RSB Group, one of India's largest automotive component manufacturers, celebrates its golden jubilee, marking five decades of growth, resilience, and groundbreaking innovation.
Founded in 1974 by visionary brothers R K Behera and S K Behera with a modest INR 2 lakh (including a INR 20,000 state subsidy for technocrats), RSB has grown into a INR 3,000+ crore industry leader. From a team of just 15 in 1975 to over 6,000 associates today, the journey has been one of determination and strategic foresight.
From Humble Beginnings To Industry Leadership
RSB’s rise to prominence was catalysed by an early contract with Tata Motors, driving exponential growth with a 75% year-on-year increase until 1990 and a consistent 25% CAGR thereafter. The company’s extensive product portfolio spans propeller shafts, axles, gearboxes, and fully finished gears, alongside heavy fabrication solutions for construction and mining infrastructure. Its backward integration into castings and forgings ensures unparalleled quality control.
Reflecting on this journey, Chairman R K Behera highlighted the significance of the company’s values: “The celebration of our 50 years is a tribute to our humble beginnings, the sacrifices of our team, and the shared values that have driven us forward. My brother, S K Behera, and I faced intense struggles in our early years, but together with our employees, we built something remarkable. This legacy is not just about growth—it’s about integrity, quality, and respect, values that will guide the next generation.”
A Future Shaped by Innovation, Sustainability
Looking ahead, RSB has ambitious plans to surpass INR 10,000 crore in revenue within the next 3–4 years, backed by a strategic partnership with Bain Capital. This collaboration will fuel both organic and inorganic growth, with a strong focus on scaling international operations, particularly in Mexico, while maintaining its leadership in India with 17 domestic facilities, two overseas plants, and a tech subsidiary, I-DESIGN Engineering Solutions.
The group’s sustainable growth strategy includes a foray into the electric vehicle (EV) market, positioning itself as a formidable force in the e-mobility sector. Collaborating with an Israeli company, RSB is developing cutting-edge EV solutions such as e-axles, motors, and controllers. The company aims to achieve a strategic revenue mix, with 75% from traditional auto components and 25% from EV components within the next five years.
Vice Chairman S K Behera emphasised the group’s resilience and strategic vision stating: “Our journey from a small workshop to an industry leader is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees. As we embrace opportunities in EV technology and international markets, we remain committed to building with integrity and creating lasting value.”
Investing In The Future
RSB is also diversifying into high-potential sectors such as defence, railways, and telecommunications. With a INR 70–80 crore investment in an in-house design, testing, and validation facility, the group is poised to enter new markets while setting industry benchmarks. Sustainability remains a core focus, with efforts to align engineering excellence with eco-friendly practices.
In the disruptive age of modern industry, RSB is exploring inorganic growth opportunities, with decisions on potential acquisitions expected soon. The next generation of leaders at RSB is determined to carry forward the legacy while embracing innovative solutions and sustainable practices.
A Legacy Built On People
RSB’s story is not just one of financial success but also of its people. The group’s emphasis on employee well-being and development has been central to its achievements. As the company embarks on its next phase, the values of integrity, respect, and excellence remain its guiding principles.
With plans for an IPO in the near future and a commitment to driving innovation, RSB is set to redefine the standards of excellence in the automotive industry. As it celebrates 50 years of achievement, the group’s focus is clear: to continue shaping the future of engineering while creating a positive impact on communities and the environment.
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Nirmala Behera, Executive Director - Group HR, RSB Group | Mobility Outlook | Women in Mobility