Eastman Auto & Power Ltd signed a memorandum of understanding with Vande Bharat E-Vehicles on May 10, 2025, in New Delhi to supply lithium-ion batteries worth ₹50 crore annually for electric three-wheelers. The partnership between the energy storage sector leader and the electric vehicle manufacturer aims to accelerate India's transition to sustainable transportation through advanced battery technology deployment.
The collaboration will see Eastman providing lithium-ion batteries to power Vande Bharat's E-Rickshaw fleet, targeting commercial drivers and fleet operators nationwide. The initiative focuses on making electric vehicle adoption more accessible and cost-effective for commercial users across the country.
Eastman Auto & Power Ltd, established in 2006, operates as a leading power solutions provider specializing in last-mile e-mobility solutions, solar solutions, and energy storage systems. The company employs over 5,000 people across eight manufacturing units in India and maintains presence in more than 50 countries. As India's largest manufacturer of solar tubular batteries, Eastman serves over 400 OEM partners through a distribution network of 1,000 distributors and 3,300 service partners covering 350 districts.
Vande Bharat E-Vehicles operates as Sahanianand E-Vehicles Pvt Ltd and focuses on electric three-wheeler manufacturing. The company aligns with the Government of India's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" and "Make in India" initiatives, offering E-rickshaws, E-carts, and E-loaders designed for Indian market conditions.
"This partnership marks a significant milestone for Eastman as we join forces with Vande Bharat E-Vehicles to accelerate the growth of electric mobility in India," said Shekhar Singal, Managing Director of Eastman Auto and Power Ltd. "Our cutting-edge lithium-ion battery technology, combined with their large fleet of E-Rickshaws, will play a pivotal role in making sustainable transportation a reality for millions. We are proud to contribute to India's vision of reducing carbon emissions and building a cleaner energy future."
"We are thrilled to partner with Eastman in this transformative collaboration," said Sumit Anand, Director of Vande Bharat E Vehicles. "Our mission is to provide reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable mobility solutions. This MoU is a critical step forward as we work together to empower drivers, enable greener logistics, and bring India closer to its net-zero goals."