Shailesh Chandra becomes first Indian OICA president

The Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles (OICA) has appointed Shailesh Chandra, who is the president of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam) and the managing director and chief executive officer of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, as its president for a term commencing on November 1, 2025. He takes over from John Bozzella, the president and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation in the USA.

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Chandra is the first Indian to lead OICA, representing a significant achievement for India in the realm of global automotive decision-making.

 He expressed, "It is an honour to become the first OICA president from India, which underscores the organisation’s global representation."

As the industry shifts towards sustainable mobility and net-zero objectives, he emphasized that OICA’s role in recognizing regional diversity will be vital "as we collectively strive to make our vehicles more aspirational, safer and environmentally friendly."

Additionally, OICA has appointed Hildegard Müller, the president of the German automotive industry association VDA, as vice-president. Müller, who has been at the helm of the VDA since 2020, previously held the position of minister of state to the German chancellor and served as chairwoman of the German Association of Energy and Water Industries (BDEW).

Established in 1919, OICA serves as the global federation of national automotive industry associations, representing 36 members. It collaborates with the UN’s World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (UNECE WP.29) on technical standards and mobility policy, compiles global production and sales data, and supports international motor shows.

Chandra’s election occurs at a time when the global automotive industry is confronted with stricter regulations, decarbonisation targets, and a transition towards sustainable mobility.