MUMBAI, May 15, 2025: Tata Autocomp, a well-known Tier 1 component manufacturer in India, has partnered with Katcon, a global leader in exhaust systems, thermal insulation, and advanced materials, to form a new joint venture in Mexico to manufacture Sheet Moulded Composites.
Katcon, which specialises in components for petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles, is an ideal partner for Tata Autocomp because it can navigate high US tariffs by leveraging local free trade agreements, allowing Tata Autocomp to serve its North American clients without incurring significant tariff costs.
Confirming the JV, Arvind Goel, Vice-Chairman of Tata AutoComp Systems, stated that the joint venture is a watershed moment for Tata AutoComp because it is the company’s first partnership in which they contribute core technologyโan approach we see as a reversal of their previous collaborations.
“Our Composite Division, which recently received the prestigious Deming Award, offers proprietary technology, formulations, and in-house capabilities for composite compound and sheet manufacturing. We are proud to be at the cutting edge of technological innovation in this forward-thinking collaboration. Goel elaborated.
The joint venture will produce sheet moulded composites for lightweight applications in commercial vehicles, agricultural tractors, off-road vehicles, and specialised non-automotive sectors, expanding on the two companies’ successful 13-year collaboration in India on exhaust systems and emission aftertreatment.
Carlos Turner, CEO of Katcon, provided additional information about the joint venture, saying, “By combining Katcon’s advanced composite technologies with Tata AutoComp’s extensive industry knowledge, we are strategically positioned to provide innovative, lightweight solutions to meet the changing demands of the North American automotive market.”
This joint venture exemplifies our shared commitment to innovation and excellence, reinforcing our desire to shape the future of mobility through advanced materials, Turner said
Tata AutoComp will provide technological leadership and customer access in this new venture, while Katcon will focus on operational excellence, regulatory alignment, and strong local execution. This JV is also in line with our strategic vision of expanding our global footprint and serving global customers.
