AC MARKET IN INDIA
India's EV boom outpaces charging infrastructure, tests network limits
The electric vehicle revolution in India is gaining traction, with an impressive uptick in consumer interest, but there's a catch: charging stations are falling short of demand. With estimates predicting millions of EVs in daily use, the current infra is inadequate to support such growth.
Coming soon: Price hike round 3 in four months for durables
Consumers face another price hike on electronics like ACs, TVs, and smartphones by end April. This marks the third increase in four months. Rising costs of plastics and memory chips are forcing brands to raise prices. Daily essentials like soaps and detergents are also becoming costlier. This trend impacts consumer demand significantly.
Why AC maker Blue Star wants both summer and monsoon seasons to be good this year
Blue Star’s growth outlook hinges on strong summer-led urban demand and a favourable monsoon supporting rural markets, which now drive over 65% of industry sales. Managing director B Thiagarajan highlighted pricing pressures, geopolitical risks, and raw material inflation as key challenges, while noting stable demand and inventory levels. The festival season outlook remains uncertain amid global and domestic headwinds.
'Salary growing, wealth shrinking': CA explains ‘India's silent middle-class crisis’, says Rs 1.5 lakh salary is same as 10-yr-old pay
Urban Indian households face a 'silent crisis' as rising incomes fail to keep pace with escalating costs of living, leading to stagnant real purchasing power. Traditional savings are losing value due to inflation outpacing returns, forcing a reliance on credit and highlighting a structural disadvantage for the middle class.
Layoffs hit tech, GCCs; Startups rewrite summer rules
Happy Wednesday! Tech and GCC talent are facing more layoffs as they move up the value chain and integrate into global operations. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.
Startups spot a cool opening as ACs become everyday need
Air-conditioners are becoming an essential purchase in India, attracting startups like Helium and Optimist into a market long dominated by large brands. New entrants are developing affordable, energy-efficient products for urban living, while government incentives for local manufacturing are lowering barriers in a market long dominated by large players.
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Shelter from Spike 'n' Supply Storm: West Asia tensions test India Inc’s resilience to energy shocks
Escalating tensions in West Asia highlight India’s vulnerability to energy and logistics disruptions. Even without supply cuts, higher freight and insurance costs can strain margins and widen deficits. Strong balance sheets offer a cushion, but prolonged volatility could test corporate earnings, capital expenditure plans, and the broader credit cycle.
Bosch may launch AC brand in India; Hitachi label to stay
Bosch Home Comfort India is evaluating the launch of Bosch-branded air conditioners in India, which would mark its potential entry into the AC segment in Asia, while continuing sales under the existing Hitachi brand through a long-term licence. The company, now operating as Bosch Home Comfort India after acquiring a controlling stake in the former Johnson Controls–Hitachi JV, is also investing heavily in R&D and navigating rising costs from raw materials, logistics, and stricter efficiency norms, which are expected to push prices higher.
India Inc ramps up exports as Iran ceasefire reopens Middle East trade
Indian businesses are seizing opportunities after the Iran war ceasefire. Exports are resuming, and factories are returning to full capacity. Companies expect a surge in orders for reconstruction activities in war-affected nations. Pharma and packaged food sectors see increased demand.
US-Iran truce brings respite, but no quick fix for India Inc's supply pain
CEOs express cautious optimism following the US-Iran ceasefire, anticipating a consumer sentiment boost after a month of geopolitical uncertainty. While markets rallied and oil prices dropped, they caution that supply chain disruptions, LPG shortages, and labor migration will take time to normalize, with inflationary pressures persisting.
Bosch to acquire its vehicle motion business Bosh Chassis Systems India
Bosch Limited plans to acquire its vehicle motion business, Bosch Chassis Systems India. This move will create a stronger mobility portfolio for the company. The acquisition aims to enhance Bosch's capabilities in safety and braking systems. It will also allow for further investment in these critical areas. The transaction is subject to shareholder approval.
Daikin Industries to invest Rs 1,000 crore in India for global R&D centre
Daikin Industries is set to channel a monumental one thousand crore rupees into India to launch its first global R&D hub beyond Japan. This innovative center will specialize in software and product developments tailored for cooling systems.
D2C air conditioner startup Helium raises $2 million from India Quotient
The D2C startup will initially deploy the fresh funds to scale manufacturing, build inventory, and strengthen go-to-market efforts before shifting focus to brand-building, customer acquisition, hiring, and product development. Helium, founded in 2025 by IIT Kanpur alumni Ashish Sharma and Aman Munka, is building compact, cost-effective ACs for homes, with its first product designed to cool up to 100 sq ft using a 2,700-watt system that can run on a 1 kW solar panel.
LG records hot sales as it sells 1 million ACs in CYQ1; Co to expand Sri City plant
LG Electronics India achieved a record start to the summer season selling over one million air conditioners in the January-March quarter of 2026. This surge highlights strong demand for cooling products and energy-efficient appliances. LG plans to expand production at its new Sri City facility to meet rising demand.
Consumption slowdown in Q4 to spoil full year's sales show
Consumer electronics and smartphone sales in India experienced a significant slowdown in the March quarter. This trend impacted the overall growth for the fiscal year. Price increases and geopolitical pressures dampened consumer demand. Daily essentials also saw slower value growth after tax reductions. Appliance sales saw modest growth, while smartphone volumes declined.
