Padmini VNA has been at the forefront of developing advanced mechatronic products for the past 33 years, with a strong focus on clean mobility and environmental sustainability. The company has consistently worked towards innovating and delivering solutions that not only enhance vehicle performance but also contribute to a greener future.
Michael Pachman, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Technology at Padmini VNA, highlighted the company’s commitment to its customers and their evolving needs during an interview with Bus Coach India Magazine. He emphasized that Padmini collaborates closely with its clients to develop highly tailored solutions that align with their specific requirements. This approach ensures that the products integrate seamlessly into their vehicles, enhancing efficiency and performance while meeting stringent industry standards.
Q: Michael, can you start by introducing Padmini and its focus areas in the automotive industry?
Padmini has been developing mechatronic products for the past 33 years, with a strong emphasis on clean mobility and environmental sustainability. Our core focus lies in emission reduction, specifically targeting NOx and CO₂ emissions. We work closely with our customers to develop tailored solutions that meet their specific requirements. All our products are rigorously tested and fully applicable for integration into their vehicles.
Q: Padmini VNA has established itself as a leader in technology and innovation. Can you share insights into the emerging technologies in the commercial vehicle industry?
The commercial vehicle industry is undergoing significant technological advancements, particularly in the realm of thermal management systems and HVAC technologies. We at Padmini VNA are actively developing specialized components like advanced coolant valves and expansion valves, which are crucial for maintaining efficient thermal cycles. Additionally, we are focusing on the development of electric hot vacuum pumps, a critical innovation that addresses the growing demand for efficiency and sustainability in commercial transport.
These products hold particular relevance for the bus market. The increasing demand for better climate control and energy-efficient solutions in public transportation is driving innovation. Our focus remains on delivering solutions that not only improve operational efficiency but also align with the evolving regulatory standards and environmental concerns. We see these technologies as fundamental to the industry’s growth trajectory.
Q: Padmini has traditionally focused on Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) technology. How are you adapting to the shift towards electrification?
While our roots are in ICE engine technology, we have been progressively shifting our focus towards electrification. We are actively developing products that cater to hybrid vehicles, particularly for markets in Europe, China, and the United States. Moreover, as governments worldwide are pushing for greater electrification, particularly in the passenger vehicle segment, we see a significant opportunity for our thermal management solutions.
Q: Can you elaborate on Padmini’s thermal management solutions?
Our thermal management solutions are crucial for electric and hybrid vehicles. They are used for battery cooling, cabin cooling, and managing the temperature of power electronics, which is critical for vehicle performance and safety. These solutions align perfectly with our innovation-driven philosophy, as we consistently strive to develop products that the market requires and that effectively solve pressing challenges.
Q: How does innovation play a role in Padmini’s development process?
Innovation has always been a key driver for Padmini. Our goal is to create products that solve real-world problems for our customers. We have a strong in-house development team that focuses on technology advancements, modular designs, and system integration. Collaboration is also an essential aspect of our strategy, as it enables us to accelerate product development and deliver value to our customers more efficiently.
Our focus has been on developing new products, particularly for electrified powertrains. While our existing products for conventional engines are already robust and widely applicable, we are channeling significant resources into new technology development. Our Research and Development (R&D) department is a substantial backbone of our company, with approximately 30-40% of our engineering capabilities dedicated to new product development. Additionally, we allocate around 10% of our revenues to R&D activities.
Q: Could you highlight some of the new solutions Padmini is working on?
Our latest innovations revolve around thermal management solutions for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrid vehicles. These solutions are designed to optimize performance and efficiency. While the Indian market is slightly behind global markets in terms of electrification requirements, we see tremendous potential, particularly in the two-wheeler segment. Electrification in this segment is growing rapidly, and we are positioning ourselves to be a key player in this transition.
Q: What are Padmini VNA’s key strategic priorities for 2025?
Our primary focus for 2025 is to become increasingly independent from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) technology. The global automotive landscape is shifting towards electrification and alternative fuel sources, and we are aligning our product development to match this transition.
To mitigate our dependence on the passenger vehicle segment, we are diversifying into new product technologies that cater to commercial vehicles, two-wheelers, and even specialized applications in agriculture. One key area of expansion is brake systems, particularly in the two-wheeler market, where demand for advanced braking solutions is steadily growing.
For commercial vehicles, we are deeply invested in developing technologies that will meet stringent future emission norms, including Euro 7, BS 7, and the U.S.-based EPA 27 regulations. We have already secured projects in this segment, with several key products currently in development for leading truck manufacturers. These developments position us for production launches starting in 2027.
Q: What is your perspective on the electric bus market in India?
The electric bus market in India is on a clear and well-defined path toward full electrification. Unlike other commercial vehicle segments, buses operate in relatively controlled environments—such as city transport networks, airport shuttles, and corporate transit systems—where charging infrastructure can be planned and managed effectively.
This makes the transition to electric buses much smoother compared to freight and logistics vehicles, which face more significant challenges due to infrastructure limitations. Moreover, government subsidies and policies supporting electric mobility are accelerating this transition. Many city governments and transport authorities are prioritizing the adoption of electric buses as part of their sustainability initiatives.
On the other hand, electrification of broader commercial vehicles, such as trucks, is more complex. The success of this transition depends heavily on the development of a robust charging infrastructure and advancements in battery technology. While the shift to electric trucks will take longer, the momentum is steadily building, and we expect major developments in the coming years.
Q: What opportunities is Padmini VNA exploring in both commercial and passenger vehicle markets?
The future of both commercial and passenger vehicles will be shaped by a mix of technologies. While some segments will transition to full electrification, others will continue using internal combustion engines, albeit with alternative fuels.
One promising avenue is hydrogen-powered diesel engines. This hybrid approach allows for the continued use of combustion technology while significantly reducing emissions. As regulatory frameworks evolve, we anticipate more OEMs exploring this option to extend the viability of diesel-powered vehicles in a cleaner and more sustainable manner.
Efficient thermal management is particularly critical for electric buses and commercial vehicles. Battery performance and longevity depend on precise temperature regulation, and our solutions aim to optimize this aspect. Whether it is standalone components or integrated system solutions, our goal is to provide high-quality, reliable products that enhance vehicle efficiency and durability.
Q: What are the main challenges in navigating this evolving market?
The biggest challenge is speed—keeping pace with rapid market developments and staying ahead of evolving customer demands. The industry is at a critical juncture, with multiple suppliers competing to establish themselves as leaders in new technology areas. To succeed, we must anticipate future needs and be ready with innovative solutions before the market fully defines its direction.
OEMs are still finalizing their long-term strategies, largely influenced by regulatory changes, emission norms, and consumer adoption trends. Once these factors become clearer, the industry will see rapid shifts in demand for specific technologies. Our challenge is to ensure that when the market moves in a particular direction, we have the right solutions ready to deploy.
This requires a proactive approach—staying ahead in product development, forging strategic collaborations, and continuously refining our R&D focus. By maintaining agility and innovation, Padmini VNA aims to not only meet but lead the evolving landscape of automotive technology.