Hindalco Industries on 12 September announced that they had partnered with Italian firm Metra SpA, which produces structural and value-added aluminium extrusions.

Through this partnership, the company aims to enable the production of large-size aluminium extrusion and fabrication technology for building high-speed aluminium rail coaches in India.

Satish Pai, Managing Director of Hindalco Industries, said that the company is pleased to join hands with Metra for the introduction of a new era of aluminium extrusions for passenger trains in India, which is in alignment with the company’s capacity for building aluminium in commercial vehicles, electric vehicles, freight wagons, and passenger train applications.

He added, “Our combined expertise will undoubtedly enhance the efficiency, durability and sustainable performance of these trains and set benchmarks for the Indian rail industry.”

Metra SpA’s knowledge in aluminium extrusion, welding, and machining and the company’s experience in aluminium manufacturing will enable India to gain access to technology that is limited to countries such as China, Europe, Japan, and other countries.

Enrico Zampedri, CEO of Metra SpA, said, “Together, we are poised to redefine aluminium extrusions for high-speed train manufacturing in India, creating a fusion of strong Italian expertise in this field and Indian market knowledge.”

The company plans to invest Rs 2,000 crore to make coaches for Vande Bharat trains.

The company plans to introduce three more designs of freight wagons in the coming months, targeting specific commodities such as cement and foodgrains.