Latest news with #Steelbird
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Steelbird Hi-Tech eyes 60,000 daily helmet output, plans largest integrated helmet ecosystem
For Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director, Steelbird Hi-Tech, helmets are no longer just about head protection — they're about identity, design, trust, and increasingly, industrial self-reliance. While others chase volume, Steelbird is doing something different: building an ecosystem that is as much about in-house capability as it is about category innovation. Steelbird Hi-Tech is expanding its in-house helmet production, targeting 60,000 units/day and ₹ 1,300 crore revenue by FY26–27. MD Rajeev Kapur is pushing for policy reforms to curb fake helmets while launching 15 new models a year and building India's most integrated helmet ecosystem. In a recent interaction with HT Auto, Kapur laid out a vision that combines product ambition with manufacturing depth — all with one overarching goal: 'We're not here for noise. We're here for a life-saving scale." A manufacturing-led moat, built brick by brick Steelbird now manufactures and sells over one crore helmets annually, commanding more than 35 per cent of the branded market. But what sets the company apart is where and how these helmets are made. Also Read : Steelbird SXE launched at ₹3,599 with TPE energy absorber. Check details Steelbird has built out a vertically integrated production network with nine manufacturing facilities across Baddi and Noida, supported by design and innovation teams in Italy and Panchkula. With a built-up area exceeding 1 million sq. ft., the company produces every critical component — from visors, straps, shells, EPS, and even decals — in-house. 'We don't outsource because we can't afford inconsistency," Kapur said. 'This isn't apparel. It's a safety product." The company completed a ₹54 crore capex last year and is investing another ₹50 crore in FY25 to expand capacity. A new facility is adding two lakh sq. ft., raising daily output to 60,000–70,000 helmets. For Steelbird, this isn't opportunistic expansion — it's an effort to build a quality-controlled supply chain at scale. A product pipeline with depth, not just dazzle Steelbird's product strategy is just as focused. The company will launch 15 new helmet models each year for the next five years — including premium models with Bluetooth integration, smart visor tech, and eventually, even FIM-grade racing helmets. The latest launch, the SXE, is already approaching 1,000 units per day in sales. Each model takes up to two years of development and investment of ₹1.5 crore to ₹10 crore. This is not about flooding the market. It's about targeting segments with clear gaps — including kids' helmets under 700 grams, women-specific models like Bella and Eve, and the entry-level commuter segment. Counterfeits, compliance gaps and the fight for safer helmets Kapur is unflinching when it comes to the issue of counterfeit helmets. He estimates that 60 per cent of helmets sold in India are fake or non-compliant — some even BIS-marked but sold at ₹200. 'The problem isn't the roadside seller — it's the licensed manufacturer making fakes," he said. Steelbird has submitted a white paper titled 'Mission Save Life 2.0" to the Ministry of Road Transport and other government bodies. It calls for UN-aligned safety standards, third-party labs, and real-time certification audits. Kapur believes that without enforcement, innovation risks being undercut by low-cost non-compliance. Scale with purpose: CSR, women riders and customisation While Steelbird is focused on facilitating manufacturing and re-skilling in design, it is also creating a deeper connection with consumer needs. Steelbird expects CSR related revenue will cross ₹100 crore income by FY26 due to helmet inclusion in road safety programs increasing with corporate and insurance support. On the retail side, Steelbird has already achieved ₹100 crore in online sales, which they plan to ramp to ₹500 crore in five years with the addition of over 300 exclusive outlets and a network of over 1 lakh retail points of sales. It's also betting big on customisation. A new AI-based helmet design platform is in the works, allowing users to personalise helmets for both style and fit. 'A helmet today is part of your personal gear — not just road compliance," Kapur pointed out. The carbon fibre leap and export ambitions Steelbird is now preparing to launch India's first in-house carbon fibre and fibreglass weaving facility, allowing it to build lightweight, high-strength helmets for performance and export markets. The company already exports to 50+ countries and serves OEMs such as Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Royal Enfield. With localisation efforts growing and a ₹1,300 crore revenue target for FY26–27, Steelbird is positioning itself not just as a domestic leader, but a credible global supplier. When purpose scales better than price Steelbird's story today is one of a company transitioning from scale to substance. With every new plant, product line, and policy suggestion, it is redefining what a modern Indian helmet company can be — not just in terms of numbers, but in values. For Rajeev Kapur, this is not a valuation play. 'We're not chasing trends. We're building something that lasts — because lives depend on it." And that, perhaps, is why Steelbird stands out — not because it makes the most helmets, but because it knows why it makes them. Get insights into Upcoming Cars In India, Electric Vehicles, Upcoming Bikes in India and cutting-edge technology transforming the automotive landscape. First Published Date:
India.com
5 days ago
- Automotive
- India.com
Exclusive: Rajeev Kapur Talks Steelbird's Latest Helmet Innovations and Global Expansion Plans
In this exclusive interview, we speak with Rajeev Kapur, Chairman of Steelbird Helmets, to explore the brand's latest innovations, upcoming product launches, and strategic global ambitions. As one of India's most trusted and recognized helmet manufacturers, Steelbird is now gearing up to redefine safety standards with cutting-edge technology and expanded offerings. Mr. Kapur shares insights into the company's commitment to rider safety through advanced materials, aerodynamic designs, and smart connectivity features being integrated into their new helmet range. He also delves into Steelbird's vision for international growth, revealing plans to enter key global markets while staying true to their promise of quality and affordability. From new-age safety solutions tailored for Indian roads to meeting evolving global standards, Steelbird is positioning itself as a serious contender in the global helmet industry. Don't miss this deep dive into what the future holds for one of India's leading two-wheeler safety brands.
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.
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Demand will explode, but market short by a crore units: Steelbird MD on two-helmet rule
Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director, Steelbird Hi-Tech India Ltd. India is set to take a major step forward in two-wheeler safety . The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had recently proposed a change to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. This will make it mandatory for manufacturers to provide two BIS-certified helmets - one for the rider and one for the pillion - with every new two-wheeler sold in the country starting January 2026. The move aims to promote safer riding habits and reduce the number of road fatalities, especially among pillion riders, who often skip wearing helmets. As per the draft notification, dealerships will also be required to hand over both helmets at the time of vehicle delivery. For an industry long plagued by poor safety awareness and rampant use of fake helmets, this move could bring a much-needed change. According to Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director of Steelbird, this rule could spark a major boom in helmet demand. 'If every new two-wheeler comes with two helmets, that alone will create a requirement of over 4 crore helmets annually,' he said during a media interaction. However, there's a challenge. Kapur said that the actual production capacity for genuine ISI-certified helmets in India is just about 3 crore units a year. This leaves a significant gap. Simple One review: Is this the EV to beat? | TOI Auto The proposed rule is in line with the government's broader push to reduce road fatalities. India reports over 1.5 lakh deaths annually due to road accidents, with two-wheeler riders making up a large chunk. Steelbird, one of the largest helmet manufacturers in India, is already investing heavily in automation and plant expansion, and plans to launch 75 new models over the next five years to cater to all segments, from budget to premium. But a key concern still remains: the widespread availability of fake helmets. These look like real helmets but don't meet safety standards and offer no real protection. Kapur said that nearly half of the helmets on Indian roads are fake, and insists that any law mandating two helmets per vehicle must be backed with strong checks to ensure only genuine ISI-marked products are sold. 'If this law is enforced well, it will not only protect more lives, but also help weed out counterfeit players from the market,' he added. Discover everything about the automotive world at Times of India .
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
