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    Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W Subscription Model Launched – 30k Down Payment, 8k EMI

    Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W CargoPiaggio’s new Battery Subscription Model makes 3W EV ownership even more attractive and highly affordable by eliminating upfront battery costThe recent announcement by the Government of India with regard to electric vehicle subsidy has upset the segment. An earlier Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric (and Hybrid) Vehicles-II has been replaced by Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS), which offers lower subsidies for both electric 2Ws and 3Ws when compared to the earlier FAME-II scheme, which expired on March 31, 2024.Piaggio Ape Electric at Rs 2.59 Lakh Plus Battery RentPiaggio is a well known entity in the electric three wheeler electric segment, scoring high in sales each month ahead of Bajaj Auto, Mini Metro and Unique International. They have now brought in a special scheme that will appeal to buyers of its Ape Electric electric three wheelers. This battery subscription model aims to revolutionize three wheeler ownership with more affordability by separating upfront cost of the vehicle from the cost of the battery.Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W PVBuyers of the Piaggio Ape Electric can now make their purchases at Rs 2.59 lakh (ex-showroom). They can then subscribe to Piaggio approved battery pack at a monthly rent via the company dealership. While the chassis and powertrain are registered in the name of the customer, allowing them to avail loan facilities. Such an option will allow buyers to own electric vehicle without the stress of battery cost, maintenance, battery life span and replacement expenses.Piaggio dealerships offer these batteries to customers at a monthly rent for a lease period of 120,000 kms or 8 years for its cargo movers and at 150,000 kms or 8 years for passenger vehicles. On reaching the designated mileage, there is no more monthly rent to be paid. Piaggio also takes on the full onus of battery health even in the case of long term ownership. This special battery subscription module also includes battery replacement at the same amount of rent following the initial lease period.Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw Subscription Model Launched In 30 CitiesPiaggio Battery Subscription Model across 30 Indian CitiesThe Piaggio Battery Subscription Model has been introduced initially across 30 Indian cities. These include Gurgaon, Agra, Warrangal, Raipur, Mathura, Nizamabad, Nagpur, Lucknow, Kurnool, Bangalore, Kanpur, Anantpur, Tumkuru, Allahabad, Vijaywada, Mysore, Delhi, Guntur, Kolar, Noida, Vizag, Mumbai, Ghaziabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Greater Noida, Hyderabad, Pune and Faridabad. It requires no added documents from customers while buyers are given the liberty to unsubscribe from this program or sell their vehicle as they desire without any binding to the subscription scheme.Speaking on this special battery subscription model, Mr Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd said, “Piaggio India has a long history of prioritizing customer satisfaction through innovative products and solutions. The industry-first ‘Battery Subscription Model’ removes another barrier to EV adoption by addressing battery concerns and offering a cost-effective ownership option. We are confident this model will sustain EV growth in a post-subsidy environment.”Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw SpecsMr Amit Sagar, Executive Vice President – CV Domestic Business at Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd has also stated that, “Customer can now own an electric 3W at down-payment of Just INR 30,000 and an EMI of INR 8,000 per month which makes it as easy to own as compared to 3W CNG. Battery Subscription model will bring in a new wave of EV adoption in the industry. Our initial interaction with channel partners and consumers makes us believe that we have a winner. We believe that the model will also continue the EV adoption in a post subsidy world ensuring that customers and manufacturers get the best from the massive EV opportunity.” More

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    Mahindra Treo Plus Electric Rickshaw Metal Body Version Launch Price Rs 3.58 L

