From Speed to Sustainability: BMW Group India's President & CEO, Vikram Pawah's Leadership Insights Ep. 5
Welcome to another episode of "Leading with Purpose" created & hosted by Garima Avtar. Today, I’m thrilled to speak with Vikram Pawah, President & CEO of BMW Group India. Vikram discusses BMW’s leadership in electric mobility, the company’s commitment to sustainability, and what it takes to lead a world-class brand in today’s competitive market. He also opens up about his passion for racing and how it shaped his career. Watch as we explore BMW’s future in India and beyond!
About the podcast:
"Leading With Purpose" features visionary leaders who have made a profound impact in the business world through purpose-driven leadership. Gain insights, experiences, and expertise from these impactful individuals, and learn how leading with purpose can transform businesses and lives. Tune in for valuable lessons and inspiration.
Who is Garima Avtar?
Garima Avtar is an extreme rally driver, independent automotive journalist, 3 times Tedx Speaker, host NBA India Weekly Show and a passionate content creator. She has been a trailblazer in the male-dominated sport of extreme rallying, & a true inspiration for anyone who dreams of following their passion, despite all odds.
She has also been recognised with awards such as DNA New Gen Women Achiever’s Award 2024 in the Auto Category, gold at ETBrand Equity Influencer Marketing Awards 2022, Iconic Women Leader in Sports as an Enabler of Change’ - presented at Women Economic Forum’, Best Female Driver, Radio One 94.3 FM ‘SuperWoman’, Asian Achievement award for outstanding work in extreme rallying, FLO Delhi Women Leadership Award 2021, Khel Gaurav award 2021, Peaklife Women Inspire Award 2022, Women Super Achiever Award presented at the 6th World Women Leadership Congress in, Distinguished Women Achievers’, INSPIRA Honors' Award, amongst others.
Let's connect online:
📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garimaavtar/
Visit: www.garimaavtar.com
For business, email: engage@garimaavtar.com
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0:00 - 1:05 | Introduction
Introduction to the podcast and guest, Vikram Pawah, President & CEO of BMW Group India.
1:06 - 3:45 | Vikram’s Journey into the Automotive Industry
Vikram talks about his early passion for cars, rebuilding cars with his father, and how he entered the automotive industry.
3:46 - 7:10 | BMW’s Electric Mobility Journey
Discussion on BMW’s success in electric mobility, lessons from the Indian market, and the challenges in scaling EV adoption.
7:11 - 9:30 | BMW’s Sustainability Initiatives
Vikram explains BMW’s efforts toward sustainability, including the use of vegan leather, recycled materials, and carbon-neutral production goals.
9:31 - 12:05 | Future of Electric and Traditional Engines
Vikram shares insights on the future of fuel mix in the auto industry, where electric, petrol, and diesel engines will coexist.
12:06 - 14:00 | BMW’s Innovation in EV Battery Technology
Vikram discusses BMW’s advancements in battery technology, including their new platform launching in 2026.
14:01 - 16:45 | AI and Automation in BMW Cars
A deep dive into BMW’s integration of AI and automation features, and the challenges of autonomous driving in India.
16:46 - 19:25 | Leadership Lessons and Personal Growth
Vikram shares his personal leadership philosophies, including the importance of decision-making and learning from failures.
19:26 - 21:40 | Racing Passion and Motorsports
Vikram opens up about his love for racing, super sports bikes, and high-speed driving on the track.
21:41 - 24:00 | BMW’s Future and Next-Generation Models
The future of BMW India, including new electric models, the Noya class platform, and integrating circularity into car design.
24:01 - 26:10 | Rapid-Fire Questions
Vikram answers quick questions about his favorite cars, morning routine, and personal hobbies.
26:11 - 28:00 | Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Vikram gives advice for aspiring leaders and shares his views on the younger generation driving India forward.
