Knorr-Bremse Opens Indian Plants and R&D Center for Rail and CV Systems

January 24, 2014

Ryan Gehm

Knorr-Bremse’s new Commercial Vehicle Systems plant in Hinjawadi-Pune includes a state-of-the-art Technology Center that serves both the CV and rail-vehicle sectors.

Knorr-Bremse has expanded its production capacity in India in both the rail- and commercial-vehicle (CV) sectors with the opening of two new facilities in Palwal and Pune, as well as a new Development Center in Pune to be shared by its two divisions. These investments total around €40 million. The new Commercial Vehicle Systems plant in Hinjawadi-Pune offers 12,000 m² (129,000 ft²) of production and office space for its 250 employees to manufacture a range of products, including brake cylinders, valves, pedal units, air dryers, slack adjusters, compressors, and an internally developed lift-axle system for the Indian CV market. One factor driving the company's decision to build a new Rail Vehicle Systems plant in Palwal is the planned expansion of the transport infrastructure in India, with a modernized railway network one of the main pillars. As a result, existing rail vehicles are being upgraded and orders placed for new passenger coaches and freight cars. The new plant offers around 26,000 m² (280,000 ft²) of production and office space where 500 employees manufacture brake control systems, bogie equipment, compressors, and air dryers for rail vehicles primarily for the Indian market and in close collaboration with certified regional suppliers. The design of the building conforms to green building standards, helping reduce its carbon footprint.