SHIFTING GEARS: ACMA President on India’s Mobility Revolution

At the Bharat Mobility Global Expo (BMGE) – Component Show, India’s largest ever mobility showcase, Shradha Suri Marwah, President of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA), shared her insights on the sector’s transformation, the country’s growing role on the global stage, and the future of mobility. During an engaging conversation with MOTORINDIA, she highlighted key aspects of the event, its record-breaking scale, and the increasing significance of India in the global mobility landscape.

A Record-Breaking Show

This year’s Bharat Mobility Component Show has surpassed expectations, marking a major milestone in India’s mobility sector. “It’s the largest component show India has ever seen,” said Shradha Suri Marwah. “With over 70,000 square meters of space, 1,000+ exhibitors, and five international pavilions, the scale of this event speaks volumes about the industry’s vibrancy and innovation.” The show has become a platform for manufacturers to showcase cutting-edge technology and engage with global partners.

The Shift from Automotive to Mobility

Shradhaemphasized the ongoing transformation in the automotive sector. “We are pivoting from traditional automotive manufacturing to a broader mobility ecosystem,” she said. “This shift is driving a wave of innovation across product and process technology, design, digitization, and skilling. India is quickly emerging as a global hub for these advancements.” The rise of electric vehicles, autonomous systems, and connected mobility solutions has become the focal point of this transition.

India’s Growing Global Role

With the government’s increased support for the sector, Marwah spoke about India’s expanding influence on the global stage. “India is no longer just a local player; we are becoming a hub for the world,” she said. Highlighting the growing international interest in India, she pointed to the substantial export figures of the sector, which saw $21.2 billion in FY24 exports, contributing to the country’s ambition to scale up to $100 billion in exports within the next decade. “We are seeing a lot of international companies exploring partnerships and even considering setting up operations here,” she added.

Navigating Challenges

While there is immense optimism, Shradhaacknowledged the challenges that remain. “The global geopolitical situation and supply chain disruptions are factors beyond our control,” she noted. “However, India’s adaptability has enabled us to overcome these hurdles. Our ability to pivot and find solutions in the face of adversity has been a defining feature of the Indian mobility sector.”

Despite the challenges, the Indian industry continues to grow, with Shradha reporting an 11% growth in the first half of the year. “Exports are outpacing imports, which is a positive sign for the sector,” she observed. “The government’s infrastructure support is also playing a crucial role in driving growth.”

The Road Ahead

Looking towards the future, Shradha expressed optimism about the sector’s trajectory. “The outlook is positive. We are seeing increasing international curiosity about India, and the government is supporting our efforts to build a strong, sustainable mobility ecosystem,” she said. “While headwinds like geopolitics and supply chain issues exist, they are challenges that we will continue to navigate.”

Quote to be highlighted

“The shift from automotive to mobility is not just a trend—it’s a transformation that is reshaping our industry and positioning India at the forefront of the global mobility revolution.”