Watch: TVS Motor CDO on how data analytics makes the automaker more nimble

Automakers function as a combination of retail and manufacturing firms, with the front-end working as a fast-moving consumer goods company and the backend as an industrial unit. 

TVS Motor Company, which placed a $3 million bet on the Internet of Things (IoT) supply chain monitoring platform Tagbox last year, is using data to maintain a competitive advantage.

In an interview with TechCircle, TVS Motor’s chief data and analytics officer Mahesh Calavai explained how the company has wired its factory. The  IoT applications have helped it not only streamline its operations but also understand consumer preferences. 

The Hosur, Tamil Nadu-headquartered company has also launched connected variants for its premium two-wheeler models, giving consumers the choice to opt for these solutions for a better driving experience. 

Calavai, who joined TVS two and a half years ago, works in Bengaluru and was previously the senior director for innovation, analytics and supply chain for Minneapolis, Minnesota based retail giant Target. He has over two decades of work experience as a business and data analyst. Calavai holds an engineering degree from Bharathiar University and an MBA from the University of California.