Bus manufacturing career has wide options

Updated on: Thursday, June 02, 2011

The dynamics of the bus industry have changed in the last few years. Low-floor buses with plush interiors and very low engine sound are preferred over traditional buses. With an increasing demand for designer buses with state-of-the art features, bus manufacturing has become process oriented. Adherence to processes like ISO and six-sigma , emphasis on optimum use of resources and with the increase in fuel prices, efforts are being made to design and manufacture efficient engines for buses. The priority is to develop new designs and models with increased seating capacity without compromising on luggage and leg-space. As the new bus code gets implemented, new models have to be developed in adherence with the code, while keeping the desired safety and comfort features in mind.

INDUSTRY STATUS

In the last financial year, the industry produced around 52,000 buses. The projection for the current financial year (2011-12) is between 65,000 and 70,000 buses. Considering the growth trends and support functions organised by the government of India, the industry expects a growth of 20% over the next three years. The central government has chalked out an automotive mission plan (AMP) for the automotive industry, which aims to double the input of the automotive sector to the gross domestic product (GDP) by 2016. The output of India's automotive sector will be US$ 145 billion, contributing more than 10% to India's GDP and providing employment to over 25 million people additionally by 2016.

GROWTH AREAS

A career in the bus manufacturing industry provides a range of options for aspiring professionals from different areas of engineering like mechanical engineering, automobile engineering, electrical and electronics engineering and metallurgy. Research and development in the bus manufacturing industry has grown and is likely to grow further as the guidelines for the new bus code have arrived.

Automobile engineers, auto designers and IT graduates are a part of the research and development team in the bus industry. Innovation is key in bus body fabrications. Specialists like body designers, interior designers and research professionals are also required by the industry. With the advent of modern and luxury buses, product development and integrated marketing professionals too, will be in demand. Manufacturing is slated to increase due to high demand in low-floor , intra and inter-city buses and the replacement of the existing fleet.

SKILL-SETS REQUIRED

An aptitude for developing new designs and models, and an in-depth knowledge of processes are the primary skills required. An engineering degree in mechanical, electrical or automobile engineering is a good starting point. Management and communication degrees can also help freshers enter the marketing and product departments of the bus-manufacturing sector.

REMUNERATION

Remuneration is on a par with other verticals of automobile industry. A fresher's salary ranges from Rs 20,000-50 ,000 per-month , depending on his or her skill-sets .

Times of India

Bus manufacturing career has wide options

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