ACMA & Guidance TN Host Premier Event Showcasing State’s Automotive Prowess

The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), in collaboration with Guidance Tamil Nadu, the investment promotion and single-window clearance arm of the Government of Tamil Nadu, hosted a landmark event in Chennai titled “Unveiling India’s New Automotive Hub: Where Wheels of Progress Turn” on March 20, 2025. 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 major automotive and EV manufacturing hub.

Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu, was the Chief Guest at the event and delivered the keynote address. Reaffirming the state’s commitment 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 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 state 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 highlighted Tamil Nadu’s strategic focus on EV manufacturing, industry-academia partnerships, and investor-friendly infrastructure.

A key highlight of the event was an exclusive fireside chat with the 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 reiterated the company’s commitment to EV innovation and underscored the critical role Tamil Nadu will play in its India journey.

Other notable speakers 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. They acknowledged the invaluable support of the Government of Tamil Nadu, participating companies, and all stakeholders in making the state a highly sought-after destination for automotive investments.

This high-impact engagement not only showcased Tamil Nadu’s industry strengths but also marked a significant step in positioning the state as a key player in India’s automotive and electric mobility revolution.