Visiting partners
A question we regularly get is: Where will the Squad be manufactured? Here’s something new we can share. Last week, our CEO, Robert, and Chris, our CTO were in Pune, India to visit suppliers and production partners. They met with aluminium tube (extrusion) producers, welding and fixtures specialists, laser cutting, injection moulding, exterior and interior trim, seating, glass, coating, and (sub)assembly companies, etc., as well as a number of automotive OEMs, (Original Equipment Manufacturers).
This trip is part of developing our microfactory concept, where the Squads will be assembled in target markets. We plan to source the components worldwide, and various basic parts such as the chassis / frame, bodywork, interior, plastic parts, seats, wiring harness etc., will need to be produced and assembled before being shipped to the microfactory for final assembly.
Pune, India
So, why India, and Pune in particular? The mission of Squad Mobility is to provide sustainable mobility for all. As affordability is a major aspect of our mission, India is a logical and sensible choice. It offers very competitive pricing, even compared to China.
Furthermore, Pune is the largest automotive hub in India with many automotive OEMs surrounded by a huge ecosystem of suppliers. One of the largest in the world. The level of quality and speed is truly impressive. While public areas can appear chaotic, many factories impress with efficiency, structure and a clean and orderly appearance. In many cases, high automation levels are applied. For example, welding, laser cutting and bonding, all with robotics, reach a consistency in production rivalling competition in e.g. China and Europe.
The Global ‘Sun Belt’
India is geographically positioned in what is referred to as the Global Sun Belt, also known as Sunshine Countries, the key regions being Southeast India and China, Africa, and the Middle East. All are interesting markets for Squad Mobility and have expressed significant interest in the Squad Solar City Car. And as charging infrastructure in many of these countries is still scarce, the Squad’s solar charging solves the chicken and egg situation of EVs and charging points.
Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Europe
The new FTA between India and Europe is obviously a very positive support for this step, eliminating tariffs between our nations. India is a production giant who will rival China in the years to come, with a young, highly educated and extremely motivated population.
At the moment we are producing the chassis in Pune. In the coming period, we will go deeper into the further activities and production in India, including the names of partners and suppliers.
