Montra Electric HCV (IPL Tech), part of the Murugappa Group, announced plans to inaugurate its state-of-the-art electric heavy commercial vehicle (eHCV) manufacturing facility in Manesar, Haryana. This marks the company’s first all-women, fully automated battery production unit and a significant milestone in India’s push for sustainable freight solutions.
The plant is designed to roll out 6,000 electric HCVs annually, expandable to 7,500 units, and will feature modular assembly lines capable of producing multiple product variants, including the flagship Rhino EV series and upcoming models. Spread across 255,000 sq. ft. with a built-up area of 150,000 sq. ft., the factory incorporates 60% robotics integration and full Industry 4.0 digital manufacturing practices, making it one of the most advanced facilities of its kind in the country.
“Our EV truck factory in Manesar represents a defining step in India’s shift towards sustainable logistics,” said PV Satyanarayana, Chief Business Officer, Montra Electric HCV (IPL Tech). “The facility combines scale, flexibility, and world-class quality, with digital tools and modular lines that can seamlessly adapt to different product variants.”
The facility also introduces automated guided vehicles (AGVs) integrated with conveyor lines to enhance efficiency in eHCV production. It will house an in-house battery pack assembly unit of 1.7 GWh, backed by extensive testing infrastructure, including electrical and electronics labs, quality assurance labs, battery pack cyclers, roll and brake testers, wheel alignment, headlamp calibration, and shower testing systems.
Reinforcing its commitment to localisation, Montra Electric will source 74% of components domestically (excluding imported cells), supporting supply chain resilience. The company also plans to apply for benefits under the PM E-Drive Scheme and explore state-level incentives to further boost its manufacturing expansion.
The Murugappa Group, a 125-year-old conglomerate, has a broad portfolio across agriculture, engineering, and financial services, with annual revenues of Rs 77,881 crore. The group operates nine listed companies and is active in sectors such as abrasives, ceramics, auto components, fertilizers, sugar, and tea. It employs over 83,500 people and adheres to core values of integrity, passion, quality, respect, and responsibility.
