Latest news with #TPE
Time of India
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Steelbird commits ₹50 cr capex to scale production, launches SXE helmet with advanced safety tech
At a time when India's helmet market is witnessing a shift towards safety-conscious and certified gear, Steelbird Hi-Tech India has announced a capital expenditure of ₹50 crore across its nine manufacturing plants this year. The investment is part of the company's broader plan to launch 75 new helmet models over the next five years and boost domestic production to meet surging demand. The capex will support R&D, plant modernisation, and capacity expansion, crucial for developing technologically advanced products like the newly launched SXE helmet with TPE impact absorption technology . Production infrastructure and market strategy The company currently operates six plants in Baddi and three in Noida, supported by two offices in Delhi, one in Italy, and a digital platform in Panchkula. It aims to sell over one crore helmets this year. Last year, the company sold 87 lakh helmets. According to Managing Director Rajeev Kapur, 'Every helmet takes nearly two years to develop, and we are scaling up to meet the growing demand with safer and smarter designs.' With a 35 per cent share in India's branded helmet market, the company is witnessing a clear shift in customer buying behaviour. 'The most popular helmet used to be the ₹1,000 model; today, it's the ₹2,000 one,' Kapur noted. Sales channels and OEM partnerships Steelbird distributes through 2,200 direct distributors and dealers, each connected to 400–600 retailers, and operates 300 exclusive retail outlets. Online sales have crossed ₹100 crore and are expected to reach ₹500 crore in the next five years. About 30 per cent of Steelbird's helmets are sold to OEMs, including Hero, Honda, Yamaha, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, and Ola. 'We also cater to corporate buyers and CSR-linked initiatives, and we're targeting ₹100 crore in CSR-driven sales over the next two years,' Kapur said. The rest of the sales come through retail and online platforms. SXE helmet: New model with TPE energy absorber The company has launched the SXE helmet under its Advanced Safety Series, marking a significant step in rider protection. Priced at ₹3,599, the SXE features a multi-layered shell comprising ABS reinforced with fibre composites, a black EPS liner, and a shock-absorbing TPE ( Thermoplastic Elastomer ) layer. The technology, the company claims, helps reduce rotational impact forces by approximately 20 per cent, lowering the risk of traumatic brain injury during high-speed crashes. Product pipeline and certification push The company is also developing new models across price ranges and use cases, including women riders. 'We've launched models like Bella and Eve and will soon introduce another designed specifically for women,' said Kapur. Steelbird is also preparing to launch an FIM-certified racing helmet in the next two to three years. 'FIM helmets are complex and require multiple layers of materials like carbon fibre, thicker visors, and metallic locking systems,' he explained. Bluetooth-enabled helmets are part of the product roadmap. Eight models were introduced last year, and a new intercom-enabled version under the Fighter range is set to be launched by year-end. While the company has a concept ready for a lightweight motocross helmet with titanium parts, Kapur cited high R&D costs and low demand as reasons for holding back the commercial rollout. Focus on Indian market, road safety concerns Despite exporting to Europe and several Asian countries, Steelbird is focused on the Indian market. 'India presents an enormous opportunity. We're not prioritising exports right now,' said Kapur. He added that the company works on a 10 per cent profit margin. Commenting on helmet regulation, he said, 'If the proposed law requiring helmets to meet UN or WHO standards is enforced, demand will surge.' He also pointed to the economic cost of road accidents: 'About 3.52 per cent of India's GDP is lost to road accidents. That's a massive figure — and enforcing helmet standards is a crucial part of solving this.' To advocate for stronger policy implementation, the company has launched an NGO titled 'Dialogue to Action'. 'Conferences alone aren't enough—we need enforcement and change on the ground,' Kapur said.
Hindustan Times
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Steelbird SXE launched at ₹3,599 with TPE energy absorber. Check details
The Steelbird SXE gets Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) layer in the impact-absorbing liner — said to be the first helmet in India with the tech. Notify me Steelbird has launched a new motorcycle helmet, the SXE, at ₹ 3,599. The model adds to the company's mid-range segment and boasts a design that prioritizes safety for the rider as well as practicality. The SXE comes in two finishes — a solid paint and a decal-covered variant — and in four sizes, from 560 mm to 620 mm. What is unique about this helmet is the addition of a Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) layer in the impact-absorbing liner — said to be the first helmet in India with the tech.. This puts the SXE in a rare club of helmets around the world that attempt to manage both linear and rotational forces of impact in crashes. Also Read : Steelbird Tornado helmet series launched at ₹ 1,959. Check details Steelbird SXE: Tech Structurally, the SXE helmet incorporates a multi-layered impact management system. It consists of a high-impact ABS outer shell, an expanded polystyrene (EPS) liner, and a TPE layer designed to reduce rotational forces. While full crash data is not publicly available, the manufacturer suggests that the TPE insert may reduce rotational impact by approximately 20 per cent, which could have implications for lowering the severity of head injuries in certain crash scenarios. The helmet is certified under both the BIS IS 4151:2015 safety standard (India) and the DOT FMVSS 218 regulation (USA), indicating compliance with widely accepted global testing protocols. In terms of ventilation, the SXE includes a combination of intake and exhaust vents aimed at improving airflow and temperature regulation during rides. Reflective fabric strips around the neck section have also been included to increase visibility at night. Also Read : Steelbird hits 87 lakh helmet sales in FY25, plans to cross 1 crore in FY26 Steelbird SXE: Design The SXE has a comparatively aerodynamic shell shape meant to cut wind resistance. The helmet features a double visor setup of a scratch-resistant outer visor and a backup internal sun shield for varying light conditions. The primary visor also happens to be Pinlock-compatible, enabling customers to fit in anti-fog inserts should they require them. Within the helmet, the liner is made from breathable and hypoallergenic material, with mesh areas that are meant to deal with moisture and heat. The thermoformed padding is shaped to remain in shape even under pressure. A micrometric buckle is used for fastening, allowing for relatively easy adjustment. The logo has been applied using a technique referred to as Eco-dome technology sits on the exterior, adding a subtle design identifier rather than serving a functional purpose. Get insights into Upcoming Cars In India, Electric Vehicles, Upcoming Bikes in India and cutting-edge technology transforming the automotive landscape. First Published Date: 20 Jul 2025, 09:30 am IST
Time of India
19-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Steelbird unveils SXE helmet with TPE safety tech, dual certification
Steelbird has launched the SXE, a new motorcycle helmet that stands out for being India's first to incorporate a TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) energy absorber layer . Aimed at enhancing rider safety and comfort, the helmet is built with advanced materials and features designed to handle both high-speed impact and everyday wear. Safety offerings At the heart of the SXE's safety offering is its multi-layered protective shell. It includes a tough ABS outer shell, fiibre composite reinforcement, black EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) liner and a shock-absorbing TPE layer. This layered design helps reduce both linear and rotational impact forces, the kind most associated with traumatic brain injuries. Steelbird claims a reduction of rotational forces by nearly 20 per cent, which could lower the risk of serious head trauma in a crash. Certifications for safety The SXE is certified under both BIS IS 4151:2015 and the DOT FMVSS 218 standard used in the US. That dual certification makes it suitable for riders seeking globally recognised safety benchmarks.
