Auto parts maker Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd (Sona Comstar) has entered into a joint venture with China-based Jinnaite Machinery Co Ltd (JNT) to make a strategic foray into the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market. As per news agency PTI, the combined investment in the joint venture is pegged at $20 million (around Rs 167 crore), with Sona Comstar contributing $12 million for a 60 per cent stake.According to a company statement, JNT will bring in $8 million worth of assets and business during the first phase. The JV is scheduled to begin operations in the second half of FY26 to fulfil existing orders from both EV and non-EV customers.The new entity will manufacture and supply driveline systems and components to automotive OEMs in China and global markets. Sona Comstar, already the largest supplier of differential assemblies for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in North America and a leading player in Europe, sees this move as a significant milestone in expanding its Asian footprint.“The driveline manufacturing operations in China align with the company’s strategy to expand its presence in Asian markets, particularly in India, China, Japan, and South Korea,” said Sona Comstar, adding that it also plans to strengthen its market position in North America and Europe.Highlighting the importance of the move, the company cited China’s dominance in the EV space. In 2024, China accounted for 11 million EV sales, two-thirds of global EV sales, with domestic OEMs contributing 76 per cent of this volume.“This joint venture marks a significant step in our strategy to expand into the rapidly growing Asian markets,” said Sona Comstar MD and Group CEO Vivek Vikram Singh. “As the largest electric vehicle market in the world and a leader in EV technologies, China offers tremendous opportunities for innovation and growth.”Singh added that with a strong order book already in place, the JV is “well-positioned for strong growth” and is expected to commence operations later this year.JNT, which runs a world-class foundry using patented casting technology, also contributes to national standard-setting in China. According to the company, the JV leverages Sona Comstar’s strengths in driveline design, forging and machining, and JNT’s casting expertise, supplier network, and regulatory knowledge, providing a strong base for future growth.