AM/NS India Commissions Advanced Automotive Steel Line at Hazira to Boost AHSS Production!

ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) has commissioned a new Pickling Line and Tandem Cold Mill (PLTCM) at its flagship facility in Hazira, marking a major milestone in strengthening India’s capabilities in high-grade automotive steel production. The inauguration was led by Keiichi Ono, Ambassador of Japan to India, highlighting the growing collaboration between the two countries in advanced manufacturing.

The newly commissioned PLTCM has a production capacity of 2 million tonnes per annum and is designed to enhance AM/NS India’s footprint in the automotive steel segment. The facility will produce high-quality cold rolled base steel, including specialised and patented grades developed by its parent companies, ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel. These products are critical for next-generation automotive applications that demand higher performance, safety, and efficiency.

A key focus of the new line is the domestic production of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), which plays a vital role in modern vehicle manufacturing. By enabling local production of such materials, the facility is expected to reduce India’s dependence on imports while supporting the evolving needs of the automotive industry. The PLTCM integrates advanced process technologies, automation systems, and globally aligned quality standards, ensuring consistent production of high-performance steel grades.

The line is capable of producing steel with strength levels of up to 1180 MPa, suitable for applications such as galvanised, galvannealed, and press-hardened components. These materials are essential for improving vehicle safety, reducing weight, and enhancing fuel efficiency, while also supporting compliance with regulatory frameworks such as Bharat NCAP.

This commissioning forms part of AM/NS India’s broader ₹60,000-crore expansion programme at Hazira, which includes the development of both upstream and downstream capabilities along with supporting infrastructure. The investment reflects the company’s long-term commitment to building a robust and self-reliant steel manufacturing ecosystem in India.

Industry leaders highlighted that the integration of advanced Japanese technology with India’s manufacturing capabilities represents a new phase in industrial cooperation. The project not only strengthens domestic production but also positions India as a competitive hub for high-quality automotive materials.

With India’s demand for value-added flat steel currently estimated at around 7.8 million tonnes annually—and expected to grow steadily—the need for advanced materials is increasing alongside the expansion of the automotive sector. The new PLTCM facility is well-positioned to address this demand, supporting both domestic manufacturers and global supply chains.

Overall, the commissioning of the Hazira line underscores AM/NS India’s focus on innovation, scale, and localisation, reinforcing its role in advancing India’s manufacturing capabilities and supporting the future of mobility.