Ashok Leyland is evaluating an electric vehicle battery project in Bhandara, Maharashtra, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced on Sunday. The proposed Ashok Leyland EV Battery Plant in Bhandara could attract an estimated investment of ₹10,000 crore to ₹15,000 crore if the commercial vehicle manufacturer approves the expansion. Gadkari disclosed the development at an event in Nagpur while flagging off a 40-seater electric bus donated by Ashok Leyland.
The bus will provide free pilgrimage transportation for senior citizens. The announcement could strengthen Maharashtra’s EV manufacturing ecosystem while positioning the Vidarbha region as an increasingly competitive automotive and logistics destination.
The Ashok Leyland EV Battery Plant in Bhandara is currently under consideration. If approved, the project could bring ₹10,000–₹15,000 crore into the region and expand Maharashtra’s role in India’s EV battery supply chain.
Why Vidarbha Appeals to Manufacturers
Gadkari described Vidarbha as an investor-friendly industrial destination, citing:
- A strike-free labor environment
- An operational dry port supporting direct exports
- Expanding multimodal logistics infrastructure
- Government support for large manufacturing projects
He said the proposed Ashok Leyland EV Battery Plant in Bhandara would complement other major investments. Mahindra has begun work on a ₹15,000 crore manufacturing unit, while the MIHAN project has generated more than one lakh jobs locally.
Nagpur’s Logistics Advantage
Gadkari said Nagpur is emerging as a logistics capital. Mahindra tractors are already transported to Bangladesh by river from Haldia Port, reducing logistics costs. He invited major companies to establish their headquarters in Nagpur and promised full government cooperation.
India Targets Global Auto Leadership
India’s automobile industry is the world’s third-largest, behind China and the United States, and is valued at ₹23 lakh crore. Gadkari said India had overtaken Japan and aims to become the global leader within five years. If finalized, the Ashok Leyland EV Battery Plant in Bhandara could support that ambition through domestic battery production, investment, and employment.
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