Mercedes-Benz in India
Mercedes-Benz is elevating its Indian footprint beyond assembly lines. The company’s Bangalore R&D hub — its second largest worldwide — now employs over 8,000 engineers working on software, infotainment, and autonomous driving. CTO Jörg Burzer says India will play “a more important role” not only in tech development but also as a sourcing base.
Indian teams are deeply involved in Mercedes’ MO360 digital production platform, which integrates AI into predictive maintenance, crash-test simulations, and automated driving. The brand is also experimenting with humanoid robots from US startup Apptronik to streamline logistics in factories.
On the product side, Mercedes builds the EQS EV and A-Class Limousine in Maharashtra, while continuing to sell hybrids and combustion models. In fiscal 2026, it delivered over 19,000 cars, keeping its lead over BMW. With EVs capable of 700+ km per charge — and future models expected to exceed 800 km — Mercedes is positioning India as a key player in its electrification strategy.
MINI in India
MINI’s Chennai plant is the heart of its Countryman crossover strategy. In 2025, the factory assembled 16,380 vehicles, a 12% jump from the prior year. The Countryman accounted for nearly one‑third of MINI’s global sales, making it the brand’s best‑selling model.
The locally built Countryman C comes in the favored trim, loaded with features such as a panoramic roof, Harman Kardon audio, and a massaging driver’s seat. Prices start just above $50,000. Buyers can also opt for the imported electric Countryman (around $59,000) or the performance‑focused JCW ALL4 (nearly $70,000).With colors such as British Racing Green and Chili Red, plus 19‑inch wheels, MINI is betting on style and substance to keep the Countryman at the center of its growth story in India.
