Ashok Leyland has partnered with Japan-based Nidec Motor Corporation to develop advanced electric drive motors for commercial vehicles. The collaboration aims to meet the unique needs of India’s commercial vehicle market by creating efficient e-drive systems and establishing a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Electric Drive Units (EDUs).

This CoE will focus on cutting-edge motor technologies, power electronics systems, and gear-shifting innovations for electric vehicles. Both companies will contribute to joint research and development efforts, with Ashok Leyland continuing to source motors from Nidec for its existing EV lineup while collaborating on future electric mobility solutions.

The partnership was formalised by Ashok Leyland’s MD & CEO, Shenu Agarwal, and Nidec Motion & Energy President, Michael Briggs. The companies aim to build a strong local supply chain and set new benchmarks for sustainable commercial transportation in India.

Ashok Leyland sees the collaboration as a way to enhance its electric mobility capabilities, while Nidec views it as an opportunity to accelerate EV adoption in India’s commercial vehicle sector. This partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to innovation and a sustainable future in electric mobility.