Tata Motors' Shailesh Chandra Becomes First Asian President of OICA

Shailesh Chandra, managing director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, has been chosen to serve as the first Asian president of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles (OICA) — the international association of vehicle manufacturers. His election is an important moment for the automotive industry in India and for Asian representation in the global automobile community.

Historic Appointment in Global Automotive Forum

OICA is an umbrella organization of national automotive associations in various countries and was founded in 1919. Based in Paris, it represents the interests of the auto industry globally on policy, innovation and sustainability. Their election of Chandra as its first Asian president reflects the growing influence of developing automotive markets, especially in regions such as India, Southeast Asia and Africa.

Chandra replaces John Bozzella, President and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, USA. His appointment was made during OICA's General Assembly where members recognized his leadership experience, foresight in the industry and balanced approach toward transforming mobility.

Broader Shift in Global Automotive Leadership

For years, the leadership of OICA was basically concentrated between Europe and North America. The decision to appoint an Asian president underlines a geopolitical shift in the balance of influence across the automotive industry. Emerging markets now account for a higher share of global production, sales and innovation, especially regarding electric mobility and sustainable vehicle technology.

Under Chandra's leadership, OICA will continue to work toward sustainable mobility, safety harmonisation and regulatory cooperation among nations. But the move also reflects a stronger inclusion of diverse regional perspectives-an area long discussed within international automotive forums.

Industry Experience and Strategic Outlook

Shailesh Chandra has led the transformation of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicle Business, particularly in the electric mobility space, over more than three decades. With a blend of technical understanding and strategic insight, he is well-placed to make a contribution to the global ambitions of OICA.

At Tata Motors, Chandra has played a critical role in driving the company's EV portfolio and was integral to strengthening India's presence in clean mobility solutions. He has therefore become respected in the global automotive community due to his innovative, collaborative and localisation approach.

What This Means for India’s Auto Industry

India's automotive sector is the third-largest in the world by volume and has been at the center of increased recognition in international forums. The appointment of an Indian executive as President of OICA manifests a recognition of India as an evolving manufacturing base and a policy influencer in the world mobility landscape.

It is symbolic, rather than merely ceremonial, according to the experts in the industry. This represents how emerging economies are shaping the future discussions on technology, emissions and equity transitions of transport systems.

Looking Ahead

As OICA continues its involvement with international organizations, including the United Nations and the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations, Chandra's presidency should see more active participation by developing countries. His priorities would likely remain on practical collaboration: bringing global standards in tune with local needs while continuing to push for sustainable mobility goals. The appointment expands the geographic leadership of OICA but also significantly reshapes the narrative about global automotive governance. That implies that the locus of innovation and influence related to mobility has steadily shifted away from being concentrated in the West to diversifying across continents.

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