracking. This allows workshops to optimise operations, enhance service quality and boost profitability while keeping everything organised in one central system.

By addressing the evolving needs of these sectors, Orbitsys is empowering businesses to stay ahead in a rapidly changing automotive market – driving growth, efficiency and superior customer experiences.

Isn’t the use of software and comprehensive tools changing with the change in model demand and the proliferation of features, model mix, technologies and alternative fuel technologies?

Absolutely. The rapid shift in model demand, emerging technologies and the rise of alternative fuel vehicles is transforming how OEMs and dealerships operate. Traditional dealership management approaches no longer suffice, as businesses must now navigate a complex mix of connected vehicles, electrification trends and evolving customer expectations.

Orbitsys is staying ahead of this transformation with a flexible, cloud-based DMS that adapts to changing market demands. Our software leverages real-time data analytics, AI-driven insights and automation to help businesses streamline operations, manage diverse model portfolios and enhance digital-first customer interactions.

For EV brands, we offer a specialised DMS designed to tackle industry-specific challenges. Our system optimises the entire customer journey, from lead generation to post-sale service, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.

Key features of Orbitsys’ EV DMS include Battery Management monitors battery health, performance and lifecycle data to ensure optimal efficiency and longevity. The Charging Infrastructure Integration seamlessly connects with charging networks, providing real-time station availability and efficient energy management. The Energy Management helps to optimise energy consumption and cost-efficiency through advanced analytics. Telematics Integration helps to collect and analyse vehicle data to enhance performance, safety and customer satisfaction.

By continuously evolving our DMS technology, Orbitsys ensures that dealerships, workshops and OEMs stay competitive, drive innovation and navigate the future of mobility with confidence.

How does Orbitsys’ software and tools aid customer centricity, integrity, adaptability, diversity and inclusion and operational efficiency?

At Orbitsys, we have designed our software to help automotive businesses stay competitive by focusing on these core pillars. When it comes to customer centricity, our DMS ensures personalised experiences with AI-driven insights, automated follow-ups and real-time engagement, making interactions more seamless and efficient. Integrity is built into our system with secure, cloud-based data management, ensuring transparency, compliance and reliability in every transaction, fostering trust between OEMs, dealers and customers.

With adaptability a key to today’s fast-changing industry, our software scales effortlessly with market shifts, whether it’s the rise of EVs, digital-first sales models or new customer expectations. We also emphasise diversity and inclusion by supporting multi-brand dealerships, multiple sales channels and multilingual interfaces, making our platform accessible to businesses and customers across different markets. Also, operational efficiency is at the heart of everything we do. By automating workflows, providing AI-powered analytics and integrating seamlessly with various business functions, we help dealerships and OEMs streamline their operations, cut costs and maximise profitability. What Orbitsys is doing is to empower businesses to be agile, customer-focused and future-ready in an evolving automotive landscape.

What are the challenges?

The automotive industry is undergoing rapid transformation, and with that comes several challenges. One of the biggest is keeping up with evolving technologies – from EV advancements to AI-driven automation. Dealerships and OEMs need solutions that adapt quickly, and ensuring our software remains ahead of the curve is a continuous effort. Another challenge is integration across diverse business models. With the rise of EVs, used car dealerships and multi-brand workshops, each segment has unique operational needs. Our focus is on creating a flexible yet comprehensive DMS that caters to all these verticals without complexity. Scalability is also a key factor. As auto businesses grow, their digital infrastructure must expand seamlessly. We work to ensure our solutions can handle increasing data, transactions and integrations without disrupting business flow. Finally, data security and compliance are critical in an era where digital transactions and customer data are at the core of operations. We continuously enhance our security framework to protect sensitive information while ensuring regulatory compliance. Despite these challenges, we see them as opportunities to innovate, refine our offerings and provide real value to our partners in this fast-evolving industry.

What is competition like for all that the company offers?

DMS space is competitive, with both legacy players and new entrants vying for market share. However, what sets Orbitsys apart is our deep industry specialisation and adaptability. Unlike traditional DMS providers that offer one-size-fits-all solutions, we cater specifically to the evolving needs of EV manufacturers, used car dealerships and multi-brand workshops. For EV brands, most conventional DMS solutions lack battery management, charging infrastructure integration and telematics features. These are areas where we provide a significant edge. In the used car segment, our system simplifies inventory management, pricing intelligence and customer engagement, which many competitors struggle to optimise.

Another key differentiator is our scalable, cloud-based infrastructure that ensures real-time data access, automation and seamless integrations. While larger enterprise software providers focus on rigid, costly systems, we prioritise agility, efficiency and affordability, making digital transformation easier for dealerships of all sizes. Competition is strong, but our customer-first approach, deep domain expertise and innovation-driven solutions keep us ahead in this dynamic market.

How does Orbitsys plan to integrate new developments such as blockchain, AI, machine learning (ML), predictive analytics and voice-activated CRM features?

