Chennai: Chennai: Ashok Leyland, the flagship company of the Hinduja Group and one of India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, has announced a major push into the battery ecosystem with plans to invest over ₹5,000 crore in the coming decade. The investment will focus on developing and manufacturing next-generation batteries for both automotive and non-automotive applications, including energy storage systems, marking a significant step in the company’s electrification journey.
In a move that underscores strengthening ties between India and China, Ashok Leyland has signed a long-term exclusive partnership with CALB Group, a leading global battery technology company. The agreements were signed by Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director and CEO of Ashok Leyland, and Jacky Liu, CEO of CALB (HK) Co. Ltd, in the presence of Shom Hinduja, President of Alternative Energy and Sustainability Initiatives at the Hinduja Group.
The company’s battery initiative will support not just Ashok Leyland and its electric vehicle arm Switch Mobility but also cater to the wider automotive market and energy storage sector. The strategy includes setting up a localized supply chain in India, reducing reliance on imports while driving adoption of electric vehicles.
“Ashok Leyland is deeply committed to shaping the future of sustainable mobility in India in full alignment with the Government’s vision,” said Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of Ashok Leyland. “Our strategic partnership with CALB is a significant step towards creating a localized battery supply chain to accelerate electric vehicle adoption and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.”
In its first phase, the new battery business will focus on automotive applications before expanding into energy storage and other non-automotive uses. Plans also include establishing a Global Centre of Excellence dedicated to research and innovation in battery materials, recycling, battery management systems, and advanced manufacturing processes.
The latest initiative adds to the Hinduja Group’s growing portfolio in electrification, which already spans electric vehicles, mobility-as-a-service, charging solutions, vehicle financing, and leasing. With this investment, Ashok Leyland is positioning itself at the heart of India’s green transition.