ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India Introduces Zagnelis® Protect Coated Steel for Domestic Auto Manufacturing

Chennai — ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India has unveiled Zagnelis® Protect, a high-performance zinc-aluminium-magnesium coated steel specifically engineered for advanced automotive manufacturing. The product launch took place in Chennai with participation from key industry customers.

The introduction of Zagnelis® Protect represents a significant milestone for India's automotive sector. Previously available only through imports, this premium-grade steel now enters domestic production for the first time. The technology, already established in European markets through ArcelorMittal's proprietary coatings, brings manufacturing capabilities to India, the world's third-largest automotive producer.

Chennai's selection as the launch venue underscores the region's strategic importance to India's automotive landscape. The city serves as the hub for the nation's vehicle production and exports, supported by a comprehensive network of manufacturers, component suppliers, and industrial infrastructure.

Initial Applications and Performance Advantages

The immediate application targets motor cups — protective enclosures housing direct-current motors in automotive windows, mirrors, wipers, and seats. Vehicles typically incorporate 20 to 30 such motors, making this an area of substantial material demand.

Zagnelis® Protect delivers superior corrosion resistance compared to conventional galvanised coatings, particularly at vulnerable points such as cut edges, hem flanges, and formed areas where automotive components typically corrode first. The material combines exceptional corrosion protection with self-healing capabilities, excellent drawability, and reliable weldability. Domestic production will enhance supply chain reliability and maintain consistent quality standards.

Addressing Import Dependence

Currently, approximately 8 to 10 percent of critical automotive steel grades used in India require importation, largely attributable to coating complexity and metallurgical requirements. With India manufacturing over 30 million vehicles annually and demand shifting toward higher-quality, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight materials, localising advanced coated steels becomes essential for sectoral growth.

"The launch of Zagnelis® Protect reflects our commitment to advancing the nation's automotive manufacturing capabilities through high-quality and high-performance steel solutions," said Ranjan Dhar, Director and Vice President of Sales and Marketing at ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India. "This marks a significant step towards supporting a globally competitive automotive ecosystem."

Dhar further noted that the product aligns with the company's brand commitment of "Smarter Steels, Brighter Futures" and supports India's broader industrial vision. "As India focuses on technology-led automotive manufacturing, access to advanced steel becomes critical," he stated.

Broader Applications and Future Scope

While motor cups represent the initial focus, Zagnelis® Protect is designed for diverse automotive applications including chassis components, door inner panels, hood and bonnet inner panels, and decklid or tailgate inner panels.

The launch builds upon ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India's strategy of domesticating advanced steel technologies. Previous initiatives included introducing Magnelis® for renewable energy and infrastructure applications, and Optigal®, a premium colour-coated steel for roofing, cladding, pre-engineered buildings, and architectural uses.

These efforts form part of the company's broader ₹60,000-crore expansion initiative at Hazira, which encompasses upstream, downstream, and enabling infrastructure development to facilitate next-generation automotive and value-added steel manufacturing within India.

Market Context

India's automotive industry has reached unprecedented scale, with passenger vehicle sales surpassing 4.7 million units during the fiscal year 2025-26. The nation now ranks among the world's largest automotive markets and continues expanding as an export destination.