Montra Electric HCV (IPL Tech), a Murugappa Group company, is preparing to commission its new electric heavy commercial vehicle (eHCV) manufacturing facility at Manesar, Haryana. The upcoming site is set to become the company’s first fully automated battery production unit operated by an all-women workforce, underlining both its sustainability and inclusivity goals.
The factory is designed with an initial capacity to produce 6,000 electric HCVs annually, scalable up to 7,500 units. It will feature modular assembly lines that allow for production of multiple models, including the flagship Rhino EV series as well as future product introductions. Covering 255,000 sq ft with 150,000 sq ft of built-up area, the facility integrates 60 per cent robotics and adopts full Industry 4.0 digital practices, positioning it among the most advanced of its kind in India.
Efficiency is further enhanced by automated guided vehicles (AGVs) working in sync with conveyor systems. A dedicated in-house battery pack assembly unit with 1.7 GWh capacity forms part of the facility, supported by extensive testing infrastructure such as electronics and quality labs, cyclers, roll and brake testers, wheel alignment systems, headlamp calibration, and shower testing setups.
The project also emphasizes localisation, with 74 per cent of components being sourced domestically, excluding imported cells. To strengthen its expansion plans, Montra Electric intends to apply for support under the PM E-Drive Scheme and explore state-level incentive opportunities.
With this facility, the company aims to set new benchmarks in eHCV manufacturing while contributing to India’s broader ambitions for cleaner, more resilient freight and logistics solutions.