India saw a 120 percent growth in electric vehicles (EVs) in the second quarter of this year, driven by a 400 percent surge in hybrid vehicles. Assistance systems (ADAS) rapidly expanded by 350 percent (year-on-year) and the adoption of connected and digital cockpit features continues to gain steady traction in passenger vehicles, surpassing 60 percent, according to the report by CyberMedia Research (CMR). The surge in EV adoption was driven by introduction of new affordable models, including, for instance, MG Comet EV from MG Motors.

"Automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are focused on introducing electric vehicles with Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that include helpful features like adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automated lane changes,” said John Martin, senior analyst-smart mobility practice, CMR. Additionally, the use of intelligent and connected cockpits within vehicles is on the rise. “These advancements are not only enhancing consumer safety but also promoting intelligent mobility and environmental sustainability,” said Martin.

The remarkable growth in hybrid vehicle demand was driven by OEMs, including Toyota Kirloskar, Maruti Suzuki, and Honda Motors. Over 90 percent of EV sales in Q2 2023 were equipped with smart connected features, and digital cockpits adorned around 15 percent of hybrid vehicles. By the end of this year, over 5 percent of passenger vehicles will likely be fully electric and equipped with ADAS features. Advanced connectivity and digital cockpit functionalities are projected to capture a 40 percent market share.