Global connected technologies leader HARMAN, a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, has unveiled a strategic investment plan worth ₹345 crore to expand its automotive electronics manufacturing facility in Chakan, Pune. The announcement, made on October 27, 2025, marks a significant milestone in HARMAN’s commitment to India’s growing automotive and mobility ecosystem.
The investment includes ₹45 crore earmarked for immediate expansion and an additional ₹300 crore to be deployed over the next three years. This move will support advanced telematics, next-generation automotive connectivity programs, and increased production capacity, positioning India as a central hub in HARMAN’s global operations.
Expansion Overview: Scaling Up for the Future of Mobility
| Investment Component | Amount (₹ crore) | Timeline | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Expansion | 45 | FY 2025–26 | Facility upgrade, equipment installation |
| Long-Term Investment | 300 | FY 2026–28 | Telematics, connectivity R&D, job creation |
| Total Investment | 345 | 3 years | Capacity expansion, innovation acceleration |
With this latest infusion, HARMAN’s cumulative investment in the Pune facility now stands at ₹554 crore since its inception in 2014.
Strategic Goals of the Pune Expansion
HARMAN’s expansion plan is aligned with India’s “Make in India, for the World” vision and aims to:
- Increase annual production capacity by over 50%
- Manufacture 4 million car audio components, 1.4 million infotainment units, and 0.8 million telematics units by 2027
- Create 300 new jobs in Pune by 2027
- Strengthen India’s role in global automotive electronics supply chains
| Strategic Objective | Target Outcome by 2027 |
|---|---|
| Production Capacity | 6.2 million automotive units annually |
| Employment Generation | 300 new skilled jobs |
| Export Contribution | Significant boost to global supply chain |
| Innovation and R&D | Advanced telematics and cockpit systems |
The Pune facility currently serves major Indian OEMs and global automotive brands, producing connected car technologies including digital cockpits, telematics control units, and premium audio systems.
Leadership Commentary: Commitment to India’s Automotive Future
Christian Sobottka, CEO and President of Automotive at HARMAN, emphasized the strategic importance of the investment:
“This expansion is a clear signal of our commitment to India. Pune is not just adding capacity—it’s becoming a global hub for connected and sustainable mobility.”
Krishna Kumar, MD & Automotive Head of HARMAN India, added:
“With this investment, we are accelerating India’s role in the future of automotive innovation. Our Pune facility will be a cornerstone of HARMAN’s global manufacturing footprint.”
| Executive Name | Role | Key Message |
|---|---|---|
| Christian Sobottka | CEO & President, Automotive, HARMAN | India is central to HARMAN’s global strategy |
| Krishna Kumar | MD & Head, Automotive, HARMAN India | Pune will drive innovation and job creation |
Their statements underscore HARMAN’s long-term vision for India as a manufacturing and innovation powerhouse.
Technology Focus: Telematics and Connectivity
The ₹300 crore long-term investment will be directed toward:
- Advanced telematics systems for real-time vehicle tracking and diagnostics
- Next-generation infotainment platforms with AI-driven personalization
- Connectivity modules supporting 5G and V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) communication
- Integration with cloud-based mobility services and over-the-air (OTA) updates
| Technology Area | Application in Automotive Systems |
|---|---|
| Telematics | Fleet management, predictive maintenance |
| Infotainment | Navigation, entertainment, voice control |
| Connectivity | 5G, V2X, OTA updates |
| AI and Cloud Services | Driver behavior analytics, remote diagnostics |
These innovations will cater to both domestic and international markets, enhancing vehicle safety, efficiency, and user experience.
Job Creation and Skill Development
HARMAN’s expansion will generate 300 new jobs in Pune by 2027, spanning roles in:
- Manufacturing operations
- Quality assurance and testing
- Embedded systems engineering
- Supply chain and logistics
- R&D and product development
| Job Category | Estimated Positions | Skill Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing & Assembly | 120 | Electronics, automation |
| Engineering & R&D | 100 | Embedded systems, connectivity |
| Quality & Testing | 40 | Compliance, product validation |
| Logistics & Support | 40 | Inventory, vendor coordination |
HARMAN will also collaborate with local institutions for training and certification programs to upskill the workforce.
Pune’s Role in India’s Automotive Ecosystem
Pune has emerged as a key automotive hub, hosting major OEMs and component manufacturers. HARMAN’s expansion reinforces the city’s position as a center for:
- Automotive electronics and software
- Connected mobility solutions
- Export-oriented manufacturing
- Talent development in engineering and design
| Pune Automotive Highlights | Contribution to Sector Growth |
|---|---|
| OEM Presence | Tata Motors, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz |
| Electronics Manufacturing | Bosch, Continental, HARMAN |
| Engineering Talent Pool | 20+ engineering colleges and tech institutes |
| Export Infrastructure | Proximity to JNPT and Mumbai ports |
The synergy between industry, academia, and infrastructure makes Pune ideal for HARMAN’s growth plans.
Alignment with Government Initiatives
HARMAN’s investment supports key government programs such as:
- Make in India: Boosting domestic manufacturing and exports
- Digital India: Advancing connected technologies and smart mobility
- Skill India: Creating employment and training opportunities
- PLI Scheme for Auto Components: Incentivizing high-tech production
| Government Program | HARMAN’s Contribution |
|---|---|
| Make in India | Localized production for global markets |
| Digital India | Connected car technologies and telematics |
| Skill India | Job creation and workforce development |
| PLI Scheme | Investment in advanced electronics |
These alignments enhance HARMAN’s eligibility for incentives and policy support.
Competitive Landscape and Market Positioning
HARMAN competes with global players such as Bosch, Continental, Panasonic, and Visteon in the automotive electronics space. Its strengths include:
- Deep integration with Samsung’s technology ecosystem
- Proven expertise in audio, infotainment, and connectivity
- Strong relationships with Indian and global OEMs
- Scalable manufacturing and R&D capabilities
| Competitor | Focus Area | HARMAN’s Differentiator |
|---|---|---|
| Bosch | Sensors, ECUs | Audio and infotainment leadership |
| Continental | ADAS, telematics | End-to-end cockpit solutions |
| Panasonic | Battery systems, HMI | Premium audio and embedded platforms |
| Visteon | Digital clusters | Integrated connectivity and cloud support |
HARMAN’s Pune facility will serve as a strategic asset in maintaining competitive advantage.
Conclusion
HARMAN’s ₹345 crore investment to expand its Pune facility marks a transformative step in India’s journey toward becoming a global hub for connected automotive technologies. With a focus on innovation, job creation, and sustainable mobility, the expansion reinforces HARMAN’s commitment to India’s industrial and digital future. As the automotive sector evolves toward electrification and connectivity, Pune is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of smart vehicles.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available corporate announcements and industry reports. It does not constitute investment or business advice. All views expressed are for informational purposes only.
