HARMAN, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd. and a global pioneer in connected automotive technologies, has announced a new investment of ₹345 crores (USD 42 million) to enhance its automotive electronics manufacturing operations in Chakan, Pune. The expansion plan includes an immediate investment of ₹45 crores (USD 5.5 million) and an additional ₹300 crores (USD 36.5 million) over the next three years to strengthen production for advanced telematics and next-generation connected vehicle programs.
With this new commitment, total investment in the Pune facility now reaches ₹554 crores (USD 67 million) since its establishment in 2014. The project is set to create 300 new jobs by 2027. This milestone reinforces India’s “Make in India, for the World” vision by positioning the country as a key manufacturing and innovation hub for connected and sustainable mobility solutions.
Christian Sobottka, President and CEO of HARMAN Automotive, said “Our investment in Pune reflects our deep commitment to India’s role in shaping the future of connected mobility. This facility is not only expanding capacity but driving innovation — from 5G telematics to sustainable manufacturing practices. India’s engineering excellence continues to power HARMAN’s global growth.”
The Pune plant serves as a global production hub for connected car technologies including cockpits, telematics systems, and premium audio solutions. It supports leading Indian OEMs such as Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, and Mahindra & Mahindra, and exports to customers across Europe and North America.
The new phase of expansion adds 71,505 sq ft of built-up space — featuring a 45,000 sq. ft. production area, four new SMT lines, and enhanced capabilities such as module and speaker manufacturing.
The latest expansion at HARMAN’s Pune manufacturing facility will boost its total production capacity by 50%. By 2027, the upgraded plant is projected to deliver an annual output of 4 million car audio components, 1.4 million infotainment systems, and 0.8 million telematics control units (TCUs), strengthening India’s role in HARMAN’s global supply chain.
This growth is supported by a new investment of ₹345 crores (USD 42 million), which will enhance the plant’s capabilities in advanced automotive electronics and connectivity technologies. The expansion is also expected to create 300 new employment opportunities by 2027, contributing to the region’s economic development and aligning with the Government of India’s “Make in India” initiative.
In addition to scaling production, the facility will begin local manufacturing of HARMAN Ready Connect, the company’s next-generation telematics solution. The Pune plant is also advancing toward sustainability goals, targeting 100% renewable energy usage by 2030 — underscoring HARMAN’s commitment to responsible, high-tech manufacturing.
New product lines will include 4G and 5G telematics systems for Tata Motors and Maruti Suzuki, alongside HARMAN Ready Connect — an all-in-one telematics control unit co-developed with Samsung. HARMAN Ready Connect features over-the-air (OTA) updates, advanced cybersecurity, diagnostics, and cloud connectivity, and integrates with HARMAN Ready Aware to provide real-time V2N (Vehicle-to-Network) alerts for safer driving experiences.
Developed by HARMAN’s India R&D team, Ready Connect is already in use by major automakers across Asia and North America, reflecting HARMAN’s philosophy of delivering consumer-grade experiences with automotive reliability. With a team of over 5,000 professionals, HARMAN Automotive India oversees the full product lifecycle — from concept and design to manufacturing and quality assurance.
Krishna Kumar, Managing Director and Automotive Head, HARMAN India, said “Our Indian operations are at the heart of HARMAN’s global strategy. From infotainment to telematics and connected safety, our engineers in India design and deliver solutions for the world.”
The Pune facility continues to champion sustainability through solar installations generating over 317,000 kWh of electricity annually, offsetting around 200 metric tons of CO₂ emissions. Recognized with the CII Energy Efficient Unit Award, the plant is progressing toward 100% renewable electricity by 2030. It has phased out diesel generators, optimized energy use, and adopted eco-friendly design principles to reduce material waste.
Since inception, the plant has maintained a zero-recordable injury rate, highlighting HARMAN’s focus on workplace safety and operational excellence. The expanded Pune site complements HARMAN’s global manufacturing footprint across China, Hungary, Mexico, Brazil, and Germany, solidifying India’s position in producing intelligent, connected, and sustainable automotive solutions. Through local innovation, clean energy practices, and advanced manufacturing, HARMAN continues to demonstrate that technology leadership and sustainability can progress together.
HARMAN designs and develops connected products and solutions for the automotive, consumer, and enterprise markets — including connected car systems, audio and visual products, and IoT-enabled services. With iconic brands such as AKG®, Harman Kardon®, JBL®, Infinity®, Lexicon®, Mark Levinson®, and Revel®, HARMAN products are trusted by musicians, audiophiles, and millions of consumers worldwide. Over 50 million vehicles globally are equipped with HARMAN audio and connected car systems. The company employs approximately 30,000 people across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
