As the summer heat intensifies, India’s helmet manufacturers are stepping up to the challenge, bringing innovative solutions to ensure the comfort and safety of two-wheeler riders. With the streets bustling with commuters, the demand for helmets that can withstand the scorching sun while providing ease of use is rising.
Indians love commuting on their two-wheelers. There are 22.10 Crore two-wheelers in India, which is expected to grow as the number of young Indians rises.
Forecasts suggest the helmet industry will grow at an annual growth rate of 3.33% (CAGR 2024-2028), resulting in a projected market volume of US$35.50bn by 2028.
Source: Statista
On the other hand, according to data released by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, in 2022, India experienced an average of 53 road accidents and 19 fatalities every hour. Additionally, over 52,000 lives were lost in the same year due to the lack of helmets while riding two-wheelers.
If the number of deaths is so high, then why are people still riding without any safety? What is the helmet industry doing about it? Let’s explore that today.
Cooling Comfort
As the planet heats up every passing year, it becomes increasingly difficult for people to put their heads in a closed sphere and ride their two-wheelers in scorching heat for hours; in summer, the helmet can get as hot as an oven. To cater to this growing market, helmet makers are innovating with flip-up helmets and flip-down visors, offering riders the flexibility they need in diverse conditions.
Adding vents and exhausts is a strategic move to enhance airflow, thereby reducing the discomfort caused by heat. These design improvements are not just about comfort; they’re about adapting to India’s tropical climate, where temperatures can soar, reaching the highest temperature of 51℃, making any ride without proper ventilation an ordeal.
Design and Safety
Safety is a non-negotiable aspect of helmet design. With the rise in two-wheeler accidents, the need for robust helmets has never been more critical. While most companies are dedicating their time to making the safest helmets, the market is filled with poor-quality cheap helmets that manage to save you from huge challans but fail to save lives.
16.7% of motorcycle accident deaths happen due to crushing, which these cheap helmets can’t protect. However, the latest designs by good manufacturers like Royal Enfield and SMK merge aesthetics with functionality and prioritize safety. Helmets now come with features like impact-absorbing materials and enhanced visibility to better protect riders. This unwavering focus on safety is reflected in the stringent government regulations that mandate helmets, contributing to market growth.
A Market in Transformation
The Indian helmet market is responding to riders’ immediate needs and shaping itself around evolving consumer preferences. According to estimates, if riders follow regulations, approximately 30 million helmets will be needed annually, making it a ₹3,000 crore industry. This demand indicates the market’s potential and the industry’s commitment to meeting it. The transformation is also evident in the technological advancements integrated into helmets, such as ventilation systems, anti-fog visors, and Bluetooth connectivity, making helmets more appealing to the tech-savvy generation.
Conclusion
The Indian helmet market’s evolution is a response to a complex interplay of factors, including the increasing number of two-wheelers on the road, heightened safety awareness, and consumer demand for comfort and style. As the market continues to grow, we can expect further innovations that will set new standards in rider safety and comfort, making wearing a helmet not just regulatory compliance but a statement of personal style and responsibility.
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FAQs
Why is there a growing demand for innovative helmets in India?
With 22.10 Crore two-wheelers in India and an expected annual growth rate of 3.33% (CAGR 2024-2028), there’s a rising need for helmets that offer comfort and safety. The increasing temperatures reaching up to 51℃ and the high rate of road accidents, with 53 accidents and 19 fatalities every hour in 2022, have emphasized the importance of quality helmets.
What are helmet manufacturers doing to address the heat issue?
Manufacturers are introducing flip-up helmets and flip-down visors for flexibility to combat the intense summer heat. They’re adding more air vents and exhausts to improve airflow and reduce heat discomfort, making helmets more bearable in India’s tropical climate.
How are safety concerns being addressed in helmet design?
Safety is paramount in helmet design. Despite the presence of cheap, low-quality helmets, reputable manufacturers are focusing on impact-absorbing materials and enhanced visibility. These features, along with strict government regulations, aim to reduce the 16.7% of motorcycle accident deaths caused by crushing.
What technological advancements are being integrated into helmets?
The helmet industry incorporates features like ventilation systems, anti-fog visors, and Bluetooth connectivity. These advancements cater to the tech-savvy generation and reflect the industry’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
How big is the helmet industry in India, and what does this indicate?
If regulations are followed, India requires approximately 30 million helmets annually, making it a ₹3,000 crore industry. This significant demand indicates the market’s potential and the industry’s dedication to meeting consumer needs and safety standards.
I’m Archana R. Chettiar, an experienced content creator with
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