Q1: As the Indian EV market grows rapidly, how is Amara Raja gearing up to meet the demand for advanced battery technology? Do you have any plans for collaboration?
As an industry leader, we are proactively addressing the growing demand for advanced battery technology in the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market through various strategic initiatives. Our hefty investment of Rs 9,500 crore has gone towards setting up a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery factory in Telangana. At the same time, we are expanding our existing facilities to manufacture battery packs for two-wheeled and three-wheeled EVs.
Our dedicated research and development (R&D) team is working tirelessly to create the next generation of lithium-ion technology, with a special focus on providing optimal solutions for our customers in the energy and mobility sectors. Additionally, we have begun exploring other advanced cell chemistries for specific applications.
In the area of collaboration, we have entered into strategic alliances with IITs and other leading institutions to establish Centers of Excellence and work on related research projects on advanced battery technologies. Additionally, the company has made significant investments in Log 9 Materials, a Bangalore-based startup that offers a wide range of cutting-edge battery and energy storage solutions and is in the process of developing India’s first lithium-ion battery. is also working on developing the fastest charging EV battery using InstaCharge technology. ARE&M is also investing in InoBat Auto, a European technology developer and manufacturer of premium and innovative batteries for e-mobility. At the same time, discussions are underway with prominent EV players around the world to explore potential joint ventures and technology collaborations.
Q2: With increasing emphasis on environmental responsibility, how does Amara Raja incorporate sustainable practices into its manufacturing processes and promote a circular economy for batteries?
With increasing emphasis on environmental responsibility, we are deeply committed to sustainable manufacturing practices and promoting a circular economy for batteries. We prioritize the use of 70% recycled lead in our manufacturing processes, significantly reducing our reliance on virgin resources and minimizing mining-related emissions. Our state-of-the-art circular solutions plant is India’s largest circular solutions plant with a production capacity of 1.5 LPTA and is focused on battery recycling, increasing the use of recycled lead and reducing dependence on virgin materials. I am. Our commendable waste recycling rate of 96% confirms our commitment to minimizing our environmental impact and optimizing the use of resources. We continue to reduce our environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. The company has installed 59.1 MW of renewable energy infrastructure and plans to commission a further 7.5 MW to increase its renewable energy mix. It also features world-class His ETP and zero liquid discharge systems, along with water efficiency improvements efforts to further reduce water consumption. Our lead closed-loop system ensures optimal use and minimizes waste generation through recovery and reuse in production. We also commissioned solar power plants to be installed on the ground and on the roof. We also implement Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for responsible battery management and actively collect and recycle used batteries to reduce pollution and environmental impact. As a company, we continue to further increase recycled raw materials in our production, improve battery recycling recovery rates, increase the proportion of renewable energy, and continue to innovate ways to minimize waste and increase resource efficiency. We will continue to maintain our goal of exploring new ideas.
Q3: As technology advances, what do you think are the key skills that will be essential for the workforce in the coming years? What efforts are you making to close the skills gap and prepare for the future of the power industry? mosquito?
Our Amara Raja Energy and Mobility business envisions that several key skills will be essential for our employees. These include expertise in advanced lithium-ion battery chemistries, battery packs, battery management systems, thermal management, efficiency optimization, circular economy practices, renewable energy integration, data analytics, and sustainability. Masu.
At Amara Raja, we are always on the lookout for top talent and are hiring people with international experience for our newly developed business of manufacturing cells and battery packs.
We are poised to close the evolving skills gap through comprehensive HR initiatives. The company aims to improve skills through upskilling and reskilling programs by collaborating with universities and training institutes for relevant technical courses and implementing in-house training programs. A strategic focus on talent acquisition includes targeted recruitment campaigns, partnerships with technical universities, and competitive compensation packages. We value a culture of learning and encourage continuous development, experimentation, and cross-functional collaboration. This commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in our efforts to build a diverse workforce and foster creativity and innovation. Specific HR initiatives include the establishment of the Amara Raja Knowledge Academy for professional courses, a mentorship program to facilitate knowledge transfer, and participation in hackathons and innovation competitions to encourage exploration of new technologies. Masu. Collaboration with research institutions further ensures joint projects and the development of cutting-edge technologies. Through these initiatives, Amara Raja aims to provide its employees with the skills and adaptability they need to succeed in the rapidly evolving power industry.
Q4: Beyond traditional sectors, what new markets and applications are you targeting for your power storage solutions? Are there any plans to expand beyond India’s borders?
