Hindalco to Invest ₹45000 Crore in Metal Business, Expands into EVs, Renewable Energy, and Aerospace

Kumar Mangalam Birla announced a ₹45,000 crore investment in Hindalco’s metal business to expand aluminium, copper, and specialty alumina operations. The company is setting up India’s first copper foil manufacturing facility for EVs and a 100MW renewable energy project in Odisha. Hindalco is advancing in EVs, energy storage, semiconductors, and aerospace, supplying lightweight battery enclosures and high-precision aluminium extrusions. It is collaborating with ISRO on space missions and developing defence alloys.

Hindalco is also launching India’s first large-scale e-waste recycling plant in Gujarat. The company reported a 60% jump in Q3FY25 net profit to ₹3,735 crore. It is the world’s largest aluminium company by revenue and the second-largest copper rod producer outside China. Hindalco operates 52 plants worldwide, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable and high-tech metal solutions.

Hindalco to Invest ₹45000 Crore in Metal Business, Expands into EVs, Renewable Energy, and Aerospace

The Aditya Birla Group’s flagship company, Hindalco, is set to invest ₹45,000 crore over the next three to four years to strengthen its position in the global metals industry. Chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla announced these plans at a recent event, where the company also unveiled its new brand identity. This investment aims to expand Hindalco’s aluminium, copper, and specialty alumina operations while fostering innovation in key sectors such as electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy, and high-tech electronics.

Focus on Electric Vehicles and Renewable Energy

A key component of this expansion is India’s first copper foil manufacturing plant, designed to meet the increasing demand for EVs. Copper foil is essential for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, and this facility will establish Hindalco as a key supplier in the EV supply chain. The company is already the world’s largest aluminium producer by revenue and the second-largest copper rod manufacturer outside China. Its copper business is on track to exceed one million tonnes of annual production, while alumina output has reached 3.7 million tonnes, making Hindalco one of the top three players globally in specialty alumina.

To promote sustainable operations, Hindalco is setting up a 100-megawatt renewable energy project in Odisha. This innovative system will integrate wind, solar, and pumped hydro storage, ensuring a stable power supply for its aluminium smelting operations. By reducing dependency on fossil fuels, the project aligns with India’s green energy initiatives.

Recycling and Circular Economy

In Gujarat, Hindalco’s Birla Copper unit is investing ₹2,000 crore to establish India’s first large-scale copper and e-waste recycling plant. This facility will recover valuable metals from discarded electronics, producing 50,000 tonnes of low-carbon copper annually. By promoting metal recycling, Hindalco is reducing the environmental impact of mining and contributing to a circular economy.

Expansion into High-Tech Sectors

Hindalco is diversifying into advanced industries such as semiconductors, energy storage, and defense. The company has developed lightweight aluminium battery enclosures for EVs, helping automakers design more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles. Additionally, its precision aluminium components are being used in groundbreaking projects, including the world’s first hyperloop test track for high-speed transportation.

In the defense sector, Hindalco supplies specialized metals for armored vehicles, aerospace, and marine applications. The company is also collaborating with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to develop components for space missions, including Chandrayaan (lunar exploration) and Mangalyaan (Mars orbiter), reinforcing its role in India’s space ambitions.

Strong Financial Performance

Hindalco’s strategic investments are yielding significant returns. The company reported a 60% increase in net profit for the December 2023 quarter, reaching ₹3,735 crore compared to ₹2,331 crore in the same period last year. Revenue also grew by 11%, totaling ₹58,390 crore, driven by strong demand in its aluminium and copper businesses.

Global Presence and Workforce

With 52 manufacturing plants across 10 countries and a workforce of 47,000 employees, Hindalco is a global leader in the metals industry. Its products cater to diverse industries, ranging from construction and packaging to cutting-edge technology. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability positions it as a key player in India’s push for self-reliance in critical sectors.

Commitment to Innovation

Hindalco’s expansion underscores its vision of leading in next-generation technologies. By investing in EVs, renewable energy, and recycling, the company is driving both business growth and environmental responsibility. As Kumar Mangalam Birla highlighted, these initiatives aim to position India as a global hub for advanced manufacturing and sustainable practices.

In summary, Hindalco’s ₹45,000 crore investment marks a transformative phase for the company, combining expansion with sustainability. From pioneering copper foil production for EVs to recycling e-waste and integrating renewable energy into its operations, Hindalco is shaping the future of the metals industry while supporting India’s economic and ecological goals.