Vedanta Aluminium doubles India’s largest electric forklift fleet

Company expands electric forklift fleet to 142 units, reinforcing commitment to sustainable logistics

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

NEW DELHI, NOVEMBER 27, 2025

Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, has announced a major expansion of its electric forklift fleet, now the largest in India. The fleet, powered by lithium-ion batteries, has grown to 142 units, more than doubling its previous size. This milestone, achieved on World Sustainable Transport Day (November 26), is a pivotal step in the company’s ongoing efforts to redefine industrial operations in India, while advancing sustainable business practices.

World Sustainable Transport Day, observed annually on November 26 by the United Nations, highlights the importance of safe, affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly transport systems in driving sustainable economic growth and social well-being. It also aims to promote global cooperation in building resilient, low-emission infrastructure. Sustainable transport not only reduces environmental impact and improves operational efficiency but also supports broader development goals, such as gender equality and climate action.

The transition to electric forklifts is a key component of Vedanta’s broader sustainability strategy, aligning with its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Additionally, the company is committed to decarbonizing its Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) fleet by 2030.

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Vedanta Aluminium’s fleet expansion was realized through a phased deployment of the 142 electric forklifts across its operations in Odisha and Chhattisgarh. This transformative initiative delivers significant environmental, operational, and social benefits. At the company’s Jharsuguda smelter, for example, where 116 electric forklifts are now in operation, the move is expected to eliminate approximately 4,450 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent greenhouse gas emissions each year and cut diesel consumption by 1.63 million litres annually. Beyond these sustainability gains, the electric forklifts offer enhanced workplace safety, faster charging times, and lower maintenance requirements—boosting overall operational efficiency and reinforcing Vedanta’s vision of integrating operational excellence with environmental stewardship and social progress.

Commenting on the milestone, Rajiv Kumar, CEO – Vedanta Aluminium, said, “At Vedanta Aluminium, sustainability is not just a commitment — it is a catalyst for transformation. Our expanded electric forklift fleet exemplifies how investing in innovative technologies can drive both operational success and positive environmental impact. This milestone is not only a leap forward in reducing our carbon footprint but also creates new opportunities for inclusion in industries traditionally dominated by men. We’re proud to see women and transgender professionals now operating these forklifts, furthering our commitment to equality and empowerment.”

The initiative has opened up new pathways for inclusive growth, with women and transgender professionals now operating several of the forklifts. This highlights Vedanta’s dedication to equality and empowerment, demonstrating how sustainable technology can drive social transformation as well as environmental change. Notably, the fleet includes India’s first 10-tonne capacity electric forklifts, which have been deployed at Vedanta’s Jharsuguda smelter.

By significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and eliminating thousands of tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, Vedanta Aluminium is not only advancing its environmental goals but also setting a benchmark for how industries can decarbonize without compromising on performance or productivity. As the leader of India’s largest industrial electric forklift fleet, Vedanta is showing that environmental responsibility and operational excellence can go hand in hand, paving the way for a transformative and sustainable future.