Hindustan Motors Wants to Build EVs at Uttarpara: Could the Ambassador Return?

Kolkata: Hindustan Motors is exploring a return to vehicle production at its former Uttarpara site, with electric vehicles now at the centre of its plans. The CK Birla Group-owned automaker has approached the West Bengal government for land to establish an EV manufacturing facility in partnership with another carmaker. 

Meanwhile, West Bengal Commerce and Industries Minister Tapas Roy confirmed that HM representatives had met him several times to discuss the proposal. 

Speaking about his meetings with HM representatives, Roy said, “HM people met me a couple of times with their proposal of setting up an EV unit at Uttarpara. We are considering the proposal on a war footing.” 

In addition, HM is considering two potential partners for the project, according to company sources. One is a European company, while the other is a US based car manufacturer. The company shared that the final proposal would depend on the state government allotting land at Uttarpara. “If the state govt allots land to us at Uttarpara, we will submit a concrete proposal for setting up an EV unit with either of these companies.” 

Why is Uttarpara Important for Hindustan Motors?

The location has a long connection with HM. The manufacturer started its Uttarpara factory in 1942 across around 700 acres and produced the Ambassador there for decades. However, the production stopped indefinitely in 2014.

Over the years, HM sold parts of the Uttarpara property, including 314 acres to Shriram Properties in 2009 and about 100 acres to the Hiranandani Group. The remaining land later became the subject of a dispute, as the West Bengal government took back around 395 acres in November 2022, citing its non-use and the company’s failure to resume operations. HM challenged the move legally; however, the Supreme Court dismissed its appeal in July 2025 after the takeover was upheld. 

Could the Ambassador Return as an EV?

The Uttarpara connection naturally brings up the possibility of an electric Ambassador. However, HM has not said that the iconic sedan forms part of its current EV proposal.

There is also a key brand issue. HM sold the Ambassador brand and trademarks to Peugeot SA in 2017, which later became part of Stellantis. Therefore, any new Ambassador would require the necessary trademark rights. They had already signed an MoU with a European carmaker in May 2022 for an EV facility at Uttarpara, but that plan ended after the land resumption.

What Does this Mean for HM?

The latest proposal could mark a fresh attempt by Hindustan Motors to return to vehicle manufacturing. For now, however, the immediate focus remains on securing land and finalising a joint venture partner.

An Ambassador EV would certainly attract attention, but the current proposal points to a new EV manufacturing project rather than a confirmed return of the iconic sedan.

With the Ambassador’s possible EV return creating buzz, check out the latest Mahindra Thar OG launch and its price and features.