Hyundai's new Pune plant aims to win over India's tech-savvy SUV and EV buyers

Hyundai Motor's newly commissioned plant in Pune begins with a yearly output of 170,000 cars, with plans to increase to 250,000 in two years and 320,000 by 2030, pushing total Indian capacity toward one million units when combined with the Chennai site. Dealer Hitesh Chadha of Kundan Hyundai notes that younger Indian consumers now prioritize advanced safety systems, connected-car tech, and premium amenities, a departure from the basic mobility focus of a decade ago.

He sees the expanded manufacturing base as a way to strengthen Hyundai's appeal in the fast-growing SUV and electric-vehicle segments, where the brand currently sits in fourth place behind Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. At Kundan Hyundai, EVs represent about 5 % of monthly sales, with models like the Creta Electric gaining interest despite a 15-20 % price premium. The dealership also invests in after-sales support, operating a 15-bay service center with dedicated EV diagnostics and a large parts inventory. Chadha believes the Pune plant will translate higher local production into greater customer loyalty and help Hyundai regain lost ground in India's competitive auto market.