Jeep India, a subsidiary of Stellantis, is focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) in the Indian market and currently evaluating different options before finalizing its plans. Aditya Jairaj, Head of Jeep India Operations and Deputy Managing Director at Stellantis India, emphasized that electrification is a focal point for Jeep in India, and while the company is still finalizing its EV strategy, it recognizes the importance of satisfying customer needs.
Jeep India aims to achieve over 90% localization in its compact SUV Jeep Compass over the next three years. The company operates a joint venture manufacturing facility with Tata Motors in Pune. Jairaj stated that for the next-generation products, Jeep is targeting 40% higher localization, which will be a significant increase from the current level of 70%. Jeep India’s localization efforts are not limited to catering to the Indian market but also aim to create products tailored to global demand.
In terms of exports, Jeep India currently exports the Jeep Compass and Jeep Meridian models to markets like Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. Jairaj highlighted the importance of exports working in conjunction with the domestic market to provide value propositions. The company plans to continue exporting these models to other markets, including non-right-hand drive markets, which presents various opportunities for growth.
Overall, Jeep India’s focus on EVs and localization reflects its commitment to meeting customer demands, both domestically and globally. By evaluating different options and increasing localization efforts, Jeep aims to position itself as a competitive player in the Indian automotive market.
Sources: PTI, TOI Auto