In the past few years, India’s economy and infrastructure investments have experienced significant growth, transforming the nation’s automotive landscape. Qualcomm, a leading provider of automotive tech platforms, has observed this growth firsthand through its collaborations with Indian automakers.
“We’re working with pretty much every automaker in India,” said Vivek Khanna, Senior Director at Qualcomm.
Qualcomm’s automotive revenue has surged by 35% globally, with India playing a significant role. The adoption of Snapdragon Digital Chassis solutions has been particularly strong, driving new vehicle launches.
“After fourteen consecutive quarters of double-digit growth for Qualcomm’s automotive business, confidence is understandably at an all-time high,” said Khanna.
Qualcomm estimates $4 billion in automotive revenues by fiscal 2026.
Khanna emphasizes the importance of automakers in defining use cases based on customer demands. Qualcomm’s learnings from smartphone and computing device silicon development are leveraged in its automotive technology range, including the Snapdragon Ride Flex platform, which combines ADAS features, in-car infotainment, and automated driving technology.
Khanna believes that affordability, increased compute power for safety systems, and generative AI as a personal assistant will shape the next generation of cars in India.
“In the next five years or so, advanced connectivity will go a similar way,” said Khanna. “People want to track their cars or be worried that their children may drive faster than they should.”
Subscription models for advanced car features are also being considered by some carmakers. Khanna suggests that cost-specific solutions will be crucial for the Indian market.
Qualcomm’s focus on mobility aligns with the latest technological advancements. The company collaborates with automakers, partners, and the developer community to integrate cutting-edge technologies like generative AI and advanced chip technology into automotive systems.
“Gen AI is going to be one of the major things for cars, and that’s the direction we’re going in,” said Khanna.
Khanna highlights the potential of generative AI for personalization, smart suggestions, and contextual awareness in cars. However, he acknowledges that cost factors and technology adoption timelines need to be considered for wider implementation.
Qualcomm actively collaborates with Indian automakers, supporting the development of cockpit platforms for Mahindra and Tata Motors. The company emphasizes the importance of customization and innovation tailored to the Indian market.
“We are in talks with all Indian automakers, in terms of enabling satellite connectivity at minimal cost,” said Khanna. “In an emergency, if I have a smart way of sending a message saying here’s my location and this is the kind of emergency I am in, I can ask someone to send help.”
Khanna also addresses data privacy concerns, emphasizing the need for government regulations and user consent.
“If for example, a person buys a car, the automaker typically asks if they want to be tracked,” said Khanna. “If the answer is yes, then fine. The user gives permission.”
As India’s automotive sector continues to evolve, Qualcomm remains committed to collaborating with automakers and fostering innovation that meets the unique needs of the Indian market.
