Meta and the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) have released a joint whitepaper and playbook detailing how digital adoption is reshaping consumer behaviour and preferences in India’s automotive sector. The report underscores how digitalisation is driving sector growth and offers strategies for transforming OEMs and dealerships nationwide.

In 2023, Meta and FADA launched the ‘Move with Meta’ programme, designed to upskill over 3,000 auto dealers across India. The initiative equips dealers with tools to enhance their social media presence, digitise customer engagement, and optimise lead generation through Meta platforms.

The programme has surpassed expectations, achieving a 3 times increase in dealer digitisation and training over 6,000 dealers through hyperlocal efforts, doubling its initial target. Combined with pre-programme efforts, a total of 10,000 dealers have now been upskilled.

Results have been significant, with a 32 percent improvement in lead generation efficiency reported by participants. The initiative has also contributed to improved sales performance for leading automotive OEMs across India, marking a major milestone in the sector’s digital evolution.

FADA President C S Vigneshwar said, “At FADA, our vision is to empower dealers nationwide with the right digital tools and insights to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. Through our partnership with Meta, we’ve not only exceeded our commitment of upskilling 3,000 dealers—surpassing 6,000—but we’ve also seen a 3 times increase in digitisation and a marked 32 percent improvement in lead generation efficiency. This whitepaper underscores the potential of AI, Reels, and messaging platforms such as WhatsApp to strengthen customer relationships and drive growth. We look forward to scaling this collaboration further, bridging the digital gap in automotive retail, ensuring that dealers across India are future-ready, and remain agile in these dynamic times.”

Director Auto, CPG and D2C for Meta in India Saugato Bhowmik said, “Our platforms and products are well positioned to enable rapid and efficient digital customer acquisition and engagement for auto dealers in a hyperlocal manner. Over the last two years we’ve upskilled nearly 10,000 dealers along with FADA to digitize their outreach and experiences through our unique hyperlocal solutions and key products ranging from Reels and AI to messaging. We’re thrilled to deepen our partnership with FADA and take on the ambitious target of upskilling 5000 more dealers in the next 2 years. This program has not only benefitted thousands of auto dealers but also proven to drive strong sales results for leading OEMs.”

Auto OEMs have reported strong sales and lead generation impact because of the program.

Group Head of Marketing at Hyundai Motor India Limited, Virat Khullar, said “We’re excited to see outstanding business results through our partnership with Meta and OnlineSales on the Hyperlocal program. Together, we’ve developed a custom model that efficiently onboarded over 600 dealers in record time. In H2 '24, Meta’s hyperlocal program drove a remarkable 37% growth in sales compared to H1, while delivering 29% reduction in Cost per Retail.  As we move forward, we’re eager to scale this partnership further, leveraging cutting-edge AI and messaging solutions to unlock even greater opportunities.”

Chief Marketing Officer of Auto at Mahindra and Mahindra Limited, Manjari Upadhye, said “Our partnership with Meta has helped amplify the impact of our passenger vehicle launches. Mahindra has leveraged the best and latest in technology to drive launch impact through Meta’s family of Apps. Some of the key activations include leveraging WhatsApp for Thar ROXX launch, using Partnership ads for driving consideration for XUV 700 (Intent went up +3.3 pts) and the Auto Industry’s first chat-based car configurator on Messenger and Instagram Direct for XUV 3XO, which saw 29% increase in conversation volumes. Our collaboration with Meta has driven significant impact, leading to bookings and sales, and setting new benchmarks in the industry.”

Key Insights from the Auto Playbook 2025

Meta’s influence in driving discovery & evaluation, powered by AI: 72 percent of new automotive buyers who were surveyed in this research discovered the brand on the Meta family of apps. Further, 69 percent stated that the Meta family of apps played a role in their purchase decision.

WhatsApp Leads Buyer-Dealer Communication: Among new automobile buyers, 48 percent used WhatsApp to directly connect with dealerships for vehicle availability inquiries, making it the most preferred communication channel. Moreover, 47 percent expressed interest in receiving service reminders via messaging platforms.

Advantage+ Placements Revolutionizing Advertising: To improve cost per lead and lead volume by Meta for their Hyperlocal dealer campaigns, Hyundai India, used AI-powered Advantage+ Placements to place their dealer ads across all Meta surfaces. They saw 18 percent an increase in Lead Volume and 34 percent decrease in Cost Per Lead.

Reels and Creator Content Drive Purchase Decisions: 72 percent of automotive buyers find creator content on Instagram Reels helpful for vehicle evaluation, with 41 percent regularly engaging with vehicle-related Reels. By partnering with creators, dealers can build authenticity and amplify their reach.

