Valeo Unveils Ambitious ₹1,000 Crore Expansion Plan in Chennai, Announces Recruitment Drive for 3,000 New Employees

French automotive components manufacturer, Valeo, is set to embark on a significant expansion initiative in the Chennai region, with a proposed investment of approximately ₹1,000 crore over the next 5-6 years. As part of this expansion, the company plans to hire around 3,000 individuals, both for its existing product lines and new technological ventures. The expansion will involve augmenting production facilities in Tamil Nadu, alongside a strategic focus on enhancing aftermarket operations through the establishment of extended distribution networks and service centers in the state.

Furthermore, Valeo aims to bolster the workforce at its Chennai Global Technical Centre, a key hub for research, development, and innovation. Presently employing 3,700 engineers, the company envisions undisclosed additional hiring to support its growth objectives, particularly in the fields of electronics and software.

Valeo's Chennai-based R&D engineers have played a pivotal role in contributing to over 365 patent filings, with an ongoing commitment to innovation. The company has also made strides in the electric mobility sector in India, securing a partnership with Mahindra & Mahindra for the provision of electric powertrains and onboard chargers for their 'Born Electric' passenger vehicle platform.

The Group's active involvement in the Indian automotive landscape includes Research and Development centers in Chennai and Bangalore, positioning Valeo as a key player in delivering Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) solutions to global tier-1 automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

Reflecting on the company's longstanding presence in Tamil Nadu, Jayakumar G, Group President & Managing Director, Valeo India, stated, "We have been in Tamil Nadu for over 25 years, and in the last 15 years, we have established a Global Tech Center for our R&D and software activities. We further plan to expand our operations and R&D in the upcoming years." Valeo initially began its Indian operations in 1997 in Chennai, focusing on the manufacturing of clutches and friction-facing materials. Subsequently, it expanded its footprint with the establishment of the first R&D Centre in Chennai in 2005, specializing in powertrain systems and extending operations across multiple segments over the years.

HBL