In a significant push toward advanced automotive manufacturing, JBM Group, a USD 3.3-billion global Indian conglomerate, has entered a strategic joint venture with Sodecia Automotive International SA, a global leader in automotive components. The partnership aims to design, develop, and supply hot-stamped automotive systems and assemblies to Indian OEMs, marking a major step forward in India’s transition toward safer, lightweight, and sustainable mobility.
The foundation stone of the upcoming hot stamping plant was laid at JBM Group’s Neel Metal Products Ltd. facility in Chakan, Pune, by Acharya Devvrat, Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra & Gujarat. Senior leadership including S.K. Arya, Chairman, JBM Group; Nishant Arya, Vice Chairman, JBM Group, and representatives from Sodecia were present at the ceremony.
High-End Manufacturing Facility Set for Q2FY27 Launch
Under the joint venture, JBM Group and Sodecia will establish a state-of-the-art hot stamping manufacturing facility at the Chakan Industrial Area with an investment of ₹150 crore. The plant is expected to be operational by Q2 FY27 and will integrate JBM’s four decades of manufacturing expertise with Sodecia’s advanced hot stamping technology.
The facility will produce safety-critical, lightweight, high-strength automotive systems for both ICE and electric vehicles, addressing the growing demand for lighter, stronger, and more efficient vehicle structures.
Strengthening India’s Hot Stamping Ecosystem
JBM Group has been steadily expanding its hot stamping ecosystem across India. The company recently established a dedicated hot stamping die manufacturing facility in Greater Noida, strengthening its vertically integrated capabilities and global supply readiness.
The new venture reinforces JBM Group’s position as a trusted partner for global OEMs and supports India’s vision of sustainable and technologically advanced automotive manufacturing.
Leadership Commentary
S.K. Arya, Chairman, JBM Group, said: Our joint venture with Sodecia underscores JBM Group’s commitment to developing world-class manufacturing capabilities and bringing best-in-class global technologies to India. This collaboration will accelerate the deployment of high-strength, lightweight systems critical for modern mobility and further strengthen our role as a trusted technology partner to OEMs globally.
Rui Monteiro, CEO, Sodecia, added: We are delighted to partner with JBM Group, a trusted industry leader with strong manufacturing foundations and deep OEM relationships. This joint venture will enable us to bring our global expertise to one of the world’s most dynamic automotive markets.
The Technology Behind Hot Stamping
Hot stamping, or press hardening, involves heating sheet metal blanks to extremely high temperatures and rapidly cooling them within dies to achieve exceptional tensile strength at significantly reduced weight. This process has become vital for modern passenger vehicles—particularly electric vehicles—where lightweighting is crucial for meeting environmental regulations and enhancing efficiency.
