Indian Auto Components Industry Grows To $33.8 Billion In First-Half of 2022-23: ACMA

Mahindra launches the XUV 3XO

Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) announced the findings of its industry performance review today, for the first half of fiscal 2022-23. The turnover of the automotive components industry stood at $33.8 billion for the period April 2022 to September 2022, registering a growth of 34.8 percent, over the first half of the previous year. As per ACMA, the aftermarket in H1 2022-23 witnessed a growth of eight percent to $5.4 billion from $5.3 billion in H1 2021-22.

Commenting on the performance of the auto components industry in India, Vinnie Mehta, Director General, ACMA, said, “With vehicle sales and exports gaining traction, month-on-month, the auto components industry demonstrated a growth of 34.8 percent. Steady growth was witnessed in all the segments, from supply to OEMs to exports to the aftermarket. Exports grew by 8.6 percent to $10.1 billion while imports grew by 17.2 percent to $10.1 billion. The aftermarket, estimated at INR 420.07 billion, also witnessed a growth of eight percent. Component sales to OEMs in the domestic market grew by 46 percent to INR 2.23 trillion.”

Mehta went on to point out that Europe and North America remain the two primary export destinations. Exports to the CIS and Baltics fell sharply by 66 percent due to the war in Ukraine and the sanctions imposed in Russia, he said. “There has been a growth in electronics and electricals, thanks to the growing electric mobility,” Mehta added. “The usage of vehicles, for personal as well as commercial use, started to increase with recovery from the pandemic. The industry size surpassed pre-pandemic levels due to a combination of factors. For example, the surge in demand for new vehicles and used vehicles, shift in preferences towards larger/more powerful vehicles and an increase in commodity prices.”

Mehta also highlighted what holds good for the Indian auto components industry, like the domestic demand continuing to be strong, a focus on clean and new technology, new entrants in the mobility space, and more. He informed about aspects that do not work in favour of the industry and need to be overcome as well, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, the looming recession in Europe and the US, and high GST rates on auto components.

Sharing his insights, Sunjay Kapur, President, ACMA, and Chairman, Sona Comstar, said, “With vehicle sales across all segments reaching the pre-pandemic levels and moderation in the supply-side issues, such as availability of semiconductors, high input raw material costs and non-availability of containers, the auto components sector witnessed a steady growth in both domestic and the international markets in the first-half of FY2022-23. With the domestic manufacturing of vehicles and components gathering pace, imports also witnessed an uptick.”

Elaborating on the mood of the industry and outlook for the near to mid-term future, Kapur mentioned that going forward, he is optimistic that the current fiscal year will witness another good performance from the auto components sector. “Further, with growth in consumption of EVs, we are witnessing fast transformation of the auto components sector to be an integral part of the EV manufacturing supply chain,” he said. “The components industry is making steady investments as also acquiring technology companies. For a medium to long-term outlook, we need to be wary of the impending recession in Europe and the US as also the supply chain issues which are not fully behind us.”

Speaking about how the two-wheeler segment is flourishing, Kapur cited that the festive season was very positive for this segment. He explicated, “We hope that the two-wheeler segment will come back on the growth track. This segment is also giving speed in terms of electrification.”

With the Covid surge in China, Kapur shared that they have battened down the hatches. “We are well-prepared for scenarios where we see some kind of uncertainty,” he expressed. “Also, as we continue to localise and invest in new technologies, we hope to reduce our dependence on other countries.”

Kia India Hits 100th Green Workshop Milestone

Kia Green Workshop

Kia India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers in the country, has inaugurated its 100th Green Workshop, signalling a major commitment to sustainable aftersales service. The milestone facility, located at Bright Kia in Kanpur, follows the first Green Workshop launched in Rohtak in 2023.

The company's Green Workshop initiative is a key part of its environmental efforts and aims to expand the network to over 150 workshops by 2026.

Kia's Green Workshops are fitted with advanced sustainability measures, including rainwater harvesting, natural lighting and motion-sensor systems for greater energy efficiency. They also utilise effluent treatment plants, steam wash systems to cut water usage and waterless urinals.

Crucially, the 100 workshops collectively generate 7.9 MW of solar power. This renewable energy capacity allows Kia India to prevent nearly 9,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions each year, which the company states is equivalent to the absorption power of 450,000 mature trees. Kia has also implemented a comprehensive recycling programme for automotive waste such as used batteries and oil.