The National
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
TransPennine Express to run extra trains during Edinburgh Fringe
TRANSPENNINE Express (TPE) is set to run up to three extra services a day for festivalgoers at this year's Edinburgh Fringe. The train operator will run the additional services from Saturday, August 2 until Friday, August 29 alongside its usual timetable to support those returning from Fringe shows. On weekdays, an evening service will depart Newcastle at 8:02pm, calling at Morpeth, Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Reston, Dunbar, and East Linton, before arriving at Edinburgh Waverley. READ MORE: The 'extraordinary' Neolithic village in Scotland that's older than the Pyramids A further service will leave Edinburgh Waverley at 9:56pm for Carlisle, stopping at Haymarket and Lockerbie. Andrew McClements, customer experience and transformation director at TransPennine Express, said: 'We are pleased to be able to offer these extra services for those travelling during the Fringe Festival and to support the city of Edinburgh during this popular event.' More than two million people are expected to travel the capital for the festival, with thousands of shows taking place across more than 250 venues in and around the city, so train services may be busier than usual. McClements added: 'We will be doing everything we can to help as many people as possible travel by rail during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. 'We're asking our customers to plan ahead, expect services to be very busy and allow extra time for journeys.' For late-night travellers, a train will depart Edinburgh Waverley at 11:28pm, calling at East Linton, Dunbar, Reston, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Alnmouth and Morpeth, before arriving in Newcastle. On Saturdays, a service will run from Newcastle at 7:27pm to Edinburgh Waverley, calling at Morpeth, Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Reston, Dunbar, and East Linton. An additional evening departure from Edinburgh Waverley at 7:57pm will head to Carlisle, calling at Haymarket and Lockerbie. READ MORE: Why this 'breathtaking' and 'otherworldly' beach is named the best in Scotland A late service will also operate from Edinburgh Waverley at 10:02pm, calling at East Linton, Dunbar, Reston, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Alnmouth and Morpeth, before reaching Newcastle. Tom Thorburn, honorary president of Rail Action Group East of Scotland, said: 'We are delighted that TransPennine Express has positively responded to community requests and agreed to operate their late-night Edinburgh Festival trains during August again this year. 'With the addition of a late-night train on Saturdays this year in addition to the Monday to Friday trains which were very popular last year, these services are the answer to the travelling needs of people wishing to take in and enjoy the world's greatest festival in our area and beyond.'
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
TransPennine Express invests over £530k in new Glasgow depot
TransPennine Express (TPE) has officially unveiled its new Glasgow depot at Caledonian Chambers, following an investment of at least £530,000 ($721,627). Damian Briody, Head of Rail Delivery for Transport Scotland, formally opened the depot on behalf of the Scottish Government. The depot is strategically positioned just a short walk from Glasgow Central Station, where TPE operates ten daily services to Manchester, Manchester Airport, and Liverpool. The facility will have the capacity for 121 team members and marks a significant enhancement for the company's staff, offering a modern working environment. The new depot features refurbished office spaces, dedicated training and meeting rooms, and improved amenities including toilets, showers, and air conditioning. The facility also includes a mess room, quiet rooms, and a breakout area with a pool table. Briody added: 'It is a real pleasure to attend this event and see first-hand the improved facilities it provides for staff. It is a clear demonstration of the ways in which partnership working can bring benefits to the people who deliver frontline services on the railway every day.' The investment in Glasgow is part of TransPennine Express's ongoing commitment to upgrading its facilities across the network to provide excellent workspaces for its employees. TPE director for major projects & Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) Chris Nutton said: 'The move to Caledonian Chambers is more than just a new address—it's a bold commitment to our people and our future. 'By doubling our workforce capacity here, we're ensuring we have the space, environment, and infrastructure in place to support our team in Scotland to thrive and reap benefits of our partnership with Network Rail. By investing in our people, we enable improved services to customers' Additionally, the company is enhancing its Class 185 train fleet with the European Train Control System (ETCS) as part of the TRU project. In March, the government announced a new allocation of £415m to further the TRU project, which is set to improve rail connections between key cities and facilitate the future installation of ETCS. "TransPennine Express invests over £530k in new Glasgow depot" was originally created and published by Railway Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
