At the Automechanika Frankfurt 2024 Expo, the Paramat stall stood out, showcasing innovative solutions that aim to transform the automotive landscape, particularly in the areas of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). In an exclusive interview with Abhilash U, Aayush Poddar, the Head of Aftermarket & Exports at Paracoat, shared insights into how the company’s products are reshaping the driving experience globally, particularly in India.
Paracoat, a family-owned business with over four decades of experience, has become a key player in enhancing the comfort and acoustics of vehicles. “We manufacture products that make cars more comfortable by reducing noise, vibration, and harshness. We are a preferred supplier for major OEMs like Toyota, Mahindra, and Nissan,” Aayush explained. The company’s focus is on providing cutting-edge NVH solutions to enhance the driving experience for both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and consumers.
Paramat: Elevating the Aftermarket Experience
Aayush also highlighted Paracoat’s significant presence in the aftermarket through its Paramat brand. “In the aftermarket, people often want to upgrade their cars, making them feel more premium. Paramat helps enhance the car’s acoustics, providing a more luxurious experience,” he said. The Paramat brand offers soundproofing products that help reduce unwanted noise and improve overall driving comfort. Moreover, it’s popular among audiophiles who want to optimize their car’s audio system, eliminating distortions and providing clearer, more enjoyable sound quality.
As a prominent player in the NVH space, Paracoat continues to push the boundaries with innovations that are both sustainable and performance-driven. “One of our key innovations is working towards making materials that are more sustainable and recyclable. We’re also focusing on lightweighting our components to improve fuel efficiency and help the environment,” Aayush shared. These efforts are not just limited to the materials themselves but also extend to the manufacturing processes. Paracoat is committed to reducing energy consumption in its production facilities, optimizing both cost and environmental impact.
Paracoat’s success story is a testament to India’s growing role as a hub for global manufacturing. “Given the current geopolitical climate, especially with tensions in places like China, India has become the go-to destination for importing products and services. It’s a great opportunity for Indian companies to showcase their capabilities, innovations, and manufacturing strength,” Aayush observed. Paracoat is leveraging this moment to expand its global footprint, not only through exports but also by making significant strides in the Indian market.
The company’s aftermarket solutions, including the Paramat range, are gaining traction across various regions in India. “We are well-established with OEMs across the country, but in the aftermarket, we are still relatively new. We are focusing on building distribution channels and expanding our presence, especially in the southern states, while maintaining a stronghold in the north,” Aayush said. The demand for NVH solutions and high-quality car audio products in India continues to grow, and Paracoat is well-positioned to meet these needs across all regions.
Sustainability is at the heart of Paracoat’s strategy, not just in product development but also in production. “We are working with jute, a waste byproduct that is readily available in India, to develop sustainable materials for the automotive industry. This is one of the steps we are taking towards a more eco-friendly future,” Aayush explained. By integrating such sustainable practices, Paracoat is positioning itself as a leader in both innovation and environmental responsibility within the automotive sector.
Balancing Performance and Cost: Paracoat’s Approach to NVH Solutions
In terms of addressing NVH challenges, Paracoat has worked tirelessly to create solutions that strike a balance between performance and cost. “We understand that there is always a trade-off between quality and cost, especially when dealing with multiple price points in the automotive market,” Aayush remarked. “Our goal is to improve the quality of our products while maintaining affordability, leveraging new technologies to meet the needs of a diverse customer base.”
With electric vehicles (EVs) on the rise, Paracoat is adapting its solutions to meet the unique challenges posed by EVs, particularly in terms of NVH. “In EVs, tire noise has become more prominent since the engine noise is no longer a factor. We’re addressing this new challenge by developing products that reduce tire and other road noises,” Aayush noted. Paracoat is also innovating in the area of battery separators for EVs, ensuring safety by preventing the spread of fire in the event of an accident.
Looking ahead, Paracoat has ambitious plans for the next five years, focusing on expanding its global presence and exploring new sectors. “We are heavily investing in exports, aiming to position India as a key supplier for NVH solutions. We are also venturing into safety solutions, as we believe making vehicles safer should be a priority for the industry,” Aayush shared. This forward-thinking approach aligns with Paracoat’s broader vision of not just making cars more comfortable but also safer for their occupants.
As Paracoat continues to innovate, its strategic goals are clear: enhance its global exports, expand into new industries, and lead the way in sustainable, high-performance automotive solutions. “This is an exciting time for Paracoat, as we continue to explore new opportunities and build on our legacy of excellence,” Aayush concluded.
