Runner starts CNG-run three-wheeler manufacturing

For the first time, Runner Automobiles Plc has started production of LPG and CNG-run three-wheeler in Bangladesh, marking the beginning of the first international three-wheeler manufacturing plant in the country.

The inauguration ceremony was held on the premises of Runner Automobiles manufacturing plant in Bhaluka on Saturday, according to a press release.

Prime Minister's Private Sector Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman graced the occasion as the chief guest.

Runner vice-chairman, Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) president, local lawmakers, and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) executive chairman were also present there as special guests.

KS Grihapathy, president of Bajaj Auto, was the guest of honour at the inauguration ceremony.

Runner Automobiles Managing Director and CEO Subir Chowdhury said, “Runner Automobiles Plc is the leading manufacturer and exporter in the motorcycle industry in Bangladesh. Following this, we entered the three-wheeler industry today. Hopefully, we will achieve success in this industry like motorcycles.”

Salman F Rahman said, “After Digital Bangladesh, our vision is now Smart Bangladesh. We are now in the era of the fourth industrial revolution. Here artificial intelligence, block chain, machine learning will be widely spread. We need to apply these technologies to increase our productivity.

“The government will provide all kinds of support to export-oriented industries and development of these industries. All kinds of assistance will also be provided for the expansion of the automobile industry in the country,” he added.

Runner Group Chairman Hafizur Rahman Khan said, "Today is a day of great joy. We started the journey of the first three-wheeler manufacturing plant of Bangladesh. Different officials of Roads and Highways Department, Ministry of Industries, Ministry of Commerce have cooperated to make this dream a reality; special thanks to them from the bottom of my heart."

He continued, "Runner manufacturing plant is built on 10 acres of land at a cost of about Tk 300 crore. We will be able to produce 30,000 cars every year in this plant. Our plan is to export our products after meeting the local demand.

“At least 70 per cent of parts including welding, chassis, body and quality control will be locally manufactured with Bajaj Auto's technical support. This plant has created new employment opportunity for 300 people. The Runner Bajaj three-wheeler will be the means of communication for the people of the country. We are proud to contribute to the country's economy with the industrial development,” he added.

Runner as the pioneer, the only manufacturer of Bajaj RE three-wheeler CNG/LPG in Bangladesh has all the modern manufacturing facilities like modern welding line, spot welding gun and modern robots from renowned companies, read the release.

Cathodic Electro Deposition (CED) technology will be used to maintain paint quality and prevent corrosion in the humid air. Runner Automobiles has plans to export this three-wheeler to neighbouring countries.