Neither Range Rover nor Mercedes: Why Modi chose Fortuner for drive with Putin; Theories emerge
The change in tool sparked controversy online and among experts who believed the choice was far from random.
Fortuner Outperforms Range Rover: Coincidence or Calculated Signal?
There was no official statement from the government, but geopolitical analysts quoted by India Today and other networks put forward various theories.
The most prominent theory suggests that using a Japanese-branded vehicle rather than a European-branded vehicle carries symbolic value at a time when both India and Russia are facing Western scrutiny over the Ukraine conflict.
Defense analyst Colonel Rohit Dev called it “a message to the West”, implying that Putin’s move to a European brand would generate negative views, especially from countries that support sanctions against Moscow.
Avoiding European Brands Under Sanctions
PM Modi’s official cars include Range Rover and Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard, both European brands. The United Kingdom and Germany, which host these producers, have been vocal supporters of Kiev and have imposed sanctions on Russia. A senior strategic commentator quoted in India Today explained: “It would be politically inappropriate for Vladimir Putin to buy a car from Europe during his state visit. A Japanese vehicle has completely avoided that image.”
Domestic Production and Strong National Messaging
Another reason often cited is that many Fortuner models are made in India, in line with the government’s push for Models and self-reliance in India.
Media sources pointed out that Fortuner Sigma 4 with Maharashtra registration plate was used; This was a detail that was not overlooked by follow-up protocol decisions.
Interestingly, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh drove a white Fortuner while escorting Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov to the National War Memorial, reinforcing suggestions that the election could be part of a broader messaging strategy.
Practical Reason: Seating and Safety Arrangement
Beyond symbolism, a logistical explanation also emerged.
According to government sources, Fortuner was chosen due to its seating arrangement and not geopolitics. The vehicle’s third row allowed interpreters to sit inside well before the leaders entered, without violating security protocols.
“The Range Rover does not have a third row. For two leaders and two translators traveling together, the Fortuner was the most efficient choice,” an official told India Today.
As the Fortuner guided the convoy towards the Prime Minister’s residence, both Putin’s Aurus Senat and Modi’s Range Rover followed behind, adding to the visuality of the shared space between the two leaders.
Diplomacy in Optics: A Silent Signal That Makes the Loudest Noise
Whether chosen for practicality, messaging, or both, the decision created a moment of car diplomacy that sparked global curiosity.
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla cryptically posted on X: “Smart people will know why.”
After all, the real reason may never be officially revealed. But Fortuner’s drive shows that in modern diplomacy, symbols on wheels can mean as much as the leaders inside them.
Input from agencies