    Mahindra Treo Plus Electric RickshawMahindra Treo Plus delivers a range of 150 kms on single charge – Charging time is 4 hours 20 minutesMahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited (MLMML), India’s premier electric 3-wheeler company, proudly introduces its latest offering: the Treo Plus featuring a durable metal body. This innovation comes in response to invaluable customer feedback, showcasing MLMML’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its clientele.Treo Plus with Metal Body: A Leap in DurabilityPriced attractively at Rs 3.58 Lakh, ex-showroom, the Treo Plus with its metal body promises enhanced durability and longevity, ensuring a reliable mode of transportation for both passengers and goods alike. Since its inception in 2018, Mahindra has emerged as a trailblazer in the electric 3-wheeler segment, garnering widespread acclaim for its Treo series.Mahindra Treo Plus Electric RickshawWith over 50,000 units sold to date, the Treo line has become synonymous with reliability and efficiency. These vehicles have collectively traversed an astonishing 1.10 billion kilometers, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing CO2 emissions by 18,500 metric tonnes. Notably, the Treo series commands an impressive 52% market share in the L5M EV category, underscoring Mahindra’s dominance in the sector.Treo Plus Specifications at a GlanceThe Treo Plus offers a passenger capacity of D+3, making it ideal for urban transportation needs. With an impressively low maintenance cost of 10 paise/km, it stands out as a cost-effective solution for daily commuting. Charging the vehicle is convenient, with a charging time of 4 hours and 20 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime for users. While the ARAI certified range is noted at 167 km, real-world range typically reaches 150 km, subject to driving conditions.[embedded content]Treo Plus boasts a top speed of 55 km/h on Boost mode, ensuring efficient and swift travel. The vehicle is powered by a lithium-ion battery, offering reliable performance and efficiency at 48 V. Performance remains a cornerstone of the Treo Plus, boasting specifications tailored to meet the demands of modern mobility. Featuring a 10.24 kWh battery capacity, 8 kW power with 42 Nm torque, the Treo Plus delivers an unparalleled driving experience.Mahindra Treo Plus Electric RickshawWith a wheelbase of 2073 mm and Hill Hold Assist, it offers superior stability and control, ensuring safety on every journey. Additionally, buyers of the metal-bodied Treo Plus can avail themselves of a standard 5-year/120,000 km warranty, offering added peace of mind and assurance. With an extensive service network spanning the length and breadth of India, Mahindra remains steadfast in its commitment to providing unparalleled aftersales support.Mahindra Treo Plus FeaturesAffordable Financing OptionsRecognizing the importance of affordability and accessibility, Mahindra has collaborated with finance partners to present customers with a range of enticing deals. With extended loan tenures of up to 60 months, financing options of up to 90%, and low down payment schemes, owning a Treo Plus has never been more feasible.Mahindra Treo Plus SpecsMs. Suman Mishra, Managing Director and CEO of Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Ltd., expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “At Mahindra, we actively listen to our customers and their satisfaction is our priority. We’re excited to offer customers with more choices with the introduction of the metal bodied Treo. The Treo Metal Body will continue to delight customers with its reliability, lower TCO and help build their micro-entrepreneurship journey.”In alignment with its customer-centric ethos, Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited introduces the UDAY program, providing Treo buyers with a Rs 10 lakh accident insurance cover for the first year. This initiative underscores Mahindra’s unwavering dedication to prioritizing customer safety and well-being while fostering a sustainable future. More

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    Electric 3W / Rickshaw Sales Feb 2024 – Mahindra, YC, Saera, Dilli, Piaggio, Bajaj

    Image for illustrationIn February 2024, the electric 3W retail sales has posted a double digit YoY growth while MoM sales dipped marginallyFollowing our two earlier sales reports wherein we analyzed electric car and electric two wheeler retail sales for the month of February 2024, we now take a look at three wheeler sales also in the electric category. The electric three wheeler segment is divided into various categories and sales figures included sales of vehicles like three-wheeler (goods), three-wheeler (passenger), three-wheeler (personal), e-rickshaws, and e-rickshaws (carts). Sustained demand across the passenger category while last-mile operators for e-commerce businesses, food deliveries and other similar applications has shown off a good sales trajectory.Electric 3W Sales In February 2024Electric 3W sales last month stood at 50,585 units, a YoY growth of 40.10 percent over 36,106 units sold in February 2023. It was however, a decline by 5.09 percent on a MoM basis as compared to 53,298 units sold in January 2024. Sales in this segment were also lower when compared to 57,511 units sold in December 2023 indicating that the past three months have been unfavorable where electric 3Ws are concerned.Electric 3W / Rickshaw Sales Feb 2024 vs Feb 2023 – YoY ComparisonMahindra Group led the segment with 5,010 unit sales last month, a 33.03 percent YoY growth over 3,766 units sold in February 2023. MoM sales also improved by 7.01 percent from 4,682 units sold in January 2024. Most sales were amassed by Mahindra Last mile Mobility with 4,707 units sold last month while Mahindra Limited sales stood at 291 units and Mahindra Reva at 12 units.At No. 2 was YC Electric with 3,356 unit retail sales last month posting a 28.09 percent YoY growth from 2,620 units sold in February 2023. MoM sales dipped marginally by 0.56 percent from 3,375 units sold in January 2024. The company’s electric 3W portfolio currently includes Yatri Super, Yatri Deluxe and Yatri in the passenger segment while its commercial lineup includes the E-Loader and Yatri Cart.Electric 3W / Rickshaw Sales Feb 2024 vs Jan 2024 – MoM ComparisonSaera Electric sales grew to 2,090 units, up 12.61 percent YoY from 1,856 units sold in February 2023 while MoM sales suffered a setback of 11.40 percent when compared to 2,359 units sold in January 2024. Dilli Electric and Piaggio sold an equal number of electric 3 wheelers last month at 1,990 units. However, Piaggio posted an even greater MoM decline and hence lost its No. 4 position held in January 2024 to Dilli.Ranked at No. 4 on this list was Dilli Electric with 1,990 units sold last month, a 27.24 percent YoY growth from 1,564 units sold in February 2024 while MoM sales fell albeit marginally by 0.85 percent from 2,007 units sold in January 2024. Piaggio sales of its electric 3W models Ape E-City FX Max passenger carrier and Ape E-Xtra FX Max cargo carrier posted lower MoM but it was a significant YoY growth of 87.56 percent when compared to 1,061 units sold in February 2023. It was followed by Bajaj Auto with 1,379 unit sales last month, a 12.67 percent MoM decline from 1,579 units sold in January 2024. Electric 3W OEMs with Double Digit YoY GrowthLower down the sales list were a host of OEMs that have posted double digit YoY growth though most of them have experienced lower MoM sales. Mini Metro sales grew to 1,154 units last month, a YoY and MoM growth of 22.51 percent and 3.50 percent respectively. Unique International recorded retail sales at 1,028 units with a 24.61 percent YoY growth but 7.72 percent MoM de-growth.The list also included Hotage  EV (996 units), Energy Electric (919 units), Champion PolyPlast (910 units), JS Auto (903 units) and Alfine Industries (867 units). Other OEMs who manufacture electric 3 wheelers added 27,993 units to total sales last month, a YoY growth of 44.01 percent from 19,438 units sold in February 2023 while MoM sales dipped 6.87 percent over 30,059 units sold in January 2024. More

