Vedanta Aluminium Doubles India’s Largest Electric Forklift Fleet to 142 Units

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Key Highlights:

• Fleet expanded to 142 electric forklifts.

• 4,450 tonnes of CO₂ emissions cut yearly.

• 16.3 lakh litres of diesel saved annually.

• India’s first 10-tonne electric forklifts deployed.

• Women & transgender operators included.

Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, has doubled the size of the country’s largest lithium-ion battery-powered electric forklift fleet. The company now operates 142 electric forklifts across its world-class facilities in Odisha and Chhattisgarh, marking a major step forward in clean and energy-efficient logistics.

This announcement comes just a day after World Sustainable Transport Day (November 26), a United Nations-observed initiative focused on promoting safe, accessible, and eco-friendly transport systems that support sustainable economic growth and social well-being.

A Big Push Toward Net-Zero and Green Operations

Vedanta Aluminium’s expanded electric forklift fleet represents a multi-phase rollout aligned with the company’s long-term sustainability roadmap. The initiative directly supports its goals of:

• Achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050

• Fully decarbonizing its Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) fleet by 2030

Electric forklifts reduce emissions, lower fuel use, improve efficiency, and enhance safety, making them an important part of the company’s transition to low-carbon operations.

Major Environmental Impact at Jharsuguda Smelter

Out of the 142 electric forklifts, 116 units have been deployed at the company’s Jharsuguda smelter, making it one of the largest electric forklift installations in Indian industry.

Here, the initiative will help:

• Eliminate nearly 4,450 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent emissions every year

• Reduce diesel consumption by 16.3 lakh litres annually

Beyond environmental benefits, the forklifts offer faster charging, lower maintenance, and improved workplace safety, delivering stronger operational efficiency.

Notably, Vedanta also deployed India’s first 10-tonne capacity electric forklifts at its Jharsuguda unit, marking another national first for the company.

Driving Social Inclusion Through Sustainable Technology

The initiative is also creating new opportunities for inclusive growth. Several of the forklifts are now operated by women and transgender professionals, reflecting Vedanta’s focus on equality, empowerment, and breaking gender barriers in industrial roles.

Leadership Speaks

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Rajiv Kumar, CEO – Vedanta Aluminium, said: “At Vedanta Aluminium, we view sustainability as more than a commitment; it is a catalyst for transformation. Our expanded electric forklift fleet is a testament to what becomes possible when we invest in technologies that benefit both our operations and our planet. This milestone has strengthened our environmental efforts and created new pathways for greater inclusion in roles once considered inaccessible to women.”

Setting New Standards for Industrial Decarbonization

By expanding India’s largest electric forklift fleet, Vedanta Aluminium is proving that environmental responsibility and high operational performance can go hand in hand. The company is reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, cutting thousands of tonnes of emissions annually, and setting a strong example for how Indian industries can embrace sustainable technologies without compromising productivity.

Vedanta’s efforts underline a powerful message: green logistics can drive both business excellence and meaningful social progress, pushing India toward a cleaner, more inclusive industrial future.

Also Read: India’s Construction Equipment Market Poised for Strong Growth by 2030

CMV360 Says

Vedanta Aluminium’s expansion of India’s largest electric forklift fleet marks a strong step toward greener, safer, and more inclusive industrial operations. By deploying 142 electric forklifts, the company is cutting emissions, reducing diesel use, improving efficiency, and empowering women and transgender professionals in new roles. This initiative not only supports Vedanta’s net-zero goals but also sets a benchmark for sustainable logistics and responsible growth across India’s manufacturing sector.