April 2026 car launches India: VW Taigun facelift, Mercedes CLA EV, Toyota Ebella & Kia Seltos new variants; Check launch dates, prices & specs
Car launches April 2026 India: April 2026 will witness a surge of new car launches and updates in India, headlined by the Volkswagen Taigun facelift on April 9 and Mercedes-Benz CLA electric on April 24. Toyota’s Urban Cruiser Ebella EV, MG Majestor SUV and fresh Kia Seltos variants will also arrive, expanding options across SUVs and premium EVs.
UAE slows down from Gulf war stress; raises remittance concerns for India amid layoffs, pay cuts
The United Arab Emirates economy faces early stress as the Gulf war continues. Sectors like hospitality, travel, and food & beverage are seeing job cuts and salary reductions. Businesses are prioritizing survival over revenue targets. This economic slowdown could impact remittances to India. Many companies are adopting measures similar to the Covid-19 pandemic to manage the situation.
Govt shares key updates on oil, gas shortage, shipping & more amid Israel-Iran war
India is actively managing its oil and gas supplies amidst global conflicts. Key LPG carriers are en route, and the nation is prioritizing natural gas for essential consumers. The government is also expediting infrastructure development and advising consumers on alternative fuels. Efforts are underway to ensure the safe return of Indian citizens from affected regions.
Chinese professionals back in India on warmer ties
Chinese professionals are returning to India in growing numbers for business. Companies like Oppo, Xiaomi, and Midea are sending executives for market visits. This marks a revival after nearly six years of limited visa issuance. The frequency of visits is nearing pre-2020 levels. Indian manufacturing firms are also hosting Chinese partners. This trend is expected to increase.
Israel, Iran war: FMCG firms hike prices, shrink pack sizes as costs rise
US Israel Iran war: Your favorite snacks and drinks might soon cost more. Companies are raising prices and offering less product to manage higher costs from crude oil. Packaging and transport expenses have surged. Some firms are also introducing smaller pack sizes to keep items affordable. This situation could impact the recovery of consumer demand.
From autos to chemicals, Hormuz crisis widens supply risks beyond oil: UBS
Trade disruption at the Strait of Hormuz affects more than just oil and gas. Key industries like automobiles, chemicals, and personal care products face supply shortages. UBS reports the region is a vital source for many commodities. This blockage creates manufacturing challenges due to lack of availability, not just higher costs. Prolonged issues could impact global manufacturing.
Supply woes spur call for easing quality curbs on critical imports
Indian industries are seeking relaxed quality control rules. This move aims to secure vital components from alternative sources like China. Supply chain disruptions due to the West Asia conflict are impacting sectors such as automotive and electronics. The government is considering these requests to ease the current supply squeeze. A decision is expected soon.
Sharp partners with Amber Enterprises for producing ACs in India
Sharp Business Systems India is partnering with Amber Enterprises India to manufacture air conditioners locally. This collaboration aims to boost Sharp's presence in India's growing cooling market. Production will begin in March 2026 at Amber's facilities. Sharp plans to capture a significant market share over the next five years by expanding its product range and distribution network across India.
AC makers brace for unseasonal rain, rising costs ahead of summer demand
Unusual rains are impacting early summer sales for air-conditioner makers. Price hikes are also a concern due to rising raw material costs from West Asian tensions. Manufacturers expect temperatures to rise in April, potentially boosting demand. However, a second price increase is anticipated in April. Supply of LPG gas is also reduced, affecting production.
Retailers roll out festival discounts amid inventory pressure, Gulf war concerns
As concerns over the Gulf war loom large, Indian retailers are slashing prices on electronics and home appliances to attract cautious consumers and clear their stock. With a noticeable dip in smartphone and TV sales, many anticipate further hikes in product prices. Shoppers are tightening their belts and re-evaluating their purchasing habits.
BIRAC fuels innovation with Rs 4,200 crore funding across 15 lakh startups and entrepreneurs
India's Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council, BIRAC, marked its 14th Foundation Day. It has significantly boosted India's biotech startup ecosystem. BIRAC has provided substantial funding and incubation support. This has led to a surge in India's bioeconomy, now projected to reach $195.3 billion. The organization continues to foster innovation for national growth.
French major Thomson eyes aggressive India expansion; to tap refrigerator market after AC
Thomson, a French electronics brand, is set to become more aggressive in India's appliance market. Following its success in LED TVs, the company is entering the refrigerator segment. Thomson sees significant growth potential in India due to low appliance penetration. The brand aims to replicate its European success in the Indian market.
LPG gas cylinder KYC: Delivery to be allowed only after Aadhaar authentication, check how to update e-KYC online
LPG Cylinder KYC: The petroleum ministry has clarified that biometric Aadhaar authentication for LPG customers is only for those who haven't completed e-KYC yet, easing concerns amid the cooking gas crisis. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries need it annually for subsidies, while others who've done it before are exempt. This move aims to enhance transparency and prevent diversion of LPG.
Super-efficient ACs could cut energy use by 60%, industry leaders discuss
Experts unveiled a vision for super-efficient, humidity-optimized ACs that can cut energy use by 60% and halve peak power demand. This innovation is crucial as 76% of the population faces extreme heat risk and AC demand is projected to surge.
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