Chennai, August 29, 2025 – Commercial vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland, the flagship of the Hinduja Group, has announced a long-term exclusive partnership with China’s CALB Group, a leading global battery technology company. The collaboration comes against the backdrop of improving bilateral relations and involves an investment of over ₹5,000 crore over the next 7–10 years to establish a localised battery supply chain in India.
Driving India’s EV and Energy Storage Future
The company said the investment will support Ashok Leyland and Switch Mobility’s EV portfolio, while also catering to non-captive demand across the automotive and energy storage sectors.
“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 to accelerate EV adoption and reduce dependence on fossil fuels,” said Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman, Ashok Leyland.
Phased Approach & R&D Focus
In its initial phase, the new battery business will focus on the automotive sector, before expanding into non-automotive applications, including energy storage systems. A Global Centre of Excellence will also be established, serving as a hub for R&D in battery materials, recycling, battery management systems, and advanced manufacturing processes, said Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO of Ashok Leyland.
Strengthening Electrification Roadmap
This development marks another major step in the Hinduja Group’s electrification roadmap, which already includes investments in Electric Vehicles, Mobility-as-a-Service, Charging Infrastructure, Vehicle Financing & Leasing, and allied areas.
Summary
Ashok Leyland’s exclusive partnership with China’s CALB Group and planned ₹5,000 crore investment over the next decade aims to create a localised battery supply chain in India. The move will power both its EV portfolio and broader industry demand while advancing R&D in battery innovation and sustainability. This milestone underscores the company’s long-term commitment to electrification, energy independence, and India’s green mobility vision.
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