Atul Sood, Senior Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Kia India, said, “Achieving the milestone of 100 Green Workshops within a short span of two years underscores Kia India’s commitment to building a sustainable mobility ecosystem. Each workshop brings us closer to a world where progress doesn’t come at the planet’s cost. This initiative, alongside our portfolio of three EVs, is a significant reflection of our continued efforts to reduce environmental impact, enhance operational efficiency, and shape a cleaner, smarter mobility for our future generations.”

CarXpert To Expand Into Western India, Starting With Gujarat

CarXpert

Delhi-NCR-based CarXpert, a multi-brand car service network, is set to expand its footprint into the western Indian market, with a primary focus on Gujarat. The move aims to upgrade local, independent garages into professional service centres by providing them with modern tools, training and brand recognition.

The company's business model is designed to help local mechanics professionalise their operations. CarXpert provides standardised processes, diagnostic technology and skill development programs, allowing garages to offer more reliable service and build long-term customer trust.

Rachit Dhawan, Head of Department at CarXpert, said, “We are happy to announce our expansion plans to other parts of India. Gujarat is one of the growing markets for job creation. Many of these workshops operate without modern tools, standardised systems, or access to training. We are working to change this by giving these workshops an opportunity to become part of an organised, trusted network.”

With over 50 centres already operational in locations across northern India, the company's expansion into Gujarat will cater to the state's growing number of vehicle owners.

Manav Kapur

Manav Kapur, Director of Steelbird International, an automotive component supplier, has been appointed Chairman of the Aftermarket pillar of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA).

Kapur takes on this new responsibility after completing his tenure as Chairman of ACMA’s Young Business Leaders Forum (YBLF), where he was leading initiatives to strengthen industry engagement and build future leadership. Akhilesh Rai, Director, Suprajit Engineering, has succeeded Kapur as Chairman of YBLF.

“The Indian aftermarket is at an inflection point. With rising vehicle ownership, a growing focus on safety, and India’s expanding role in global mobility value chains, there is a tremendous opportunity to transform this sector. Our priority will be to drive initiatives that not only make India self-reliant but also position our aftermarket industry as a trusted global partner,” said Kapur.

The announcement comes alongside the appointment of Vikrampati Singhania, Managing Director, JK Fenner (India), as the new President of ACMA for 2025–26 and Sriram Viji, Managing Director, Brakes India, as President Designate.

Uno Minda Launches New Car Care Products For The Aftermarket Segment

Uno Minda

Tier 1 supplier Uno Minda has introduced its new line of car care products designed for the booming Indian automotive aftermarket. This strategic move responds to the increasing demand from Indian consumers for high-quality, DIY maintenance solutions for their vehicles.

The Indian car care market is expanding rapidly, fuelled by a growing number of vehicle owners with higher disposable incomes who are focused on maintaining the appearance and resale value of their cars. Consumers are also increasingly aware of the need for products that can protect their vehicles from India's diverse climate, from harsh monsoon rains to scorching summer heat.

The new product line from Uno Minda offers a wide variety of solutions for both interior and exterior car maintenance. The lineup includes a Car Exterior Wash Shampoo, a Waterless Wash for quick clean-ups and a Car Exterior Polish to give a radiant shine.

For interior care, the products include an Anti-Bacterial Interior Foam and Car AC Vent Hygiene Foam with silver nano technology to ensure a clean cabin. The range also features a Glass Anti-Fog Spray and a Windshield Cleaner Foam to improve visibility and safety during adverse weather conditions.

Karna Markan, Head of Sales & Distribution (Accessories) at Uno Minda, “Our entry into the Auto Care segment reflects Uno Minda's commitment to advancing alongside our customers. With the automotive care sector growing rapidly and consumers increasingly prioritising vehicle maintenance, there is a growing demand for trusted brands. The new car care line offers features for both internal and external applications. Internally, the Anti Fog Demister ensures windshields and windows remain clear of fog and mist, promoting safe driving in adverse weather and reducing eye fatigue. A highly effective foam cleaner removes dirt, grime, bugs, road residue and contaminants from car windshields, enhancing visibility and safety. Externally, the line includes a thorough car wash that gently cleans and restores the vehicle's paint, leaving it brilliantly gleaming and protected with a radiant gloss. These products are formulated with wash-active agents to effectively eliminate road debris, dust, oily residues and greasy contaminants without a trace, ensuring vehicles maintain their pristine appearance and durability."

The products are formulated with ‘wash-active agents’ to effectively remove road debris, dust and oily residues without damaging the vehicle's finish. They are also designed to be easy for consumers to use at home.