The Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) range gets a major “Make in India” boost as Tata Motors kicks off production at its massive new facility in Panapakkam.

In a big move for the Indian luxury car market, Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) have officially started operations at their new manufacturing plant in Panapakkam, Tamil Nadu. The very first car to roll off the production line is the stylish Range Rover Evoque.

This development is significant because it marks the start of a new chapter for JLR in India, deepening the “Make in India” commitment and potentially speeding up the delivery of these high-demand SUVs to Indian customers.

What is the New Update?

On February 9, 2026, Tata Motors announced the commencement of operations at its greenfield facility in the Ranipet district of Tamil Nadu. This plant is a joint effort to manufacture vehicles for both Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover.

The first model chosen to inaugurate this line is the Range Rover Evoque. While the Evoque was already being assembled in India (at the Pune plant), shifting and expanding production to this new specialized facility highlights the model’s importance. It is JLR’s entry-level SUV and one of their best-selling models in the country.

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Why This New Plant Matters

This isn’t just another factory; it is a major industrial hub.

• Massive Capacity: The plant aims to produce up to 2,50,000 vehicles annually once fully operational.
• Job Creation: It is expected to create over 5,000 jobs (direct and indirect) in the region.
• Future-Ready: The facility is designed to build “next-generation” vehicles, which means we will likely see Electric Vehicles (EVs) from both Tata and JLR being built here in the future.
• Sustainability: The plant is built to run on 100% renewable energy, aiming for a carbon-neutral footprint.

Range Rover Evoque: Key Features & Specs

If you are planning to buy the India-made Range Rover Evoque, here is what the current model offers. It is known for mixing rough-and-tough capability with high-end luxury.

• Design: It keeps the famous “coupe-like” silhouette with a floating roof, flush door handles (that pop out when you unlock), and pixel LED headlights.
• Interior: The cabin is ultra-modern. It features a minimalist dashboard with an 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen running the Pivi Pro infotainment system.
• Engine Options:
  • Petrol: 2.0-liter mild-hybrid engine delivering roughly 247 BHP.
  • Diesel: 2.0-liter mild-hybrid engine delivering roughly 201 BHP.
• Off-Road Tech: It comes with the famous Terrain Response 2 system, which automatically adjusts the car’s settings for snow, mud, or sand. It also has a “ClearSight” ground view that lets you “see through” the bonnet on the screen to avoid rocks and potholes.
• Price: The Range Rover Evoque currently starts at approximately ₹64.86 Lakh (ex-showroom).

Impact on Indian Buyers

For Indian buyers, local manufacturing at this scale is good news.

1. Faster Delivery: With a dedicated new line, waiting periods for the Evoque may reduce.
2. Spare Parts Availability: Local production often improves the supply chain for spare parts and service.
3. Future Pricing: While an immediate price drop hasn’t been announced, increased localization can help shield prices from rising import taxes in the long run.

What Happens Next?

This is just Phase 1. Over the next 5 to 7 years, Tata Motors plans to invest heavily (around ₹9,000 crore) in this facility. Industry experts believe that after the Evoque, other popular JLR models like the Discovery Sport or even upcoming electric SUVs could be shifted here.

JLR is clearly aggressive about capturing the Indian luxury market, competing hard against rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, and Audi Q5.

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