At Amara Raja, we are always thinking about making things better for our industry and for our people. As our first step into the new energy sector, we have established Amara Raja Advanced Cell Technologies (ARACT), a wholly owned subsidiary of ARE&M. ARACT focuses on developing and supplying advanced cell chemistries and battery packs and chargers to 2W and 3W OEMs. ARACT is also working on developing LFP batteries up to 15kWh for 3W, medium voltage packs up to 20kWh for LCV applications, and high voltage EV battery packs for 4W and passenger car applications. In parallel, ARE&M’s other subsidiary, Amara Raja Power Systems, is working to strengthen its charging solutions. These chargers are IP67 rated to certify water and dust resistance, ensuring durability and suitability for Indian conditions.
Q5: Given the rapid advancements in technology in the power storage sector, how does Amara Raja prioritize research and development to stay ahead of the curve? What is the main focus from an innovation perspective? What is your field?
In the ever-evolving power sector, our primary focus is on research and development (R&D) to maintain our competitive advantage. We are investing significantly in advanced battery technology, particularly lithium-ion batteries, with a focus on achieving cost competitiveness and promoting local manufacturing. Additionally, we are exploring the potential of other advanced cell chemistries in grid storage and stationary applications. Our innovation efforts extend to research into next-generation technologies such as solid-state batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and metal-air batteries. In the field of Energy Management Systems (EMS), we are actively developing intelligent solutions for microgrids and energy storage systems, integrating AI and machine learning for predictive maintenance and demand forecasting.
Our expertise in microgrid solutions includes designing and implementing advanced solutions for a variety of applications, including rural electrification and off-grid communities, but also for effective grid integration and distributed energy management. We also focus on smart grid technology. Additionally, we are embracing manufacturing automation through the introduction of robotics and automation to improve efficiency, quality, and safety, and exploring Industry 4.0 technologies for data-driven manufacturing and predictive maintenance. In pursuit of sustainability, we are dedicated to developing environmentally friendly battery chemistries and recycling processes, with a focus on renewable energy integration and energy storage solutions for a cleaner future. Key initiatives such as the establishment of state-of-the-art E Positive Energy Labs (advanced research and innovation centres) and strategic partnerships with universities, research institutes and industry players. Additionally, we maintain our competitive edge by focusing on intellectual property protection and aggressively filing innovative patents.
Q6: Given the evolving industry landscape, what is Amara Raja’s long-term vision for the future of power storage? How does it aim to shape this sector and contribute to a sustainable energy future? mosquito?
Amara Raja envisions a future defined by decentralization, sustainability, and intelligent energy management as we navigate a rapidly changing power landscape. As active contributors in critical areas, we see microgrids as catalysts for change, empowering remote communities and expanding access to reliable clean energy. We have established ourselves as a leading provider of customized battery solutions and integrated microgrid systems, and are committed to affordability and accessibility across a variety of applications.
Battery energy storage systems have emerged as a promising field in industrial and commercial fields in recent years, especially due to the large-scale deployment of renewable energy. We are starting to carve out and expand into this business with a special focus, leveraging our expertise in providing solar/renewable energy batteries. At the 10th India Rooftop Solar Conference 2023, Amara Raja Batteries Ltd was awarded the COMPANY OF THE YEAR – ENERGY STORAGE. This award is given for delivering multiple of his MWHr installations in India with his advanced VRLA, energy efficient and low TCO solution for rooftop and mini-grid applications.
Our focus on pioneering next-generation battery technology includes investments in lithium ion for cost-effective domestic production through advanced chemical cell manufacturing plants, exploration of sodium ion for grid storage and stationary applications, and pursuing solid and stationary applications. Metal-air batteries that enhance performance and safety. In driving the smart grid revolution, we prioritize intelligent energy management through advanced energy management systems (EMS) and smart grid technologies, aiming for optimal performance of microgrids and energy storage systems and seamless integration of renewable energy. I am. With a focus on sustainability across our value chain, we develop environmentally friendly battery chemistries, implement responsible recycling processes, and advance the integration of renewable energy for a cleaner future. Through these key initiatives, Amara Raja will provide communities with reliable and clean energy access, accelerate the deployment of renewable energy with efficient storage solutions, increase grid stability through smart technology, and We aim to minimize our impact on the environment. Our proactive approach and commitment to responsible practices underscore our vision of a future where intelligent, distributed and sustainable power systems empower everyone.
Executive Profile.
Jagadish M, Chief Technology Officer
Jagadish M joined Amara Raja Batteries Limited in May 2005 as Deputy General Manager, Application Engineering Function.
He also pursued general management and leadership development programs at the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore. Jagadish previously worked with Amara Raja and rejoined us in 2005. He graduated in Mechanical Engineering from Mysore University.
Jagdish’s outstanding leadership skills, coupled with his dedication to continuous improvement, have contributed significantly to Amara Raja’s success and growth. He has a forward-thinking perspective and always strives to innovate and stay abreast of industry trends.
