Analysis
Visteon Applies its Automotive Intellect to Mahindra & Mahindra's New XUV500
Visteon Corporation is one of the key contributors to Mahindra & Mahindra’s XUV500, a recently launched global sport utility vehicle designed to deliver high-end features at an affordable price. The XUV500 features a range of innovative electronics, lighting and climate systems and components from Visteon, developed with Mahindra to meet the needs of both the domestic India market and export markets.
“VLeveraging its best-in-class manufacturing and engineering capabilities, Visteon supplies the XUV500 with a broad range of technologies for enhanced functionality, appeal, styling and quality. Highlights of Visteon’s content on the XUV500 include:
Electronics – A state-of-the-art audio infotainment system features a 5.8-inch touch screen – the first such high-end system fully manufactured in India for the India market. As a standard original equipment manufacturer(OEM)-fitted feature, the complete audio infotainment system incorporates comprehensive functions, including Bluetooth® wireless technology, audio streaming, navigation, DVD, Rear Park Assist System (RPAS) and full iPod® connectivity. The infotainment system provides access to the user’s phone book and allows for making and receiving calls using the infotainment system via Bluetooth connectivity. Available in three variants to meet different consumer needs, the advanced system is designed to significantly enhance the in-car electronics experience.
Lighting – An advanced poly-ellipsoid system (PES) headlamp with light-emitting diode (LED) styling accents makes the XUV500 the first SUV in India to showcase headlamp design and technology incorporating projector, LED-based position function and “static bending.” This optional feature enables headlamps to anticipate and illuminate turns in the road for improved visibility. Including the stylish tail lamp, the overall lighting on the XUV500 is set to be the benchmark for automakers in India.
Climate – The fully automatic, rear and front, heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC), uses Visteon’s proven technology to create a superior level of comfort for the driver and passengers. High-performance compact heat exchangers and user-friendly features are embedded in the design to enhance the cabin comfort.
“We are extremely proud to have such extensive content on Mahindra & Mahindra’s XUV500,” said Vish A. Viswanathan, Visteon managing director, India. “By maximizing our local manufacturing and engineering capabilities, we are able to provide leading-edge, high-quality products to exceed our customer’s expectations and ensure cost-effectiveness. Our technical center and Mahindra engineers from Mahindra Research Valley in Chennai played a key role in developing the electronics for this vehicle,” he added.
With five manufacturing plants, three engineering centers and more than 3,000 employees, Visteon operations in India offer climate control, electronics, interior and lighting products. Visteon has had a presence in India since 1993.