At SIAM’s 11th Automotive Logistics Conclave, policymakers and industry leaders call for smarter, greener supply chains to support sector growth
NEW DELHI, July 18, 2025: In a move that could significantly boost efficiency in automobile freight movement, the Ministry of Railways has said it plans to introduce new specialised double-deck wagons designed to carry SUVs and high-volume vehicles.
“We are now introducing more specialised wagons with higher car carrying capacities per rake, including double decks for SUVs, to keep pace with the increased logistics requirements of the automobile sector,” said Mr. Hitendra Malhotra, Member (Operations & Business Development), Railway Board, Ministry of Railways. The move is expected to expand the share of rail in auto logistics while lowering costs and emissions.
He was speaking at the 11th SIAM Automotive Logistics Conclave in New Delhi, as stakeholders across the auto and logistics value chain convened to reimagine supply chain strategies for a rapidly evolving sector.
Logistics under pressure as auto sector grows 7.3%
Organised by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the conclave focused on “Enhancing Efficiencies in Automotive Logistics,” bringing together government officials, OEMs, supply chain experts, and technology providers to discuss how agility and sustainability can be embedded across India’s automotive logistics network.
“In FY 2024–25, the automotive sector has seen an overall growth of 7.3%. Logistics has become a critical element in this journey,” said Mr. Tapan Ghosh, Chairman, SIAM Logistics Group, and Vice President – Sales, Hyundai Motor India Ltd. “The need for a smarter, greener, and more responsible automotive logistics sector is evident.”
OEMs betting big on multimodal and digital
With road logistics under pressure and regulatory attention shifting toward decarbonisation, manufacturers are turning to rail and port-led logistics to diversify their networks.
“We’re moving toward increased railway dispatches and integrating sustainability. We’re also bringing in more technologies to help dealers and partners effectively track consignments,” said Mr. S D Chhabra, Co-Chairman, SIAM Logistics Group, and Executive Officer (Parts, Accessories & Logistics), Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.
Sessions also explored the need for seamless multimodal integration, better infrastructure at terminal points, and government support for digital freight corridors.
Greener goals, sharper tools
From real-time fleet tracking to green energy transitions and port efficiencies, participants across the ecosystem shared practical approaches for future-proofing auto logistics.
Experts from Axestrack, Chetak Logistics, Gujarat Pipavav Port, MapmyIndia, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, and Ashok Leyland emphasised the role of technology, planning, and policy coherence in driving change. Contributions from green logistics leaders, including Think Gas and Mahindra & Mahindra, furthered the dialogue around aligning industry logistics with India’s broader sustainability targets.
Recognising innovation and next steps
Several logistics service providers were felicitated at the event for their contributions to operational excellence and innovation. SIAM officials reiterated that stronger public-private collaboration, multimodal investment, and digital infrastructure are essential to building a logistics backbone fit for India’s next mobility leap.
