How India’s GCCs Are Powering the Future of Automotive Tech
With over 55 automotive GCCs employing about 100,000 engineers, these centres drive innovation in EVs, autonomous driving and software-defined vehicles, shaping the industry’s future.
Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in the country are playing a significant role in driving innovation in the automotive sector, according to a report by Ackodrive. The centres, established by international carmakers, are contributing to the development of cutting-edge automotive technologies, including electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and software-defined vehicles (SDVs).
The report highlights that India’s automotive GCCs have evolved beyond their initial role as cost-arbitrage entities and are now emerging as pivotal drivers of innovation, digital transformation and strategic growth for global automotive companies. With over 55 automotive GCCs employing around 100,000 engineers, these centres are innovation engines that contribute to EVs, autonomous driving and SDVs.
According to the report, several major automotive companies, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volvo Cars, Hyundai Motor India, and Stellantis, have established GCCs in India. These centres are focused on developing advanced technologies, such as AI-powered infotainment systems, battery management systems, and autonomous driving features.
For example, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) has developed the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), an AI-powered infotainment system featuring voice control, gesture recognition, and augmented reality navigation. BMW’s TechWorks India is developing code for the Neue Klasse EV platform, set to launch in 2025, with a focus on software-defined architecture and Level 3 autonomy.
The report notes that India’s automotive GCCs have generated revenues exceeding US$3 billion in FY23 and are projected to create 300,000 jobs by FY30. The growth of these centres aligns with the Indian government’s push for Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and is positioning the country as a vital link in the worldwide automotive chain.
Tech companies like Intel, AMD, NVIDIA, and Uber are also contributing significantly to India’s automotive GCC ecosystem. Two-wheeler companies like Hero MotoCorp and TVS Motor are leveraging GCCs in Chennai and Bengaluru for EV and connected bike technologies.
