Japanese tech major Horiba opens Rs 100 cr centre in Chakan

Japanese automotive testing systems major Horiba inaugurated a 7000-sqm, Rs 100-crore technical centre at Chakan near here.

Inaugurating the centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the facility will offer automotive testing, product customisation workshop and assembly, and urged the company to set up its second manufacturing facility in Nagpur and a technical centre in Aurangabad.

Fadanvis opened the centre in the presence of Japanese ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu, Horiba International chairman Atsushi Horiba, and its India head Jai Hakhu.

Horiba has invested Rs 100 crore in the centre, which is the ninth base for the diversified Japanese technology company and employs 45 highly technically qualified people.

"Most of these automobiles manufacturers are already our customers for measuring and testing equipment and this additional service will firm up our relationship with them," Horiba said.

Jai Hakhu said the facility is capable of testing emissions as envisaged in Euro VI. This is the fifth such centre for the company globally.

"Horiba India had turnover of Rs 190 crore last year and the company intends to double it by 2020. The new centre will have a major role in achieving this aim," Hakhu said.

Since its medical devices factory in Haridwar is near its full capacity, the company is considering setting up of another plant in a suitable location to serve better the Southern market.