ZF Rane Automotive India Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between the Rane Group and Germany’s ZF Group, has inaugurated a new inflator plant and sled test facility in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, to support its occupant safety business. The new inflator facility aims to increase local content in airbags, contributing to the company’s "Make in India" efforts.

"By enhancing local manufacturing capabilities, we are better equipped to meet the market's growing demands while reinforcing our commitment to 'Make in India,'" said Harish Lakshman, Chairman of Rane Group and Managing Director of ZF Rane Automotive India Pvt Ltd.

With an investment of nearly ₹100 crore, the facility will initially produce driver and passenger inflators, with a capacity of 3 million inflators annually. The sled test facility will boost testing capabilities and shorten lead times, allowing the company to deliver products more efficiently.

Rudolf Stark, Executive Vice President of ZF LIFETEC, emphasized the strategic importance of the investment, stating, "This positions us to capitalize on the growth potential of the passive safety systems market. In-house inflator production and expanded testing capabilities are critical components of our global strategy.