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Sona Comstar and DENSO Form Two Joint Ventures to Develop Next-Generation EV Powertrain Technologies

Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd. (Sona Comstar) has entered into definitive joint venture agreements with Japan's DENSO Corporation to establish two strategic partnerships aimed at developing advanced electric and hybrid powertrain systems for a wide range of vehicle segments. The collaboration will focus on designing, manufacturing and marketing high-performance electrification technologies for two-, three- and four-wheelers, as well as larger commercial vehicle applications, strengthening India's position as a global hub for electric mobility manufacturing.

The two companies have outlined a shared vision of delivering world-class electric powertrain solutions that combine high performance, reliability and sustainability. The partnership brings together DENSO's global expertise in automotive electrification, advanced engineering and research and development with Sona Comstar's capabilities in precision manufacturing, cost-efficient production and deep understanding of India's rapidly evolving automotive market. Together, the companies aim to develop scalable products that meet international quality standards while remaining competitive for global and domestic markets.

The collaboration will be executed through two dedicated joint ventures, each targeting distinct vehicle categories. The first joint venture will develop high-voltage liquid-cooled traction inverters, traction motors and generators for electric and hybrid passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and other larger mobility applications. These systems are expected to support higher power outputs, improved thermal management and enhanced efficiency for next-generation electric drivetrains.

The second joint venture will focus on air-cooled traction inverters, motors, generators and integrated e-Axles for electric and hybrid two-wheelers and three-wheelers. These vehicle segments account for the majority of India's EV sales, making affordable, compact and efficient powertrain technologies essential for accelerating electrification. The development of integrated e-Axles, which combine the motor, transmission and power electronics into a single unit, can improve vehicle efficiency, reduce weight and simplify manufacturing.

India's electric mobility sector has been witnessing rapid expansion, supported by government initiatives such as the PM E-DRIVE Scheme, Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for the automobile and advanced chemistry cell sectors, and continued investments in charging infrastructure and domestic component manufacturing. As automakers increasingly localise EV production, demand for high-value components such as traction motors, inverters and integrated drive systems is expected to grow significantly over the coming decade.

For DENSO, one of the world's largest automotive technology suppliers, the partnership expands its manufacturing and product development footprint in one of the fastest-growing automotive markets. For Sona Comstar, which already supplies differential assemblies, traction motors, motor control units and precision automotive components to several global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), the joint ventures broaden its electrification portfolio into more integrated powertrain systems and strengthen its presence across the EV value chain.

The collaboration also aligns with India's broader ambition of becoming a global manufacturing base for electric mobility technologies. By combining Japanese engineering expertise with India's cost-effective manufacturing capabilities and expanding domestic supply chains, the joint ventures are expected to support innovation, reduce dependence on imported EV components and enhance the country's competitiveness in the global automotive industry.