STOCKHOLM — Autoliv has announced the opening of its new plant in India. The new facility hosts the country’s first safety center and a new airbag and seatbelt assembly unit.
India is among the fastest-growing automotive markets in the world. In 2010, light vehicle production in India is expected to reach 3.2 million units, an increase of 31 percent compared to 2009. This will make India the sixth largest vehicle producing country in the world.
Autoliv’s new plant is located in Bangalore and will support all vehicle manufacturers in India with testing and product development. This is Autoliv’s ninth technical center and one of three specializing in small car safety. It is also Autoliv’s second plant for airbag production in the country. Last year, Autoliv became the first company to produce airbags in India.
“We are very proud of our new technical center, the first in India,” said Suresh Nandagopal, president of Autoliv India. “The new facility plays a critical role in our global effort to improve safety for small cars. As we continue to develop our capabilities in India, the team here will play an increasingly important role in our global organization."
Autoliv has been supplying safety products for the automotive industry in India for 16 years and is today the leading supplier in the country. In addition to the new Bangalore facility, Autoliv has three other facilities in India. Autoliv’s sales in India are expected to grow by 36 percent this year. Major customers include Maruti-Suzuki, Mahindra, Tata, Toyota, Hyundai, Fiat, Ford, GM and Nissan.
Autoliv is on an active global growth streak currently, after last week announcing the start of new operations in Shanghai, China.
