Mobility Solutions Limited (MSL), a JCBL Group company, is embracing a new chapter of growth with its upcoming greenfield facility in Batauli, near Chandigarh. Spanning over 41,700 square meters, this cutting-edge facility will be dedicated to the production of Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) components and boasts a covered area of 12,000 square meters, designed to meet rising demand while introducing new capabilities.
Rishi Aggarwal, Managing Director of JCBL, explains that the decision to establish this facility stems from two pivotal factors. First, a fire incident last year severely affected the existing FRP production plant, resulting in capacity constraints. Second, a surge in demand for FRP components from both current and new customers prompted the need for expansion. 'We’re seizing the opportunity to enhance our capabilities. Last year, we invested heavily in CNC machinery, allowing us to bring more component production in-house. Five years from now, we aim to be one of the most advanced and capable manufacturing companies in our sector,' Aggarwal said.
MSL's growth journey is marked by a strategic vision for diversification and high-quality manufacturing. The company has long supplied essential components to major clients in India and overseas, including global giants like Alstom, Bombardier, GE, and Wabtec, as well as Indian Railways and Metro systems. From railway structures, seats, and windows to specialised industrial measuring equipment, MSL’s expertise spans a wide range of applications. This legacy of quality and consistency has won the trust of international clients, who appreciate MSL’s reliability as an alternative to inconsistent suppliers in China.
“Our primary strength lies in quality and consistency,” says R G Arora, Joint Managing Director of MSL. He points out that MSL has become the sole supplier for some clients’ products due to its dependable quality and timely deliveries. “The China Plus-One strategy has driven international clients to seek out trusted partners, and MSL has proven its reliability,” Arora noted, underscoring how the company’s standards have helped it carve a niche on the global stage.
Expanding Horizons
MSL is actively expanding its product offerings across high-growth sectors within India’s mobility and infrastructure landscape. The company’s current product range includes interior components such as modular toilets for railway coaches, FRP parts for locomotives and passenger buses (both diesel and electric), and metro train interiors built to international standards. The company is also involved in producing interior components for Vande Bharat trains, metal fabrication for railways and infrastructure, as well as bus seats, windows, and bus components, including both metal and lightweight blow-moulded plastic seats. Additionally, it is venturing into agricultural implements designed to boost farm productivity, offering innovative solutions to increase income per acre for farmers.
Technological Advancements, Sustainability
MSL’s new facility reflects substantial investment in advanced manufacturing technologies. The company aims to develop high-quality composites for diverse industries, including railways, shipping, infrastructure, defence, and even aerospace. Sustainability and user-friendly manufacturing are top priorities, as MSL continues to evolve its processes with a focus on environmental impact.
Digital tools, machine learning, and AI are often touted in modern manufacturing, but MSL’s approach is measured. Aggarwal explains, 'While we’re employing robotics in some areas, AI and full-scale digitalisation are still on the horizon for us. Our industry is heavily customised, which makes automation challenging. Each project is unique, and manual craftsmanship remains crucial to our production process.'
Venturing Into Car Restoration
JCBL has also entered the car restoration market, producing high-quality components for vintage and classic car enthusiasts. Aggarwal’s passion for restoring his own 1973 Mustang Fastback led to the discovery of an underserved market. Realising the potential, he ventured into producing components for car restoration, now catering to a variety of models with over 3,000 parts across iconic brands.
Aggarwal explains that while additive manufacturing is revolutionary for some industries, they fall short for car restoration. 'Restoration clients value authenticity above all. They want the original feel, look, and touch, which 3D-printed parts can’t provide. A true restorer seeks absolute authenticity, which is where our expertise shines,' he says.
Competing With Chinese Suppliers
When asked about competing with Chinese suppliers, Aggarwal highlights the company’s focus on reputation and quality. 'We’re trusted because of our commitment to quality and our ethical trade practices. Chinese companies often struggle with these aspects, which gives us an edge in international markets,' he explains.
Forging Ahead
MSL’s new facility and its expanding portfolio of products across the mobility and industrial sectors reflect an ambitious future. By embracing innovation, investing in cutting-edge technology, and focusing on quality, the company is solidifying its position as a leader in India’s manufacturing landscape. From railway interiors to car restoration, JCBL Group’s journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and a commitment to excellence.
Vintage car photo is representational; courtesy: SEMA Show.
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