In a significant move for the Indian automotive market, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the parent company of Range Rover, has announced that the iconic luxury SUVs will now be manufactured in India. Production will take place at JLR’s existing facility in Pune, supplementing the brand’s historic Solihull plant in the UK. While the Indian-made models will cater specifically to the domestic market, the Solihull plant will continue to be the hub for global exports, including the upcoming electric Range Rover model and the brand’s high-performance “SV” variants.
This strategic shift follows a remarkable 160% surge in Range Rover retail sales in India for the current fiscal year. “Across the globe, we’re seeing the highest levels of client demand for Range Rover in our 53-year history,” said Geraldine Ingham, Managing Director of Range Rover. “India is a very important part of this success story.”
Local production is expected to significantly reduce wait times for Indian customers, who have shown a strong appetite for the luxurious SUVs. “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,” explained Lennard Hoornik, Chief Commercial Officer at JLR.
The move also highlights JLR’s confidence in the capabilities of its Indian manufacturing facility, which has been producing other JLR models since 2011. “It is testament to the quality standards we have successfully achieved in local manufacturing in India, that are at par with JLR standards globally,” said Rajan Amba, Managing Director of JLR India.
The locally manufactured Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will be available in both petrol and diesel variants. Deliveries for the Range Rover begin immediately, with the Range Rover Sport following in August.
This initiative underscores JLR’s commitment to the Indian market and its strategy to enhance customer satisfaction by providing quicker access to its luxury vehicles. The local production is expected to make Range Rover and Range Rover Sport even more appealing to Indian consumers, reinforcing the brand’s position as a leader in the luxury SUV segment.