We are unveiling electric and hybrid machines
VG Sakthikumar, Managing Director Schwing Stetter India
What trends are you currently seeing in the construction equipment sector, and how is your company adapting to these trends?
The construction equipment sector is currently seeing several transformative trends, including automation, telematics, sustainability, and digitalisation. At Schwing, we are at the forefront of embracing these changes. Our focus on IoT integration in machinery, including telematics, is revolutionising the way we collect data, optimise equipment performance, and enhance productivity. The growing demand for eco-friendly machinery, such as our electric-powered machines and CNG-powered vehicles, is a direct response to the increased emphasis on sustainability. Furthermore, we are continuously innovating to meet the evolving needs of the market, ensuring that our products contribute not only to efficiency but also to environmental responsibility.
Can you discuss any innovative technologies or products you are showcasing at the exhibition?
At BC India, we are thrilled to showcase some of our most cutting-edge products that combine advanced technology with practical solutions. One of the highlights is our S43 SX III concrete boom pump, which offers superior flexibility, efficiency, and a higher degree of control during operations. We are also unveiling electric and hybrid machines that are designed for sustainable, high-performance operations. Our focus on telemetry and data-driven insights is another key feature. We believe that these innovations will drive the future of construction, contributing to both cost efficiency and environmental sustainability.
What challenges do you see facing the industry in the coming years, and how is your company preparing to tackle them?
One of the most significant challenges we foresee in the coming years is the shortage of skilled labour in the construction sector. This issue will only become more pressing as demand for infrastructure continues to grow. Schwing is addressing this by expanding our operator training programmes to ensure that the next generation of workers is equipped with the necessary skills to handle advanced machinery. Additionally, raw material price volatility and stricter environmental regulations are challenges we are actively tackling through innovative design and by investing in sustainable technologies. By incorporating IoT solutions and energy-efficient machinery, we are also preparing for the future in terms of reducing operational costs and minimising environmental impact.
Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives your company is excited about that you can share with us?
We have some very exciting projects on the horizon! We’re particularly enthusiastic about the all-women service centre that we inaugurated recently, which is a first-of-its-kind initiative in India. This initiative supports our goal of promoting diversity in the construction industry and provides specialised training for women in the heavy machinery sector. Additionally, we are working on new product launches that integrate electric and hybrid technology, responding to the growing demand for sustainable solutions. These projects reflect our commitment to being not only a leader in machinery but also in corporate social responsibility and sustainability.
With the Indian government now fast-tracking infrastructure projects, the construction equipment sector is expected to get increasingly busy. How do you look at the market for your products in India?
India’s infrastructure boom presents a huge opportunity for growth in the construction equipment sector. As the government focuses on ambitious projects like highways, smart cities, and rail corridors, the demand for high-performance machinery will rise. Schwing is well-positioned to capitalise on this growth, as our wide range of products, including stationary pumps, mixers, and batching plants, are ideally suited to meet the demands of large-scale infrastructure projects. We expect to see increased demand, particularly for technology-driven solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce downtime. Schwing’s focus on quality and durability makes us a trusted partner for contractors looking to deliver complex projects on time.
Please share more information on the investment made in the Indian market in terms of the manufacturing facility, etc.
Schwing Stetter India has made significant investments in our Chennai facility, where we manufacture a wide array of machinery, including concreting equipment and earth-moving machinery. This state-of-the-art facility has enabled us to cater to the growing demand for high-quality machinery in India. The investment reflects our long-term commitment to the Indian market, ensuring localised production, quicker turnaround times, and cost-effective solutions for our customers. We continue to upgrade our technology and invest in automation to further improve manufacturing efficiency.
How was the year 2024 in terms of performance? What is your company’s plan for 2025?
The year 2024 has been a year of solid growth for Schwing Stetter India. Our focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction has paid off, and we’ve seen increased demand for our eco-friendly products and technology-driven solutions. Our sales have grown steadily, and we’ve expanded our service network to support our growing customer base. Looking ahead to 2025, we plan to continue this growth trajectory, focusing on expanding our product portfolio, particularly in electric and hybrid machinery, and enhancing our service offerings. We’re also focused on reinforcing our training programmes to ensure that the next generation of operators is ready to handle the challenges of tomorrow’s construction sites.