Hirose Expands Global Footprint with New Automotive Connector Plant in India!
Hirose Electric Co., Ltd. has announced the establishment of its first manufacturing facility in India, marking a strategic move to strengthen its presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets. The new plant will operate under its subsidiary, HIROSE ELECTRIC CHENNAI PRIVATE LIMITED, and will be located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
This expansion reflects Hirose’s commitment to supporting the rapidly evolving Indian automotive ecosystem, particularly as demand grows for advanced electronic systems in electric vehicles and connected mobility solutions. By setting up a local production base, the company aims to enhance supply chain efficiency, improve responsiveness to customer needs, and increase its capacity to serve both domestic and regional markets.
The project involves an initial investment of approximately ¥1 billion, equivalent to around US$6.28 million. The facility will be built on a 1,700 square meter site and will focus on the production of automotive connectors and related electronic components. These products play a critical role in enabling reliable power and data transmission in modern vehicles, supporting applications such as advanced driver-assistance systems, onboard electronics, and electrified powertrains.
As part of the development timeline, Hirose signed a memorandum of understanding with the Government of Tamil Nadu on March 11, 2026, marking the formal beginning of the project. The plant is expected to commence partial operations in the summer of 2027, with plans to employ approximately 100 local workers during the initial phase. This investment not only strengthens Hirose’s manufacturing capabilities but also contributes to local employment and skill development.
A key objective of the new facility is to localise the production of high-precision connectors, reducing dependency on imports and improving supply chain resilience. This is particularly important as the automotive industry continues to shift toward electrification and digitalisation, where reliable connectivity solutions are essential for performance and safety.
The Chennai plant will become Hirose’s ninth global manufacturing site, joining its existing network across Japan, China, South Korea, Indonesia, and Malaysia. This expansion highlights the company’s broader strategy of building a diversified and regionally balanced manufacturing footprint, enabling it to respond more effectively to market demands while maintaining high standards of quality and productivity.
Overall, Hirose’s entry into India represents a significant step in aligning its global growth strategy with emerging opportunities in advanced automotive electronics. By combining local manufacturing with global expertise, the company is well positioned to support the next phase of innovation in India’s automotive and electronics industries.
