Mahindra Group, one of India’s leaders in the automotive industry has announced the launch of a dedicated AI unit, aimed at integrating AI into various business operations. This strategic move seeks to centralise AI efforts, positioning the division at the corporate level to serve all group companies, including Mahindra & Mahindra (automotive), Mahindra Lifespace (real estate), and Mahindra Holidays (hospitality).
Bhuwan Lodha, who previously led digital operations in Mahindra’s automotive business, will head the new AI division. “We have set up the AI division at a group level which is tasked to make our businesses successful with AI,” Lodha stated, as reported by PTI.
Initially, the division will source AI talent from within the group’s companies. “AI projects became side hustles for every IT team in every company. Now we are bringing it mainstream,” Lodha explained, emphasising the focus on consolidating AI initiatives.
The AI division will also collaborate with Tech Mahindra, the group’s IT services arm which has been actively working on building AI models in India such as Project Indus, to leverage domain expertise and global innovations from startups and universities. “Our goal is to build the right AI solutions for all the group companies,” Lodha said, stressing the importance of tailored solutions across sectors such as auto, real estate, and hospitality.
In addition to its operational focus, the new AI division will contribute to talent development, offering a clear career path for AI specialists. Lodha highlighted that it will ensure engaging work across multiple sectors, strengthening the group’s capabilities in AI.