India Begins Local Production of Range Rover, Aiming to Redefine Luxury SUV Market
Last Updated on May 26, 2024 5:27 pm
In a landmark move for the automotive industry, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has started local production of its iconic Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models in India, marking the first time these luxury SUVs are being manufactured outside of the United Kingdom. The debut of Range Rover House in the affluent coastal town of Alibaug symbolizes this significant milestone, offering an exclusive, modern luxury experience tailored to India’s discerning clientele.
The first deliveries of the locally manufactured Range Rover 3.0 L Petrol Autobiography commenced on Friday. The Range Rover 3.0 L Diesel HSE LWB is priced at INR 2.36 crore, while the Range Rover 3.0 L Petrol Autobiography LWB is priced at INR 2.6 crore ex-showroom. This strategic move is expected to cater to the rising demand for luxury SUVs in India, reducing wait times and enhancing the customer experience.
Lennard Hoornik, Chief Commercial Officer at JLR, emphasized the economic growth and opportunities in India, stating, “Local manufacturing of the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport in India is the next significant step towards the brand consolidating its position as the most desirable modern luxury SUV family in the country.” He highlighted that the local production aligns with the country’s growing economy and the increasing affluence of its clientele.
Geraldine Ingham, Managing Director of Range Rover, noted the unprecedented global demand for Range Rover, with India playing a crucial role in this success story. “Retail sales in India for FY24 have surged by 160%, and locally manufacturing the Range Rover will enable the brand to respond to this growing demand among discerning clients and celebrated personalities across the country,” she said.
Rajan Amba, Managing Director of JLR India, expressed pride in India’s achievement as the first country outside the UK to manufacture the Range Rover locally. He said, “It is testament to the quality standards we have successfully achieved in local manufacturing in India, that are at par with JLR standards globally. Manufacturing the Range Rover family locally will bring together the best of both worlds, as outstanding British design, technology, and refinement meet the pride of owning a ‘Made in India’ luxury vehicle.”
The local production in Pune, Maharashtra, not only aims to satisfy the domestic market but also strengthens the strategic position of India in JLR’s global operations. This facility already produces other models, including the Range Rover Velar, Range Rover Evoque, Jaguar F-PACE, and Discovery Sport. The additional production capacity for the Indian market will supplement the global output, which remains centered at Solihull, UK, where Range Rover has been manufactured since its inception in 1970.
The introduction of local manufacturing for Range Rover in India is set to redefine the luxury SUV market, blending British design with Indian craftsmanship. This initiative is poised to enhance JLR’s market share in India, making luxury SUVs more accessible to a broader segment of the population while maintaining the brand’s reputation for excellence and sophistication.
Key Highlights:
- Local Production: First-time manufacturing of Range Rover and Range Rover Sport outside the UK, in Pune, India.
- Economic Impact: Aligns with India’s economic growth, catering to the increasing demand for luxury vehicles.
- Customer Benefits: Reduced wait times, enhanced customer experience, and a ‘Made in India’ label.
- Price Details: Range Rover 3.0 L Diesel HSE LWB at INR 2.36 crore and Range Rover 3.0 L Petrol Autobiography LWB at INR 2.6 crore.
- Strategic Importance: Strengthens JLR’s operations in India, complementing global production based in Solihull, UK.
This move by JLR marks a new chapter in the luxury automotive market in India, promising an unparalleled blend of global standards and local excellence.