Vedanta Invests Over Rs 12,500 Crore to Enhance Metal Manufacturing for Electric Vehicles

Vedanta Ltd has invested over Rs 12,500 crore to enhance its metal production capabilities, aiming to meet the rising demand from the electric vehicle (EV) sector. This investment focuses on expanding capacity in aluminium smelting, zinc alloy production, and ferrochrome augmentation. The company produces various metals like aluminium, zinc, copper, steel, nickel, and ferrochrome, crucial for EV manufacturing.

Aluminium plays a significant role in EVs by reducing weight and extending driving range. Research indicates that using one kg of aluminium can reduce a vehicle's weight by the same amount. This reduction can potentially increase an EV's range by 10-15% for every 100 kg saved. Vedanta's aluminium products include primary foundry alloys for wheels and engine blocks, billets for battery casings, and more.

Nickel's Role in EV Batteries

Nickel is essential in EV batteries and contributes to the strength of key components. Vedanta produces primary nickel and nickel sulphate, which is vital for nickel-rich cathodes in batteries. These materials support the transition to clean mobility by enhancing battery systems used in EVs.

The company's aluminium is also being tested for innovations in crash-resistant alloys and energy storage solutions. Aluminium's use in EVs helps offset battery weight, lowering the total cost of ownership. Vedanta's investment includes setting up a zinc alloy plant and a roaster for zinc production.

Expanding Aluminium Production

Vedanta's aluminium portfolio features products like primary foundry alloys for wheels and engine blocks, billets for battery casings, and HVAC systems. The company aims to boost production of these critical materials to support the growing EV industry. The investments also cover boosting aluminium value-added products.

The company has made significant strides in enhancing its metal manufacturing capabilities. This includes capacity expansion across various segments to cater to the increasing needs of the EV sector. Vedanta's efforts are geared towards supporting clean mobility through its diverse range of metal products.

Vedanta's strategic investments aim to strengthen its position in the metal manufacturing industry. By focusing on critical enablers for the EV sector, the company is poised to play a vital role in India's transition to electric mobility.

With inputs from PTI