The Indian arm of Klöckner DESMA Elastomertechnik GmbH (Germany), which is a leading manufacturer of injection moulding machines for the elastomer industry, has announced the appointment of Nitish Agarwal as its Joint Manager Director, effective 2 December 2024.
With over two decades of expertise in the rubber extrusion industry and energy industries, Agarwal in his new position will steer Kloeckner Desma Machinery Pvt Ltd (DESMA India) towards achieving its long-term goals while fostering a culture of excellence and sustainability.  
This is the second time that Agarwal has joined the Ahmedabad-based company. In 1996, he began his career as a ‘company trainee’ in the company’s Delhi office. He worked with for five years to become well verse with the company’s values. 
To succeed Mankodi who retires in May 2025 after steering DESMA India to greater heights for the last 30 years, Agarwal brings with him a wealth of experience and proven track record in strategic leadership, operational excellence and business development. 
Mankodi announced the succession plan regarding him and Agarwal recently on behalf of Dr Michael Zaun, Managing Director, Kloeckner DESMA Elastomer Technique (and Chairman, Kloeckner Desma Machinery Pvt Ltd); Mahendra Patel, Director, DESMA India, and Bhavin Shah, Director, DESMA India.

On the occasion of International Day of Education, a short film titled ‘Prabhaar’—a poignant narrative promoting girl child education – was released. Fleetguard Filters (FFPL) supported the film as part of its CSR initiative. Directed by Rahul Panshikar and inspired by a true story of Heena Mistry, the film ‘Prabhaar’ sheds light on the deeply ingrained patriarchal attitudes that hinder the educational aspirations of young girls in certain communities.
The film revolves around the journey of Neena, a determined young girl who defies societal norms and overcomes significant hardships in her quest for education and self-reliance, reflect the Pune-based company’s to address critical societal issues and foster inclusive development. It also highlights FFPL’s mission to create meaningful and sustainable impacts in the lives of local communities across India.
captures the resilience and indomitable spirit of Neena as she navigates the challenges posed by her environment, ‘Prabhaar’ is an emotionally charged storytelling.  
Speaking about the development and how FFPL came to support the film, the President of the company, Sanjay Kulkarni, said, “Today, the issue of girls' education is a serious issue at various levels in the country. Many problems such as the lack of toilets in schools stopping girls ' education after menstruation and the patriarchal male mentality, hinder the education of girls. We under FFPL’s CSR have constructed toilets for girls in over 30/35 schools so far.” He also expressed that when mothers stand firmly by their girls, girls get the strength to face problems and can progress well in academics.  He also highlighted the need to shift the community mindset regarding girls' education.

The second day of Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 witnessed the launch of 56 new products from 22 different brands at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi and 5 launches at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka. On the second day, VinFast Auto India announced the launch of its first two electric vehicles for the Indian market, the all-electric Premium SUVs, the VF 7 and VF 6.

 BMW India launched the all-new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack at an ex-showroom price of INR 5,590,000 and BMW X3 at an ex-showroom price of INR 7,580,000 – INR 7,780,000. Additionally, BMW Motorrad India launched two new bikes in the Indian market, the new BMW S 1000 RR and the BMW R 1300 GS Adventure. The S 1000 RR supersport bike will be available in India at an introductory ex-showroom price starting from INR 2,110,000. While the R 1300 GS Adventure (Base) introductory ex-showroom price will start from INR . 2,295,000.

JSW MG Motor India showcased nine advanced models, launching MG Majestor. The showcased products include hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, battery electric vehicles and internal combustion engine. Highlights included the IM5 sedan, IM6 electric SUV, MG HS PHEV and MG7 Trophy Edition, showcasing cutting-edge technology and sustainable mobility​.

Eka Mobility showcased India’s largest ever range of electric commercial vehicles, which includes over 11 distinct platforms spanning electric buses, trucks and small commercial vehicles (SCVs). Launching the brand new Eka Connect for the Indian market. Its bus portfolio included Eka Coach, Eka 12m, Eka 9m, Eka LF (Low Floor) and Eka 9M. Electric trucks include Eka 55-tonne and Eka 7-tonne, while Eka 3.5-tonne, 2.5-tonne, 1.5-tonne, EKA three-wheeler Cargo, Eka 6S, and Eka 3S were unveiled under its SCV Range.

BYD India launched BYD Sealion 7 pure performance eSUV at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Additionally, BYD India also showcased the BYD Sealion 6, BYD Super Plug-in Hybrid EV with DM-i technology and the stunning Yangwang U8.

