ACMA & Guidance Tamil Nadu Host Event Showcasing Tamil Nadu’s Automotive Strength

Key Highlights:

• ACMA hosted an event in Chennai.
• Dr. TRB Rajaa highlighted Tamil Nadu’s focus on cleaner, smarter mobility and a skilled workforce.
• Shradha Suri Marwah praised the state for being a leader in the automotive industry.
• Darez Ahamed announced Thoothukudi as ‘India’s New Automotive Hub’.
• The event included a chat with VinFast Auto Ltd. Leadership.

The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), in partnership with Guidance Tamil Nadu, hosted an event in Chennai. The Title of the event was ‘Unveiling India’s New Automotive Hub: Where Wheels of Progress Turn’. The event gathered senior government officials, global and Indian automotive leaders, and key stakeholders. They discussed Tamil Nadu’s potential to become India’s next major automotive and EV manufacturing hub.

Dr. TRB Rajaa, the Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu, was the Chief Guest at the event. In his keynote, he emphasized the state’s dedication to becoming India’s automotive capital. He said, “Tamil Nadu is not just attracting investments, we are building the future of mobility—cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive. With a skilled workforce, progressive policies, and a focus on sustainability and women’s empowerment, Tamil Nadu is ready for the next big leap.”

Shradha Suri Marwah, President of ACMA and CMD of Subros Ltd, praised the Government of Tamil Nadu for its progressive policies. She said, “The state has consistently led the transformation of the industry. It’s no surprise that Tamil Nadu has become a magnet for both domestic and global automotive players. Today, the state is home to over 400 auto component manufacturers. Events like these play a key role in aligning the industry and government on growth and development goals.”

Darez Ahamed, MD of Guidance Tamil Nadu, declared Thoothukudi as ‘India’s New Automotive Hub’. He also highlighted Tamil Nadu’s focus on EV manufacturing, industry-academia collaborations, and investor-friendly infrastructure. A key moment of the event was an exclusive fireside chat with senior leadership from VinFast Auto Ltd., moderated by Vinnie Mehta, Director General of ACMA.

Sang Yu Won, Purchasing Head, and Prakalathan Tirupathi, Project Head of VinFast India, shared their vision and discussed VinFast’s expectations from the Indian supply ecosystem. They highlighted the company’s commitment to EV innovation and the important role Tamil Nadu will play in its growth in India.

Other notable speakers included Vikrampati Singhania, Vice President of ACMA and MD of JK Fenner; Sriram Viji, Chairman of ACMA Southern Region and MD of Brakes India; and Susanta Kumar Purohit, Chairman of V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority. They acknowledged the support of the Government of Tamil Nadu, participating companies, and all stakeholders for their contributions in making Tamil Nadu a top automotive investment destination.

This event highlighted Tamil Nadu’s capabilities and marked a key moment in positioning the state as a major player in India’s automotive and electric mobility revolution.

Also Read: Mahindra to Hike Prices of SUVs and Commercial Vehicles by Up to 3%, Starting April 2025

About ACMA

The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) is the leading organization representing the interests of the Indian Auto Component Industry. In FY2024, the total turnover of the Auto Component Industry reached USD 74.1 billion, including USD 21.2 billion in exports and a trade surplus of USD 300 million. With over 1,000 member manufacturers, ACMA accounts for more than 90% of the industry’s turnover in the organized sector.