West Bengal Gets ₹250 Crore Foreign Investment for Electric Scooter Manufacturing
In a major boost to West Bengal’s industrial and manufacturing sector, the state has attracted a ₹250 crore foreign investment for an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing project.
Thailand-based Assara Electric Company has entered into a strategic partnership with Kolkata-based Mercstone International Pvt. Ltd. (Mercstone EV) to establish an electric scooter manufacturing facility in West Bengal. The project is expected to strengthen the state’s position in India’s rapidly growing electric mobility industry while creating new employment opportunities.
A Major Step Towards Industrial Growth
The proposed investment will be made in phases and focuses on manufacturing smart electric scooters for the Indian market.
The partnership combines Thai manufacturing expertise with a local Indian partner to create an integrated EV production ecosystem in West Bengal. Industry experts believe this project could encourage more international companies to consider the state as a manufacturing destination.
Where Will the Manufacturing Plant Be Located?
According to officials present during the announcement, the electric scooter manufacturing facility is planned to be established at Sankrail in Howrah district, near Kolkata.
The location offers excellent connectivity through road, rail and port infrastructure, making it suitable for automobile manufacturing and future expansion.
Investment Details
| Particular | Details |
| Total Investment | ₹250 Crore (Phased) |
| Foreign Partner | Assara Electric Company, Thailand |
| Indian Partner | Mercstone International Pvt. Ltd. |
| Product | Electric Scooters |
| Proposed Location | Sankrail, Howrah (West Bengal) |
| Sector | Electric Vehicle Manufacturing |
What Will Be Manufactured?
The project will initially focus on manufacturing smart electric scooters designed for Indian consumers.
Reports indicate that the scooters will feature:
- Advanced battery technology
- Smart digital features
- Connected mobility solutions
- Affordable pricing for mass-market adoption
The collaboration also aims to expand into a broader electric mobility ecosystem over time.
Boost to Employment
One of the biggest advantages of the project is its potential to generate employment.
The manufacturing plant is expected to create:
- Direct jobs in manufacturing
- Employment in component manufacturing
- Opportunities in logistics and supply chains
- Skilled technical positions
- Dealer and service network jobs
In addition, ancillary industries supplying components and services are likely to benefit from the new investment.
Government’s Support for EV Manufacturing
State ministers attending the announcement said the project aligns with West Bengal’s efforts to promote:
- Industrial development
- Sustainable transportation
- Green manufacturing
- Investment attraction
- Employment generation
Officials described the proposed plant as an important milestone in strengthening the state’s electric mobility ecosystem.
Why This Investment Matters
The ₹250 crore project is significant because it:
- Brings foreign investment into West Bengal’s manufacturing sector.
- Strengthens India’s EV manufacturing capabilities.
- Encourages technology transfer through an Indo-Thai partnership.
- Supports the transition towards clean mobility.
- Enhances investor confidence in the state’s industrial ecosystem.
Potential Impact on the EV Industry
India’s electric two-wheeler market is expanding rapidly due to:
- Rising fuel prices
- Government incentives
- Growing environmental awareness
- Improved charging infrastructure
The new manufacturing facility could help meet increasing domestic demand while supporting future expansion into related EV segments.
Key Highlights
- ✅ ₹250 crore phased foreign investment announced.
- ✅ Thailand’s Assara Electric partners with Kolkata-based Mercstone International.
- ✅ Electric scooter manufacturing plant planned in Sankrail, Howrah.
- ✅ Project expected to create jobs and strengthen the local supply chain.
- ✅ Supports West Bengal’s ambitions in electric mobility and industrial development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which companies are involved in the project?
The project is a collaboration between Thailand-based Assara Electric Company and Kolkata-based Mercstone International Pvt. Ltd.
How much investment has been announced?
The project involves a phased investment of approximately ₹250 crore.
Where will the manufacturing plant be located?
The proposed manufacturing facility is expected to come up in Sankrail, Howrah district, near Kolkata.
What products will be manufactured?
The facility will manufacture electric scooters for the Indian market, with plans to contribute to a broader EV ecosystem.
How will this benefit West Bengal?
The investment is expected to boost industrial growth, create employment, encourage technology transfer and strengthen the state’s electric vehicle manufacturing ecosystem.
Conclusion
The proposed ₹250 crore electric scooter manufacturing project marks an important development for West Bengal’s industrial landscape. By bringing together Thai investment and local manufacturing capabilities, the partnership between Assara Electric and Mercstone International has the potential to accelerate EV production, create jobs, and reinforce the state’s role in India’s transition towards sustainable mobility. As the project progresses, it could pave the way for further investments in the electric vehicle sector and associated industries. SEO Title: West Bengal Secures ₹250 Crore Foreign EV Investment: Electric Scooter Manufacturing Plant to Come Up Near Kolkata
