Hodek Vibration Technologies Pvt Ltd, a leading supplier of torsional vibration dampers (TVDs) for internal combustion engines, has unveiled its third manufacturing facility in Dharwad, Karnataka. The new plant, inaugurated on Sunday, marks a significant step in the company’s growth and innovation strategy.
Designed as a lean, green manufacturing hub, the plant features automation-ready infrastructure in line with Industry 4.0 standards. Speaking at the inauguration, Abhijeet Khanvilkar, Executive Director of Hodek Vibration Technologies, emphasized the strategic nature of the expansion: “This isn’t just about increasing capacity. It’s about preparing ourselves for the future.”
Founded in 1976 in Pune by Prabhat Karkhanis, the company initially supplied precision-machined components to Cummins India. In 1980, it partnered with Holset UK for a technology transfer to produce viscous and rubber-based TVDs. Over the years, Hodek has evolved into a vital supplier for commercial and passenger vehicle manufacturers such as Tata Motors, Mahindra, Ashok Leyland, Daimler, Volvo Eicher, and Force Motors. The company also serves industries including railways, marine, military, industrial, and power generation sectors.
With the addition of the Dharwad plant, Hodek now operates three production facilities—two in Dharwad and one in Pune—along with a foundry and an R&D center. The company is optimistic about the potential of India’s domestic market. Mr Khanvilkar noted, “India is like Europe, with its states acting as individual markets. We don’t need to depend on external markets for growth.” The company’s goal is to increase its revenue from ₹300 crore to ₹1,000 crore over the next 4-5 years.
On the global front, Hodek exports to 18 countries across five continents, with key markets in North America and the UK. Exports currently contribute approximately 30% of the company’s revenue, but the company aims to increase this share to 50% within the next 2-3 years.
As the 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, the company is developing new components for both electric and combustion engines. Mr Khanvilkar explained, “Hydrogen engines still require dampers; it’s just a cleaner fuel. The mechanical needs remain the same.”
To stay ahead of market disruptions, Hodek is diversifying its product range. “We can’t rely solely on dampers,” said Mr Khanvilkar, highlighting the company’s growing focus on electric vehicle parts. Hodek has also developed a sun visor design for added driver comfort, which will be manufactured by a new subsidiary, Hodek Innovations.
In addition, Hodek is expanding into the digital space. Its subsidiary Hodek Edge has launched Ispick, a unique app that allows users to rent out idle household items. “If you have a tennis racket lying unused, someone can rent it for a day, and you earn ₹100,” explained Mr Khanvilkar.
Looking ahead, Hodek plans to go public within the next 3-5 years. Mr 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 is a specialized manufacturer focused on designing and producing advanced vibration isolation and damping solutions for the automotive and industrial sectors. Based in India, the company is known for its expertise in engine mountings, suspension parts, and other critical components that help reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) in vehicles and machinery.
With a strong emphasis on engineering innovation and quality, Hodek serves a diverse clientele, including OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers, both domestically and internationally. The company continues to expand its capabilities to support the growing demand for reliable NVH solutions in electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as in high-performance industrial applications.
