TKIL Industries (formerly Thyssenkrupp Industries India) has entered into a strategic partnership with Germany-based HOPPECKE Batterien GmbH & Co to jointly develop battery systems for the Indian railway sector. This collaboration will focus on delivering sustainable and advanced energy storage solutions for metro systems, regional trains, and electric locomotives. The first joint project is scheduled for launch in 2025.
India’s rail infrastructure is undergoing significant transformation. The number of cities operating metro rail systems is expected to increase from 23 in FY25 to 31 by FY30. Concurrently, India’s electric locomotive capacity is projected to double by 2030, generating a requirement for more than 20,000 electric locomotives. Approximately 900 kilometers of metro projects are currently under development, supported by an estimated investment of INR 600 crore, underscoring the growing importance of a robust rail battery ecosystem.
Under the agreement, TKIL Industries will provide expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and project execution, while HOPPECKE will contribute its extensive experience in industrial energy storage technologies. Future phases of the partnership will include the development of localized service infrastructure to support deployment across India.
Vivek Bhatia, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of TKIL Industries, stated:
“This partnership with HOPPECKE represents a significant step in supporting India’s transition to sustainable rail transport. TKIL Industries brings a legacy of delivering complex infrastructure projects across India, while HOPPECKE contributes deep technological expertise in energy storage. Together, we aim to accelerate the electrification of India’s railways and advance the goal of a sustainable future.”
Dr Marc Zoellner, Chief Executive Officer of HOPPECKE Batterien GmbH & Co, commented:
“India is an essential growth market for sustainable mobility. This collaboration with TKIL Industries marks an important milestone in our global strategy and strengthens our presence in the rail battery segment by introducing advanced and reliable energy storage systems tailored for Indian conditions.”
Sachin Jain, representing TKIL Industries, remarked “This alliance signifies a forward-looking approach to energy storage within rail transport. Our aim is to introduce advanced battery systems that are efficient, reliable, and aligned with the sustainability goals of India’s railway infrastructure.”
TKIL Industries is actively expanding its sustainability initiatives. Having diversified into Green Hydrogen and Compressed Biogas (CBG), the company now identifies Battery and Energy Storage (BES) as a key area in supporting India’s long-term net-zero objectives.
Founded in 1947, TKIL Industries has contributed significantly to India’s industrial growth, with operations spanning mining, cement, energy, boiler systems, and sugar processing. HOPPECKE, established in 1927, is Europe’s largest manufacturer of industrial batteries, with 22 subsidiaries and over 2,000 employees worldwide. The company holds a leadership position in the global rail battery market.
