Policy support and innovation to power next automotive leap

Rising disposable incomes are significantly reshaping vehicle ownership patterns across India. Rajiv Gandhi, Chief Executive Officer of Maruti Suzuki India, also spoke about how, in urban markets, consumers are increasingly upgrading to premium vehicles equipped with advanced safety, connectivity, and comfort features.

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How do you see the growth trajectory of the Indian automobile industry over the next 5-10 years?

The Indian automobile industry is set for robust and sustained expansion over the next decade. As the world’s third-largest automotive market, India's growth will be supported by strong domestic consumption, rising export opportunities, and increasing integration into global supply chains. What makes this phase particularly distinctive is that growth will be multi-dimensional rather than linear. The industry is evolving through the adoption of diverse powertrain technologies—including EVs, hybrids, CNG, and alternative fuels-alongside rapid digitalisation, software integration, and a strong policy push for domestic manufacturing and localisation. Beyond volume growth, India is steadily moving up the value chain, positioning itself not just as a manufacturing base but as an emerging hub for automotive technology, engineering, and innovation.

How is rising disposable income influencing vehicle ownership trends across urban and rural markets?