Leading the Way

Infra Elevators India Managing Director (MD) Manoj Kumar (MK) shares insights with your author (SSP) on contributing to the “Make in India” initiative.

SSP: What steps are taken by Infra Elevators for leading the “Make in India” initiative, and what is your future vision for the company? 

MK: Infra Elevators India Pvt. Ltd. is proud to be the first elevator manufacturer based in Kerala, actively contributing to the “Make in India” initiative. Our production facility has the capacity to manufacture 500 elevators annually, with a focus on producing high-quality, reliable and cost-effective solutions for our customers. Our new factory expansion can cater to more than 700 elevators per year. We have localized our operations by employing 100% Malayali talent in our Kerala-based facility, further promoting the growth of local industries and skills. The steps we have taken to lead the “Make in India” initiative include: 

• Local manufacturing: All our elevators are designed and manufactured in Kerala, reducing dependency on imported components. This not only strengthens the local supply chain, but also reduces costs for our customers.
• Skilled workforce: We are committed to empowering local talent. With 100% of our employees in Kerala being Malayis, we ensure that the local workforce is trained and equipped with modern skills to lead innovation in elevator technology.
• Sustainability and innovation: We focus on eco-friendly and energy-efficient elevator solutions aligned with global standards, contributing to both the nation’s industrial growth and environmental sustainability.
• A customer-centric approach: Our design and manufacturing processes are centered on providing customized solutions to meet the specific needs of our clients, catering to both residential and commercial markets. 

Our future vision is to expand our production capacity and geographic reach while continuing to innovate with cutting-edge technology in elevator design. We aim to become a pan-India leader in the elevator industry, creating more employment opportunities, enhancing local manufacturing capabilities and contributing to the nation’s economic growth through the “Make in India” initiative.

SSP: What are the recent trends and demand patterns for home elevators? What specific customization requests does Infra Elevators get from its customers?

MK: Demand for home elevators has been rising steadily, driven by factors like increasing urbanization, aging populations and a preference for convenience and luxury in residential properties. Recent trends show a growing preference for compact, energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing home elevators that seamlessly blend with interior designs. At Infra Elevators, we frequently receive customization requests that focus on:

• Space efficiency: Homeowners often request compact designs that maximize usable space without compromising functionality.
• Aesthetics: Many customers want elevators that complement the style of their homes, requesting specific finishes, materials and cabin designs.
• Accessibility: Demand is growing for elevators designed to improve mobility for elderly family members or those with disabilities.

These trends reflect a shift toward personalizing home elevators with a focus on comfort, safety and design integration.

SSP: With rapid urbanization and the construction of taller buildings, is demand growing for efficient car-parking systems? How have car-parking systems evolved over the years in terms of technology and safety, and what are the main factors driving demand?

MK: With rapid urbanization and the rise of taller residential and commercial buildings, the demand for efficient car-parking systems has significantly increased. Limited urban space and the need for convenience have made advanced parking solutions a necessity in modern construction projects. Over the years, car-parking systems have evolved in terms of both technology and safety. Earlier, parking solutions were largely manual, but today we see a shift toward automated, smart parking systems. These systems maximize parking space, reduce human error and improve vehicle management through features like real-time monitoring, automated lifts and sensors for precise vehicle placement. The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT), smart sensors and AI technology has also enhanced both the efficiency and safety of these systems, making them more user-friendly and secure. The main factors driving demand for efficient car parking systems include: 

• Space optimization: In densely populated urban areas, optimizing space is a critical requirement for developers.
• Convenience: Automated systems offer faster and easier parking solutions, reducing wait times and effort.
• Safety: Modern systems incorporate advanced safety features, including anti-collision sensors, emergency-stop mechanisms and fire-resistant designs.
• Sustainability: The adoption of energy-efficient systems with reduced carbon footprints is also becoming a priority. 

As urbanization continues, the demand for innovative and efficient parking solutions will only increase, making technological advancements essential to meet the growing needs of city dwellers.

SSP: How do Infra Elevators’ manufacturing facility and location provide an advantage in terms of smoother operations, affordability, effective customization and timely delivery? Are there any plans for physical expansion?

MK: Infra Elevators’ manufacturing facility in Kerala offers a significant advantage in streamlining operations, ensuring affordability and delivering customized solutions efficiently. We operate in two verticals:

Fully-owned operations: In Kerala, Hyderabad and Bangalore, we handle the complete life cycle of elevators, including installation, maintenance, modernization and 24/7 callback support. This allows us to maintain direct control over quality and timelines, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional customer service.

Trading centers: We also operate trading centers, where we sell elevator components to other companies. Currently, we serve Mangalore, Coimbatore, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Vijayawada, with plans to expand to Delhi and Mumbai. This vertical allows us to support the broader elevator industry with quality components.

Looking ahead, we plan to expand our production facility to meet growing demand and explore new markets, enhancing both capacity and innovation while continuing to offer cost-effective, high-quality solutions.

SSP: What are your views on the financial year 2024-25 for the vertical-transportation (VT) industry in India? 

