Tata Motors increases FY25 investment to INR 43,000 cr

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Tata Motors Group has significantly raised its investment outlay for FY25 to INR 43,000 crore, with a substantial portion directed towards its British arm, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). This strategic move is aimed at advancing new products and technologies across the company’s portfolio.

Increased investment for growth

In FY24, Tata Motors had projected a total investment of approximately INR 38,000 crore, with INR 30,000 crore allocated to JLR and INR 8,000 crore to Tata Motors. However, actual investments exceeded expectations, reaching INR 41,200 crore. JLR’s investment alone totalled more than INR 33,000 crore, while Tata Motors’ investment surpassed INR 8,200 crore.

Focus on product and technology development

For FY25, Tata Motors Group CFO PB Balaji announced an increased investment of 3.5 billion pounds (around INR 35,000 crore) for JLR, representing a 6% increase. Tata Motors’ investment will remain steady at approximately INR 8,000 crore. Balaji emphasised that this investment focuses on launching new products and advancing technologies.

“We are dealing with phasing issues, and these products must be launched on time,” Balaji explained during an earnings conference. The increased funding for JLR will support the launch of several new products, enhancing the company’s market position and technological capabilities.

Anticipated new launches

Jaguar Land Rover CFO Richard Molyneux elaborated on the company’s product launch schedule. “FY2026 is when our new products start to hit the market,” he said. One of the most anticipated launches is the Range Rover BEV, set to debut by FY2026. This new model is expected to replace some of the older, less profitable vehicles in JLR’s lineup, potentially improving the company’s EBIT levels.

Innovative approach to electric vehicles

Molyneux highlighted the innovative approach JLR is taking with the Range Rover BEV. “We’re not just selling a BEV under the Range Rover name. This is the Range Rover with a BEV powertrain, offering the perfect combination of power, quietness, and serenity for the brand,” he stated. The new BEV model will sit at the top end of the Range Rover lineup, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to luxury and performance.

Continued development and future plans

JLR plans to continue developing its existing models, including the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, and the upcoming Defender OCTA, set to launch later this year. These developments are part of a broader strategy to maintain JLR’s competitive edge and adapt to the evolving automotive market.

Strategic importance

The increased investment underscores Tata Motors’ commitment to driving innovation and sustaining growth. By focusing on new product launches and advanced technologies, Tata Motors aims to strengthen its market presence and meet the rising demand for electric vehicles and sustainable automotive solutions.

Tata Motors’ elevated investment for FY25 highlights the company’s strategic focus on enhancing its product offerings and technological advancements. With a significant portion of the investment directed towards JLR, Tata Motors is poised to launch several new products that promise to deliver higher profitability and align with global trends towards electrification and sustainability. This move reflects Tata Motors’ dedication to maintaining its leadership in the automotive industry and responding effectively to market demands.

Biplab Das: