JSW Group has formed a joint venture with SAIC Motor, the distributor of MG Motor cars in India, marking a significant step into the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The newly established entity, in which JSW Group will hold a 35% stake, will focus on manufacturing EVs in India. The remaining ownership distribution is yet to be finalised. The agreement was signed by JSW Group's Parth Jindal and SAIC Motor's president Wang Xiaoqiu at the MG Motor office in London. This collaboration allows JSW Group to make its long-anticipated entry into the EV market, with the launch of a new EV anticipated in the early months of the coming year.

The joint venture is expected to benefit MG Motors India, facilitating its expansion in the country, where previous growth had been hindered by restrictions on Chinese investments. The strategic collaboration aims to transform MG Motor operations in India, with a specific emphasis on green mobility solutions. The partnership will focus on localising initiatives to achieve financially accretive synergies. Key objectives include the development of the EV ecosystem and various initiatives such as enhancing local sourcing, improving charging infrastructure, expanding production capacity, and introducing a broader range of vehicles with a focus on green mobility.

SAIC Motor will contribute to the joint venture by providing technological support and products. JSW Group is also in discussions to acquire Ford's Chennai plant for assembling electric vehicles. The move comes amid projections of substantial growth in India's EV market, estimated to triple to $7.09 billion by 2025. The number of EVs in the country is expected to reach 50 million by 2030, up from 1.4 million as of August 2022. The Indian EV market is anticipated to achieve 10 million units in annual sales by 2030.

Analysts view the joint venture positively, foreseeing benefits for both India's electric vehicle segment and JSW Group, known for its operations in infrastructure, energy, steel, and cement sectors. The partnership is expected to drive growth in India's EV space through new launches and increased EV penetration. Additionally, it may serve as a model for Chinese companies operating in India, potentially overcoming challenges faced by such investments. MG Motors India, operating in India for four years, has been seeking a buyer or partner due to challenges arising from its Chinese ownership. The collaboration with JSW Group offers a strategic solution amid the evolving dynamics of the Indian automotive market and geopolitical considerations.