National Engineering Industries Ltd (NEI), the maker of NBC Bearings, has joined hands with Germany-based iMRail Technology GmbH to develop advanced mobility systems in India. The partnership is aimed at building a local manufacturing ecosystem for innovative transport technologies such as low- to medium-speed Maglev, new-age monorail systems and ropeway networks, along with related sub-systems.
With this collaboration, NEI moves beyond its traditional bearings business and enters the field of integrated mobility engineering. iMRail will provide technology expertise while NBC Bearings will offer manufacturing strength, supply chain capability and market reach in India and overseas.
The partnership will focus on building new-age transport systems suited for both cities and hilly terrains. These will include low- to medium-speed Maglev lines, advanced monorail networks and modern ropeway systems that can serve as last-mile or regional connectors. Together, the two companies aim to offer safer, faster and more efficient transport alternatives.
A major part of the collaboration will involve designing systems that are economical to operate and maintain. By using lightweight materials and optimised engineering, the solutions will be built to consume less energy and reduce emissions. This approach supports long-term sustainability while also lowering lifecycle costs for operators.
The partnership will also bring digital innovation into mobility infrastructure. Intelligent control systems, condition monitoring tools and automated safety mechanisms will be integrated to ensure smooth and reliable functioning. These smart features will help enhance operational efficiency, minimise downtime and improve passenger safety.
Rohit Saboo, President and CEO of NEI, said “This agreement marks a decisive shift in our business evolution. We are moving from supplying mechanical parts to engineering full mobility solutions that support India’s plans for modern transport infrastructure.” Maxim Weidner, CEO of iMRail Technology GmbH, said “Our technology combined with NBC Bearings’ manufacturing base and customer network will accelerate project deployment in India and other regions.”
Established in 1946, National Engineering Industries Ltd is part of the CK Birla Group and manufactures NBC Bearings. It is one of India’s largest bearing producers and exporters, and the only bearing company globally to win Japan’s Deming Grand Prize for quality. NEI has worked with Indian Railways since 1952 and supplies to sectors such as automotive, industrial machinery and aerospace. Headquartered in Germany, iMRail develops and integrates elevated and urban transport systems. The company focuses on scalable, sustainable mobility platforms designed for future-ready cities and industrial corridors.
