Logistics has become a critical enabler for the Indian automotive sector, and contributed to its 7.3 per cent growth in FY25, according to Tapan Ghosh, chairman of the Society of Indan Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) Logistics Group & vice president (sales) at Hyundai Motor India.
‘There is an urgent need for smarter, greener, and more responsible logistics solutions,’ Ghosh said at SIAM’s 11th Automotive Logistics Conclave, held in the national capital Delhi.
The conclave, with the theme “Enhancing Efficiencies in Automotive Logistics,” explored the sector’s evolving needs amid rising vehicle demand, growing complexity in supply chains, and a push for green and digital transformation.
SD Chhabra, co-chairman of the SIAM Logistics Group & executive officer (parts, accessories & logistics) at Maruti Suzuki India, in turn, said the industry was moving towards increased use of rail for dispatch and adopting new technologies for better shipment tracking and partner coordination.
Hitendra Malhotra, member (operations & business development), Railway Board, Ministry of Railways, highlighted the government’s push to introduce specialised wagons with higher car-carrying capacities, including double-decker designs suited for SUVs.
‘These changes aim to support the expanding logistical needs of the automobile sector,’ Malhotra said.
Sustainability in Logistics
The participants also discussed the industry’s growing responsibility to reduce environmental impact.
Speakers from Think Gas, MapmyIndia, Mahindra & Mahindra, Safexpress, and APLL VASCOR stressed the importance of adopting eco-friendly logistics practices and aligning with India’s broader green mobility objectives, according to a statement by SIAM.
SIAM, in the statement, said the industry is prepared to adopt and leverage digital tools and invest in infrastructure to utilise logistics as a key pillar of the Indian automobile sector’s growth. It, however, sought more policy support.
The event also saw the participation of senior representatives from companies and institutions such as the Asian Institute of Transport Development (AITD), Axestrack Software Solutions, DPIIT, Chetak Logistics, Gujarat Pipavav Port, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, Transglobal Carriers, and Ashok Leyland.