Significant advancements in various sectors have marked India's journey since gaining independence in 1947, and the automotive industry is no exception. From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the largest automobile markets in the world, India has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the decades. This article delves into the evolution of the Indian automotive industry post-independence and explores the impact of the "Make in India" initiative on this crucial sector.
THE EARLY DAYS: A BUMPY START
In the early years after independence, India's automotive industry was in its infancy. A combination of limited resources, technology, and government restrictions meant that the country heavily relied on imports for vehicles and automotive components. Only a few manufacturers operated in the country, catering mostly to the elite class.
However, with the government's focus on industrialisation and economic development, the tide started to turn. In the 1980s and 1990s, a wave of liberalisation swept the nation, and foreign investments and collaborations were welcomed. This opened the doors for multinational automotive giants to enter the Indian market, bringing with them advanced technology and global expertise.
A MILESTONE IN EVOLUTION: THE ECONOMIC REFORMS
This story is from the August 2023 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August 2023 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Mi5 SILENT, POSH AND LETHAL!
With its reimagined design language, BMW has done what it does best-divided opinion with the kind of fervour usually reserved for debates about pineapple on pizza.
A VIRAL ESCAPE
The last time I visited Hampi in Karnataka was back in 2021, just as the world began to shake off the COVID-19 travel bans.
FROM UNDERDOG TO CHAMPION
Thierry Neuville's Journey to WRC Glory
Max Verstappen: FOUR-TIME CHAMP UNDER THE VEGAS LIGHTS
From dominance to resilience, Verstappen cements his legacy while Mercedes shines in Sin
VOLKSWAGEN VIRTUS GT PLUS SPORT: SEXY+SPORT
Volkswagen has a knack for keeping their loyal and enthusiastic customers grinning from ear to ear. The German manufacturer has almost become synonymous with build quality, safety and performance.
BE GE AND XEV 9E Sexy and Ballsy!
Starting a review can be quite a challenge, especially when it's hard to pinpoint the flaws!
CAPTURING THE ESSENCE
Chilly, cold mornings and Mumbai is a rare combination that we seldom see in this part of our beautiful country.
BATTLE OF TWO GOLIATHS
When Luxury Meets Performance, Who Takes the Crown?
THE E-MPV THAT DARES TO DREAM BIG
The MPV market, dominated for aeons by Toyota's Innova, has always felt like a rather predictable place. It's the type of vehicle you buy not out of passion but practicality-like a pair of orthopaedic shoes.
IMPRACTICAL YET IRRESISTIBLE
Exactly ten years ago, I took my first international trip. It was to Bahrain, a country of endless desert and skyscrapers, where my aunt and uncle lived. Among their friends and neighbours, one particular gentleman, upon learning I was a budding petrolhead, took an entire day off work to take me around the city’s showrooms to see some “normal” Middle East traffic.