Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

I am currently the Director of Cost Optimization and VAVE, MG Nurture, and ESG Committee Head at JSW MG Motor India. With an engineering foundation from NIT Allahabad and an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from SUNY, USA, I bring over three decades of experience in automotive design, engineering, and program management. My career spans leadership roles at General Motors and Hero MotoCorp, as well as global assignments in South Korea. I have driven ESG frameworks, electric vehicle launches, and advanced technology education initiatives, and have authored books and contributed to industry thought leadership. I am also Co-chair of SIAM – Society of Automotive Manufacturers for Digital Transformation and Connected Car Mobility.

Q2. How do you see the automotive market evolving across different segments such as EVs, hybrids, SUVs, and premium categories?

EVs: Rapid growth to 4.5% share today; projected to reach 15–20% by 2030. Hybrids: Catching up fast, expected to hit 12–15% in the same period. SUVs: Dominating with 75% of PV sales, likely to rise to 85–90%. Premium Luxury: Driven by economic growth, expected to surpass 10% in 4–5 years.

Q3. What changes in customer mindset or vehicle-buying behaviour are you observing across urban and semi-urban markets?

Safety and technology are top priorities—features such as multiple airbags, ADAS, and connected-car capabilities are increasingly influencing purchase decisions.

Q4. How are connected car technologies, AI-driven features, and ADAS transforming the value proposition for customers?

Younger and middle-aged consumers looking for engaging, tech-rich, and entertaining driving experiences will find these advances appealing as they improve safety and lower accident rates.

Q5. How do you envision the next decade of sustainability-driven innovation reshaping competition in the automotive sector?

Sustainability will be a key differentiator—circularity, recycling, battery second life, and ESG compliance will define competitive advantage and customer trust.

Q6. How do you interpret the shifts happening in market dynamics as new EV-only players, tech companies, and global brands accelerate their presence?

The influx of EV-only players and tech-driven entrants, along with innovations like PHEVs and hydrogen fuel cells, is positive for both environmental goals and consumer choice.

Q7. If you were an investor looking at companies within the space, what critical question would you pose to their senior management?

I would ask: ‘How robust is your governance framework, and what strategies are in place to ensure profitability while expanding market share sustainably?’