Tata and ROHM Partner to Boost India’s Automotive Semiconductor Production, Fueling EV Growth
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India is poised to become a significant player in the global semiconductor supply chain with a new partnership between Tata Electronics and Japan’s ROHM co. aimed at assembling and testing automotive-grade power semiconductors. Mass production is anticipated by 2026, a move expected to strengthen india’s electric vehicle (EV) supply chain and contribute to greater global chip resilience.
The collaboration will center on assembling and testing automotive-grade power semiconductors at Tata’s newly constructed $3.2 billion facility in Jagiroad,Assam. This investment not only bolsters India’s EV supply chain but also contributes to greater global chip resilience amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. According to a company release, the initial focus will be on N-channel 100V, 300A silicon MOSFETs in TOLL packages.
India’s Semiconductor Ambitions Take Shape
This partnership directly supports India’s ambitious ₹76,000 crore national initiative to establish a self-reliant chip industry. “This is a crucial step towards realizing our vision of ‘Make in India’ for semiconductors,” stated a senior official. The assam facility complements Tata’s broader semiconductor endeavors, including the development of a fabrication plant (fab) in Dholera, Gujarat.
key Details of the Collaboration
- Companies Involved: Tata Electronics (india) and ROHM Co.(Japan)
- Focus: Automotive-grade power semiconductors
- Location: $3.2 billion Jagiroad facility in Assam, and the Dholera fab in Gujarat.
- Timeline: Mass production targeted for early 2026.
- Impact: Strengthens domestic EV supply chain and global chip resilience.
Why Power Semiconductors Matter for EVs
Power semiconductors are essential components in EVs, playing a critical role in battery management, charging systems, and overall energy efficiency. As the demand for EVs continues to surge globally, a secure and reliable supply of these chips is paramount. One analyst noted, “The availability of locally produced power semiconductors will be a game-changer for the Indian EV industry, reducing costs and lead times.”
Despite the promising outlook, the venture faces several challenges. Semiconductor fabrication is a complex undertaking, and delays in the 2026 target are a possibility. India will also need to compete with established semiconductor hubs like Taiwan, South Korea, and the United States.
Furthermore, while ROHM will provide advanced semiconductor designs, India must invest in deeper research and development (R&D) capabilities to move beyond assembly and testing. Supply chain vulnerabilities related to raw materials – particularly silicon wafers and specialized chemicals – also remain a concern.A chart illustrating the current global semiconductor supply chain and India's projected position would be beneficial here.
Broader Strategic Context
The Tata-ROHM partnership is part of a larger trend of international collaboration in India’s semiconductor sector. India’s first fab, in partnership with Taiwan’s PSMC, is under development in Dholera, Gujarat. Additionally, an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is in place with Intel to explore packaging and manufacturing opportunities within India. the Assam facility, initially designed for assembly and testing, is now strategically aligned with ROHM’s automotive chip production.
This collaboration positions Tata as a central figure in India’s semiconductor aspirations, and ROHM’s participation marks a significant milestone in Japan-India technology cooperation. The success of this venture will be crucial not only for India’s economic growth but also for the stability of the global semiconductor supply chain.
