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Montra Electric HCV, the clean mobility division of the Murugappa Group (IPL Tech), has inaugurated its new electric heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) manufacturing plant in Manesar, Haryana. The facility marks a significant investment in India’s electric vehicle infrastructure and sustainable logistics ecosystem.
Spread across 255,000 sq. ft. with a built-up area of 150,000 sq. ft., the plant has been designed to manufacture 6,000 electric trucks annually on a two-shift basis, scalable to 7,500 units with additional shifts.
A highlight of the facility is India’s first all-women, fully automated battery production unit, showcasing the company’s commitment to gender inclusivity in the EV sector. With 60% robotics integration, the plant adheres to Industry 4.0 digital manufacturing practices.
The facility boasts a battery pack assembly capacity of 1.7 GWh, along with advanced testing infrastructure including brake, wheel, and lighting component systems, battery pack cyclers, electrical-electronics labs, and quality assurance facilities. An integrated R&D unit further strengthens product development initiatives.
As part of its localization strategy, Montra Electric plans to source 74% of components domestically (excluding battery cells). The plant will manufacture multiple variants, including the company’s Rhino EV series and upcoming product lines.
Sustainability is a core focus, with battery recycling programs, waste management systems, and on-site charging infrastructure already in place. Future expansion phases will incorporate renewable energy sources. The company has also announced local community initiatives in skill development and environmental projects.
According to P.V. Satyanarayana, Chief Business Officer at Montra Electric HCV, the Manesar facility represents a defining step in India’s transition to sustainable logistics, combining scale, flexibility, and quality manufacturing.
The company plans to apply for benefits under the PM E-Drive Scheme and explore state-level incentives to further support its growth.
Part of the 125-year-old Murugappa Group, Montra Electric operates within a diversified business portfolio spanning agriculture, engineering, and financial services. The group reported revenues of INR 902 billion and employs over 94,000 people.
The Manesar facility launch comes at a crucial time as India accelerates EV adoption, particularly in commercial vehicle electrification, to reduce emissions in freight and logistics.
