ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India Launches Zagnelis® Protect Automotive Steel Brand in Chennai
Chennai: ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) has launched Zagnelis® Protect, a Zinc–Aluminium–Magnesium coated steel product developed for automotive manufacturing applications, marking the first domestic introduction of the technology in India.
The product was launched in Chennai in the presence of automotive industry customers. According to the company, similar grades of advanced coated steel used for automotive applications were previously imported into India.
The launch comes as India continues to expand its automotive manufacturing sector, with the country ranking among the world’s largest vehicle producers and automotive export hubs.
Focus on Automotive Applications
Zagnelis® Protect is designed for automotive components that require corrosion resistance, durability, and manufacturing consistency.
The initial application of the product will be in motor cups, which are protective enclosures used in direct-current motors that operate vehicle systems such as power windows, mirrors, wipers, and seats. Industry estimates indicate that a typical vehicle contains between 20 and 30 such motors.
The company stated that the product is also suitable for a wider range of automotive applications, including:
- Chassis components
- Door inner panels
- Hood (bonnet) inner panels
- Decklid and tailgate inner panels
Chennai Chosen for Launch
AM/NS India said Chennai was selected for the launch because of its position as one of India’s major automotive manufacturing centres, supported by vehicle manufacturers, component suppliers, and industrial infrastructure.
The company noted that domestic production of advanced coated steel could help automotive manufacturers reduce dependence on imports while improving supply chain efficiency and product availability.
According to the company, an estimated 8% to 10% of critical automotive steel grades used in India are currently imported, primarily because of coating and metallurgical complexities.
Corrosion-Resistant Coating Technology
Globally, Zagnelis® Protect coatings are used in automotive applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance, particularly in areas such as cut edges, formed sections, and hem flanges where corrosion typically develops first.
The product is designed to offer:
- Corrosion resistance
- Self-healing protection characteristics
- Drawability for forming operations
- Weldability for manufacturing processes
AM/NS India stated that local production is expected to improve quality consistency and supply reliability for automotive manufacturers.
Expansion of Value-Added Steel Portfolio
Commenting on the launch, Ranjan Dhar, Director and Vice President – Sales & Marketing, AM/NS India, said the introduction of the product forms part of the company’s efforts to expand its portfolio of value-added steel products and support domestic automotive manufacturing.
The launch follows the company’s earlier introduction of two other patented products:
- Magnelis®, used in renewable energy and infrastructure sectors
- Optigal®, used in roofing, cladding, pre-engineered buildings, and architectural applications
Linked to Hazira Expansion Project
The company said the localisation of advanced steel products is part of its broader ₹60,000-crore expansion project at Hazira, which includes investments in upstream, downstream, and supporting infrastructure aimed at expanding automotive and value-added steel manufacturing capabilities in India.
The launch comes as India’s automotive industry continues to grow, with passenger vehicle sales exceeding approximately 4.7 million units during FY 2025-26, according to industry data.
