The Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles (OICA) has announced the election of Shailesh Chandra, President of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), as its new President, effective 1 November 2025. He succeeds John Bozzella, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation (USA).
According to an official statement from OICA, Chandra’s appointment marks the first time an Indian industry leader has been chosen to head the global automotive manufacturers’ federation. He also serves as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Limited and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited. Chandra holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Varanasi, an Executive MBA from SP Jain Institute of Management and Research, and a Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship from Carnegie Mellon University.
“It is an honour to become the first OICA President from India, which is highlighting the organisation’s global representation,” said Chandra. “As the global automotive industry transitions towards sustainable mobility and pursues ‘Net Zero’ in alignment with the visions of governments worldwide, the role of OICA becomes increasingly critical — to acknowledge the diversity of every region, as we collectively strive to make our vehicles more aspirational, safer, and environmentally friendly.”
OICA has also elected Hildegard Müller, President of the Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA), as its Vice President. Müller, who holds a degree in business studies from Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, previously served as Minister of State to the German Chancellor and Chairwoman of the German Association of Energy and Water Industries (BDEW). She has led the VDA since 2020, steering the German automotive industry through challenges related to electrification, trade transitions, and global competitiveness.
Founded in 1919, OICA is the international federation representing national associations of motor vehicle manufacturers. With 36 member associations spanning all continents, it advocates for the global automotive industry on issues related to mobility, environment, safety, and economy. The organisation participates actively in the United Nations World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (UNECE WP.29) and compiles international automotive production and sales data.
Through its coordination of industry dialogue and support for international motor shows, OICA promotes global collaboration among manufacturers and governments to advance safe, sustainable, and efficient mobility.
