French automotive supplier Valeo has inaugurated a new production line for electric drive systems at its plant in Pune, India, as part of its strategy to expand localized EV component manufacturing.
The facility will produce 3-in-1 e-axles for Mahindra, integrating the electric motor, inverter and transmission into a single compact unit. The components will be used in Mahindra’s electric vehicles under its “Born Electric” program.
Valeo secured an order worth nearly $1 billion from Mahindra in late 2023 to supply electric drivetrains for its upcoming electric SUV lineup. The newly inaugurated production line marks the operational start of that partnership.
Xavier Dupont, CEO of Valeo Power, said the investment reflects the company’s long-term strategy in India. “India is a key region in Valeo’s ‘Elevate 2028’ strategic plan. Our investments in Pune supports our commitment to deeper localization of advanced technologies in India. By localizing the production of our highly integrated 3-in-1 e-Axle systems, we are strengthening our ability to deliver advanced technologies to our customers and contributing to India’s transition towards safer, and more sustainable mobility.”
Jayakumar G, President of Valeo India, highlighted the milestone for the company’s regional operations. “The inauguration of this line marks an important milestone in Valeo’s journey in India. Our new e-Axle manufacturing line in Pune is a key step in our growth strategy. It reflects our commitment to bringing advanced technology solutions closer to our customers,” he said. “We are proud to develop and manufacture this e-Axle for Mahindra’s Born Electric Vehicles and to contribute to the growth of India’s EV ecosystem.”
Mahindra’s Born Electric strategy is built around its INGLO platform and includes two main product lines: the BE series, focused on futuristic design, and the XEV series, which emphasizes premium features and builds on existing models.
The automaker unveiled its first Born Electric models, the BE 6e and XEV 9e, in 2024, followed by the XEV 9S in 2025, described as India’s first locally developed three-row battery-electric SUV.
The Pune facility underscores the growing role of India as a manufacturing hub for electric vehicle components, as suppliers and automakers increase investment to support the country’s transition to electrified mobility.
