Precision Camshafts Limited (PCL) is expanding globally while remaining true to its Indian roots
Precision Camshafts Limited (PCL) stands at the forefront of the global automotive components industry as one of the world’s largest and most trusted camshaft manufacturers. Headquartered in India, PCL serves major OEMs across continents, producing all types of camshafts since its inception in 1992. Remaining true to its Indian roots while expanding globally, the company continues to innovate, diversify, and lead in precision engineering.
“After leaving his family business that manufactured various automotive components for the Indian market, my father, Mr. Yatin Shah, founded PCL in 1992 with just a 1000-square-foot garage, a couple of machines, and five employees,” recalls Karan Shah, Executive Director. “His research revealed a significant gap in the camshaft market – a component often referred to as the heart of the engine – as it determines how much air and fuel enter the engine and how much exhaust exits. At that time, India had only one other camshaft manufacturer, forcing most OEMs to rely on imports. Leveraging relationships from his earlier business, he began by producing about 600 camshafts per month. Fast-forward to today, PCL manufactures nearly one million camshafts every month and ranks among the top three camshaft manufacturers in the world.” 
Supplying most major automotive OEMs, PCL now caters to nearly 70 percent of India’s passenger vehicle and tractor camshaft requirements, and about eight to nine percent of global passenger vehicle demand.
“Our first major milestone came in 2000 when we began exporting to Europe and the US,” shares Karan. “We initially entered a joint venture with a UK-based company to manufacture in India and supply across Europe. PCL later acquired the UK partner’s stake in 2006 – a turning point that enabled exponential growth.
“Between 2012 and 2019, PCL operated joint ventures in China to support local customers, further expanding its international manufacturing presence. Today, PCL exports to markets worldwide, including Brazil, the US, Europe, Korea, Uzbekistan, and India, reinforcing its position as a truly global enterprise.”
When Karan joined the business, he spearheaded inorganic growth, steering PCL into new product lines and markets.
“Our first acquisition was MEMCO in India, which manufactures high-precision components like fuel injectors, brake parts, and instrumentation components. Since we acquired it in 2018, MEMCO’s turnover has nearly doubled,” he notes.
“Next came MFT, a German specialist in niche machined components such as balancer shafts, bearing caps, and engine brackets. The MFT acquisition helped us strengthen our machined parts portfolio and expand our European presence.”
PCL’s entry into e-mobility came with the 2020 acquisition of EMOSS in the Netherlands, a pioneer in electric driveline solutions for heavy-duty vehicles. “At that time, EV conversions were still emerging,” explains Karan. “Through EMOSS, we gained deep insights into the sector, and despite market challenges in Europe, we’ve grown EMOSS nearly fivefold in the last five years.”
Even as it diversifies, PCL continues to invest heavily in its core camshaft manufacturing. “We believe internal combustion engines will remain relevant for another decade or more,” says Karan. “We’ve just completed a 25-acre greenfield manufacturing plant and are investing $20 million in advanced automation and process technologies to further enhance productivity and precision.”
PCL today operates 14 manufacturing plants, including 12 in India, and is actively digitizing and automating its production systems. “Our goal is to run end-to-end automated lines, minimizing human intervention while ensuring that our workforce grows with us,” Karan adds.
Solapur, where PCL is headquartered, is far from India’s major automotive hubs. Yet, the company has built an exceptional team of local talent, trained and developed to global manufacturing standards.
“Our people are the foundation of PCL’s success,” Karan emphasizes. “Even as we modernize and automate, we’re committed to upskilling our employees and creating opportunities for their growth. Our strong, dedicated, and homegrown team has been instrumental in our journey over the past three decades. PCL’s extraordinary growth story is not just about technology or global expansion — it’s equally about people. The company’s passionate and committed team, from shop-floor technicians in Solapur to engineers and leaders across continents, has been the driving force behind its transformation into a global powerhouse. Their dedication, adaptability, and shared vision have played a decisive role in shaping PCL’s success over the past three decades.”
With a diversified portfolio spanning combustion engine components, advanced machining, and e-mobility, PCL continues to blend innovation with operational excellence.
“We’ve successfully transferred our operational excellence from our parent company in India to our acquired companies in Europe,” says Karan. “Now, we’re exploring new products, lighter materials, and fresh technologies to meet evolving industry demands.”
As PCL looks to the future, it’s returning focus to its home market. “While we’ve expanded globally, India remains full of exciting opportunities. We plan to further strengthen our portfolio and continue acquiring complementary automotive businesses,” Karan concludes.