Investing nearly ₹400 million and aiming for ₹2.5 billion business by FY30, Sterling Tools teams up with GLVAC to manufacture key EV components in India.
Sterling Tools Limited, a domestic automotive fastener manufacturer, has partnered with Kunshan GLVAC Yuantong New Energy Technology of China to manufacture high-voltage direct current (HVDC) contactors and relays in India, with an approximate investment of ₹400 million. These components are essential for controlling current flow in electric and hybrid vehicles.
This partnership will involve setting up a new facility in Bengaluru to produce and assemble the critical components locally. Formed through Sterling Tools’ wholly owned subsidiary, Sterling Tech-Mobility Limited, the venture is expected to generate ₹2.5 billion in business by FY30.
HVDC contactors and relays are crucial for managing and controlling high-voltage electricity flow between a vehicle’s battery, motor controller, and other power systems. They ensure safe switching and isolation in power circuits, improving efficiency and preventing hazards like fires or explosions in case of electrical faults or accidents.
According to the company, Sterling Tools aims to empower Indian OEMs, tier-I companies, and other suppliers with access to advanced EV and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) technology by producing HVDC contactors and relays domestically.
Aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, the company aims to build a self-reliant ecosystem for India’s growing EV and HEV sectors by expanding local manufacturing.
Commenting on this new association, Anish Agarwal, Director from Sterling Tools Limited, said, “As the electric and hybrid vehicle markets continue to expand, this association highlights our commitment to the safety of high voltage battery and power electronic systems.”
Li Qinghua, General Manager from GLVAC YT, said, “India is an important market for us, and through our association with Sterling Tools Limited, we are poised to strengthen India’s EV and HEV sectors.”
Based in Faridabad, Haryana, Sterling Tools was founded in 1979. It manufactures automotive fasteners and has expanded into EV components through its subsidiaries. Sterling Tech-Mobility, its new subsidiary, focuses on advanced HVDC contactors and relays for the Indian market. Sterling Gtake E-Mobility Ltd (SGEM), another subsidiary, supplies localised motor control units (MCUs) for various electric vehicle segments, aiming to become India’s leading EV powertrain solutions provider.