Significant advancements in various sectors have marked India's journey since gaining independence in 1947, and the automotive industry is no exception. From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the largest automobile markets in the world, India has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the decades. This article delves into the evolution of the Indian automotive industry post-independence and explores the impact of the "Make in India" initiative on this crucial sector.
THE EARLY DAYS: A BUMPY START
In the early years after independence, India's automotive industry was in its infancy. A combination of limited resources, technology, and government restrictions meant that the country heavily relied on imports for vehicles and automotive components. Only a few manufacturers operated in the country, catering mostly to the elite class.
However, with the government's focus on industrialisation and economic development, the tide started to turn. In the 1980s and 1990s, a wave of liberalisation swept the nation, and foreign investments and collaborations were welcomed. This opened the doors for multinational automotive giants to enter the Indian market, bringing with them advanced technology and global expertise.
A MILESTONE IN EVOLUTION: THE ECONOMIC REFORMS
This story is from the August 2023 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August 2023 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
No It's Not An SUV
But an FUV Ferrari Utility Vehicle
THE STORY OF THE MULTI RALLY
Why this Ducati is the ultimate one-pony horse
INFINITI FX VETTEL EDITION
The list of special edition road cars bearing the name of F1 world champions is short, but not short enough.
BIKE SALES ANALYSIS THE WINNERS AND LOSERS
The Indian two-wheeler industry continues to grow at a rapid pace. India runs on two-wheelers and this age-old adage has stood the test of time.
(2004) MG XPOWER SV-R VS MG4 XPOWER (2023)
The 429bhp Chinese hot hatch meets its troubled, V8-engined namesake. Is there any relation?
RICCI'S GARAGE
Reportes Mark's pondering the biggest question of all: single or twin turbos for his GT-R rebuild
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS
A new book gets unfiltered access to BMW Design’s cutting room floor. These are the projects that could have been...
THE LAST OF US
The Audi R8 is no more. TG was there to witness the final build, and we couldn't help but get involved...
FUTURE PROOF
The Chinese auto industry is moving at pace. And it means business
PURE KLASSE
Last year saw the saloon version of BMW’s Vision Neue Klasse, now here comes the SUV...