Inside the issue: July 2019

The cover story of the Green Issue by deputy editor Ashish Gupta looks at how GE India is making a bold bet on renewable power. At the heart of its strategy is the hybrid technology developed by wind energy researchers at the company’s John F. Welch Technology Center in Bengaluru. At a time when India is actively pursuing efforts to cut down its dependence on fossil fuels, the happenings at GE India gains great importance, for hybrid technology is touted to be the next big thing in the wind energy space.

Also part of the Green Issue is a story about how automaker Volvo is leading transport innovation in Singapore. Principal correspondent Prerna Lidhoo writes about how a collaboration between Volvo, Nanyang Technological University, and the government resulted in the world’s first full-size autonomous electric bus. The development could hold lessons for India, which is making a strong push for electric vehicles.

The issue also has a sector report on the auto industry put together by Lidhoo. The main story throws light on the trends that can lift the industry that is going through a rough patch in terms of sales over the past few months. The industry has been hobbled by a combination of factors. Increasing raw material costs, transition from Bharat Stage IV to VI emission standards, insurance costs etc. have hit market sentiment and slowed overall sales. Going forward, trends such as connectivity and electric mobility can make a difference, say experts. Signs of it are already visible. MG Hector, iconic carmaker Morris Garages’ SUV that debuted in India in June, is making splashes. Though not electric, it is an Internet car as the company calls it. Tell MG, the virtual personal assistant in the car, to open the sunroof, play your favourite song, or regulate the AC temperature—your wish is its command.