GM Defense in ‘exploratory’ talks with Tata Motors for armoured vehicle

The company is specially focussing on India for its latest product, an armoured SUV for VIPs that is specially aimed at political leaders and high net worth individuals

As GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors, amongst the world’s largest automobile manufacturers, looks to expand its global reach, India has become a key focus. 

The company is exploring a strategic partnership with Tata Motors, which could play a crucial role in advancing India’s defence technology. The potential partnership comes at a time when India’s defence sector is increasingly focused on upgrading its technology and infrastructure. Tata Motors, a prominent player in the Indian automotive, could provide the necessary local support and integration to complement GM Defense’s advanced offerings.

The company is specially focussing on India for its latest product, an armoured SUV for VIPs that is specially aimed at political leaders and high net worth individuals.

GM says that the vehicle stands out not only for its advanced autonomous capabilities but also for the unparalleled security and support it offers to clients. Unlike other vehicles that undergo aftermarket modifications, this vehicle benefits from GM motors direct involvement in its design, engineering, and long-term maintenance.

Bradley L Watters

“India is one of the markets we are focusing on. We had some very promising conversations with Tata Motors and the Tata Group as a whole. There has been interest in collaboration, whether it is on this vehicle or others, like our infantry squad vehicle, to support local militaries or police departments, India is extremely important to us, and we are very upfront and honest about what we can do. Whether it is complete knock-down kits, assembly, or integration,” Bradley L Watters, Vice President of GM Defense, tells Media India Group.

Watters adds that GM Defense offers a significant advantage with its unique OEM warranty, setting it apart from competitors in the market.

“The big thing is this vehicle is that it has the backing of General Motors. It is the only vehicle where you are going to get an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) warranty. Other vehicles that may look similar do not come with that warranty when you buy them. If any repairs need to be done in that first three or five-year period, depending on the warranty you choose, they are covered under the warranty backed by General Motors,” says Watters.

“When you consider the brand recognition, some might buy a Suburban and modify it, but it doesn’t have the same backing or meaning as an OEM-integrated armoured vehicle. A lot of governments now prefer OEM solutions because they have found that the traditional model, while possibly cheaper, compromises on capabilities and maintenance sustainment. This vehicle offers protection and is certified on the international stage, making it capable of handling most threats in VIP transport,” he adds.

The vehicle was showcased at Eurosatory, a defence show in Paris recently

The vehicle leverages advancements such as Ultra Cruise, an advanced driver-assistance technology that enables hands-free driving on a variety of terrains, ensuring secure and efficient transport in even the most challenging environments.

The vehicle is attracting attention from governments, federal police, and military organisations around the world due to their seven armour protection. 

“Right now, we are particularly focusing on governments as potential buyers, including federal and state governments, militaries, and diplomats. That is where most of the interest has been, as it is a niche market, we have not had any requests from civilians yet, but since we operate under a commerce license, the vehicle could be sold in small quantities to civilians also with the proper approvals,” Watters adds.

The global market for integrated armoured vehicles is rapidly expanding, and GM Defence is at the forefront of this growth. By offering fully integrated solutions straight from the manufacturer, the company addresses a significant gap in the traditional armoured vehicle market, where aftermarket modifications often lead to compromises in quality and performance.

“When you look at the integrated armoured vehicle and what we are doing globally, there has been a lot of interest. Traditionally, you would buy a vehicle and take it to an aftermarket shop, where they would tear it down, armour it, and then put it back together. One of the benefits we offer as an OEM is full integration, including suspension integration and engine calibration. We are seeing a lot of interest not just in North America and Canada, where we started, but also throughout Latin America, South America, Europe, and definitely in the Indo-Pacific. We had numerous discussions and early interactions with heads of state and federal police, many of whom are interested in using this type of vehicle for counter-terrorism operations,” Watters adds.

On the discussion with Tata Motors, Watters says that the discussion is still in the exploratory phase, with both companies assessing potential synergies. 

“As of now, we don’t have any deadline or concrete deal with Tata. We are still in what I would call the exploration phase, trying to figure out what each side may want out of the relationship. We are even discussing some of their capabilities and how they could become part of our supply chain. So, we are in the process of defining this exploration, trying to determine whether we will proceed as teammates or it will be a supplier relationship,” Watters says.

He adds that GM Defense’s approach to the Indian market is part of a broader strategy to expand its international footprint. Watters says that the company is open to collaborating with other Indian firms as well. 

“We are open to all partners in India. There is a lot of good companies, a lot of good technology, a lot of good capability in India,” he adds.

Although GM’s commercial operations in India had seen a downturn in the past, the company still maintains a significant presence in the country.

“There still is a GM presence in India. There is a tech centre where GM is on the commercial side, still does a lot of research and development technology insertion and is still heavily employing a bunch of Indian citizens,” says Watters.