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       Pawan Kumar Singh, Head of Operations, Transportation and Electronics, 3M India, shared the following insights on how to integrate safety into everyday driving during a discussion with 3M India representatives.
       In India alone, more than 150,000 people die in road accidents every year. Many of these accidents and deaths occur in low-light conditions. One factor contributing to the high frequency of rear-end collisions is the poor visibility of heavy vehicles traveling at night. Research conducted by numerous scientific institutions worldwide has shown that the application of reflective tape to vehicles can reduce the incidence of nighttime road accidents by up to 41%. To reduce the number of road accidents, the Indian government has introduced regulations regarding the use of reflective tape on commercial vehicles.
       In accordance with these regulations, 3M has been developing reflective technology for 70 years, perfecting it through innovative breakthroughs. Let’s understand reflectivity in simple terms. When light from a car’s headlights hits a surface, the surface reflects the light back, eventually reaching the driver’s side, allowing the driver to see the road clearly. This technology can be implemented using two subtechnologies: glass bead technology and prismatic technology. Prism technology uses millions of tiny prisms for reflection, distributed across the surface of road signs. Our company has perfected this technology; theoretically, around 2004-2005, we introduced a special grade of film capable of reflecting 100% of the light back to the driver’s side. This is the maximum reflectivity achievable with a specific reflective film, or, in other words, the sign can be much brighter.
       For many years, 3M has been committed to meeting the needs of a wide range of road users. This includes commercial vehicle drivers, passenger car drivers, and drivers of all ages. Therefore, our technologies serve all road users, regardless of age or reaction time. Currently, the application of these technologies is approaching their limits, but this is not the end of innovation. We are constantly improving. We are developing various technologies that will help companies create autonomous and connected vehicles. All of these technologies are constantly evolving, and in the future, you will see them from 3M as well.
       What materials are used? Where is the product manufactured? How long does it take to complete production?
       Producing such precise and effective reflective films requires extensive technical expertise and sophisticated manufacturing processes. Our factories are located in the United States, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, allowing us to meet the needs of various regions and comply with various regulatory standards. When choosing the most suitable reflective tape for your vehicle, consider three key characteristics: reflectivity, strong adhesion, and durability. These reflective tapes are made from multiple layers of polymer film, providing superior reflectivity and durability. Our products are available in easy-to-install rolls with a self-adhesive backing for optimal reflectivity.
       Reflective tape is primarily used by commercial vehicle owners, such as fleet owners, logistics providers, transport companies, public and private vehicle transport providers, and delivery services. We have developed an effective business model for the aftermarket, vehicle manufacturers, and government agencies (such as the SRTC), ensuring our customers can use our products at any stage of their vehicle’s lifecycle. We guarantee that our reflective tape will maintain its performance for five years after installation (the exact period depends on vehicle maintenance). We have branches throughout India to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Our team of technical experts supports testing, training, and the development of new products suitable for the Indian market. We also have a design team dedicated to creating optimal vehicle solutions that combine safety and aesthetics.
       True. According to a 2018 report, hit-and-run accidents involving passenger cars in India account for 16% of all accidents and fatalities involving passenger cars, second only to accidents involving two-wheelers (33%). Current AIS standards do not mandate the use of reflective tape on private passenger cars (i.e., category M1 vehicles). However, 3M has developed products that any vehicle owner can attach to motorcycles, bicycles, helmets, jackets, and even backpacks.
       What work is the company currently doing? What are 3M’s future projects in the commercial vehicle sector?
       In terms of vehicles, we are currently developing products for various industries, including emergency vehicles, bicycles, tractors, heavy equipment, and two-wheelers, designed to improve nighttime visibility and help road users get home safely. Beyond products, we work closely with all stakeholders to raise the standards of road safety measures. In today’s world, road user education is crucial, and we strive to raise awareness among every road user about the importance of road safety.
       India boasts the second-largest road network in the world, but also holds the undisputed title of having the highest number of road fatalities. In recent years, India’s rapid economic development has significantly improved the country’s infrastructure, particularly its road infrastructure, significantly improving traffic efficiency. Road safety initiatives and construction are advancing in tandem, aiming to reduce the number of road accidents and fatalities. Always at the forefront of the industry, 3M is committed to raising road safety standards in India to keep pace with the world’s most advanced technologies while adapting to the rapidly evolving road network. In addition to developing products for the Indian market, we collaborate with institutions, research organizations, and government agencies to disseminate information on evolving road safety requirements and standards, ensuring that technological innovations benefit end users.