In a bid to start out its mark in the Indian market, Great Wall Motors has bought General Motors' Talegaon plant, subject to requisite government and regulatory approvals. GWM Global Strategy Vice President, Mr Liu Xiangshang said the transaction would underpin the company's plan to enter and invest in India. This plant is located about 30-45 mins outside of Pune, towards Lonavala.
The Chinese manufacturer has recently confirmed its entry for the Indian market with passenger vehicles being the initial offerings. The company is said to debut with its Haval brand and GMW EV at the 2020 Auto Expo. On the other hand, Chevrolet will continue to provide all warranties and aftersales support including ongoing service and parts requirements for existing customers in India.
The Global Strategy President also said, Great Wall Motors investment will create more jobs, including direct and indirect employment, further enhancing the skill level in the auto industry; promote the development of the local supply chain, R&D and related industries; and contribute more profits and taxes to the government of India and the government of Maharashtra.
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It is also an important measure to respond positively to the Indian government's national strategy of vigorously advocating Make In India, Digital India and a strong focus on clean energy in India and building a new India vision.
GM International Operations Senior Vice President Julian Blissett said the Talegaon manufacturing facility had delivered excellent vehicles for domestic and export markets. He thanked employees and partners for their outstanding work over many years.
Since focusing the Talegaon plant on manufacturing for export markets in 2017, GM has been exploring strategic options for the better utilization of the site, said Blissett.
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On behalf of GM, I also want to express our gratitude to the government of Maharashtra and the government of India for their supportive partnership ever since we began to make investments and build cars in India. We will work closely with the state and national governments to secure the required approvals so that GWM can elevate production at the plant even further and maintain Talegaons status as a vibrant vehicle manufacturing region.
