Ashok Leyland has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indonesia’s state-owned defence manufacturer PT Pindad to jointly develop electric buses and defence vehicles for the Indonesian market. The partnership reflects growing interest among Indian automakers to participate in Southeast Asia’s government-led mobility and defence programmes.
Scope of the partnership
The MoU, signed in Bandung, establishes a framework for collaboration on product development and manufacturing aligned with Indonesia’s public transport and national security priorities. Financial terms and timelines for commercial production were not disclosed.
Focus on electric public transport
Under the agreement, the two companies will co-develop electric bus platforms tailored to Indonesia’s operating conditions. The initiative supports Indonesia’s push to expand energy-efficient public transport while strengthening domestic manufacturing through international partnerships.
Ashok Leyland will draw on the capabilities of Switch Mobility, its electric vehicle subsidiary, which has developed electric bus platforms for multiple global markets.
Defense vehicle collaboration
The partnership will also explore the joint development of defence vehicles in line with Indonesia’s efforts to modernize military logistics and equipment. The country’s defence procurement strategy increasingly priorities localization and technology transfer over direct imports.
PT Pindad is a key player in Indonesia’s defence manufacturing eco system, producing armored and tactical vehicles for domestic use.
Amandeep Singh, President – International Operations, Defence, LCV & PSB at Ashok Leyland, said the collaboration is designed to address local needs.
“Our partnership with Pindad allows us to jointly develop products uniquely suited to Indonesia’s terrain, infrastructure, and operational requirements,” he said.
Strategic context
Part of the Hinduja Group, Ashok Leyland has been expanding its international footprint across commercial vehicles, electric mobility and defence platforms, with a growing focus on institutional and public-sector customers.
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