A smaller Indian cockpit electronics market has significant growth potential and requires modernisation. Indian suppliers are ready, writes Ashish Bhatia.
The global automotive cockpit electronics market is expected to grow significantly, increasing from approximately USD 42.5 billion in 2023 to around USD 81.9 billion by 2031. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 8.8 per cent. This optimistic growth outlook is driven by rapid technological advancements such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), improved infotainment and connectivity features, and the rising incorporation of electric and autonomous vehicles. In contrast, the Indian cockpit electronics market is considerably smaller. Recent market studies estimate the value of the Indian Cockpit Electronics Market to be around USD 210–220 million in 2022, with projections indicating it could reach approximately USD 296 million by 2031, yielding a modest CAGR of about 3.9 per cent.
Ashok minda, CEO Spark Minda
Akash Minda,Executive Director,Minda Corporation Limited 
This gap is largely due to differences in vehicle penetration and consumer demand. While mature markets in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific are heavily investing in advanced cockpit systems, India’s cost-sensitive market and the lower average cost of vehicles are believed to limit the domestic adoption of these technologies. However, with ongoing government initiatives aimed at enhancing digitalisation, a push for electrification, and increasing consumer aspirations, the Indian market is expected to experience gradual growth.
India may currently represent a small segment of the global cockpit electronics market, but it has significant long-term growth potential. This was evident at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo – The Components Show, where leading companies like Minda Corporation Ltd. (Minda Corp), the flagship company of Spark Minda, showcased their advancements. The booth, inaugurated by Ashok Minda, Chairman & Group CEO, and Aakash Minda, Executive Director of Minda Corporation, attracted Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) interest, reflecting the company’s influence.
Industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to witness Minda Corporation’s transformative approach, which reinforces its position as a key player in pioneering automotive technology for a smarter, greener future. The theme of the exhibition, “Innovating Mobility, Powering Possibilities,” aligns with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiatives, highlighting Spark Minda’s commitment to shaping the future of next-generation mobility. With a diverse portfolio of advanced components, Spark Minda emphasises its vision for driving sustainable innovation in the automotive components sector.
Spark Minda presented its advanced 15W wireless charging solutions tailored for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers, along with its body control module. The display included a seat belt retarder unit and a chassis control unit. The showcased sensor portfolio featured a variety of sensors, including the soot module sensor, rain and light sensor, TMAP sensor, TPMS sensor (with RF and BLE capabilities), exhaust gas temperature sensor, cylinder head temperature sensor, engine oil temperature sensor, and rotary position sensor.
The instrument cluster section showcased a diverse range of products. This included a five-inch TFT cluster designed for commercial vehicles and a 3.5-inch TFT cluster specifically for tractors. Additionally, LCD clusters for tractors and Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) were presented. The display featured hybrid clusters, TFT clusters for Passenger Vehicles (PVs), and clusters designed for 4×4 off-road vehicles. A standout attraction was the three-screen seamless 12.3-inch cluster. HD displays utilising mini LED technology were also exhibited. The innovation in mechatronics was evident through showcases such as the door handle with an integrated LF antenna and switch. To meet the growing demand for sunroofs, the booth displayed both single-panel and panoramic sunroofs (BLIS).
The showcase included various innovative technologies such as vehicle displays, electronic mirrors, and seat actuators. Notable components featured were 2.5 kW and 3.5 kW DC-DC converters, a 600-watt battery charger, a 3-in-1 integrated controller, an NFC-enabled charger, and a cell contact system integrated within a complete wiring harness.
On the charging side, the high-voltage connection system drew the attention of onlookers. Minda Corp’s smart access key fobs (LF/RF) also stood out at the event. The display included demonstrations of the fuel tank cap, showcasing the progress made in this area.
Furthermore, the advanced vehicle access system featured next-generation Electronic Steering Column Locks (ESCL), an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a start-stop button (for passive entry), an ultra-wideband anchor, and a biometric-based NFC card. The intelligent rider access system presented biometric solutions and an intelligent rider assistant system, which employed camera technology tailored for the two-wheeler segment.
Minda Corp has announced a strategic partnership with Flash Electronics aimed at developing the fastest-growing Electric Vehicle (EV) platform in the country. As part of the agreement, Minda Corp will acquire a 49 per cent equity stake in Flash Electronics for a cash consideration of Rs.1,372 crore. Flash Electronics is projected to exceed revenues of Rs.1,500 crore in FY25, with impressive growth expected at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 17 per cent and an EBITDA margin of approximately 14 per cent.
This partnership will focus on integrating automotive body, engine, and powertrain electronics, resulting in a comprehensive product portfolio that covers both EV and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) sectors. This collaboration aligns with Minda Corp’s strategy to expand its presence in the auto components industry and strengthen its position as a systems solutions provider.
Leave a Reply