JSW Motors warns first car launch may face delays
JSW Motors, part of billionaire Sajjan Jindal’s JSW Group, has cautioned that the launch of its first passenger vehicle could face delays if approvals to import certain components from China are not expedited. According to a letter reviewed by Reuters, the company has requested faster clearances from India’s industries ministry for select parts sourced from Chinese suppliers.
JSW Motors is investing around $3 billion in its automotive venture and plans to manufacture hybrid and electric vehicles in Maharashtra. The company intends to begin operations using a mix of imported components while gradually building a local supplier base. However, India’s quality control regulations require overseas suppliers to obtain certification before shipping goods into the country, a process that can take several months.
In its communication dated December 18, JSW reportedly highlighted the need to import specific components, including safety glass such as windshields and sunroofs, stating that equivalent parts are not readily available with domestic suppliers. The ministry has yet to respond publicly to the request. India’s quality control measures, introduced in 2020 to address concerns over low-quality imports, have added compliance steps for companies sourcing components from abroad.
Amid the uncertainty, JSW is said to be exploring alternative sourcing options in countries such as Germany and Vietnam, although this could increase procurement costs. The group has previously expressed ambitions to establish its own automotive brand and is understood to be in discussions with Chery Automobile for a potential technology partnership. It also holds a stake in JSW MG Motor India, formerly linked to SAIC Motor. JSW plans to introduce its first model in the second half of the year, though timelines may depend on regulatory approvals and supply chain arrangements.
