Maruti Suzuki’s recent export of over 1,600 Fronx SUVs to Japan underscores the growing global recognition of Made-in-India vehicles. This marks the first SUV from Maruti Suzuki to be launched in Japan, enhancing the ‘Brand India’ image globally. These vehicles were produced exclusively at Maruti’s Gujarat plant, symbolising a significant milestone for India’s automotive industry.
Rising Exports and Global Presence
India’s automobile exports have surged, with leading car makers like Toyota, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Mahindra, Tata Motors, Honda, and Skoda witnessing remarkable growth. Maruti Suzuki took the lead by exporting 261,700 passenger vehicles, including cars and SUVs, in 2023 alone. The Indian automotive industry’s alignment with global standards has made vehicles manufactured in India more competitive in international markets.
Technological Advancements and Compliance
As India’s regulatory norms align more closely with global standards, vehicles produced locally require minimal adaptation for export. This has been a critical factor in driving exports, with carmakers investing in research, development, and innovation. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has further bolstered the growth of electric vehicles, positioning India as a global hub for cleaner and greener automotive solutions.
Exploring New Markets and Opportunities
Indian carmakers are expanding their exports to both traditional and new markets. For example, Skoda Volkswagen plans to export India-made cars to East Asia, starting with the Škoda Kushaq and Škoda Slavia in Vietnam in 2024. This expansion into new regions highlights the growing global demand for Made-in-India vehicles and showcases India’s potential as a significant player in the international automotive industry.
The Road Ahead
India’s car exports are set to rise further, with the government’s aim to increase the share of exported vehicles to 50% of all passenger vehicles by 2030, up from the current 14%. In 2023, India’s car exports stood at 671,384 units, reflecting a 4% increase from the previous year. As the industry continues to innovate and expand its global reach, the ‘Made in India’ campaign is expected to gain even more momentum, showcasing India’s manufacturing strength on the world stage.
