Mahindra's Charge_iN and HPCL Partner to Expand EV Charging Network Across India

Charge_iN by Mahindra and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) have signed an agreement to set up electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) at HPCL fuel retail outlets across India, the companies announced on March 20, 2026. The partnership brings together one of India's largest automotive conglomerates and its biggest state-owned petroleum distributor in a bid to address one of the most cited barriers to EV adoption — the availability of reliable public charging infrastructure.

Under the agreement, Charge_iN will use HPCL's network of over 24,400 retail outlets to deploy EV charging infrastructure across the country. The stations will exclusively feature 180 kW dual-gun chargers, designed to deliver faster and more reliable charging for electric four-wheelers. By using an already-established network of fuel stations, the partnership sidesteps the logistical challenge of identifying and acquiring new sites — a significant advantage in scaling infrastructure at speed.

HPCL already operates over 5,400 EV charging stations under its HP e-Charge brand, along with more than 150 battery swapping stations. The state-owned company, which functions under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, has in recent years been diversifying beyond fossil fuels as part of India's national energy transition agenda. Its existing presence along key highway corridors and in major urban centres positions it as a natural partner for companies looking to build out charging networks with geographic breadth.

Charge_iN by Mahindra has been building a network of ultrafast public chargers as part of the Mahindra Group's broader electric mobility push. The company said the HPCL agreement marks the next stage in developing what it describes as a comprehensive EV ecosystem, and is in line with the Indian government's stated goal of expanding accessible public charging infrastructure across the country. The 180 kW charger specification is among the higher-powered options currently being deployed in the Indian market, and is intended to reduce the time vehicles spend at charging stations — a factor the industry considers important for driving consumer confidence in electric mobility.

India is the world's third-largest automotive market and has been the focus of increasing policy attention around electric vehicles. The government has introduced a range of incentives and infrastructure mandates in recent years aimed at raising EV penetration, particularly in the passenger vehicle and two-wheeler segments. However, the density and reliability of public charging infrastructure has remained a concern for prospective buyers, especially for longer journeys outside major cities.

Integrating charging stations within existing fuel retail outlets is seen within the industry as a cost-effective model for scaling EV infrastructure. Petrol stations are already positioned at high-traffic points along highways and within cities, and typically have the electrical connection capacity needed to support fast charging equipment. Several other energy companies and automotive players have pursued similar models globally, and the approach is gaining traction in India as well.

The companies did not disclose the number of charging stations planned for installation under the agreement, nor did they provide a specific timeline for rollout. Further details on the deployment schedule are expected to be announced as the partnership progresses.

The Mahindra Group, founded in 1945, employs over 324,000 people across more than 100 countries and holds a leadership position in utility SUVs, farm equipment, information technology and financial services. HPCL is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise engaged in the refining, distribution and marketing of petroleum products, operating refineries, terminals, pipelines and over 24,400 retail outlets across India.