Ashok Leyland to invest in the battery ecosystem for a sustainable India

By Staff Report September 1, 2025 4:08 pm IST

In the backdrop of improving bilateral relations, Ashok Leyland has entered into a long-term exclusive partnership with CALB Group, one of the foremost battery technology companies in China.

Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, plans to invest in the development and manufacturing of next-generation batteries for both automotive and non-automotive applications, including energy storage systems. This reinforces Ashok Leyland’s ambition to be a leading player in creating an electrification ecosystem in the country, in alignment with the Government’s vision of creating a sustainable and green economy.

The agreements were signed 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.

Ashok Leyland will invest in battery localisation in India. This will provide for Ashok Leyland & Switch’s own electric vehicle portfolio and also cater to non-captive demand in the entire automotive sector, as well as in the energy storage sector. This business would entail investments of over Rs. 5000 Cr over the next 7-10 years.

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 localised battery supply chain in India to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in India and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.”

Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director & CEO, Ashok Leyland, said, “In the initial phase, the new battery business shall focus on the automotive sector, and then move to non-automotive areas as well, including energy storage systems. A Global Centre of Excellence will be created to serve as a hub for research and development, fostering innovation in battery materials, recycling, battery management systems, and advanced manufacturing processes.”

This partnership marks yet another milestone for Ashok Leyland and Hinduja Group’s ongoing commitment towards electrification, with investments across Electric Vehicles, Electric Mobility-as-a-Service, Charging Equipment, Vehicle Financing and Leasing, and other areas.