A Landmark Move at Chakan
Mahindra’s sprawling manufacturing facility in Chakan, Maharashtra, has become a focal point for its green ambitions. The company has confirmed that the manufacturing operations for its electric vehicles at this plant now run entirely on renewable energy.
While the entire 657-acre facility, which produces both electric and traditional combustion engine vehicles, sources over 50% of its total power from renewables, the EV-specific lines have completely cut their reliance on fossil fuels for electricity. This dedicated EV hub, unveiled in early 2025, is a state-of-the-art ecosystem for producing its next generation of 'Born Electric' SUVs. The significance of this shift was highlighted in July 2026 when the three-millionth vehicle to roll off the Chakan production line was not a classic SUV, but the electric BE 6.
What Green Production Looks Like
Achieving 100% green power for EV production isn't a simple switch. It's part of a deep, facility-wide commitment to sustainability. The Chakan plant is a high-tech marvel, integrating Industry 4.0 technologies with approximately 1,500 robots and boasting over 98% automation in its body shop. This advanced automation, monitored by an IoT-based "Nerve Center," ensures efficiency that complements the green energy initiative. But the eco-friendly credentials go further. The plant is certified as 'Zero Waste to Landfill', meaning it reuses or recycles nearly all its waste. It's also a 'water-positive' facility, returning 131% of the water it consumes to the environment through extensive rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge programs. These efforts are part of Mahindra’s larger goal to double its energy productivity under the global EP100 initiative.
Powering the 'Born Electric' Dream
This green manufacturing milestone is directly tied to Mahindra's ambitious electric vehicle strategy. The Chakan plant is the production home for the company's 'Born Electric' (BE) and XUV-electric (XEV) ranges, which are built on the dedicated INGLO electric architecture. Models like the BE 6 and XEV 9e are central to Mahindra's push to capture a significant share of India's booming EV market. By ensuring these futuristic vehicles are 'born' in a factory powered by clean energy, Mahindra is creating a powerful narrative that extends from the production line to the showroom. It’s a strategic move that aligns the product's zero-emission promise with a sustainable manufacturing process, appealing to an increasingly environmentally conscious consumer base. This is a core part of the company's broader vision to become a 'Planet Positive' business.
Setting a New Benchmark
Mahindra's move isn't happening in a vacuum. It sets a significant precedent for India's automotive industry, which is undergoing a massive transformation. As domestic and international pressure mounts for manufacturers to decarbonize, having a flagship plant's EV line run on 100% renewable energy is a powerful statement. This commitment is not new for the company; its Igatpuri plant was declared India's first carbon-neutral manufacturing facility back in 2018. The Chakan initiative scales up this ambition significantly. It is part of the company's overarching goal to make all its operations carbon neutral by 2040 and to have the entire Mahindra Group run on 100% renewable energy by 2030. This positions Mahindra not just as an SUV maker, but as a leader in sustainable industrial practices in India.
