Three-box framework for SUV-focus in EV space – M&M

Three-box framework for SUV-focus in EV space – M&M

Update on the Indian Equity Market:
On Monday, Nifty closed in the red at 14,930 (-0.7%), recovering from the day’s low due to a rebound in the metals and technology stocks. JSWSTEEL (+2.4%), TECHM (2.4%), and TATASTEEL (+2.3%) led the index gainers while DIVISLAB (-2.9%), BAJAJFINSV (-2.7%), and GAIL (-2.6%) led the laggards. Among the sectoral indices, METAL (+1.0%), IT (+0.6%), and PSU BANK (+0.2%) were the only gainers while MEDIA (-1.4%), PHARMA (-1.3%), and FINANCIAL SERVICES (-1.2%) led the laggards.

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) recently reorganized its EV (Electric Vehicle) strategy by setting up 2 new verticals, one for last-mile mobility, and the other for EV tech center. Mr. Rajesh Jejurikar, ED- Auto and Farm Sectors, M&M explained the rationale behind this strategy on CNBC TV-18 on 12th March 2021. Here are the excerpts of the interview:

  • To undertake a comprehensive look at the future, M&M has deployed a three-box framework. This framework suggests different businesses need different kind of attention and focus depending on company strategy and goals. Box 1 is the one that has the ability to scale up/Box 2 and 3 are more mid-long-term focus and need more technology and know-how.
  • According to M&M, Last mile mobility is a box 1 business, which has a ready customer market today and they have to drive growth and penetration. Their box 2 business is the SUV focus IC-derived electric vehicles, and box 3 is EV which is preparing M&M’s strategy for the longer term.
  • They have created a strong talent pool with good products at Mahindra Electric, which will help them in the future as well.
  • They want to be SUV-focused in EV space as well. Currently, there are no plans of manufacturing EVs in shared mobility space (Sedans and hatchbacks).
  • They believe the EV market penetration to be much higher by 2025-30, hence the need for a comprehensive SUV EV portfolio. They hope to have an electric variant for all price points they operate in.
  • The level of readiness should be for 50-80% conversion in FY2025-30. The extent of conversion is very hard to predict at this stage so they are not setting any targets per se.
  • They will launch eKUV100 and eXUV300 between CY21-CY22.
  • The last-mile mobility segment is at an inflection point and the pace of sales should pick up significantly. The goods carrier segment is completely ready and a committed sales team and channel will help drive sales for this segment. The PV (Passenger Vehicle) was also ready but the slowdown due to Covid-19 has hampered the sales and M&M expects sales to pick up in 2HCY21.
  • For last-mile mobility, export is a huge opportunity. M&M is already getting leads for alliances and partnerships in different markets across the world. Some of their key customers in the B2B segment are planning to take M&M products in their global ecosystem. While these deals will take some time to fructify, the initial response has been good.
  • When M&M canceled their JV with Ford, the rationale was the money saved from JV will be put into the EV business. Rs 30,000 mn has been set aside for creating a strong EV portfolio.

Asset Multiplier Comments

  • With the Covid-19 outbreak, the personal mobility demand has increased. Though Gen Z and millennials would prefer EVs for personal mobility, the success of EVs would largely depend on increasing penetration and availability of the infrastructure, which is currently lacking.
  • M&M has been stressing on reducing investments in non-profitable subsidiaries and focusing on the core business. This three-box framework for EV vertical is a step in the right direction.

Consensus Estimate: (Source: market screener and tickr websites)

  • The closing price of M&M was ₹ 846/- as of 15-March-2021. It traded at 31x/ 21x/ 18x the consensus earnings estimate of ₹ 27.4/ 41.1/ 46.8 per share for FY21E/FY22E/FY23E respectively.
  • The consensus target price of ₹ 959 implies a PE multiple of 20x on FY23E EPS of ₹ 46.8/-.

Disclaimer: “The views expressed are for information purposes only. The information provided herein should not be considered as investment advice or research recommendation. The users should rely on their own research and analysis and should consult their own investment advisors to determine the merit, risks, and suitability of the information provided.”

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