By 2020, the auto services market in India was valued at $8 billion, and is projected to touch $25 billion by 2030. With the Indian auto services market projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2019 to 2026, the innovations showcased at the AutoCare Expo 2023 are set to play a transformative role in the cleaning and maintenance of cars, buses, trains and more.
Here is an analysis of the solutions on offer by Shaik Ismail, Special Correspondent, Clean India Journal.
Green leadership
With its unique approach to car cleaning, Steam Buddy stands out. Leveraging the power of steam, they have developed a washing technique that not only ensures a thorough cleanse but does so with minimal water usage. This not only conserves a significant amount of water but also ensures that harmful chemicals and residues are not released into the environment.
“Our commitment has always been towards eco-friendly and sustainable solutions. The response we’ve received at the Expo reaffirms our belief in sustainable auto care”, said Piyush Khokle, MD, Steam Buddy.
Green Energy Asia’s portfolio includes a Carbon Cleaning System designed to efficiently remove carbon deposits from engines, enhancing their longevity and performance. Their Dust Blaster promises efficient cleaning, while the Remanufactured Air Suspension system offers a smoother ride experience. With upcoming projects focusing on advanced systems like Diesel Particulate Filter-Cleaning, they are poised to set new benchmarks in the industry.
“Research and Innovation is at the core of what we do. Seeing the industry’s collective drive towards better and green solutions is truly inspiring”, said Kapil Pawar, Co-Founder, Green Energy Asia.
Asset Maintenance Solutions’ signature dry ice blasting technique uses solid carbon dioxide granulate, which instantly sublimates upon impact, ensuring surfaces are cleaned without any residual waste. This method is not only effective but also environmentally responsible, eliminating the need for water or chemicals. Their expertise extends to parts finishing, where they employ dry ice blasting to refine machined and moulded parts, ensuring precision without environmental harm.
Tailored solutions
Today’s discerning consumers seek services that cater specifically to their unique needs, pushing the industry towards customisation. Varadom Technologies stands out in this regard. Their innovations, including systems for pet cleaning and automatic hospital bed cleaning, highlight the industry’s pivot towards niche, customer-focused solutions.
“Our work is not just about cleaning vehicles; it’s about redefining the standards of cleanliness. From automatic bike wash systems to innovative hospital bed cleaners, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the cleaning industry”, shared Nilesh Bakshe, Director, Varadom Technologies.
Asset Maintenance Solutions (AMS) complements this trend with their unique offerings. They’ve harnessed German technology to introduce zero-water cleaning solutions, specifically tailored for sectors like automotive, railway and aerospace. Their equipment is designed to clean even the most delicate components without damage.
Moreover, AMS has innovated with their dry-ice blasting technique, a method that employs carbon dioxide granulate as a spray agent, which cleans without leaving any residues.
Global innovators
The Indian auto care landscape is not just flourishing domestically; it’s making significant imprints on the global stage.
Companies like CleanTech, Varadom Technologies, GEA and AMS are not only innovating for the Indian market but are also expanding their horizons internationally. Their commitment to quality, adaptability to diverse market needs and competitive pricing have garnered attention in regions such as Africa, the Middle East, and even the USA.
Holistic care
The auto care industry is not just about addressing specific cleaning needs; it’s about offering comprehensive solutions that cater to a wide range of requirements. For example, Inventa Cleantec’s product range spans from high-pressure washers and nanotech sprayers to specialised upholstery vacuum cleaners.
“35 years in this industry, and yet every year brings new learning. This event is a testimony to the industry’s ever-evolving nature”, said Arun Thapar, Managing Director & CEO, Inventa Cleantec.
Steam Buddy has introduced a multifunction steamer, which not only provides steam cleaning but also integrates vacuuming and chemical injections, making it apt for diverse environments from cars to hospitals. Similarly, Green Energy Asia ventured beyond traditional cleaning to introduce innovations like the Oxy Hydrogen Carbon Cleaning Technology.
Human-first approach
Green Energy Asia took a proactive approach to a prevalent concern: the harmful effects of dust inhalation during filter cleaning. In response, they developed a machine that safely cleans air filters within a closed chamber, prioritising the health of operators.
Similarly, Asset Maintenance Solutions recognised the pressing issue of water scarcity. Their innovative approach led to the development of zero-water cleaning solutions, using dry ice.
“Our focus on addressing real-world challenges, like water and manpower scarcity, and the need for technology upgradation has always set us apart. The feedback from peers and customers here has been invaluable”, said Shehzad Ali, Business Head & Co-Founder, Asset Maintenance Solutions.
As we forge ahead, technology, policy and consumer demand will sculpt a dynamic auto care landscape.