Global automotive supplier Hella has opened a second electronics plant in India. The new production facility in Mehsana, north of the city of Ahmedabad in the state of Gujarat, will meet the growing demand for electronic components and strengthen proximity to local customers.

Production at the new location will initially focus on sensor solutions for accelerator pedal and will gradually be expanded by further electronic products. In the first expansion phase, the plant will comprise a building area of around 5,000 square metres and employ up to 200 people in the future. The investment volume required for this will be above Rs 100 crore.

"India is one of the largest and most promising automotive markets in the world," said Hella CEO Dr. Rolf Breidenbach. "The Indian market therefore plays an important strategic role for Hella. With the opening of a second electronics plant, we are reaffirming our commitment and laying the foundation for further profitable growth in one of the world's fastest-growing regions."

Growing demand for electronic solutions
At the plant opening, Dr. Naveen Gautam, member of the Electronics Management Board and responsible for Hella's electronics business in India, said: "In comparison with the worldwide development, vehicle production in India has grown significantly faster in recent years. In addition, key market trends such as electrification and digitalisation will further boost demand for electronic solutions. By providing specific product solutions for the Indian market and expanding our capacity, we will now be able to meet demand even better."

In addition to Hella representatives, numerous guests from business and politics took part in the opening ceremony of the new location, including Sunil Kakkar, executive director, Supply Chain, Maruti Suzuki India and Kamal Kumar Dhayani – IAS, Principal Secretary - Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Gandhinagar.

Hella currently employs over 1,500 people at five locations in India, including Chennai, Coimbatore, Dhankot, Gurgaon and Pune.