With rising EV adoption, reducing vehicle weight is crucial for boosting efficiency and extending driving range.
India’s auto component industry is pivoting toward lightweight engineering as electric vehicle (EV) makers seek to address one of their biggest challenges: limited driving range. Responding to this need, companies like Belrise Industries Ltd and ASK Automotive Ltd are increasingly focusing on developing lighter parts to help automakers offset the added weight of EV battery systems.
This need for lighter components is heightened by the fact that, unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs rely on lithium-ion battery packs that significantly increase overall vehicle weight , often by 20–30%, according to industry estimates. This added mass directly impacts energy consumption, making lightweight components a critical lever for improving efficiency and extending range.
As a result, automakers are pushing suppliers to rethink core vehicle structures. Key areas such as chassis and BIW (Body-in-White) components—which form the vehicle’s skeletal framework, including the floor, roof, and side panels—are becoming central to lightweighting strategies.
To address these evolving needs, Belrise Industries Ltd is investing in high-tensile steel technologies that allow manufacturers to reduce material thickness without compromising strength. This approach not only lowers weight but also enhances crash performance, as stronger materials can absorb greater impact forces.
At the same time, ASK Automotive Ltd is betting on aluminium-based solutions, particularly for components like battery housings and electric motor casings. Aluminium’s lower density compared to steel makes it a preferred choice for reducing overall vehicle mass while maintaining structural integrity.
The relevance of these efforts is underscored by the rapid pace of EV adoption in India. Electric two-wheeler sales rose 11% to around 1.2 million units in 2025, while electric passenger vehicle sales surged 77% to nearly 177,000 units. This growth encourages both domestic and global automakers to expand their EV portfolios, further driving demand for innovative component solutions.
With range anxiety still a key concern for consumers, lightweighting is emerging as a strategic priority across the EV value chain. For auto parts makers, this represents not just a technological shift but a significant business opportunity aligned with the future of mobility.
