In a major step toward electrifying India’s expanding rail infrastructure, TKIL Industries (formerly thyssenkrupp Industries India) has signed an exclusive strategic partnership with Germany’s HOPPECKE Batterien GmbH & Co. The two companies will jointly develop, manufacture, and integrate advanced battery systems for the Indian rail sector, targeting applications ranging from metros and regional trains to electric locomotives.
The collaboration has already secured its first order, with rollout scheduled for 2025. The initiative aligns with TKIL’s broader strategy to expand into clean energy sectors, building on its recent ventures in green hydrogen and compressed biogas.
This partnership comes at a crucial time as India seeks to double its electric locomotive capacity by 2030 and add eight more metro-operational cities by FY30—creating a massive demand for sustainable rail solutions. Over 900 km of metro projects are currently under development, further highlighting the need for reliable battery systems.
TKIL will contribute its strong project execution and manufacturing expertise, while HOPPECKE brings in decades of global experience in industrial energy storage. Together, they plan to establish a localized service network across India to support deployment, operations, and long-term maintenance.
“Together, we aim to play a pivotal role in accelerating the electrification of the Indian rail market—combining innovation, execution capability, and a shared vision for a greener future,” said Vivek Bhatia, Managing Director and CEO of TKIL Industries.
Marc Zoellner, CEO of HOPPECKE, added, “India is a key growth market for sustainable mobility, and the alliance marks a significant step towards delivering value to India’s railway sector.”
Founded in 1947, TKIL Industries has long contributed to India’s industrial growth. Its move into energy storage underscores a strong commitment to supporting India’s net-zero ambitions and driving the shift toward a cleaner transport ecosystem.