JBM Electric Vehicles launched four all-new electric buses on the second day of the Auto Expo 2025, ranging from luxury coach and medical mobile unit to electric tarmac coach, among others. Highlights of the launch were Galaxy; electric luxury coach, Xpress; an intercity bus, e-MediLife; Low Floor Electric Medical Mobile Unit, and e-SkyLife; 9-meter electric tarmac coach.

Montra Electric (TI Clean Mobility) launched ‘Eviator’ (e SCV) and Super Cargo (electric three-Wheeler) in the presence of the entire leadership team of the brand.

Hyundai Motor Company launched two concept models of advanced electric three-wheeler and micro four-wheeler on the second day. Along with exploring contributions to the last-mile mobility market in India together with TVS Motor Company.

Pinnacle Industries launched its next-generation ambulance range at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The new range includes three cutting-edge ambulance models: AD-Gen Ultra, AD-Gen Ambulance and Neonatal Ambulance.

Numeros Motors today launched its multipurpose and reliable e-scooter ‘Diplos Max’ at an introductory ex-showroom price (Bangalore) of INR 109,999 including the PM e-drive scheme. Alongside, the company unveiled another unique platform which will be India’s first bike-scooter crossover.

India’s first solar electric car ‘Eva’ was launched by Vayve Mobility at an introductory price of INR 325,000 (ex-showroom). The solar electric car will be available in three different options: 9 kilowatt-hour (Whr), 12 kWhr and 18 kWhr with prices ranging between INR 325,000 and Rs 599,000 (ex-showroom).

SML Isuzu launched the Hiroi.EV while presenting four other products including Aasai MX, premium Hiroi bus, ATS-125 multi stretcher ambulance and the Samrat XT Plus tipper.

Cummins Group in India announced the launch of its next-generation HELM (Higher Efficiency, Lower emissions, Multiple fuels) engine platforms with the high-performance L10 engine, along with, an advanced hydrogen fuel delivery system (FDS) with Type IV on-vehicle storage vessels and the innovative B6.7N natural gas engine.

Godawari Electric Motors Pvt. unveiled new additions to its product portfolio at the Bharat Mobility Global Show 2025. The company unveiled the Eblu Feo Z, Eblu Feo DX and launched the Eblu Rozee ECO. The Eblu Rozee ECO is priced at INR 295,999 (ex-showroom). To improve customer convenience, the company also announced the release of the EbluCare app. An innovative smartphone app called EbluCare has been designed to managing electric vehicles easier.

Sarla Aviation unveiled its first-ever product and India’s first flying taxi- Shunya on the second day.

Motovolt Mobility unveiled a range of electric vehicles. The line-up includes the Hyper One, India’s first digital pedal motorbike and the HUM NYC, a multi-utility speed pedelec tailored for demanding last-mile delivery needs. The versatile M7 and its sporty variant, M7 Rally cater to both logistics and personal commuting, while the innovative CLIP, a portable e-bike conversion kit, enables seamless e-mobility for existing bicycles.

Olectra GreenTech Limited unveiled a 12-meter blade battery platform, a 9-meter city bus, 12-meter coach bus and blade battery chassis. These products are underpinned by cutting-edge technology and inclusive design.

Omega Seiki launched the M1KA 1.0 electric truck, priced at INR 699,000, at the Bharat Mobility 2025 exhibition. The company also unveiled the upcoming M1KA 3.0 model and presented the upgraded 2025 Stream City, a next-generation electric passenger vehicle.

Components Show

On the first day of ‘The Components Show’, the exhibitors launched over five products and unveiled over seven automotive solutions.

Amongst the launches, Icon Autocraft introduced three cutting-edge automotive solutions: TruckMaster, an advanced wheel alignment system for trucks and buses; SX 119 Pro Duo LNL, the ultimate tyre changer; and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for cars.

Supreme launched advanced automotive audio products, including the: Morel Supremo Special Edition, a flagship speaker system featuring underhung voice coils and copper sleeves to reduce harmonic distortion, Morel New Active DSP Integration Solution, a compact amplifier that ensures seamless integration with OEM systems and Onkyo Range of Wiring Accessories for high-fidelity audio setups.

ASK Automotive showcased a range of cutting-edge products and technological advancements, including the launch of the AISIN ASK Product Range. AISIN ASK India Private Limited, a joint venture of ASK Automotive Limited, introduced innovative passenger car products for the Independent Aftermarket sector, marking ASK Automotive's debut in the 4-wheeler passenger car market across India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.

