VinFast's debut EV plant in India, Tata Harrier EV distribution starts, next-gen Mahindra Bolero sightings caught on camera
In a significant move for the Indian automotive industry, VinFast, the Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, has officially inaugurated its first electric vehicle assembly factory in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. Spread across 400 acres in the SIPCOT Industrial Park, the new facility is the third functioning factory for VinFast globally [1][2][3][4][5].
The initial production capacity of the Tamil Nadu facility stands at 50,000 units per year, with plans to ramp up to 150,000 units annually to meet future demand. This manufacturing hub will assemble two premium electric SUV models, the VF 6 and VF 7, targeting both domestic and export markets across South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Meanwhile, in the domestic market, Tata Motors has commenced deliveries of the Tata Harrier EV in India, priced between ₹21.49 lakh and ₹29.74 lakh. The electric SUV is available in three broad trim levels - Adventure, Fearless, and Empowered, along with the Stealth Edition [6].
On the other hand, the next-generation Mahindra Bolero is expected to be launched on August 15. While details about the features and specifications of the new Mahindra Bolero are not yet available, spy shots suggest a transformation that may not just be skin-deep. The design appears to be more sophisticated, with sharper edges, refined surfaces, and beefier wheels. Notable changes include flush-fitting door handles and redesigned mirrors [7][8].
The current-gen Mahindra Bolero's design features were previously unimaginable for a redesign, and the new model seems to follow suit. The design remains true to its upright profile but is closer to modern SUVs in terms of presence. The new Mahindra Bolero has been spied multiple times during testing, with the latest sightings revealing a vehicle with camouflage [9][10].
VinFast's ambitious plans extend beyond India. The company aims to sell 200,000 cars worldwide by the end of 2025 and increase annual production to 10 lakh EVs by 2030 [1][2][3][4][5]. These ambitious goals, coupled with the recent developments in the Indian market, promise an exciting future for the electric vehicle sector in India.
References: [1] VinFast inaugurates electric vehicle assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, The Hindu BusinessLine, 2025. [2] VinFast to invest $500 million in Tamil Nadu electric vehicle factory, The Economic Times, 2025. [3] VinFast's Tamil Nadu factory to produce 150,000 units annually, The Times of India, 2025. [4] VinFast targets South Asia, Middle East, and Africa markets with Tamil Nadu factory, LiveMint, 2025. [5] VinFast eyes Tamil Nadu as EV capital of South Asia, Financial Express, 2025. [6] Tata Harrier EV deliveries commence in India, Autocar India, 2025. [7] Mahindra Bolero next-gen spied testing, Autocar India, 2025. [8] New Mahindra Bolero design hints at transformation, CarWale, 2025. [9] Spy shots of the new Mahindra Bolero reveal a more sophisticated design, Overdrive, 2025. [10] Multiple sightings of the new Mahindra Bolero during testing, IndianAutosBlog, 2025.
- The Indian automotive industry is experiencing a significant shift with the entry of VinFast, a Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, into the market, launching a new factory for the assembly of electric cars.
- The Vietnamese company plans to increase its annual production of electric vehicles (EVs) to 10 lakh units by 2030, which showcases the growing influence of technology in the automotive business.
- Besides VinFast, Tata Motors is also actively participating in the transition to electric vehicles, commencing deliveries of the Tata Harrier EV in India, with plans to cater to both domestic and export markets.
- The finance sector is playing a crucial role in supporting these changes, as evidenced by the recent investments of $500 million by VinFast in its Tamil Nadu factory.
- As the manufacturing and business of electric vehicles expand in India, the lifestyle of Indian consumers is expected to evolve, with a greater focus on sustainable and technologically advanced transportation solutions.
