The automotive repair and service industry is undergoing significant transformation, driven by the rise of new technologies, customer expectations, and a rapidly evolving market. Over the last few years, Emerging Auto Solutions & Technik (EAST Auto) has emerged as a pivotal player in the sector, advancing its capabilities, expanding its reach, and enhancing its offerings. Under the leadership of Rishikesh Sahay, Founder & CEO, EAST Auto has made considerable strides in various areas, from strategic partnerships and product diversification to expanding its footprint internationally.
Expansion, Strategic Collaborations, and Market Exploration
EAST Auto has seen remarkable growth over the past few years. By focusing on automotive body repair consulting, training, and offering cutting-edge equipment solutions, the company has solidified its position in India. As Sahay notes, “Our core focus on automotive body repair consulting, training, and advanced equipment solutions has allowed us to expand our footprint across India, as well as explore export opportunities in South Asia and the Middle East.” These regions, with their growing demand for structured repair processes and skill development, have become key areas for expansion.
The company has strengthened its portfolio by integrating advanced tools, equipment and technologies designed to meet the needs of OEM-authorized service centers and multi-brand repair facilities. Moreover, strategic collaborations with global technology leaders have expanded EAST Auto’s capabilities, further solidifying its value proposition. These partnerships enable EAST Auto to deliver globally benchmarked repair solutions, positioning the company as a trusted partner for repair systems in India and abroad.
Navigating Market Dynamics and Shaping the Future
The automotive aftermarket sector in India is experiencing rapid transformation, with new trends reshaping the landscape. “The growing complexity of modern vehicles—especially EVs, ADAS-equipped models, and lightweight materials—has significantly increased the demand for precision, skill, and technology in repair operations,” explains Sahay. As customers expect higher quality, faster turnaround times, and greater transparency, EAST Auto is meeting these demands by bridging the gap between advanced technologies and practical, on-the-ground application.
EAST Auto’s consultancy services help workshops upgrade their infrastructure, streamline operations, and adopt globally accepted repair processes. The company’s training modules, which cover both technical and soft skills, enable GM’s/Managers/ Advisors & technicians to confidently address modern repair challenges. Their equipment solutions bring the latest innovations from abroad (or Europe) and beyond to the Indian workshop floor, making them a driving force in creating a future-ready service landscape.
Innovations in Products and Services
EAST Auto has proudly shared an 18-year-long, mutually rewarding partnership with GYS, France—ever since we first introduced their innovative solutions to the Indian market. Over the years, this collaboration has grown stronger, driven by a shared commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. As part of our continued efforts to bring world-class technology to Indian workshops, EAST Auto has recently diversified its product offerings to include a new range of Inverter Spot welders and MIG/MAG welders, high-precision dent-pulling systems like Air Fix draw aligner, and the latest aluminium repair systems from GYS. Mr. Sahay notes, “GYS is a name synonymous with quality, innovation, and reliability in the Indian market—our consistent efforts in product positioning and technical training have made this possible.”
In addition to welding and cutting products, the company has expanded into diagnostic equipment, hybrid air conditioning service machines for ICE, EV, and hybrid vehicles and on-car brake lathes. The company’s comprehensive range of insulated hand tools for EV and hybrid vehicles addresses the growing need for specialized equipment to meet the unique safety protocols and construction materials of electric vehicles.
Another major development has been the opening of a second training academy and skill center in Delhi. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the skill development of technicians, workshop managers, and general managers. By offering turnkey consulting solutions, EAST Auto helps workshops optimize repair bay design, process efficiency, and technology integration, ensuring that clients are future-ready.
Addressing Challenges and Preparing for Future Growth
The automotive service and repair sector faces several challenges, particularly around skill gaps and access to modern infrastructure. The rapid pace of technological evolution in vehicles is not being matched by adequate training for technicians, leading to a mismatch that affects the quality and safety of repair operations. Furthermore, many independent and multi-brand workshops lack the resources or expertise to invest in modern equipment and repair processes.
As Sahay points out, “One of the biggest current challenges is the skill gap. The rapid pace of technological evolution in vehicles is not being matched by adequate training and upskilling of technicians across the industry.” To address these challenges, EAST Auto is investing heavily in new technologies, training programs, and scalable equipment solutions. By closely collaborating with workshops, the company provides cost-effective solutions that improve productivity and repair quality.
Looking ahead, the rise of electric vehicles, ADAS systems, and connected car technologies will further reshape the industry. EAST Auto is preparing for these changes by aligning its offerings with emerging technologies and global standards. The company’s focus on training, technology, and infrastructure ensures it stays competitive and resilient in a dynamic market.
The expanding automotive landscape in India presents a wealth of opportunities, especially as vehicle ownership increases and OEMs expand into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Sahay notes, “We’re witnessing a surge in new dealerships, multi-brand service centers, and independent workshops. Each of these facilities needs high-quality diagnostic and repair equipment, trained personnel, and efficient processes to meet today’s service expectations.”
EAST Auto is positioned to support this growth by providing an integrated ecosystem of advanced equipment solutions, consulting, and continuous skill development. Whether it’s an OEM-authorized dealership setting up a repair bay or an independent workshop launching a multi-brand facility, EAST Auto offers the full spectrum of support required to ensure long-term sustainability and compliance.
Skill Development and OEM Collaborations
EAST Auto has maintained a strong focus on skill development, a core component of its business model. The company’s training initiatives have reached new heights, offering a range of industry-relevant programs, from hands-on technical workshops to soft skills training for customer service. OEMs are increasingly recognizing the value of structured third-party training, particularly in the area of body repair.
Sahay shares, “Many OEMs are now collaborating with us for technician upskilling, tool induction programs, and process audits. This growing recognition is a positive trend, and we are proud to be a trusted training partner to many of them.” The independent and multi-brand workshop segment is also becoming more open to investing in skill development, driven by the increasing demand for quality and accountability.
The Vision for 2030: Building a Complete Ecosystem
Its vision for 2030 is focused on transforming the automotive body repair and service industry. The company aims to become a complete ecosystem enabler, blending technology, training, and transformation to help workshops deliver globally benchmarked repair quality. Sahay articulates, “Our vision for 2030 is not just about meeting the industry’s evolving needs but anticipating them and setting new standards.”
To achieve this, EAST Auto is focusing on three strategic pillars: technology integration, training at scale, and sustainable growth with global outreach. The company plans to expand its product portfolio to include intelligent, digitally-enabled repair systems and is working to build a national network of training partnerships that will reach Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns.
By continuing to push the boundaries of innovation, EAST Auto is poised to lead the transformation of the automotive service sector, both in India and globally, ensuring that its clients are ready for the future.
As Sahay concludes, “We remain committed to pushing boundaries, sharing knowledge, and bringing the best of global automotive repair technology to India.”
