APL Logistics VASCOR Automotive is a Delhi-based third-party logistics specialist serving the automotive sector in India. Incorporated in 2012, the company is a joint venture of two of the most respected brands in international supply chain management and automotive logistics: APL Logistics and VASCOR. In 2011, the company began studying the automotive logistics market in India. Intensive discussions with OEMs, key stakeholders, the Indian Railway, and transporters helped sum up the essentials of a rail-based mode of transportation. Combining our expertise and finished vehicle logistics experience in India and the US, the service offering was tailored to meet and surpass the industry’s expectations. Research led us into the realm of designing rail cars and rail car interiors, ultimately including the design of a car loading ramp suitable for Indian conditions. In October 2013, APL Logistics VASCOR Automotive became the first 3PL to be licensed to operate automotive trains by the Indian Railways. The services provide a blend of US standards and systems with an understanding of Indian ground realities. After extensive interactions with OEMs and Wagon Manufacturers, APL Logistics VASCOR Automotive started operation in September 2014 with one rake and became the first rail-based service provider for Automotive OEMs in India for the domestic transportation of finished vehicles. The initiative gained momentum when two more rakes added in 2015 and another three in 2016 enabling regular scheduled weekly services between Chennai-Delhi-Chennai on one hand and Chennai - North East-Chennai on the other.