- Zagnelis Protect enables domestic production of advanced automotive coated steel in India.
- The launch supports supply chain localization and reduced import dependence.
ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) introduced Zagnelis Protect on June 17, becoming the first company to manufacture premium zinc-aluminium-magnesium (ZAM) coated steel for the automotive sector domestically in India. Previously available only in European markets under a patented technology developed by ArcelorMittal, the product was unveiled in Chennai in the presence of major automotive customers. The launch represents a key milestone for the local automotive ecosystem as manufacturers increasingly seek advanced materials with higher durability and improved performance.
The introduction of the product addresses a critical gap in the country's automotive supply chain. Around 8–10% of specialized automotive steel grades used in India continue to be imported because of their complex coating technologies and metallurgical requirements. With India producing more than 30 million vehicles annually and passenger vehicle sales reaching nearly 4.7 million units in FY2025–26, local production of advanced coated steel solutions is becoming increasingly important for supply security and industrial competitiveness.
Zagnelis Protect has been engineered to provide superior corrosion resistance compared with traditional galvanised coatings, especially in cut edges and formed sections where degradation risks are higher. The coating also offers self-healing characteristics, excellent drawability, and dependable weldability. According to AM/NS India, customers can benefit from shorter lead times, stronger supply assurance, and more consistent quality standards when compared with imported materials.
The first automotive application for the new steel grade targets motor cups, which serve as housings for direct-current motors used in windows, mirrors, wipers, and seating systems. A typical vehicle incorporates between 20 and 30 such components. Beyond motor cups, the steel is designed for wider use across automotive structures, including chassis components, door inner panels, bonnet inner panels, and tailgate inner panels.
Ranjan Dhar, Director and Vice President of Sales and Marketing at AM/NS India, stated that the launch aligns with the company's broader objective of localising advanced steel technologies and supporting the automotive industry's efforts to meet global manufacturing benchmarks. The move also reflects the increasing emphasis on domestic capability development in high-value automotive materials.
Zagnelis Protect becomes the third patented product from ArcelorMittal to enter domestic manufacturing through AM/NS India, following Magnelis for renewable energy and infrastructure applications and Optigal for roofing and architectural uses. These initiatives form part of the company's ₹60,000-crore expansion project at its Hazira facility in Gujarat, aimed at strengthening both upstream and downstream infrastructure for next-generation steel manufacturing.
AM/NS India operates as a joint venture between ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel, with an existing crude steel capacity of nine million tonnes per annum. The company is also advancing development of an 8.2 million tonne integrated steel plant in Andhra Pradesh, further reinforcing its long-term manufacturing footprint in India and supporting future automotive demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zagnelis Protect and why is it important for India's automotive industry?
Zagnelis Protect is a premium zinc-aluminium-magnesium coated steel produced domestically for the first time in India. It is important because it reduces dependence on imported specialty steel while improving supply chain resilience for automotive manufacturers. The product offers superior corrosion resistance, self-healing properties, excellent formability, and reliable weldability. Its local availability can shorten lead times, improve quality consistency, and support India's ambition to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities in advanced automotive materials.
Where can Zagnelis Protect be used in vehicles?
Zagnelis Protect is designed for multiple automotive applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance and durability. Its initial use focuses on motor cups used in windows, mirrors, wipers, and seat systems. Beyond these components, it can also be deployed in chassis parts, door inner panels, bonnet inner panels, and tailgate structures. The material's mechanical and coating properties make it suitable for high-performance automotive applications where long-term durability and manufacturing efficiency are critical.
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