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    Electric 3W / Rickshaw Sales Jan 2024 – Mahindra, Bajaj, Piaggio, YC, Saera

    Rickshaw Sales Jan 2024The electric three wheeler segment has clocked a 54.45% YoY growth in terms of retail sales in January 2024 led by the Mahindra GroupAs per a list released by Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), the electric three wheeler segment in India is growing by leaps and bounds. This segment, which includes both passenger e-rickshaws and cargo three wheelers has witnessed double digit YoY growth in January 2024, however, on a MoM basis sales dipped by 7.33 percent. Despite these lower MoM sales, the segment itself continues on a favourable vein and shows strong potential in the future.Electric Three Wheeler Retail Sales January 2024Following our earlier reports on electric two wheeler and electric car retail sales in January 2024 we now assess growth across the electric three wheeler segment. Increased awareness, coupled with large-scale growth across e-commerce and food deliveries has boosted sales for this eco-friendly, zero emission and cost savings on fuel. A recent study indicated that electricity and service costs works out to Rs 1.3/km for electric three wheelers as against Rs 5/km for diesel powered vehicles relating to a Rs 3-4/Km saving.Electric 3W / Rickshaw Sales January 2024There has been a surge in demand for electric three wheelers / Rickshaw in recent months. New product launches that boast of improved quality, offer enhanced features and above all are reasonably priced, has made these products more attractive to buyers. Electric three wheeler retail sales stood at 53,298 units in January 2024, up 54.45 percent when compared to 34,508 units sold in January 2023. It was however a MoM decline by 7.33 percent from 57,511 units sold in December 2023 wherein almost every electric three wheeler OEM has posted lower sales except for Mahindra Reva, Piaggio and Bajaj Auto.Mahindra Group led the segment with 4,682 units sold in the past month, up 56.85 percent over 2,985 units sold in January 2023. MoM sales dipped 8.27 percent from 5,104 units sold in December 2023. Mahindra Last Mile Mobility (MLMM), made up most of these sales with 4,271 units sold last month. The company lineup includes products such as the Treo Plus, Treo Yaari and e-Alfa Super for passenger transport while in the goods transport segment there is the Zor Grand, Treo Zor and e-Alfa cargo.Electric 3W / Rickshaw Sales Jan 2024 vs Jan 2023 – YoY ComparisonAt No. 2 was YC Electric with 3,375 units sold in January 2024, up 48.35 percent over 2,275 units sold in January 2023. MoM sales dipped by 11 percent from 3,820 units sold in December 2023. The electric lineup in the passenger segment includes Yatri Super, Yatri Deluxe and Yatri and E-Loader and Yatri Cart for commercial use. Saera Electric has also posted double digit YoY growth at 34.88 percent in January 2024 with 2,359 units sold, up from 1,749 units sold in January 2023. MoM sales dipped 11.08 percent from 2,653 units sold in December 2023.Electric 3W / Rickshaw Sales Jan 2024 vs Dec 2023 – MoM ComparisonPiaggio, with an electric three wheeler / Rickshaw lineup of two models that include the Ape E-City FX Max passenger carrier and Ape E-Xtra FX Max cargo carrier, has seen both a YoY and MoM improvement in sales. With 2,079 units sold in January 2024, it related to a 92.50 percent YoY growth from 1,080 units sold in January 2023 and was up 1.12 percent over 2,056 units sold in December 2023.Dilli Electric sales were higher by 34.43 percent on a YoY basis to 2,007 units sold last month from 1,493 units sold in January 2023 while it fell by 12.36 percent over 2,290 units sold in December 2023. Bajaj Auto, a relatively new entrant into the electric three wheeler segment with the Bajaj RE E-Tec 9.0 passenger EV and Maxima XL Cargo E-Tec 12.0 introduced in June 2023, has seen a 25.02 percent MoM growth to 1,579 units sold in January 2024 from 1,263 units sold in December 2023.Electric Three Wheeler OEMs That Posted Double Digit YoY GrowthThe list also included several other electric three wheeler OEMs that have each seen double digit improvement in sales on a YoY basis. There was Hotage Corporation (1,183 units) with a 64.31 percent YoY growth, Unique International (1,114 units) with 31.83 percent YoY growth and Energy Electric (1,044 units) relating to 72.56 percent YoY growth.Lower down the list was also Champion Poly Plast (993 units), SKS Trade (909 units) and Alfine Industries (883 units). There are other electric three wheeler OEMs that contributed 29,976 units to retail sales in the past month relating to a 56.15 percent YoY growth over 19,197 units sold in January 2023 while MoM sales dipped 5.25 percent over 31,636 units sold in December 2023. More

