JLR expands global innovation network with launch of Open Innovation Hub in India

Established in partnership with global investor and corporate innovation platform Plug and Play, the Hub will link startups with JLR’s global engineering team to discover new technological, engineering, and sustainability solutions for the company.

JLR has announced the launch of its newest Open Innovation Hub in India, aimed at collaborating with startups to develop the next generation of products and services that will shape future client experiences.

Following the success of JLR’s existing innovation hubs in the UK, US, Israel, and Brazil, the India Hub will focus on advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, big data and analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), and sensor technology.

The Hub, which is launching in partnership with the corporate innovation platform and investor, Plug and Play, will also bring together industry, government, academia, and other parties. They will discuss and develop industry leading solutions for JLR, such as optimising batteries for electric powertrains, identifying optimal locations for charging infrastructure and delivering more advanced ADAS.

The new Hub is the fifth to open since JLR’s Open Innovation Programme launched in April 2022. The programme has engaged with over 2,500 start‑ups globally, resulting in 33 formal collaborations so far. Successes include: 

  • Collaboration with UK start‑up Allye to develop a way to reuse JLR PHEV and BEV batteries as second‑life energy storage systems.  
  • In Brazil, the startup Energy Source ‑ who JLR have also invested in via their venture capital arm, InMotion Ventures ‑ launching the first solar‑powered electric vehicle charging station, and vehicle rental specialist, Movida, offering mobility leasing options on over 250 vehicles from JLR brands.

“India’s rapidly expanding startup ecosystem, combined with JLR’s strong presence and close ties to the Tata Group, makes it the perfect location for our latest Innovation Hub,” said Igor Murakami, JLR’s Innovation Director.

“Through global collaboration, JLR’s Open Innovation Programme connects us to the next generation of talent and technology. The addition of the India Hub will enable our engineering teams to innovate swiftly, enhancing vehicle design, features, and overall customer experiences,” he added.

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.”

“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”, commented Sobhan Khani, Plug and Play Partner.