Ashok Leyland has signed a multipronged partnership agreement with Japan-based global electric motor drives manufacturer Nidec Motor Corporation, a 100%-owned subsidiary of Nidec Corporation. This will enable both Ashok Leyland and Nidec to develop novel e-drive motors and systems that will cater to the specific needs of India's commercial vehicle industry, ensuring advanced and efficient electric mobility solutions.

Ashok Leyland and Nidec will work together to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Electric Drive Units (EDUs). This CoE will focus on developing cutting-edge motor technologies and power electronics systems for electric vehicles, along with innovations in gear-shifting mechanisms. The collaboration will also involve joint research and development efforts, with both companies contributing to skilling, lab infrastructure, and defining novel, differentiated motor technologies for the EV portfolio of Ashok Leyland and its subsidiary, Switch Mobility. 

The agreement was signed by Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland and Michael Briggs, President, Nidec Motion & Energy. 

Ashok Leyland will continue to source motors from Nidec for its existing electric vehicle line-up, while also collaborating on research and development for future electric solutions. This partnership underscores the common goal of both companies to innovate and design e-drives that meet the varied terrains and operational needs of India's commercial vehicle sector. Additionally, the collaboration aims to build a strong local supply chain for next-generation electric vehicles in India.