Hyundai Motor will include Amaron’s Made-in-India AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery technology into its domestic product lineup, to be used as an SLI (Starting, Lighting and Ignition) battery and will be sourced through Hyundai’s current procurement agreement with Amara Raja Energy & Mobility (ARE&M), a company providing energy and mobility solutions.
The company plans to equip its models with locally made AGM batteries in the Q4 of FY 2024-2025. This initiative aligns with Hyundai Motor’s focus on localisation and bringing innovative, locally sourced technologies to Indian customers.
Hyundai Motor’s AGM batteries incorporation
Commenting on the announcement, Gopalakrishnan Chathapuram Sivaramakrishnan, Whole-time Director and Chief Manufacturing Officer of Hyundai Motor India said, “At Hyundai Motor, adopting innovative technology to exceed the ever-evolving customer expectations has been our forte. The company is poised to become the first auto OEM in India to introduce indigenously manufactured AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery technology in its products, made by Amara Raja Energy & Mobility. Besides, working with an Indian company for this world-class technology is a true testament to Hyundai Motor India’s commitment towards localisation, well aligned with the Government of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.”
The Amaron AGM batteries have proven to be about 150% more durable than traditional CMF (Complete Maintenance Free) batteries in tough real-world durability tests. With a wider temperature range and longer lifespan, AGM batteries are well-suited for the demanding driving conditions in India.
Harshavardhana Gourineni, Executive Director, Amara Raja Energy & Mobility said, “We are thrilled to be a part of Hyundai Motor India’s journey of redefining future mobility. This is a significant step in AMARON’s mission to deliver world-class energy solutions that meet the evolving demands of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). These batteries are designed to meet stringent Real Driving Emissions (RDE) norms like India’s BS6 Phase 2 standards.”
What makes AGM batteries unique?
With advanced technology, AGM batteries offer quick charging, longevity, low self-discharge, minimal maintenance and high-power efficiency, making them suitable for vehicles with ISG (Idle Stop and Go) systems. As an additional benefit, these batteries provide a smoother start and improved energy efficiency for higher electrical load in modern cars.
This localisation initiative has an economical and environmental impact as it supports local job creation and economic growth, while also cutting costs and reducing the carbon footprint by reducing reliance on imports. These locally manufactured AGM batteries will enable Hyundai Motor to launch next-gen products designed for the Indian market, with better range, performance, and lower emissions.
It also brings the benefit of thorough testing at Hyundai Motor Company’s global R&D center in Namyang, South Korea, which has confirmed that Amara Raja’s AGM batteries meet Indian emission standards. These locally manufactured AGM batteries will enable Hyundai Motor to launch next-gen products designed for the Indian market, with better range, performance, and lower emissions.
Hyundai Motor India is continuously improving its localisation efforts by collaborating with over 194 vendors for more than 1,238 components and trim parts at its Chennai manufacturing facility and also adopting a focused localisation strategy for its new plant in Talegaon, Maharashtra.