Mahindra Group Partners with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited to Expand EV Charging Network Across India

Charge_iN, the EV charging arm of Mahindra, has joined hands with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) to significantly boost electric vehicle charging infrastructure across India. The collaboration aims to make EV adoption more convenient by leveraging HPCL’s vast fuel station network.

Strategic Partnership to Accelerate EV Adoption

In a major step toward strengthening India’s electric mobility ecosystem, Charge_iN by Mahindra has entered into a partnership with HPCL. The agreement, announced on March 20, 2026, focuses on deploying electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) at HPCL’s fuel retail outlets nationwide.

This collaboration brings together the automotive expertise of the Mahindra Group and the extensive distribution network of HPCL, addressing one of the biggest challenges in EV adoption—limited public charging infrastructure.

Leveraging a Nationwide Fuel Station Network

Under the agreement, Charge_iN will utilize HPCL’s network of over 24,400 fuel stations across India to install EV charging units. This approach offers a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need to acquire new land or develop standalone charging locations.

Fuel stations are already strategically located in high-traffic areas, including highways and urban centers, making them ideal for EV charging deployment. This ensures greater accessibility and convenience for EV users across the country.

Introduction of High-Power 180 kW Chargers

The charging stations installed under this partnership will feature advanced 180 kW dual-gun chargers. These high-capacity chargers are designed to significantly reduce charging time for electric four-wheelers.

Faster charging is a crucial factor in improving user confidence, especially for long-distance travel. By minimizing downtime at charging stations, the initiative aims to make electric vehicles more practical for everyday use.

Building on HPCL’s Existing EV Infrastructure

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited has already made considerable progress in the EV space. The company operates over 5,400 charging stations under its HP e-Charge brand and has also established more than 150 battery swapping stations.

As a Maharatna public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, HPCL has been actively diversifying its energy portfolio. Its existing infrastructure along highways and in cities makes it a strong partner for scaling EV charging networks.

Charge_iN’s Role in Mahindra’s EV Vision

Charge_iN is a key component of the Mahindra Group’s broader electric mobility strategy. The company has been focused on developing a robust network of ultra-fast public chargers to support the growing adoption of EVs.

The partnership with HPCL marks a significant milestone in building a comprehensive EV ecosystem. It aligns with national goals of enhancing public charging accessibility and supporting sustainable transportation.

Addressing Key Challenges in EV Adoption

India’s transition to electric mobility has been gaining momentum, but the lack of reliable and widespread charging infrastructure remains a major concern for potential buyers.

By integrating charging stations within existing fuel outlets, this initiative tackles several challenges simultaneously:

• Reduces infrastructure development costs
• Speeds up deployment timelines
• Enhances accessibility in both urban and rural areas
• Supports long-distance travel with reliable charging points

This model is increasingly being recognized as an effective way to scale EV infrastructure quickly.

Supporting India’s Energy Transition Goals

India, the world’s third-largest automotive market, is actively promoting electric vehicles through policy incentives and infrastructure development.

Government initiatives have focused on increasing EV adoption in passenger vehicles and two-wheelers. However, improving the density and reliability of charging networks is critical for sustaining this growth.

The collaboration between Mahindra and HPCL aligns with these national objectives, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation ecosystem.

Industry Trend: Fuel Stations as Charging Hubs

The integration of EV charging facilities within traditional fuel stations is emerging as a global trend. In India, this approach is gaining traction due to its practicality and efficiency.

Fuel stations already have the necessary electrical infrastructure and are located at strategic points, making them ideal for fast-charging installations. This reduces both setup time and operational complexity.

Several energy and automotive companies worldwide are adopting similar strategies, indicating a shift toward hybrid energy hubs that support both conventional and electric vehicles.

Deployment Plans and Future Outlook

While the companies have not disclosed the exact number of charging stations to be installed under this partnership, the scale of HPCL’s network suggests significant expansion potential.

Details regarding rollout timelines and specific locations are expected to be announced in the coming months. As the partnership progresses, it is likely to play a crucial role in strengthening India’s EV infrastructure.

About the Partner Companies

Mahindra Group

Founded in 1945, the Mahindra Group is one of India’s largest conglomerates, operating in sectors such as automotive, agriculture, IT, and financial services. The group employs over 324,000 people across more than 100 countries and is a leader in utility vehicles and farm equipment.

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

HPCL is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise engaged in refining, marketing, and distributing petroleum products. The company operates refineries, pipelines, terminals, and a vast network of retail outlets across India.

Conclusion

The partnership between Charge_iN and HPCL represents a significant step toward building a robust EV charging network in India. By combining technological innovation with an extensive fuel station network, the initiative aims to make electric mobility more accessible and practical.

As India continues its transition toward cleaner energy solutions, collaborations like this will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation.