Karnataka's Ambitious Leap: IBC's Giga Factory to Transform Battery Manufacturing

Karnataka is set to enhance its manufacturing sector with IBC's new Giga Factory in Bengaluru. The project will create 300 jobs and facilitate local production of lithium-ion cells, boosting exports and reducing dependence on China. This initiative aligns with Karnataka's vision for sustainable and advanced tech-driven growth.

Karnataka is poised for a significant advancement in its manufacturing capabilities, as the International Battery Company (IBC), a leader in lithium-ion battery production, is on track to commence operations at its Giga Factory Unit in Bengaluru within nine months. The enterprise, valued at Rs 390 crore, is expected to generate 300 direct job opportunities and will export 20% of its output to the US and EU markets, reflecting Karnataka's prowess in high-quality production.

The groundbreaking ceremony of this facility, realized in partnership with Mahanagar Gas Ltd. at the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) plot within the Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR), was inaugurated by Minister for Large and Medium Industries, MB Patil. Emphasizing the unit's goal to export a fifth of its lithium-ion battery production internationally, Patil lauded the initiative as a testament to the global demand for Karnataka's manufacturing excellence.

IBC's venture marks the start of local lithium-ion cell production, a first in India, at a 35,000-square-foot site in South Korea, from where the cells are imported to India for final product assembly. The company's initial investment at the KIADB ITIR unit aims to cater to small mobility applications, including two and three-wheelers, with plans to expand towards larger mobility solutions. This endeavor is set to bolster advanced manufacturing and skill development in Karnataka significantly.

With the state government allocating 10 acres near the Foxconn unit for this initiative, the project also envisions future production of retrofit batteries. Patil highlighted the venture's potential to invigorate Karnataka's economy and lessen China's import reliance, dubbing the IBC Giga Factory a landmark in advanced battery manufacturing and sustainable energy. This effort resonates with Karnataka's goal of nurturing a tech-driven, inclusive economy.

Patil emphasized the critical role of IBC in India's shift to renewable energy, which will enhance storage capabilities and contribute to sustainability. This groundbreaking project fuses cutting-edge engineering with clean energy innovation and job creation, setting a benchmark for enterprises mulling investments in Karnataka. The company's founders, Indian-educated and Silicon Valley-trained, prioritized designing batteries tailored to Indian conditions, a commendable feat.

The event also featured a battery expo, attended by notable figures including Industries Department Commissioner Gunjan Krishna, IBC CEO Priyadarshi Panda, CSO Sundar Ramamurthy, JASTECH Chairman Jason Chung, Vice President Danny Chung, Mahanagar Gas Ltd. MD Ashu Singhal, and Deputy MD Sanjay Shende.

(With inputs from agencies.)