Suzuki To Set Up Rs 1,151-Cr Lithium-Ion Battery Plant In Gujarat

Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) is establishing a lithium-ion battery manufacturing project jointly with Toshiba Corporation and Denso with a proposed investment of $180 million (Rs 1,151 crore), at its Hansalpur plant in Gujarat. Suzuki will hold 50%, Toshiba 40%, and Denso 10% in the new project.

SMC Chairman Osamu Suzuki said, “The batteries that we are going to manufacture in this plant will be sold in India and exported. This facility is being set up as part of our commitment to Make In India.” He also announced plans to set up a third plant in Gujarat investing Rs 3,800 crore. This would take the net investment in Hansalpur to Rs 13,400 crore.

This is the first time a major original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is investing to make lithium ion batteries, which are critical for electric and hybrid vehicles. This would pave the way for making affordable electric powertrain by reducing the battery price. Lithium ion batteries are largely imported, and Maruti itself imports them for its Ciaz hybrid.