Ashok Leyland announced the groundbreaking of a major greenfield battery pack manufacturing facility at Pillaipakkam, near Chennai, on March 11, 2026. The investment is estimated between Rs. 400-500 Cr, aligning with the Hinduja Group’s prior MOU and supporting India’s net-zero goals by 2070. The facility aims to localize EV battery production, strengthen the supply chain, and create high-tech employment in Tamil Nadu.
Ashok Leyland Commits to EV Ecosystem in Tamil Nadu
Ashok Leyland, the flagship of the Hinduja Group, officially announced the groundbreaking ceremony for its new greenfield battery pack manufacturing facility. The site is located at Pillaipakkam near Chennai. This development reinforces the company’s dedication to advancing India’s electric mobility sector.
The estimated investment for this significant project is between Rs. 400-500 Crore. This initiative is part of the larger investments outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Hinduja Group in September 2025. The new battery pack project directly supports the objectives of Tamil Nadu’s Electric Vehicle Policy 2023 and the National Mission on Transformative Mobility and Battery Storage.
Key Dignitaries and Strategic Importance
The foundation plaque was unveiled by Thiru M.K. Stalin, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Government of Tamil Nadu. Dignitaries present included Thiru T. R. B. Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotions and Commerce, and senior leadership from Guidance Tamil Nadu.
Mr Dheeraj Hinduja, Executive Chairman, Ashok Leyland, highlighted the deep historical connection between the company and Tamil Nadu, stating the new facility reinforces their commitment to building a strong domestic EV ecosystem, leveraging the existing capabilities of Ashok Leyland and its subsidiary, Switch Mobility.
Mr. Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland, emphasized the strategic nature of the facility, noting that battery pack technology is central to future mobility. The plant will enable the creation of advanced battery solutions focusing on greater efficiency, safety, and reliability, while simultaneously supporting the localization of the battery supply chain and fostering specialized talent development in the state.
Reinforcing Industrial Roots
Ashok Leyland boasts a 77-year industrial history in Tamil Nadu, beginning with its first facility in Ennore in 1948. The company currently operates across nine facilities spanning over 800 acres, having invested more than ₹9,000 crore in the state and creating over 37,000 jobs, cementing Tamil Nadu’s status as a leading automotive hub.
With this development, Ashok Leyland marks a crucial milestone in driving a cleaner and smarter future for mobility, proudly manufactured in Tamil Nadu, and supporting the global transition toward sustainable transportation.
Source: BSE
