- Strategic JV with Marelli powers next-gen automotive illumination ecosystem
- First-ever Indian facility to produce single-piece edge-to-edge lighting modules at global scale
- Breakthrough localisation of slimmest headlamps, DRLs and rear combination lamps boosts Make-in-India momentum
- Solar-powered, technology-rich hub positions Sanand as a global epicentre for advanced automotive lighting
NE AUTOMOBILE BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, FEB 25
In a decisive leap that reinforces India’s rise as a global automotive technology powerhouse, Motherson has inaugurated a state-of-the-art automotive lighting manufacturing facility in Sanand, Gujarat, marking a transformational milestone in premium vehicle component production.
Established as a strategic joint venture with Marelli, the cutting-edge facility is exclusively dedicated to manufacturing advanced exterior lighting systems, strengthening India’s localisation ecosystem while enabling global-grade innovation from domestic soil.
Spread across 8,200 square metres, the high-technology plant integrates next-generation manufacturing capabilities designed to meet the rapidly expanding demand for sophisticated automotive lighting solutions in India and global markets. Significantly, the facility becomes the first in India capable of producing edge-to-edge single-piece long lighting components, powered by ultra-high-tonnage multi-colour moulding machines ranging from 2,000T to 2,700T, setting new industrial benchmarks.
Industry-Defining Firsts for India’s Auto Sector
The Sanand facility delivers multiple technological breakthroughs for India’s automotive manufacturing landscape. It enables the localisation of the slimmest headlamp modules, alongside the country’s first single-piece end-to-end Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and Rear Combination Lamps (RCL)—critical innovations aligned with the global shift towards smarter, safer and more aesthetic vehicle design.
Beyond technological leadership, sustainability remains central to the facility’s vision. The plant incorporates rooftop solar power generation, with plans underway to transition towards open-access green energy sourcing, reflecting the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing.
Leadership Speaks: A Strategic Leap in Innovation and Customer Value
Laksh Vaaman Sehgal, Vice Chairman, Motherson, said: “The inauguration of our cutting-edge automotive lighting plant underscores Motherson’s unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and customer-centricity. This strategic investment strengthens our ability to deliver advanced, future-ready lighting solutions while meeting the evolving needs of our customers. We deeply appreciate the trust and support of our customers, which has been instrumental in achieving this significant milestone.”
Frank Huber, President of Marelli’s Lighting business, said: “Our new facility in Sanand is a key milestone in bringing advanced lighting technologies to our customers in India. Together with our partner Motherson, we are uniting global innovation with strong local manufacturing capabilities to deliver cutting-edge solutions for the Indian market. Our joint venture continues to be a great success—built on Marelli’s global technology leadership, Motherson’s great infrastructure, execution excellence and deep customer relationships on the subcontinent, and the significant autonomy both partners have entrusted to the MMLI team since its establishment in 2008.”
Strengthening India’s Global Automotive Leadership
The inauguration signals more than just capacity expansion—it represents a strategic push to position India at the forefront of automotive innovation. By integrating global expertise with domestic manufacturing strength, the facility reinforces India’s credentials as a preferred destination for high-precision automotive component production.
With increasing demand for intelligent lighting systems driven by safety regulations, EV adoption and premium vehicle design, the Sanand plant is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of automotive mobility—both in India and worldwide.
