VinFast's initial electric vehicle plant in India launches, Tata Harrier EV handovers commence, and the next-gen Mahindra Bolero is spotted in testing stages
VinFast, the Vietnamese automaker, has officially inaugurated its first electric vehicle assembly factory in India, located in SIPCOT Industrial Park, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. The plant, which spans about 400 acres, initially assembles two premium electric SUV models – the VF7 and VF6 – with an initial production capacity of 50,000 units annually, scalable up to 150,000 units per year [1][2][4][5].
The VF7 was the first model to roll off the new plant and is slated for a launch in the Indian market during the 2025 festive season, followed shortly by the smaller VF6. Both vehicles feature a 70.8 kWh battery, with detailed range figures yet to be announced [1][3]. Pre-bookings for both models have already commenced [1][3].
The Tamil Nadu facility aims to create up to 3,500 direct jobs, mostly sourced from Tuticorin and neighbouring districts, along with thousands of indirect jobs across the supply chain ecosystem [1][2][4][5]. VinFast has committed an initial investment of Rs 4,000 crore (about $480 million USD), with plans to inject a total of Rs 16,000 crore (approximately $1.9 billion USD) over the next five years to expand production and operations [1][3].
Beyond producing for the Indian market, the plant is positioned as a hub for advanced EV mobility solutions, with ambitions to serve markets beyond India in the future [2][5]. VinFast’s long-term vision includes reaching 1 million vehicles annually by 2030, with the Tamil Nadu plant playing a key role in this production scale-up [5].
Meanwhile, the Mahindra Bolero, a long-standing vehicle in India, is set to launch a new generation on August 15. Spy shots suggest the new Bolero undergoes a significant transformation, with a more sophisticated design featuring sharper edges, refined surfaces, and beefier wheels. The design development remains true to its original upright profile [6]. However, specific features and powertrain details have yet to be revealed.
In a separate development, Tata Motors' electric vehicle division has commenced deliveries of the Tata Harrier EV in India. Priced between ₹21.49 lakh and ₹29.74 lakh, the Tata Harrier EV is available in three broad trim levels – Adventure, Fearless, and Empowered, along with the Stealth Edition [7].
As India continues to embrace electric vehicles, these developments mark significant strides in the country's transition towards sustainable mobility solutions.
References: [1] https://www.vinfastauto.com/en-IN/news/vinfast-inaugurates-its-first-vehicle-manufacturing-plant-in-india [2] https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/auto/vinfast-to-start-production-of-two-electric-suvs-in-tamil-nadu/article65779699.ece [3] https://www.livemint.com/auto-news/vinfast-to-start-production-of-two-electric-suvs-in-tamil-nadu-11658169052164.html [4] https://www.vinfastauto.com/en-IN/news/vinfast-to-invest-rs-16000-crore-to-expand-production-and-operations-in-india [5] https://www.vinfastauto.com/en-IN/news/vinfast-aims-to-reach-1-million-vehicles-annually-by-2030 [6] https://www.carandbike.com/news/new-mahindra-bolero-spy-shots-reveal-significant-update-ahead-of-launch-on-august-15-2025-2469276 [7] https://www.autocarindia.com/new-cars/tata/harrier-ev-2025-price-in-india-241692
- The Indian automotive industry witnesses a significant expansion with VinFast's new electric vehicle assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, aiming to manufacture 150,000 units annually.
- The automotive business venture will create up to 3,500 direct jobs, and thousands more indirect positions in the supply chain, indicating a positive impact on the financial and transportation sectors.
- As VinFast focuses on electric vehicles, other established players such as Mahindra and Tata Motors also announce new launches, with Mahindra's Bolero undergoing a transformation for a new generation, while Tata Motors starts delivering the Tata Harrier EV in India.
- Technology plays a crucial role in these developments, as electric-vehicle manufacturers introduce innovative solutions for mobility and strive to reduce the industry's carbon footprint.
- The evolving lifestyle preferences and environmental concerns in India drive businesses to invest in sustainable and electric vehicle options, contributing to a shift towards a greener future in the manufacturing and transportation sectors.
