The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), in collaboration with Guidance Tamil Nadu, the invest promotion and single window clearance arm of Government of Tamil Nadu, hosted an event in Chennai titled ‘Unveiling India’s New Automotive Hub: Where Wheels of Progress Turn,’ on March 20, 2025, in Chennai. The event brought together senior government officials, global and Indian automotive leaders, and key stakeholders for a forward-looking discussion on Tamil Nadu’s emergence as India’s next big automotive and EV manufacturing hub.
Dr. TRB Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu, the Chief Guest at the event, delivered the keynote address. Reaffirming the state’s commitment to becoming India’s automotive capital, he remarked: “Tamil Nadu is not just attracting investments, we are building the future of mobility—cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive. With a large skilled workforce, progressive policies, and a strong commitment to sustainability and women’s empowerment, Tamil Nadu is ready for the next big leap.”
Commending the Government of Tamil Nadu for its progressive policies, Shradha Suri Marwah, President, ACMA & CMD, Subros Ltd, said, “the state has consistently been at the forefront of industry’s transformation. It is no surprise that Tamil Nadu has become a magnet for both domestic and global automotive players. The state today boasts of over 400 auto component manufacturers. Events like these are instrumental in bringing together industry and government to align on the industry’s growth and development agenda.”
Darez Ahamed, MD, Guidance Tamil Nadu, announced Thoothukudi as ‘India’s New Automotive Hub’ and showcased Tamil Nadu’s strategic focus on EV manufacturing, industry-academia partnerships, and investor-friendly infrastructure.
One of the highlights of the event was an exclusive fireside chat with senior leadership of VinFast Auto Ltd., moderated by Vinnie Mehta, Director General, ACMA. Sang Yu Won, Purchasing Head, and Prakalathan Tirupathi, Project Head, VinFast India, shared their strategic vision and outlined VinFast’s expectations from the Indian supply ecosystem. They emphasized the company’s commitment to EV innovation and the critical role Tamil Nadu will play in its India journey.
Other notable speakers on the occasion included Vikrampati Singhania, Vice President, ACMA & MD, JK Fenner; Sriram Viji, Chairman, ACMA Southern Region & MD, Brakes India, and Susanta Kumar Purohit, Chairman, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority who acknowledged the support of the Government of Tamil Nadu, participating companies, and all stakeholders for their contribution towards making Tamil Nadu a much sought-after automotive investment destination.
This high-impact engagement not only showcased Tamil Nadu’s capabilities but also marked a turning point in positioning the state as a key player in India’s automotive and electric mobility revolution.
