Shriram Pistons and Rings (SPRL) is showcasing its technological advancements and multifaceted growth strategy at BMGE 2025 – Components Show. In an engaging conversation, Krishnakumar Srinivasan, MD & CEO, SPRL, shared his insights on the event, the company’s strategic direction, and the future of the automotive industry.
A World-Class Platform for Engagement
Reflecting on the event’s grandeur and the venue at Yashobhoomi, Srinivasan was effusive in his praise. “The experience has been really good. Yashobhoomi is a world-class facility. The ease of access, seamless movement between halls, and the remarkable footfall have made this an ideal venue for such an exhibition,” he remarked.
He expressed hope for even greater integration, suggesting that co-locating the vehicle and component segments could further enhance the event. “If both segments come together at this venue, it would save visitors from shuttling between two locations and boost participation,” he added.
Diversification and De-Risking: SPRL’s Strategy for the Future
Shriram Pistons and Rings has been proactive in adapting to industry trends. Srinivasan highlighted how the company has strategically diversified its offerings across multiple powertrain technologies. “We have de-risked ourselves from relying on a single powertrain. Today, we are well-positioned across hybrid, CNG, ethanol, biofuels, flex-fuels, and electric powertrains,” he stated.
Acknowledging the evolving dynamics of the automotive industry, he said, “All powertrains will coexist for the foreseeable future. A complete shift to a single powertrain might take 35-40 years, and by then, disruptors like hydrogen could emerge as game changers.”
SPRL has also been investing heavily in hydrogen technology, aligning itself with the global push towards sustainable mobility. “There’s a lot of technology involved in hydrogen, and we are actively working on developing innovative solutions,” he added.
Commitment to Innovation and R&D
The SPRL chief emphasized the critical role of research and development in staying ahead of the curve. “India needs to evolve from being a follower to a leader in technology. Significant investments in R&D are essential to develop products that cater to emerging market needs,” he said.
Srinivasan credited SPRL’s success to its robust R&D capabilities, a strong organizational culture, and a talented workforce. “We’ve built a culture that prioritizes people and innovation, enabling us to deliver exceptional value to our customers,” he said.
Globalization: A Key Growth Driver
With 20% of its revenue stemming from exports, SPRL has established itself as a significant player in the global market. Srinivasan attributed this to the company’s ability to deliver world-class products at competitive costs. “Many of our customers demand high-quality products manufactured in low-cost countries, and that’s where SPRL steps in. We leverage our access to cutting-edge technology from collaborators and combine it with our homegrown manufacturing expertise,” he explained.
The Prime Minister’s remarks at the expo, emphasizing India’s potential as a global manufacturing hub, resonated with Srinivasan. “India is no longer just a market; it’s a partner to the world. Any global market not engaging with Indian suppliers risks becoming obsolete,” he affirmed.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Leadership
As SPRL gears up for the future, Srinivasan envisions the company as a leader in the multi-product space. “The next few years will be crucial for us to position ourselves as a comprehensive supplier across all powertrain technologies,” he stated.
He concluded with a call for collective progress in the Indian automotive industry. “We must focus on becoming technology leaders rather than followers. This requires continuous innovation, significant R&D investments, and a mindset geared towards global excellence,” he said.
With a clear vision and a diversified approach, Shriram Pistons and Rings is well-poised to navigate the complexities of the automotive industry and make a mark on the global stage. As Srinivasan aptly put it, “The future is about delivering value through innovation, and SPRL is ready to lead the way.”