At Orbitsys, we are constantly evolving to stay ahead of industry trends. AI and ML are being integrated gradually, starting with specific modules like predictive analytics for leads management and automated customer insights. Over time, AI will become a core part of our system, enhancing decision-making, optimising workflows and improving customer engagement. We are also exploring blockchain for secure and transparent transactions, particularly in vehicle history tracking, warranty management and digital contracts. As connected vehicle technology advances, Orbitsys will integrate more closely with telematics systems to enhance the ownership experience through real-time vehicle diagnostics and proactive maintenance alerts. The goal is to streamline operations, reduce manual effort and enhance efficiency, ensuring that dealerships and OEMs can focus on what matters most – delivering an exceptional customer experience.

What are the automobile brands that Orbitsys is working with in India and overseas?

Orbitsys has been a trusted technology partner in the automotive industry since 1995, working with leading brands across segments. In the ICE space, we worked with Daewoo, Skoda, Isuzu, Keeway and Benelli, while in the EV segment, we are working with Omega Seiki, Revolt Motors, Lohia Auto, Amo Mobility and Montra in India. Beyond India, we have expanded our reach with BYD in Sri Lanka and the MAW Group in Nepal, supporting their Changan, Seres and Foton brands. Over 2,000 dealers and workshops have chosen to work with our system so far.

Shree Ranga, President – Automotive Business, Lucas TVS, spoke about the company’s product strategy and other developments on the sidelines of Bharat Mobility International Expo 2025.

What is exciting at Lucas TVS currently that would shape the future of automobiles?
Lucas TVS makes 12 to 15 million motors. It is the largest motor manufacturer in India. The company is producing many types of motors besides those of starters and alternators. This includes EPS motors, ABS motors, smart wiper motors, compressor motors, electric driven oil less vacuum pump and more. Lucas TVS also makes hub motors for electric two and three-wheelers. It has also taken to making batteries as allied products. Besides a vast portfolio of automotive products, the company is contemplating the manufacture of parts for home appliances. Focus is on parts that will it an edge as a manufacturer of various types of motors in terms of energy efficiency. Lucas TVS is entering into BLDC motors. The company has entered into sensors and is concentrating on controllers. 

How are you looking to explore the electrification trend in automobiles?
Many of the customers in the four-wheeler segments are focusing on doing a lot of things internally where in the electric two and three-wheeler segments the manufacturers are looking at outsourcing. Lucas TVS is focusing on providing such manufacturers cutting edge technology solutions. The company is focusing on two and three-wheeler electric vehicles as the manufacturer of electric four-wheelers are getting involved themselves fully. 

On the motors front for electric vehicles, how is the technology evolving?
PMSM has its own advantages and BLDC motor has its own advantages in terns of technology and application. A PMSM motor is more efficient than a BLDC motor and requires less magnet. BLDC motors, on the other hand, require rare earth magnets. PMSM is preferred for higher torque and higher power. Currently, the focus is on BLDC motor for the two and three-wheeler segments. Even the compressor motors that Lucas TVS makes are BLDC in nature. They also ensure high energy efficiency and are used in high end vehicles. A lot of effort is currently being put at Lucas TVS to enhance the energy efficiency of its products. Every product that the company is making is with an emphasis on best and highest energy efficiency irrespective of whether it is a motor or a generator. With a focus on providing smart and intelligent features, the stress is on providing mechatronic products as well. Lucas TVS is combining its skill sets in electrical and electronics engineering to provide mechatronic solutions. It wants to be looked upon as a provider of mechatronic solutions. The company is also open to work with any four-wheeler OEM in developing electric traction motor solutions. The market is transforming and the penetration of electrification in more in two and three-wheelers. It is therefore that Lucas TVS is working more rigorously. 

Aren’t home appliances a curious case of diversification for Lucas TVS? 
Lucas TVS knows what is a BLDC motor. Today, 70 to 80 percent of the ceiling fans employ induction motors at a time when sustainability and efficiency are the most spoken about terms. The focus at Lucas TVS therefore is to take to the common man a technology that will ensure the most efficiency in the form of a BLDC motor rather than an induction motor, which is less efficient. Almost 50 to 60 percent electricity can be saved. The push into non-automotive side of things will be under the brand name of TVS Green.  Whatever appliances are used in a house and can ensure higher efficiency and less costs, Lucas TVS is focusing on under TVS Green. Considering the fact that a BLDC motor can be expensive to manufacture, what the company is looking at doing is to use its ability to produce motors at a large scale. This will enable it to offer such solutions as BLDC motor powered ceiling fans to the households at competitive prices. The price difference could be no more than 15-20 percent than that of an induction motor powered ceiling fan. TVS Green has started as one small division. The company is confident that it will grow quickly. This will also mark a B2C avenue as compared to many of our other business verticals which are B2B in nature. 

