JLR Opens New Innovation Hub in India to Drive Future Mobility

JLR has launched an Open Innovation Hub in Bangalore with Plug and Play to drive tech and sustainability innovations.

Gaydon, UK- Jaguar Land Rover Automotive PLC., (JLR) has launched its latest Open Innovation Hub in India, aimed at collaborating with startups to develop innovative products and services that will shape the future of client experiences. Building on the success of existing hubs in the UK, US, Israel, and Brazil, the India Hub will concentrate on deep tech areas such as artificial intelligence, big data, IoT, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), and sensor technology.

The Hub, launched in partnership with Plug and Play, will unite industry, government, academia, and other stakeholders to develop innovative solutions for JLR, including optimizing batteries for electric powertrains, enhancing charging infrastructure, and advancing ADAS. This is the fifth Hub since JLR’s Open Innovation Programme began in April 2022, engaging over 2,500 startups worldwide and resulting in 33 formal collaborations. Notable successes include:

Partnering with UK startup Allye to repurpose JLR PHEV and BEV batteries for energy storage.

Collaborating with Brazilian startup Energy Source to launch the first solar-powered EV charging station and offering leasing options through Movida.

With India’s vibrant startup ecosystem and JLR’s strong ties to Tata Group, the country is an ideal location for the new Hub.

Mr. Igor Murakami, JLR’s Innovation Director, said, Through global collaboration, JLR’s Open Innovation Programme is connecting us to the next generation of talent and technologies, and the addition of a Hub in India will support JLR’s engineering teams to innovate quickly to support vehicle design, features and improve customer experiences.

Ms. Lalitha Indrakanti, JLR Technology & Business Services India (TBSI) CEO, said, Quality and innovation are core elements of our business. Through the Innovation Hub we are looking to tap into India’s deep technology ecosystem to discover new possibilities with a strong focus on engineering and sustainability. The hub will act as a dedicated space to attract disruptors to bring meaningful and scalable solutions to market. We aim to be the leading Innovation Hub for mobility and sustainability and be the top collaborator of choice for startups.

Mr. Sobhan Khani, Plug and Play Partner, said, Plug and Play's partnership with JLR will continue to enhance our global mobility ecosystem. This initiative empowers innovators to develop transformative technologies that redefine the future of mobility and align with JLR's commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.