Modi Inaugurates EV Factory in Hansalpur
On Tuesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a factory in Hansalpur designed to produce the electric vehicle (EV) known as the Maruti Suzuki E. Vitara. The facility also aims to manufacture two existing hybrid models: the Grand Vitara and Invict, in addition to producing batteries for the Grand Vitara hybrid.
Maruti Suzuki, which is a subsidiary of the Japanese automaker Suzuki, stands as one of the largest car manufacturers in India. The battery plant in Hansalpur is a collaborative effort involving Suzuki, Toshiba, and the global auto parts supplier Denso.
Modi described the launch of the Maruti Suzuki factory as the start of a “new chapter” in his “Make in India” initiative. This initiative emphasizes producing more goods locally through joint ventures. He expressed confidence in India’s potential to compete with China’s automotive industry, noting that vehicles produced in Hansalpur would be exported to over 100 countries.
He mentioned, “India has the advantages of democracy, a favorable demographic profile, and a vast reservoir of skilled labor, which makes it an attractive option for all partners.”
During his speech, he asserted, “The world is for EVs that proclaim, ‘Made in India!'” Yet, he seemed particularly enthusiastic about hybrids. Modi appreciated Maruti Suzuki’s swift progress in transforming older Indian trucks and ambulances into hybrid vehicles.
He highlighted the significance of manufacturing EV batteries domestically, emphasizing that India has depended heavily on imports for too long. Modi cautioned against the fragility of international supply chains and praised the incentives offered through his “Make in India” program as both a boon for industry and a matter of national security.
At the factory’s inauguration, Modi pointed out that the upcoming focus for India would be semiconductors, announcing plans for six new semiconductor factories to be established soon, with government support for the industry’s growth.
Additionally, he spoke fondly about the longstanding relationship between India and Japan, asserting, “Japan will be a reliable partner as we strive toward our goals for 2047.” He encouraged the audience in Hansalpur to adopt “Swadeshi,” a term that embodies the spirit of self-sufficiency.
Modi remarked that regardless of foreign investment or currency, products made in India, such as those from Suzuki, should embody the essence of local craftsmanship.
Despite these advancements, India and Japan still have substantial ground to cover to catch up with China’s heavily subsidized EV industry. By early 2025, China is projected to account for over 60% of global EV production and 75% of battery manufacturing. Notably, China boasts around 200 EV brands, with BYD—the largest Chinese automaker—having registered 2.4 million new vehicles last year, contrasting with Tesla’s 1.8 million units, which is the most successful U.S. brand.