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    EV-First Eicher Truck debuts at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024

    EV-First Eicher TruckEicher Trucks and Buses Unveils Electric Commercial Vehicle at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024Eicher Trucks and Buses, a division of VE Commercial Vehicles, has taken a significant leap into the Small Commercial Vehicle (SCV) segment with the global unveiling of its EV-First Eicher Truck at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024. The Pro Business Pro Planet range, spanning from 2T to 3.5T GVW, is poised to revolutionize city and near-city distribution, transforming last-mile logistics.Entering New FrontiersVinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO of VE Commercial Vehicles Limited, highlighted the strategic move into the SCV segment, stating, “As India grows in the Amrit Kaal, the SCV segment will be driven by rapid urbanization, booming e-commerce, increased personal consumption, and the rise of the hub-and-spoke distribution. Our upcoming range will play a pivotal role in this transformation with its Pro Business, Pro Planet approach.”EV-First Eicher TruckThe electric variant of the SCV is slated for customer trials in April 2024, and commercial rollout is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2025. Emphasizing their commitment to sustainability, Eicher will initially introduce the electric model, progressively expanding into clean CNG and diesel variants. The vehicle is designed and developed in India, reflecting the brand’s alignment with the Make in India initiative, and will be manufactured at the state-of-the-art facility in Bhopal.Aggarwal added, “Eicher has a track record of delivering energy-efficient trucks, and with this announcement, we reaffirm our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions crucial for India’s sustainable growth in the coming years.”EV-First Eicher TruckTo ensure an unparalleled aftermarket experience, all Eicher vehicles will feature 100% connectivity through the innovative Uptime Centre. This advanced system utilizes AI for remote diagnostics, minimizing downtime and enhancing efficiency. Integrated with ‘My Eicher’ fleet management, the trucks will deliver valuable performance insights.Green Mobility Priority – Made in IndiaThe extensive service network comprises 850+ touchpoints, including 425+ authorized service centers and 8000+ retail centers. Additionally, ‘Eicher Site Support’ at 240+ locations will offer seamless assistance. Eicher remains committed to comprehensive truck support, providing training, ensuring prompt parts delivery, and facilitating convenient annual maintenance contracts.Eicher’s entry into the SCV segment and the launch of the EV-First Eicher Truck mark a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable and technologically advanced transportation solutions. As the global automotive industry continues to evolve, Eicher is positioning itself at the forefront of innovation and environmental consciousness. More

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    Hero Surge can be an Electric Scooter or Rickshaw – 2 in 1 Convertible EV

