The demand for road construction in India has reached unprecedented levels, driven by ambitious infrastructure projects and urban development initiatives. As the country heavily invests in the construction of roads, highways, and transportation networks, the necessity for reliable and efficient construction equipment has grown substantially. In this regard, SCHWING Stetter India, stands poised to address these demands adeptly. With its advanced and innovative range of equipment, the company can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India’s infrastructure.
SCHWING Stetter’s road construction equipment range is manufactured to cater to the unique challenges posed by India’s diverse terrains and varying construction requirements. The equipment range comes with features such as automation, digitization, and connectivity, which collectively contribute to heightened productivity and reduced costs. Their equipment range is in strict compliance with pertinent government regulations, encompassing safety and environmental norms. To further bolster customer support, the company maintains a robust distribution and service network, complete with well-trained technicians and readily available spare parts. This ensures that customers receive the necessary assistance whenever required.
Constrofacilitator recently had a one-to-one interview with Mr. V. G. Sakthikumar, Managing Director, SCHWING Stetter India. During the interview he shared insights on the demand of road construction equipment, their road construction equipment range, market demand and much more.
Here are the excerpts of the interview
How will the increased capital expenditure outlay announced in the Union Budget 2023-24 benefit the Indian construction equipment industry?
The announcement by India’s Finance Minister regarding the capital investments outlay is indeed significant. The capital investments outlay has been increased by 33% to ₹10 lakh crore for the fiscal year 2023-24 in comparison to the previous outlay of ₹7.5 lakh crore in 2022-23. Notably, a substantial sum of INR 764.32 billion has been allocated for enhancing various urban sectors, including housing, transport, sanitation, and other vital infrastructure. This unprecedented level of Capital Expenditure marks a remarkable milestone in India’s economic history. It holds the potential to substantially boost the economy by creating fresh avenues of employment for the population within the employable age group of 18 to 35, which constitutes around 600 million individuals.
Could you provide insights into the current buying pattern of road equipment in India?
Presently, the purchasing pattern for road equipment in India extends beyond the conventional consideration of the initial purchase price. Buyers are increasingly evaluating the ‘value’ proposition that a machine offers throughout its entire lifespan. This includes factors such as access to maintenance services, speed of response, availability of spare parts, as well as financial and resale solutions. Buyers have become well-versed in automation and machine control technologies, which are progressively elevating the sophistication of road construction operations. Moreover, there is a growing reliance on software to enhance project management effectiveness. The key expectation from end users is a robust demand for data-driven technologies that can enhance their operational efficiency.
How has the demand been for XCMG’s new hydraulic excavators and wheel loaders?
XCMG’s hydraulic excavators and wheel loaders have gained international acclaim for their exceptional performance and reliability. These machines are distinguished by their remarkable power, impressive lifting capacity, extensive reach, and their ability to provide optimal operator comfort, resulting in a high degree of operator satisfaction. XCMG has built a global reputation for its consistent innovation, reliability, and exceptional performance across its diverse range of construction, agriculture, and industrial machinery.
What is the range of road construction equipment provided by the company?
The company boasts a comprehensive range of road construction equipment that encompasses a variety of machines. This includes wheel loaders, pavers, soil stabilizers, compactors, and graders.We provide a complete range of equipment required for various aspects of road construction.
What opportunities do you look forward to in the road equipment sector in India?
The Minister of Road and Transport has made a noteworthy announcement by allocating INR 25 Trillion for the country’s infrastructure development. In addition, an extra INR 5 trillion has been earmarked for the enhancement of roads, railways, and other vital connectivity infrastructure. In this context, the road construction equipment industry is the backbone driving the Indian economy towards greater heights.