The discussions at the 64th Annual Convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) centred on the critical role of collaboration between the government and the automotive industry to drive sustainable growth, aligning with India’s ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The convention also included a session focused on technological innovations as catalysts for growth in sustainable mobility. S. Sandilya, Past President of SIAM and Group Chairman of Royal Enfield, remarked that advancements in battery technology and hydrogen energy are paving the way for environmentally friendly vehicles. He highlighted that software-driven vehicles are transforming the automotive industry by enhancing safety and the user experience.
Joykumar Thokchom, Chief Technology Officer at Sakuu Corporation, noted that India is well-positioned to become a leader in lithium-ion battery manufacturing, with solid-state chemistries offering high energy density expected to be commercialised by 2033.
Jesse Schneider, CEO of ZEV Station LLC, spoke on the potential of green hydrogen as a transitional technology, aligning with global environmental standards. He stressed that carbon-neutral fuels like hydrogen are crucial for sustainable transportation in the near future.
The convention’s concluding session centred on India’s self-reliance in the automotive supply chain and the potential for growth in global markets. Vinod Aggarwal, President of SIAM, emphasised the importance of reducing imports and boosting local manufacturing through the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Aggarwal highlighted SIAM’s efforts to promote domestic production by showcasing key components, including electronics and electrical items, encouraging investments within India.
Sunil Barthwal, Secretary of the Department of Commerce, commended SIAM and ACMA (Automotive Component Manufacturers Association) for their contributions to the automotive value chain. He pointed out that the strong demand in markets such as the US, EU, and Africa positions India well to expand its export capacity, as the country aims for net-zero emissions by 2070.
In her remarks, Shradha Suri Marwah, President of ACMA, emphasised the need for supply chain resilience to maintain India’s competitive edge. She highlighted the association’s efforts to increase exports and localisation, aiming to position India as a global leader in automotive technology and innovation.
