Driving the Future: How Global Auto Realignments Are Fueling India’s Rise in the Automotive Industry

The global automotive industry is experiencing a seismic shift driven by technological innovation, changing consumer preferences, and geopolitical challenges. Often referred to as “global auto realignments,” this transformation reshapes the industry, presenting difficulties for legacy automakers and unparalleled opportunities for emerging players like Indian carmakers.

As traditional carmakers navigate the complexities of electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous technologies, and connectivity, aggressive players like Tesla and Chinese manufacturers like BYD are disrupting the landscape. The resulting flux has sparked mergers, partnerships, and realignments across the globe. Indian manufacturers like Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) are poised to capitalize on these disruptions, stepping up to reshape the industry’s future.

The Catalysts of Global Realignment

Five critical trends are fueling the global auto industry’s transformation:

• The Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs): Environmental mandates, evolving regulations, and innovations in battery technology are driving the pivot to EVs. Companies worldwide are racing to adapt to this future, where EVs are projected to dominate.

• Autonomous Technologies: Advances in artificial intelligence and sensor technology are revolutionizing how cars are driven, with autonomous vehicles reshaping transportation.

• Connected Cars: Vehicles integrated with IoT and telematics now offer real-time diagnostics, over-the-air updates, and personalized features, enabling manufacturers to create new value propositions.

• Shared Mobility: Ride-hailing platforms, car-sharing services, and subscription models are redefining car ownership.

• Geopolitical and Economic Shifts: Trade wars, regional conflicts, and global supply chain disruptions are compelling automakers to rethink manufacturing strategies and sourcing hubs.

Global Realignments: A Ripple Effect

The potential merger among Japanese automotive giants Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi exemplifies the pressures faced by traditional carmakers. Struggling with financial and technological challenges, these companies explore mergers, capital tie-ups, or holding company structures to achieve operational efficiencies and ensure survival. If this plan materializes, it will divide Japan’s automobile sector into two dominant camps: one led by Toyota, with stakes in Subaru, Mazda, Suzuki, and Isuzu, and the other comprising Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi.

Similar alignments have emerged elsewhere. The 2021 merger of France’s PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles to form Stellantis marked a significant consolidation. Stellantis’s subsequent acquisition of a 20% stake in Chinese EV maker Leapmotor in 2023 further highlights the global trend of automakers joining forces to weather the challenges of electrification.

According to Bain & Company’s report, M&A in Automotive and Mobility: Deals to Secure a Place in the Industry’s Future, mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures are becoming essential tools for automakers to remain competitive in this rapidly changing landscape.

The Indian Perspective: Rising to the Occasion

India’s automotive market, once dominated by global giants like GM and Ford, is now witnessing the resurgence of domestic players. With GM and Ford retreating to focus on their home markets, Indian companies like Tata Motors and M&M have capitalized on the opportunity, posting significant increases in market share.

Tata Motors: An EV Success Story

Once an underdog in the domestic market, Tata Motors has emerged as a leader by pivoting decisively to EVs. Despite EVs constituting only 2.5% of India’s annual passenger vehicle sales of 4 million units, Tata has managed to capture a peak market share of 14% in March 2023.

Tata has adopted a flexible strategy when faced with competition from players like MG Motors and the reduction of government EV subsidies. After the coupe-style Curvv EV received a lukewarm reception, Tata launched an internal combustion engine (ICE) version to cater to traditional buyers. This ability to adapt underscores Tata’s resilience and foresight in balancing EV ambitions with existing market needs.

Mahindra & Mahindra: Leveraging SUVs and EVs

M&M has consolidated its position through its strong SUV portfolio. Its aggressive marketing, bold designs, and reliability have resonated with Indian consumers. Now, the company is set to expand its EV portfolio, signalling its intent to dominate the future of green mobility.

Opportunities for Indian Carmakers

The ongoing global disruptions offer Indian manufacturers a unique chance to lead. Here’s how they can leverage the moment:

• EV Leadership: India’s cost advantage in engineering and manufacturing positions companies like Tata Motors and M&M to deliver affordable, high-quality EVs for domestic and international markets.

• Digital Integration: India’s strength in IT and software development allows domestic manufacturers to integrate advanced features like ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), connected car services, and over-the-air updates, rivalling global players.

• Emerging Markets: Indian carmakers’ expertise in affordable mobility makes them ideal for expanding into other developing economies with similar needs.

• Strategic Collaborations: Partnerships with global design, technology, and distribution leaders can accelerate Indian companies’ access to cutting-edge innovations and new markets.

• Sustainability: By embracing green manufacturing practices and promoting environmentally friendly vehicles, Indian companies can align with the global sustainability wave.

Challenges Ahead

However, the path to global prominence is not without hurdles:

• Intense Competition: Indian automakers must differentiate through innovation, quality, and brand building to stand out in a crowded market.

• R&D Investments: Staying competitive will require continuous investment in research and development.

• Supply Chain Resilience: Geopolitical uncertainties and disruptions in supply chains could impact production.

• Regulatory Compliance: Adapting to evolving emissions, safety, and data privacy regulations will be crucial for sustainable growth.

Conclusion: Driving into the Future

The global auto realignments signify disruption and immense opportunity for Indian carmakers. Companies like Tata Motors and M&M have already demonstrated that embracing innovation and adaptability can capture domestic market share and emerge as global players.

As the automotive industry redefines itself due to EVs, connectivity, and autonomous technologies, Indian manufacturers are positioned to leapfrog traditional stages and lead the global shift. By focusing on sustainability, advanced technologies, and international reach, Indian carmakers can rise to prominence and become a force to reckon with in the future of mobility.