Hodek Vibration Technologies Expands with New Manufacturing Facility in Dharwad, Karnataka!

Hodek Vibration Technologies Pvt Ltd, a leading manufacturer of torsional vibration dampers (TVDs) for internal combustion engines, has inaugurated its third manufacturing facility in Dharwad, Karnataka. This new plant, which opened its doors on Sunday, marks a significant milestone in Hodek’s growth strategy and reinforces its commitment to innovation in the automotive and industrial sectors.

The new Dharwad plant is designed to be a lean, green manufacturing hub, equipped with automation-ready infrastructure that aligns with Industry 4.0 standards. This facility will enhance the company’s capacity to meet the increasing demand for its vibration isolation and damping solutions. Abhijeet Khanvilkar, Executive Director of Hodek Vibration Technologies, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion: “This isn’t just about increasing capacity. It’s about preparing ourselves for the future.”

Founded in 1976 in Pune by Prabhat Karkhanis, Hodek initially supplied precision-machined components to Cummins India. Over the years, the company has expanded its product offerings and now supplies torsional vibration dampers to major vehicle manufacturers such as Tata Motors, Mahindra, Ashok Leyland, Daimler, Volvo Eicher, and Force Motors. In addition to the automotive sector, Hodek’s products also serve industries such as railways, marine, military, industrial, and power generation.

The addition of the new Dharwad plant brings the company’s total manufacturing capacity to three plants—two in Dharwad and one in Pune—along with a foundry and an R&D center. The expansion highlights Hodek’s optimism about the potential of the Indian market, with Khanvilkar noting, “India is like Europe, with its states acting as individual markets. We don’t need to depend on external markets for growth.” The company aims to increase its revenue from ₹300 crore to ₹1,000 crore over the next 4-5 years, with a strong focus on both domestic and international markets.

Hodek’s global footprint continues to grow, with the company currently exporting to 18 countries across five continents, including key markets in North America and the UK. Exports account for approximately 30% of Hodek’s revenue, and the company aims to increase this share to 50% in the next 2-3 years.

As the automotive industry shifts towards alternative fuels, Hodek is adapting to the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen-powered engines. While traditional dampers may not be required for EVs, Hodek is already developing new components that are suitable for both electric and combustion engines. Khanvilkar remarked, “Hydrogen engines still require dampers; it’s just a cleaner fuel. The mechanical needs remain the same.”

In addition to expanding its product range for the automotive sector, Hodek is diversifying into new markets. The company is also focusing on the production of electric vehicle parts and has developed a sun visor design for added driver comfort, which will be manufactured by its new subsidiary, Hodek Innovations. Hodek is also venturing into the digital space with the launch of Ispick, a mobile app that allows users to rent out idle household items. The app provides an opportunity for users to earn income by renting items they don’t frequently use, such as a tennis racket, to others in need.

Looking to the future, Hodek plans to go public within the next 3-5 years to support its rapid growth. Khanvilkar confirmed, “We will definitely go public. This kind of growth requires funding, and being transparent will not be a challenge when our house is in order.”

Hodek Vibration Technologies continues to solidify its position as a leader in vibration isolation and damping solutions, with a strategic focus on innovation, sustainability, and diversification. The new Dharwad facility and the company’s forward-looking approach ensure its continued success in meeting the evolving needs of the automotive and industrial sectors.