Methods Auto, Koni develop new suspension for Swift

Methods Automotive and the Netherlands-based Koni Suspension are developing the new generation frequency selective damping (FSD) suspension for Maruti Swift in the aftermarket. This will soon debut in the market, said CEO of Methods, P Kumar in an interview to Autocar Professional. The Bangalore-based company is the exclusive distributor of Koni Suspensions in India.

It has been catering to high-end cars in India like Skoda and Mercedes Benz (C and E class) in addition to those that are par of the CBU route like Audi and BMW. Last calendar, Methods sold nearly 250 sets of FSD suspension systems.

According to Kumar, the cost of a Koni suspension for a D-segment car is cheaper than the one in the replacement market. It is marginally higher for C-segment options and ‘prohibitively expensive’ for entry-level cars simply because of larger volumes mean a more competitive price. For instance, the FSD suspension for the Swift is nearly twice as much as the one fitted in the car presently.

KONI SHOWROOMS

Kumar said that this fiscal would see Methods setting up Koni Sports Centre showrooms and the first will be up and about in three months. The business model involves appointing franchises and anyone who specialises in car suspensions can qualify.

Last year, Methods introduced a roof-racking system made by Thule of Sweden for car and multi-utility vehicles. The first exclusive showroom ‘Thule ProShop’ was unveiled in Mumbai recently with Bangalore to follow suit soon. Next on the line will be in Chandigarh and Pune.

Kumar said that the outlets would provide tailor-made solutions based on specific needs. At present, the company offers the entire range of Thule products in India. TATA MANDATE

Methods was recently appointed by Tata Motors as OE accessory which will see its products sold in 25 select dealerships. Two models -- Polar 100 and Polar 200 – are earmarked for the Safari and Indigo Marina. In addition, Methods and Thule are working on design-specific solutions for cars which will extend the range of model options. A roof-racking system for the Swift is underway.

Methods is distributor for K&N Air Filters of the US as well as Sonax Car Care of Germany, Sparco Racing and Street-use Accessories of Italy, Carmate Air Fresheners and in-car accessories of Japan and Remus Sport Exhaust Systems of Austria.

T MURRALI