Jupiter Wagons acquires Bonatrans India for ₹271 crore, Becomes first to own Wheel Plant

Kolkata, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant strategic move, Jupiter Wagons Limited (JWL) has acquired Bonatrans India, solidifying its position as the first Indian rolling stock manufacturer with an integrated wheel plant. Jupiter Wagons Limited (JWL), a prominent provider of comprehensive mobility solutions across rail, road, and marine transportation sectors, has proudly announced the acquisition of Bonatrans India Private Limited (BIPL) for ₹271 Crore. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for JWL, making it the first rolling stock manufacturing company in India to possess its own wheel plant.

Bonatrans India, located in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad), Maharashtra, is renowned for its production of rolling stock wheelsets, boasting an annual capacity of 20,000 Wheels and 10,000 Axles. This acquisition is expected to enhance JWL’s self-reliance and operational efficiency while reducing reliance on imported wheels. BIPL serves esteemed clients such as JWL, BEML Limited, Alstom Rail Transportation India Pvt. Ltd., Plasser India Pvt. Ltd., and Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd.

As part of the Make in India initiative, JWL plans to invest an additional Rs. 1000 crores over the next two years. These investments aim to augment production capacity and drive the plant towards full backward integration, with the ultimate goal of meeting the growing demands of the Indian railway sector and transforming it into an export hub.

Vivek Lohia, Managing Director of Jupiter Wagons, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “As we embark on this transformative journey, we are thrilled to announce Jupiter Wagons Limited’s acquisition of Bonatrans India Private Ltd. This strategic move strengthens our position as an innovative leader in integrated mobility solutions and propels us towards becoming a comprehensive rolling stock manufacturer. With our commitment to excellence and the support of esteemed partners, we are poised to meet the evolving needs of the Indian railway sector while making significant strides in the global market. This acquisition underscores our unwavering dedication to innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.”

Following the acquisition, Bonatrans Group, a leading wheel manufacturer in Europe and existing shareholder, will continue as a minority shareholder, ensuring continuity and synergy within the newly integrated structure. The successful completion of this acquisition was facilitated by esteemed advisors, with Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. serving as legal advisors to JWL and Ernst & Young LLP providing comprehensive financial, tax, and ESG compliance services throughout the transaction process.

This acquisition signifies a monumental moment for Jupiter Wagons Limited and the Indian rail industry, setting a new standard for self-reliance and innovation. By amalgamating Bonatrans India’s capabilities with its vision, JWL is poised to redefine urban mobility and bolster India’s presence in the global market. This move highlights not only JWL’s strategic foresight but also its commitment to propelling the Indian rail sector towards sustainable growth and international recognition.