Global motor leader Nidec opens advanced Orchard Hub campus in Hubli-Dharwad to manufacture EV, wind energy & data center solutions, creating 2,000+ jobs.
Global Electric Motor Giant Establishes Strategic Foothold in India’s Industrial Heartland.
Hubli-Dharwad, Karnataka – In a significant boost to India’s manufacturing capabilities, Nidec Corporation, the world’s leading electric motor manufacturer, has officially opened its Orchard Hub manufacturing campus in Karnataka’s Kotur-Belur industrial area. The 50-acre facility – Nidec’s largest in India – marks a $55 million investment in the country’s renewable energy and electric mobility sectors.
Key Highlights of Nidec’s Orchard Hub
🏭 Multi-Sector Manufacturing Powerhouse
- EV Solutions: Motors, controllers & chargers for electric vehicles
- Renewable Energy: Wind turbine generators & battery storage systems (BESS)
- Digital Infrastructure: Backup generators for data centers
- Industrial Automation: High-efficiency motors & drive systems
🌱 Sustainability Commitment
- Carbon-neutral target by 2028 through solar power & microgrid systems
- Battery energy storage integration for clean energy management
- Lean 3Q6S manufacturing principles minimizing waste
💼 Economic Impact
- 2,000+ jobs (1,000 direct & 1,000 indirect)
- Recruitment drives underway for local ITI & diploma holders
- Strengthens Karnataka’s industrial ecosystem
Strategic Importance for India
🔹 “India for India & Exports” Vision
- Supports Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives
- Combines Japanese precision with Indian manufacturing scale
🔹 Meeting Critical Industry Needs
- Addresses growing demand for EV components amid India’s e-mobility push
- Supports renewable energy transition with specialized generators
- Enhances data center reliability amid digital boom
Global Leadership Meets Local Execution
The inauguration saw participation from:
- Mr. M.B. Patil, Karnataka’s Industries Minister
- Mr. Michael Briggs, President of Nidec Motion & Energy
- Japanese & French Consul Generals, highlighting international collaboration
Michael Briggs emphasized: “India’s growth presents exceptional opportunities. Orchard Hub demonstrates our commitment to shaping India’s industrial future while delivering sustainable solutions.”
Girish Kulkarni, Nidec India MD, added: “This isn’t just a factory – it’s an innovation hub that will drive sustainable development in the region.”
Project Fast Facts
📍 Location: Kotur-Belur Industrial Area, Hubli-Dharwad
📅 Timeline:
- Groundbreaking: Sept 2023
- Completion: 20 months (record time)
- Production Start: Late 2024
💰 Investment: $55 million
🌍 Global Reach: Products for domestic & export markets
Looking Ahead
With machinery installation now underway, Orchard Hub will soon:
- Begin production of mission-critical components
- Establish Karnataka as a renewable energy tech hub
- Develop local supply chains for advanced manufacturing
This strategic investment positions Nidec at the forefront of India’s green industrial transformation, combining global expertise with local manufacturing prowess.