Following the success of locally assembled Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models, JLR is now exploring the possibility of producing the popular Defender SUV in India.
Why India is on JLR’s Radar
The Defender has emerged as JLR’s highest-selling model in India. In fact, in Fiscal Year 2025, JLR India reported a significant 40 percent year-on-year increase in retail volumes, reaching 6,183 units and securing the third position in the Indian luxury market.
While specific model sales figures weren’t disclosed, JLR confirmed that the Defender was its top performer. This strong demand, coupled with the success of local assembly for the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport (which saw a 2.5 times sales increase), makes local Defender production a logical next step for the brand.
Roadblocks to Local Defender Production
Despite the clear business case, bringing Defender production to India faces some unique challenges. The new generation Defender’s entire production was moved from the UK to a new facility in Nitra, Slovakia.
Currently, the Nitra plant is not equipped to build and dispatch CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits, which are essential for local assembly. Furthermore, ongoing trade agreement discussions between the Indian government and European nations will play a crucial role in determining the most viable business model for the Defender in India.
While the market volume exists to justify local production, these logistical and trade considerations mean it might still be some time before we see Made-in-India Defenders.
JLR’s Broader India Strategy
JLR, owned by Tata Motors, is actively working to boost its local manufacturing presence in India. Both companies are developing a joint production facility in Tamil Nadu. While specific products for this plant haven’t been confirmed, Tata Motors’ group CFO, PB Balaji, indicated that it would commence with CKD operations and be a key part of Tata Motors’ overall product strategy.
JLR currently local assembles several models in India, including the Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Velar, Discovery Sport, and the recently added Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.
- The Defender was JLR’s top-selling model in India in FY2025.
- Local assembly for Range Rover and Range Rover Sport led to a 2.5x sales increase.
- Challenges for Defender local production include the Slovakia plant’s CKD capabilities and trade agreement discussions.
- JLR and Tata Motors are setting up a new joint production facility in Tamil Nadu.
This strategic move underscores JLR’s commitment to the Indian market, aiming to capitalize on strong demand and optimize costs through increased local production.
