Billionaire Profile
Abhay Firodia
Global Rank
#864

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Abhay Firodia

CEO, Force Motors
IN
Real-Time Net Worth
$4.7B
As of December 2025
Age
81
Source
Automobiles
Industry
automotive
Citizenship
IN

Biography

Abhay Firodia, a prominent Indian industrialist, is the Chairman of Force Motors. His career has been pivotal in shaping the Indian automotive industry, transforming Force Motors into a major player in commercial and utility vehicles. With a net worth of $4.7 billion, as of December 5, 2025, Firodia's wealth stems primarily from his leadership of Force Motors and his significant stakes in various Bajaj Group companies. Born in 1944, Firodia has been recognized with the Order of Merit by the Federal Republic of Germany and the Jain Ratna Award. His contributions to the industry include launching iconic vehicles like the Tempo and Matador and fostering collaborations with global automotive giants like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Rolls-Royce.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Abhay Firodia was born in 1944 into a business family with deep roots in the Indian automotive sector. His father, Navalmal Firodia, founded Bajaj Tempo (now Force Motors). Abhay attended The Scindia School in Gwalior and later pursued a degree in Economics from Fergusson College in Pune. His upbringing in a business-oriented environment, combined with a passion for automobiles, laid the foundation for his successful career.

Rise to Success

Abhay Firodia joined the family business in 1975, taking over Force Motors, which was then known as Bajaj Tempo. Under his leadership, the company transformed from a light commercial vehicle manufacturer into a diverse automotive giant. Firodia played a critical role in expanding the company and introducing a range of light commercial vehicles, multi-utility vehicles, and agricultural tractors. He was instrumental in establishing Force Motors as a trusted name in the Indian automotive industry.

Key Business Strategies

Firodia's strategic vision and leadership have been key to Force Motors' success. He emphasized innovation and quality, giving the company an edge over competitors in the commercial vehicle space. He also expanded the manufacturing sector by establishing state-of-the-art production facilities. Key to his success was also fostering collaborations with global automotive companies, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Rolls-Royce, for producing high-end automotive components.

Philanthropy

Abhay Firodia is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He is the Chairman of Shri Firodia Trust and Multanchand Bora Trust, which are involved in supporting healthcare, education, and social welfare initiatives. In addition, he has built a museum that spotlights the culture, history, and philosophy of the Jain community in India, furthering his commitment to cultural preservation and community service.

Career Milestones

1975

Joined Force Motors

Joined the family business and took over leadership of the company.

1987

Expanded Manufacturing

Established a new plant at Pithampur in Madhya Pradesh for the production of Tempo Traveller.

1997

Partnership with Mercedes-Benz

Entered into a partnership with Mercedes-Benz for manufacturing vehicles.

2009

Handed over MD reins

Handed over the managing director role to his son, Prasan.

2012

Order of Merit

Conferred with the Order of Merit by the Federal Republic of Germany.

2016

Entrepreneur of the Year

Awarded Ernst & Young – Entrepreneur of the Year for Manufacturing.

2017

SIAM President

Served as the President of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).

2024

Museum Inauguration

Inaugurated the Abhay Prabhavana Museum and Knowledge Centre in Pune.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare, Education, Social Welfare

Shri Firodia Trust

Undisclosed

Supports healthcare, education, and social welfare.

Healthcare, Education, Social Welfare

Multanchand Bora Trust

Undisclosed

Supports healthcare, education, and social welfare.

Culture and Education

Abhay Prabhavana Museum

Undisclosed

A knowledge center for cultural and Jain values.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“The courts and the green brigade have to engage the country in a manner that is constructive."

Leadership Principles

Innovation

Focus on introducing new technologies and models.

Quality

Ensuring high standards in manufacturing and product offerings.

Collaboration

Working with global leaders to leverage expertise.

Self-Reliance

Investing in indigenous R&D and manufacturing.