Episode 57: DRiV President Chintan Sopariwala on Making Bold Moves

In this episode of Drivetime, Sopariwala describes how DRiV, the aftermarket division of Tenneco, is focused on making bold, innovative moves within the automotive aftermarket. A prime example of this is the company’s implementation of cutting-edge automation technology at its AutoStore facility in Smyrna, Tennessee, DRiV’s largest distribution center for the U.S. and Canada. The facility utilizes 125 robots working in harmony to pick and place products at the rate of over 100 lines per hour, demonstrating DRiV’s commitment to exploring the “art of the possible,” Sopariwala explained.

The Tenneco portfolio is comprised of over 32 brands, including Moog, Monroe, Fel-Pro and Champion, many of which are over 100 years old and are market leaders in their categories, according to Sopariwala, who sees strong growth opportunities for DRiV globally, with double-digit growth in many regions. The brands span a range of vehicle components, from suspension and exhaust parts to gaskets, spark plugs and engine oil. “I’m really proud of the DRiV team globally that has delivered year-over-year growth in a down market,” Sopariwala said.As he looks ahead to 2025, Sopariwala said DRiV will continue capitalizing on growth in key markets, including heavy-duty commercial vehicles, which now represent a growing portion of its business. And, while the transition to EVs is accelerating in passenger vehicles, he anticipates a prolonged demand for aftermarket parts for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, likely extending into the late 2040s.To hear more about DRiV’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Sopariwala explains DRiV’s “bold moves” strategy (0:50)
• The details of Sopariwala’s extensive industry background (2:39)
• The relationship between Tenneco and DRiV (4:13)
• Top brands under the DRiV umbrella (4:56)
• Business climate in 2024 and outlook for 2025 (5:58)
• Deeper dive into the DRiV brands (7:20)
• Future of EVs and evolving technology (10:55)
• Heavy-duty segment as an important part of DRiV’s business (13:03)
• How Garage Gurus makes life easier for the installing technician (14:26)
• Lightning Round (16:16)