Ashok Leyland, the flagship of the Hinduja Group and one of India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, has announced a major investment push into the development and manufacturing of next-generation batteries for both automotive and non-automotive applications, including energy storage systems.
The move underlines the company’s ambition to build a strong electrification ecosystem in India, in line with the Government’s vision of creating a sustainable and green economy.
As part of this strategy, Ashok Leyland has signed a long-term exclusive partnership with China-based CALB Group, a global leader in advanced battery technologies. The agreements were formalized by Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director & CEO, Ashok Leyland, and Jacky Liu, CEO, CALB (HK) Co., Ltd, in the presence of Shom Hinduja, President, Alternative Energy and Sustainability Initiatives, Hinduja Group.
The company will localize battery manufacturing in India, with investments estimated at ₹5,000 crore over the next 7–10 years. The initiative will support Ashok Leyland and Switch Mobility’s EV portfolios, while also catering to broader demand in the automotive and energy storage sectors.
Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman, Ashok Leyland, said:
“Ashok Leyland is deeply committed to shaping the future of sustainable mobility in India in full alignment with the Government’s vision. Our strategic partnership with CALB is a significant step towards creating a localized battery supply chain in India to accelerate EV adoption and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.”
Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland, added:
“In the initial phase, the new battery business will focus on the automotive sector and gradually expand to non-automotive areas, including energy storage systems. A Global Centre of Excellence will be set up to drive R&D in battery materials, recycling, battery management systems, and advanced manufacturing processes.”
This partnership further strengthens Ashok Leyland and the Hinduja Group’s growing commitment to electrification, complementing their investments in electric vehicles, e-mobility services, charging equipment, vehicle financing, leasing, and other allied sectors.
