India’s automotive landscape is presently undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by electrification, connected technologies, and changing consumer tastes. The auto aftermarket is evolving faster than anticipated, with consumers embracing next-gen technologies faster than expected. While auto makers are focused on upgrading existing models or replacing them with products that offer a better overall proposition, the auto aftermarket segment is where there is a lot of action happening.
Despite some of the strictest laws for vehicular modifications, India continues to see its vehicle owners eager to upgrade their possessions with the latest technology and trends the market has to offer. Be it performance tuning kits or vanity items, the aftermarket auto segment is booming, and equipment manufacturer Uno Minda is keeping up with competitive offerings to not only stay in the market but also encourage customers to dive into this lucrative space.
Hence, Financial Express sat down for a conversation with Vishal Kaul, President and Business Head, Uno Minda Aftermarket, to understand how the EV revolution, customisation trends, and safety concerns are reshaping the sector, and what lies ahead for the Indian automotive market in 2026.
EVs changing the aftermarket accessories scene
The electric vehicle revolution is affecting the aftermarket accessories segment drastically, and manufacturers are rapidly evolving to stay relevant. “The EV revolution is not merely a shift in fuel type; it represents a fundamental change in vehicle architecture and user experience. The focus is moving away from mechanical maintenance parts toward electronic, software-driven, and lifestyle-oriented accessories, says Kaul.
He goes on to say that an EV’s cabin increasingly becomes a ‘third living space,’ which is driving demand for advanced infotainment, comfort systems, and smart lighting solutions. Hence, manufacturers like Uno Minda are now prioritising high-efficiency electrical systems that enhance functionality without compromising vehicle range.
Vehicle customisation/modification in today’s era
Kaul threw light on the emerging trends in the vehicle aftermarket customisation scene. “Today, even entry-level hatchback and SUV buyers want features that were once limited to top-end variants,” said Kaul. “The pressure on manufacturers is not just about pricing but about delivering strong ‘perceived value,’” he added.
Kaul says that Indian consumers have sophisticated and peculiar demands, especially with all the global awareness in this sector. “There is growing demand for advanced ambient lighting that syncs with music, as well as air filtration systems comparable to home air purifiers. We’ve also witnessed a sharp rise in enquiries for 360-degree cameras and advanced infotainment systems, even for older vehicles,” he said.
For brands like Uno Minda, this allows greater opportunity to invent and grow, especially as customers “prefer to ‘tech-refresh’ their existing cars instead of replacing them”. “This indicates that the future of the aftermarket lies in retrofitting intelligence into vehicles already on the road,” said Kaul.
Supply chain issues, counterfeit imports continue to create trouble
As Indian consumers scale up their ambitions, accessory makers have to tackle the issue of counterfeit products and offerings. While Uno Minda’s OEM background helps to deliver higher quality standards — premium features like ventilated seats or advanced infotainment at mass-market economics – educating consumers about the safety risks of cheap lookalike products continues to be an ongoing effort.
“The market is undoubtedly flooded with unbranded imports, but consumers are becoming more value-conscious rather than just price-driven. Cheap electrical components often lead to frequent failures and can even damage a vehicle’s wiring system,” warns Kaul.
That said, the idea is to push for ensuring peace of mind rather than just a lower price, and that comes with higher quality standards. “Our philosophy is “Made in India, for the World.” Every aftermarket product undergoes the same rigorous testing as our OEM supplies. As safety regulations tighten and awareness grows, we expect demand to increasingly shift toward reliable, compliant Indian brands,” says Kaul.
Another challenge comes from the supply chain, which is still at a struggling stage. “Technology adoption in India is happening at an unprecedented pace, shortening product lifecycles and increasing expectations for immediate availability,” he added.
Aftermarket to focus on functional upgrades as market grows in 2026
Kaul believes that the aftermarket segment will increasingly focus on functional upgrades that deliver clear safety or economic benefits. “First is the complete LED-ification of mobility. From two-wheelers to passenger cars, LED lighting will become standard, driven by safety, efficiency, and aesthetics,” he said.
Sensor integration is another factor where Kaul believes to see growth. He says that consumers want vehicles that communicate feedback, thus leading to sustained demand for parking sensors, temperature monitors, and other convenience and preventive systems.
Then there is the rise of alternative fuels, particularly CNG. “Demand is shifting from basic kits to intelligent CNG solutions that offer better mileage without sacrificing performance. As safety awareness grows, unbranded kits will find it difficult to compete with OEM-grade solutions,” he added.
Kaul also went on to give a hint of what trends the Indian auto sector sees in 2026, stating, “We see 2026 as a year of technological maturity, where EVs, CNG, and conventional fuels coexist. While the replacement market will expand due to an aging vehicle base, the green transition will progress simultaneously through electrification and CNG adoption.”
