With the worldwide push towards environmentally friendly transportation, JLR India is diligently observing the demand for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in India. JLR India Managing Director, Rajan Amba, highlighted the unique demands of the Indian market, influenced by a variety of factors, and emphasized JLR’s dedication to meeting the high expectations of luxury consumers as they become more selective in their technology choices.
Currently, the Jaguar I-Pace is the only electric model offered by the company in India. Yet, JLR has plans to start bookings for the new Range Rover BEV by year’s end. This move leverages the success of the modular longitudinal architecture (MLA) platform, which presently supports the internal combustion engine (ICE) Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models. Amba underscored that the MLA platform allows for the production of ICE, hybrid, and BEV Range Rovers, customized to meet the demands of various markets.
Amba remarked, “Thus, as the demand and trends in the Indian market evolve, we will accordingly strategize the entry of our EVs into India.” This strategy aligns with the broader vision of the British automaker, a subsidiary of Tata Motors since 2008, to evolve into a contemporary luxury vehicle business and achieve net zero carbon status by 2039.
Positive Outlook for JLR India Sales Growth
Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, JLR India achieved its highest-ever sales in the April-June quarter of this fiscal year, retailing 1,048 units. This marks a 102% growth compared to the same period in the previous financial year. Amba attributed this success to a remarkable 209% increase in sales of the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, and Defender models.
The rapid expansion of the Indian luxury vehicle segment is fueled by consistent domestic economic growth and an increasing number of high and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. According to Amba, these factors position JLR favorably to maintain its positive growth trajectory in the Indian market throughout the remainder of the financial year.
Strategic Expansion and Engaging Customer Experiences
JLR India plans to broaden its sales network to boost sales and cater to the potential of its brands in India. Amba shared, “We currently have a network of 25 sales outlets and 27 service centers across India and are certainly looking to make a calibrated expansion over the next few years to meet the potential for our brands in India.”
Besides network expansion, JLR India is creating emotionally engaging experiences for customers year-round. Amba noted that this strategy fosters enduring relationships with clients and is crucial for enhancing JLR’s brand equity in the Indian market as a contemporary luxury experiential brand.
Launch of New Range Rover Velar
JLR India recently introduced the new Range Rover Velar, priced at INR 94.3 lakh, available with both petrol and diesel powertrain options. Amba revealed, “Our order book for Velar is already at 750 units, and we plan to accelerate the Velar’s volume potential in India to over 1,500 units annually.”
As JLR India vigilantly observes BEV demand and plans its market entry, it is clear that the automaker is dedicated to offering a diverse range of top-tier luxury vehicles while contributing to a greener future.
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