MK: The financial year 2024-25 looks promising for the VT industry in India, driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructure development and rising demand for smart, energy-efficient solutions. As cities expand and real estate projects — especially high-rise buildings — continue to grow, the industry is poised for strong growth. We expect the following segments to gain maximum traction: 

• Residential elevators: With increased focus on convenience and accessibility, home elevators will continue to see high demand, especially in urban and semi-urban areas.
• Commercial and passenger lifts: As the commercial real estate sector expands, there will be significant demand for passenger lifts in office complexes, malls and mixed-use developments.
• Hospital lifts: Healthcare infrastructure is growing, leading to greater demand for specialized hospital lifts designed for smooth and safe transportation of patients and medical equipment.
• Escalators and moving walks: With the continued growth of airports, metro systems and shopping malls, these segments will see sustained demand, especially in metropolitan areas. 

In addition, sustainability and smart technology will play a crucial role in shaping the industry, with a growing emphasis on energy-efficient elevators, predictive maintenance and IoT-integrated systems to improve operational efficiency and safety. 

Overall, the VT industry in India is expected to experience robust growth, with the residential, commercial and healthcare sectors driving demand in the coming year.

SSP: Infra Elevators operates across various segments in the VT industry, such as home elevators, escalators, hospital lifts and passenger lifts. What will the company’s strategy and approach for each segment be in the coming year?

MK: Infra Elevators plans to strategically strengthen its position across various segments of the VT industry in the coming year, with a particular focus on:

• Home elevators: We will enhance our offerings in home elevators by focusing on customized, space-efficient designs that cater to the growing demand for convenience and accessibility in residential properties. Our goal is to provide energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing solutions that meet the specific needs of homeowners. 
• Mid-rise passenger elevators: We aim to build our competency in passenger elevators specifically for mid-rise buildings. This segment presents significant opportunities as urban developments continue to rise. Our strategy will include integrating smart technology for improved operational efficiency and maintenance, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for users. 
• Hospital lifts: While we are expanding our focus in other segments, healthcare remains a major clientele. We will continue to provide specialized hospital lifts that prioritize smooth operation, safety and hygiene, recognizing the critical importance of these systems in patient care.
• Escalators and moving walks: We have partnered with global leaders in moving walks and escalators to deliver durable, energy-efficient solutions designed for high-footfall environments. This collaboration ensures that we meet the highest safety and maintenance standards. 

Overall, our strategy revolves around innovation, customer service and targeted growth in the home and mid-rise elevator segments, while continuing to support our established healthcare clientele.

SSP: What is the significance of modernization for your company? Why is it necessary for the VT industry to consistently adopt new technology and spread awareness among end users?

MK: Modernization is of paramount significance for Infra Elevators, as it allows us to enhance the performance, safety and efficiency of our existing systems. In an industry marked by rapid technological advancements, modernization ensures that our products remain competitive and compliant with the latest safety standards. It involves updating components, integrating smart technologies and improving energy efficiency, all of which contribute to a better user experience. For the VT industry as a whole, consistently adopting new technology is essential for several reasons: 

• Safety compliance: With stringent safety regulations mandating the addition of new components, modernization helps ensure that all systems meet or exceed these requirements, ultimately protecting users.
• Improved performance: Upgrading technology can significantly enhance the reliability and smooth operation of elevators and escalators, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. 
• User awareness: Spreading awareness among end users about the benefits of modernization is crucial. Educating them on the importance of regular upgrades and the advantages of new technologies encourages informed decision-making and promotes safety.
• Sustainability: Modern systems often utilize energy-efficient technologies, contributing to a reduction in the carbon footprint and supporting environmental sustainability.

By prioritizing modernization, Infra Elevators not only meets the evolving demands of the market but also reinforces its commitment to safety, efficiency and innovation in the VT industry.

SSP: What is the significance of regular maintenance of VT by a reliable service provider? Do you see the refurbishment/upgrade market increasing going forward?

MK: Regular maintenance of VT systems by a reliable service provider is crucial for several reasons: 

• Safety assurance: Consistent maintenance ensures that elevators and escalators operate safely, minimizing the risk of accidents or malfunctions that could endanger users.
• Performance optimization: Routine inspections and servicing help identify and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring smooth and efficient operation, which enhances user satisfaction.
• Longevity of equipment: Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of VT systems, allowing them to operate reliably for a longer period and protecting the investment made by property owners.
• Compliance with regulations: Many jurisdictions require regular maintenance checks to comply with safety regulations. A reliable service provider ensures that all necessary inspections and upgrades are performed in accordance with legal standards.
• Quality technicians: Reliable and professional service providers employ quality technicians who are skilled in carrying out maintenance and repair work. This expertise ensures that issues are resolved efficiently, contributing to a 100% resolution rate, thanks to the robust backend support available. 

Given the critical importance of maintenance, we anticipate a growing market for refurbishment and upgrades in the VT sector. As technology continues to evolve, building owners will increasingly seek to modernize their systems for improved safety, efficiency and energy consumption, driving demand for services that provide both upgrades and ongoing maintenance.