JSW Automotive Plans Hit by China Import Rules, Jetour T2 Launch Could Slip
JSW Automotive’s India plans could see a delay as China import certification issues impact the company’s upcoming car launch strategy. The first model, likely based on the Jetour T2 i-DM, is expected to be locally assembled under a new JSW-owned car brand.
JSW Automotive Plans and Jetour T2 India Project
JSW is working on establishing an entirely new car brand in India, separate from its existing joint venture with MG Motor. The company has partnered with China-based Chery Automobile to support its automotive ambitions.
The first vehicle is expected to be the Jetour T2 i-DM plug-in hybrid SUV, which will be assembled locally under a new brand and model name. Production is planned at a greenfield facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.
JSW has committed investments of around $3 billion for its automotive venture, with hybrid and electric vehicles forming a key focus area.
China Import Restrictions Impact on Launch Timeline
India’s strict quality control rules for Chinese imports, introduced to prevent dumping of low-quality goods, require overseas suppliers to secure local certification before exports. The approval process can take several months.
JSW currently needs to import certain components from China that are not readily available with local suppliers. These include safety glass parts such as windshields and sunroofs.
Due to certification delays, the company has requested the industries ministry to fast-track approvals. Reports indicate there has been no response yet, which could push back launch timelines.
Alternative Supplier Plans and Market Outlook
To avoid delays, JSW is exploring alternative suppliers from Germany and Vietnam. However, sourcing from these markets could increase production costs compared to Chinese suppliers.
While the company aims to increase local sourcing over time, initial reliance on imports may continue. If certification issues are resolved quickly, the Jetour T2 i-DM could still launch later this year and is expected to be positioned as an affordable plug-in hybrid offering in India.
Overall, JSW’s automotive entry remains significant for the Indian market, but the final launch timeline will depend on how quickly import approval challenges are resolved.