From a supplier view point, how do you look at the electric two and three-wheeler business?
Today, most young people and women are choosing to buy electric vehicles. The market therefore is growing at a very fast pace. With the acceptability being quite good, it is the plug and play nature of the vehicles that is aiding their proliferation. The market for such vehicles will grow. There are players who were into motor manufacture for long and have exited. It is a highly competitive marketplace. What Lucas TVS is doing is to compete with key players. It is doing the necessary investments to grow in India at eight to 12 percent. This rate of growth is more than the growth rate of the industry. One may want to consider the fact that the transformation from ICE to electric vehicles that was envisages five years ago has not been attained. The attention of ICE side of business therefore continues in line with the philosophy: ‘Last man standing’.  The company still makes parts for cars that are 30-year-old. Every customer is treated with the same respect. The growth has been very good and Lucas TVS continues to capture market share. Given the China plus one situation, the company has started to look at exports after finding that solutions from India are being looked at in Europe and US. Lucas TVS is working to address this demand. For the next fifteen years at least, ICE business for the company will continue to do well. On the other hand, Lucas TVS continues to increase its presence in various motor applications including sunroof motors, ESP, ABS motors etc. Lucas TVS – for two-wheeler segment – has been producing sensors and instrument clusters. Its group company makes magnetos, generators, clusters, fuel injection equipment etc. The latest product development includes the ISG, which is a starter-generator, electric two-wheeler ancillaries such as DC-DC convertor. Work is going on in the area of software with some companies in Europe but it is too early to speak about that. 

You spoke about investments. What areas of the business are they regarding, 
In the ICE business, investments of INR 2.5 billion to INR three billion have been made in the last three-four years. Another INR 1.5 billion to INR two billion investment has gone into the making of various motors such as the sunroof motors, ABS motors, tractor motors etc. In the last four-to-five years, Lucas TVS has invested around INR five billion.  

 So what is the growth outlook for the near to mid-term?
There are a lot of opportunities. The ambition is to move fast and tap them. On the exports front, India looks to be better off geopolitically. Lucas TVS has set up an office in Europe and US to tap those markets. Lot of enquires have been received. Lot of interest has been generated. A separate team is working on that front. 

As the world relies more on technology and data to tackle different situations or to streamline processes, loopholes exist inevitably. Orbitsys leverages its cloud-based platform, allowing centralisation of data along with remote access for the automotive industry to tackle dealerships and hurdles.

“We tackle connectivity and data hurdles in the automotive industry by offering a cloud-based platform. This allows dealerships and OEMs to centralise data, which eliminates scattered systems, creating a single source of trusted data for customer and vehicle information. Moreover, accessing data remotely enables secure, role-based and real-time data visibility across multiple locations, improving decision-making,” informed Harvinder Pal Singh, Chief Business Officer, Orbitsys DMS.

Dr Amitabh Saran reveals Altigreen’s plans for the ASEAN market and talks about ESG goals and more.

As part of Altigreen’s plans to enter the passenger vehicle market, do you plan to hire fresh talent?
Sometimes start-ups land up doing a lot of things at the same time. The money runs out because a start-up starts with one problem and migrates to a completely different problem. Sometimes it starts adding all kinds of features to its products. For example, by entering the passenger space, we are clear that we cannot do this with the existing funds that we have. That’s because it’s clear that we need to have more teams, a different space etc. Also, we will be in a position to hire more talent and have a separate line entirely for passenger vehicles within the same factory. Besides, we have ensured that there will be ‘common-isation’ of platforms where skills can be achieved. So we are in the process of hiring talent.

What are your plans for charging solutions/infrastructure?
We are very clear that we are a vehicle OEM and do not build charging infrastructure. However, we do partner with a lot of charging companies who are building this infrastructure. We ensure that we are working with them, where we go hand-in-hand and everyone benefits. I have always believed that we need to do this as an ecosystem approach.

What are your plans for the ASEAN market? 
We have always said that Altigreen focuses on India and the emerging markets. The emerging markets are South Asia, Africa and South America. The ASEAN market is very important to us, especially because one of our investors comes from Singapore, and they are going to help us a lot in our progress in ASEAN countries. Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines and Singapore are four places where we have already been seeing a lot of demand coming, in both passenger and cargo three-wheelers.

A major concern around EVs is high cost. How do you plan to tackle it?
To promote cell manufacturing and electronic component manufacturing in India, the government has created the PLI, wherein even other companies are participants. Each of them will be making cells, and I think they will start creating cells made in India and for Indian conditions, 2024 onwards. That will bring down cell prices and we will see more parity.

Is it that the younger generation, which is interested in purchasing EVs, is unable to do so on account of costs?
I don’t think so. Gen Z may be more inclined to exploring new things. But it’s not like every kid on the block is driving/riding an EV. I think it’s the convenience, which people find as a great alternative and as long as the use case is the same.

How is Altigreen meeting India’s ESG goals?
Over the last nine years, we have been doing a lot of R&D. Our focus was never on the paradigms of ESG or how we fit into it. But we ensure that we are doing everything to make sure that we are focusing on a sustainability paradigm. For example, if one looks at our motor design, they will see that we chose that there will be no magnets in it. Not just because the import of magnets should not be encouraged but also because we want to ensure that the motors are serviceable and manufacturable. Therefore, we have been very conscious about this. Moving forward, now that we are in expansion mode, we have an entire ESG section. Battery recycling is also something that we are working on. We do believe that the batteries that come out of EVs should not be thrown away. They have a very strong use case in solar and other areas, where we have already started working.