V. Sumantran, Ph.D.V. Sumantran, Ph.D.As a chief executive of the passenger car business, V. Sumantran led India’s largest automaker Tata Motor’s car venture through its most critical years. Currently an advisor on business, market strategy, technology and manufacturing for the global auto industry, Sumantran serves on the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Prime Minister of India. Prior to Tata Motors, Sumantran spent 16 years with General Motors in the R&D center in Detroit, and subsequently served on deputation in Europe as director of advanced engineering for SAAB Automobile. Sumantran also headed the GM-FIAT platform engineering team for premium vehicles and new technology development within the alliance.