Major Investment Announced
Hyundai Motor Company, the South Korean automotive giant, has announced a significant investment of ₹8,528 crore to establish a Global Innovation Research and Development Centre at the National Investment and Manufacturing Zone (NIMZ) in Zaheerabad, Telangana. The announcement was made during a media briefing attended by Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, IT and Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu, Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, and other senior government officials.
Project Approval and Site Details
The project has received approval from the Telangana government’s Industrial Promotion Sub-Committee. The new R&D centre will be located on 675 acres of land in Zaheerabad, positioning it as one of the largest automotive research investments in the region.
Facility Features and Capabilities
The upcoming centre will feature advanced infrastructure to support Hyundai and Kia Motors’ research and development activities. Key components of the facility include:
- A pilot production line for prototype development
- An automotive test track for vehicle testing
- Modern prototyping platforms
- A press stamping tool shop
- Dedicated testing facilities for Hyundai and Kia vehicles
These features are designed to enhance Hyundai’s capabilities in developing next-generation automotive technologies and products.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The investment is expected to have a substantial economic impact on Telangana. According to government officials, the project will:
- Create 4,276 direct jobs for local youth
- Boost state revenue through increased industrial activity
- Attract ancillary industries and suppliers to the region
Strategic Importance for Hyundai
Hyundai’s decision to establish this R&D centre in Telangana aligns with its broader strategy to position India as its largest global export base after South Korea. The company currently considers India its third-biggest market and has plans to launch 26 new models by 2030, including:
- 20 internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles
- 6 electric vehicles (EVs)
The new facility will play a crucial role in supporting these product development and export ambitions.
Strengthening Telangana’s Automotive Ecosystem
The Zaheerabad centre is expected to further strengthen Telangana’s position as a hub for automotive research and manufacturing. The state already hosts major automotive players and is set to benefit from increased investment, employment, and technology transfer.
Company and Government Statements
Corporate representatives and government officials have described the investment as a milestone for Telangana’s mobility ecosystem. Hyundai officials stated that the new R&D centre underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and positions Telangana as a global centre for advanced automotive research and development.
