Force Motors has announced a major manufacturing milestone with the rollout of its 200,000th Mercedes-Benz engine from its engine manufacturing facility at Chakan, Pune. The landmark engine, a 6-cylinder M256 petrol unit, has been installed in a Mercedes-Benz GLS 450.
The achievement highlights a partnership between Force Motors and Mercedes-Benz that spans nearly three decades in engine manufacturing. What began in 1997 has evolved into a broader collaboration that now includes the production of engines and axles for Mercedes-Benz cars and SUVs assembled in India.
Longstanding Manufacturing Partnership
The milestone was commemorated in the presence of senior executives from both companies, including Mr. Prasan Firodia, Managing Director of Force Motors, and members of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Senior representatives from Mercedes-Benz India were also present at the event.
Force Motors’ Chakan facility was established specifically to meet Mercedes-Benz’s global manufacturing standards. Over the years, the plant has played a key role in localising production and supporting Mercedes-Benz’s growing operations in India.
Commenting on the achievement, Prasan Firodia, Managing Director, Force Motors, said that the 200,000th engine represents more than just a production milestone, reflecting a long-standing relationship built on trust, engineering precision and manufacturing excellence.
Supporting Mercedes-Benz Growth In India
Mercedes-Benz has steadily expanded its local manufacturing footprint in India over the years, with several models now assembled at its Chakan facility near Pune. Force Motors has been one of the key suppliers supporting this growth through the production of critical powertrain components.
The latest milestone comes at a time when India is becoming an increasingly important manufacturing and sourcing hub for global automotive companies. Partnerships such as the one between Force Motors and Mercedes-Benz showcase the capability of Indian suppliers to meet stringent global quality and technology standards.
Indo-German Manufacturing Success Story
Beyond production numbers, the collaboration is also viewed as one of the notable examples of Indo-German industrial cooperation in the automotive sector. The ability to manufacture complex engines and components locally while adhering to Mercedes-Benz’s global benchmarks has helped strengthen India’s position in the global automotive supply chain. With 200,000 Mercedes-Benz engines now produced in India, Force Motors has further reinforced its credentials as a key manufacturing partner for one of the world’s leading luxury automotive brands.