In a landmark development, Tata Motors has commenced the manufacturing of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) vehicles in India, marking the first time these luxury cars will be produced outside the United Kingdom. This significant move comes almost 16 years after Tata acquired Jaguar Land Rover from Ford, highlighting the growing importance of India as a key market for the brand.
To meet the increasing demand for luxury SUVs, Tata has started manufacturing the flagship Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models at its existing facility in Pune. This strategic decision underscores India's role in JLR's global expansion plans and aims to cater to the soaring demand for these vehicles in the country.
Jaguar Land Rover's Managing Director, Geraldine Ingham, emphasized the unprecedented global demand for Range Rovers. "Across the globe, we're seeing the highest levels of client demand for Range Rover in our 53-year history," she said. This move to localize production in India is expected to enhance the brand's presence in one of the fastest-growing automotive markets in the world.
Previously, both the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models were exclusively produced at JLR's historic Solihull plant in the UK and exported to around 121 markets worldwide, including India. The decision to manufacture these models in India is aimed at increasing localization, which will help in reducing costs and making the vehicles more affordable for Indian customers.
According to a PTI report, the local production is expected to reduce the prices of the two models by 18-22%. This pricing strategy is designed to appeal to a broader customer base in India, making these luxury vehicles more accessible than ever before.
N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Group, praised Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, for his visionary role in bringing the JLR brand into the Tata family 15 years ago. "The fact that the Range Rover will be manufactured right here in India is just a super feeling. It's a very, very special moment and I feel proud," he said.
The "Made in India" Range Rovers are anticipated to be more competitively priced, enhancing their appeal in the luxury SUV market. The Range Rover family in India includes the New Range Rover, starting at Rs 236 lakh, Range Rover Sport at Rs 140 lakh, New Range Rover Velar at Rs 87.90 lakh, and Range Rover Evoque at Rs 67.90 lakh. With local production, these models are expected to become more affordable, potentially driving higher sales in the Indian market.
This move by Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover signifies a significant shift in the luxury automobile industry, as more global brands look towards local production to meet regional demands and reduce costs. It also highlights the strategic importance of the Indian market in the global automotive landscape. As JLR leverages Tata's manufacturing capabilities in Pune, it sets the stage for a new era of growth and expansion for the brand in India and beyond.