ZF announced the India launch of its next-generation digital fleet management platform, Scalar which offers cutting-edge features to optimise the operations of commercial fleets, enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability for both passenger and cargo transport. They also showcased their X-by-Wire for the first time in India, enabling greater vehicle customization and enhanced safety features.

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) inaugurated the 13th edition of the Auto Summit 2025, its flagship biennial convention, now an annual event aligned with Bharat Mobility, the Global Expo. Themed "Safe, Efficient & Sustainable: Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility," the summit highlights the Indian retail automobile industry's progress and outlook.

Dubbed the "Maha Kumbh" of India’s automobile retail industry, the summit welcomed Union Minister for Heavy Industries H.D. Kumaraswamy as the Chief Guest with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Jairam Gadkari, addressing the gathering virtually as the Guest of Honour.

A prestigious platform for manufacturers, government officials, dealers, industry analysts, academia and thought leaders, the FADA Auto Summit fosters discussions on auto retail's evolving dynamics, emerging opportunities and strategic visions.

Auto Summit 2025 featured 75 distinguished speakers across 20 sessions, providing stakeholders an unmatched opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, share insights and explore sustainable growth strategies for the sector's future.

Recognising the automotive industry’s contribution to the Indian economy, Kumaraswamy said, “The 13th Auto Summit is a pivotal moment for India’s automotive sector, focused on the theme "Safe, Efficient & Sustainable: Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility." Safety remains a core priority, with an emphasis on enhancing road safety standards, integrating advanced driver-assistance systems, and improving infrastructure. Achieving this requires collaboration among manufacturers, dealers, policymakers, and consumers to reduce accidents and protect lives. Efficiency is also at the forefront, as evidenced by the 9% growth in vehicle sales in 2024, reaching 26.1 million units. This growth reflects the industry's focus on cutting-edge technologies that streamline manufacturing and enhance customer experiences across all segments.”

He added, “Sustainability is now a necessity. In 2024, electric vehicle (EV) sales surged to 14,08,245 units. Together, these efforts, supported by FADA and the government, are positioning India as a global leader in safe, efficient, and sustainable mobility, ensuring the sector meets both consumer needs and global challenges like climate change and road safety.”

Speaking at the occassion Gadkari stated , “The Indian automobile sector is witnessing a remarkable transformation, growing from INR 7 lakh crore to INR 22 lakh crore, now surpassing Japan globally, and becoming the fastest-growing economy in the world. As the 5th largest economy, India is on track to become the 3rd largest, backed by its immense skilled and youth workforce. The country's potential in raw materials, especially at reasonable rates, positions us to lead in industries ranging from 2Ws and tractors to alternative fuel options.”

He added, “India is not just leading domestically and now has a strong foothold in the international market, with 50% of the two-wheeler segment being exported. The focus on clean, sustainable energy—ranging from ethanol and biodiesel to hydrogen and electric—underscores our commitment to a greener future. As we work towards reducing our dependency on fossil fuels, we’re creating employment opportunities for millions, with the automobile sector alone poised to generate up to 4 crore jobs. The industry’s future looks promising, with a competitive edge driven by research, innovation, and the focus on quality. We are committed to making India an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, achieving self-sufficiency, while also positioning ourselves as global leaders. Initiatives like the pilot project in Nagpur for ropeway cable cars and flash-charging buses highlight the industry's focus on cutting-edge technology for urban mass transport. The potential for growth is enormous, as we continue to expand both the domestic and export markets. With strong research, investment in institutions like IITs, and a robust focus on sustainability, India is well on its way to being a global powerhouse in the automobile sector."

Alludng to the occassion, FADA President C S Vigneshwar said, “As we gather today at FADA’s 13th Auto Summit, it is inspiring to reflect on the significant progress our industry has made in shaping India’s automotive landscape. Over the past year, the sector has displayed remarkable resilience, achieving a 9% growth in vehicle retail. This success highlights the strength of consumer confidence and the dedication of all stakeholders in the ecosystem. This year the theme of the summit, ‘Safe, Efficient & Sustainable: Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility,’ underscores the collective responsibility we share to shape an automotive future that is not only technologically advanced but also mindful of our environmental and societal obligations. As vehicle penetration increases, it is essential that we prioritize road safety, enhance operational efficiency, and accelerate our transition to sustainable mobility solutions. These are not just goals but imperatives for the industry to thrive and for India to emerge as a global leader in mobility.”

He added, “The successful implementation of FAME I and II, along with the ongoing PM eDrive initiative, are crucial steps in India's journey towards cleaner and greener vehicles, and FADA remains committed to supporting these efforts.”