Detailed Narrative
Q2 FY26 Consolidated Performance Overview
Amara Raja Energy & Mobility reported a consolidated revenue of INR 3,467 crores in Q2 FY26, marking a 6.5% year-on-year growth. The lead acid business contributed approximately 95% of this revenue, while the New Energy business accounted for the remaining. Standalone operating margin stood at around 12%, improving by 0.5% quarter-on-quarter, though it remained subdued year-on-year due to higher warranty expenses and a one-time📎 EPR liability provision of INR 35 crores.
Lead Acid Business Performance
The lead acid business achieved a revenue of INR 3,297 crores, growing 5% YoY. This growth was primarily driven by robust OEM demand in both 4-wheeler and 2-wheeler segments, with OEM volumes increasing by about 30% YoY. However, aftermarket volumes remained stable due to procurement delays and GST rate revisions. Industrial lead acid volumes declined by approximately 11% YoY, mainly due to a shift in telecom towards lithium solutions, while UPS volumes grew by about 5%.
New Energy Business Momentum
The New Energy business demonstrated strong growth, with revenue reaching INR 170 crores, an increase of over 50% YoY. This was supported by increased demand for telecom packs and chargers, with telecom volumes growing substantially, supplying 150 megawatts. The company also commenced supplying 3-wheeler packs with LFP cells during the quarter. The order book for AC and DC chargers has surpassed 5,000 units, and the company aims for the New Energy business to contribute 5% of overall revenue by the end of FY26, and 7-8% by FY27.
Capital Expenditure and Lithium Investment
The company's consolidated capex for H1 FY26 was approximately INR 650 crores, split between New Energy and lead acid businesses. For the full year, the total capex is projected to be between INR 1,400 crores and INR 1,500 crores, with a significant portion allocated to the New Energy segment in H2. An additional INR 350 crores was infused into Amara Raja Advanced Cell Technologies (the lithium subsidiary) in Q2, bringing the total investment to INR 1,200 crores. The subsidiary currently holds about INR 250 crores in cash.
EPR and Warranty Provisions Impact
A one-time📎 provision of INR 35 crores was made for EPR credit costs in Q2 FY26. This provision accounts for the increased obligation to collect 90% of batteries sold three years prior, up from 70%. Management expects the future monthly impact to be less than INR 1 crore, potentially diminishing if scrap collection improves. Additionally, higher warranty expenses contributed to the subdued year-on-year operating margins, stemming from increased overall warranty offerings and actual replacements.
Operational Initiatives and Future Outlook
The tubular manufacturing plant is expected to reach full capacity in Q3 FY26, with volume impact anticipated in Q4, which should aid margins. Power cost issues have largely been resolved, except for an electricity duty issue. The scrap recycling battery breaking operations are slated to commence in January, which is expected to be margin accretive. The company aspires to achieve a 13% EBITDA margin in the near term and eventually return to its original 14% margin in the long term.