Vedanta Aluminium, India’s leading aluminium producer, has significantly strengthened its sustainability initiatives by expanding the country’s largest lithium-ion electric forklift fleet to 142 units. Announced on World Sustainable Transport Day, this milestone marks a major leap in the company’s mission to transition towards cleaner, energy-efficient industrial logistics across its operations in Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
A Major Push Toward Green Industrial Logistics
World Sustainable Transport Day, observed globally on November 26, emphasises the importance of safe, affordable, and environmentally responsible transport systems. In alignment with this vision, Vedanta Aluminum’s expanded EV fleet supports its long-term commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and fully decarbonising its light motor vehicle (LMV) fleet by 2030.
The multi-phase rollout includes 116 electric forklifts deployed at the Jharsuguda smelter, with the initiative expected to eliminate around 4,450 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent emissions annually. It will also reduce diesel consumption by over 16.3 lakh litres every year, delivering substantial environmental and operational benefits.
Sustainability, Safety and Operational Efficiency
The electric forklifts offer faster charging, lower maintenance, and enhanced safety features, enabling smoother and more efficient industrial operations. Vedanta Aluminium has set a new benchmark for clean industrial mobility by adopting India’s first 10-tonne capacity electric forklifts at its Jharsuguda plant.
Rajiv Kumar, CEO of Vedanta Aluminium, stated,
“Sustainability is a catalyst for transformation. Our expanded electric forklift fleet showcases how technology can empower industries while benefiting the planet. This milestone also opens new avenues for inclusion, enabling women and transgender professionals to take on roles traditionally beyond their reach.”
Driving Social Inclusion Through Clean Technology
A standout aspect of the initiative is its focus on inclusive growth. Women and transgender professionals operate several of the electric forklifts, demonstrating Vedanta’s dedication to gender equality and social empowerment. The initiative highlights how sustainable technologies can drive progress not only in environmental stewardship but also in inclusive workforce development.
Setting Industry Standards for Decarbonization
By deploying India’s largest electric forklift fleet, Vedanta Aluminium is redefining industrial logistics and demonstrating that sustainability and operational excellence can go hand-in-hand. The company’s initiative showcases how large industries can significantly reduce emissions without compromising performance, setting a progressive model for others in the sector.
Click Here to get the latest EV news and exclusive updates from EV Mechanica on WhatsApp!