"WE WILL BE LAUNCHING NEW EVs IN THE NEXT 8-12 MONTHS"

Mercedes-Benz has a very aggressive roadmap for EVs in India. In an exclusive interaction with Rahul Kamat, Vyankatesh Kulkarni, MercedesBenz's Executive Director and Head of Operations, said that the company will be launching new EVs from their global portfolio suited to the Indian market.

- Rahul Kamat

This involves launching electric versions of popular models tailored to Indian consumer preferences and market demands. Kulkarni further mentioned that Mercedes-Benz recognises the importance of a robust charging infrastructure and have established an extensive ultra-fast charging network of over 140 chargers.

Mercedes-Benz’s manufacturing capabilities in India are quite remarkable and have shown substantial evolution over the years. Initially, the company started with assembling cars in India, but it has since progressed significantly. How has the company’s manufacturing prowess evolved over the years?

Mercedes-Benz India’s facility in Chakan is a global benchmark in quality as well as technological advancement and has remained the backbone of our growth in India. Spread over 100 acres, we have the largest installed production capacity for any luxury carmaker in India.

Currently, we can produce up to 20,000 units annually, which can be doubled to 40,000 units. Our flexible processes, high level of refinement and usage of advanced technology allow us to conform with the most stringent global standards. Our assembly lines are designed to accommodate multiple vehicle models, allowing us to seamlessly transition between internal combustion engines and electric cars. Today, iconic models like the S Class, our flagship luxury saloon EQS 580 and ultra-luxurious offerings like the MercedesMaybach are ‘Made in India’.

In multiple cases, we have been the first market after mother plants to make cars starting from M-Class (first plant after USA) to Mercedes-Maybach, and of course the EQS 580. We are also the only country in the world to make Long Wheelbase E-Class in RHD. These milestones are a testament to our manufacturing prowess and commitment to ‘Make in India.’