    Hero Surge convertible EVBy offering both an electric rickshaw or an electric scooter in one EV, Hero Surge S32 claims to be the first class-shifting vehicleHero MotoCorp owned Surge startup has revealed their maiden S32. This is a modular vehicle, which is an amalgamation of an electric scooter and a 3W electric 3W vehicle to carry cargo or ferry passengers and support self-employed individuals. This is the first time in India a manufacturer has pursued such an idea and shows Hero’s relentless approach towards innovation.Hero Surge S32 – What is it?Ever seen Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight and wished to own a larger vehicle that spits out a 2W for convenience? Well, that concept has become a reality now. Except for the fact that it doesn’t cater to billionaire vigilantes. But caters to real-world self-employed warriors who intend to own a fully modular vehicle.Hero Surge convertible EVThus giving them an electric scooter or an electric 3W rickshaw in the same package. This way, a self-employed individual can get two vehicles for the cost of one. Surge calls it a “class-shifting vehicle”. Where users/buyers can elevate their earning potential and their overall lifestyle.Hero Surve EV – 2 in 1 convertible EVThe idea behind Surge S32 is that users/buyers can shift between classes while owning a single vehicle. After their daily endeavours and hardships, owners/buyers can now evolve into more comfortable and presentable individuals by taking the electric scooter out. Surge claims dismantling the scooter from the 3W setup should take 3 minutes.[embedded content]This way, Surge S32 is both their daily bread asset (3W electric vehicle) and their upmarket personal transportation means (electric scooter) in one modular product. Surge S32 promises conversion between 3W vehicle and scooter can happen on any terrain and there are adaptive controls and fail-safe operations to ensure a smooth transition.Hero Surve EV – 2 in 1 convertible EVSpecs and featuresAt first glance, Surge S32 looks like any 3W electric cargo vehicle or rickshaw. There is a front passenger cabin that has its own windscreen, headlights, turn indicators, windscreen wipers and everything. There are no doors, though, and there is a possibility that Surge will offer removable and zippered soft doors for weather protection.Hero MotoCorp Surge EVOn a press of a button, the front windshield section lifts vertically and the seat console on the inside opens and reveals an electric scooter. 3W vehicle’s cabin gets a spring-loaded double-stand like mechanism that is deployed down. Electric scooter’s rear suspension now rises to its intended position and it can now be pulled out of the 3W vehicle’s cabin. Scooter gets its own LED headlights and turn indicators too. Scooter is the only one to get speedo and switchgear and connects to 3W vehicle’s components, powertrain and battery with an electric interface that should be manually operated.Hero MotoCorp Surge EVBattery and powertrain are split between 3W vehicle and 2W scooter. Power is 10 kW (13.4 bhp) for 3W and 3 kW (4 bhp) for 2W. There is an 11 kWh battery for 3W and a sizeable 3.5 kWh battery for 2W. Top speed for 3W is 50 km/h and the scooter is slightly faster at 60 km/h top speed. Load carrying capacity for 3W is 500 kg, which is decent. Surge will offer 3 variants of cargo models and 1 variant to carry passengers (e-rickshaw). More

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    Tata Intra EV Interiors Patented – Is This Missing V40 In Intra Lineup?

    Image for reference onlyAs opposed to the Ace EV, Tata Intra EV is likely to come with a larger battery with more performance and range for various applicationsWhere commercial vehicles are concerned, Tata Motors currently leads the Indian CV segment. That said, the LCV segment is currently in Mahindra’s grasp. Where Mahindra sold around 25,000 LCVs in October 2023, Tata sold close to 15,000 units at the same time. Tata is likely to counter Mahindra with more electric LCVs and Tata Intra EV is likely to be that vehicle.Tata Intra EV Interiors PatentedFor starters, Tata’s Intra lineup is an upmarket and more capable vehicle as compared to Ace lineup. As of writing this article, Tata has multiple models to choose from within Intra LCV lineup. These are V10, V20, V30 and V50. While Intra V20 is exclusively CNG+petrol powertrain, V10, V30 and V50 are exclusively diesel.Maybe the model starting with an even digit like V20 have eco-friendly powertrains than the odd-digit counterparts like V10, V30 and V50 with diesel engines. Going by this logic, V40 could be another eco-friendly pickup truck for Tata Motors. Amidst these speculations, Tata Intra EV interior patent design has been leaked.We say Intra EV because the patented design shows an automatic gear selector on the dashboard where a manual stick shifter is, in every single Intra vehicle. Further fueling these deductions, is a free-standing infotainment screen that might be there to display crucial electric powertrain related information.Tata Intra EV interiors patentedThis information could include estimated range, state of charge, nearby charging stations, navigation for intra-city last-mile operations and more. As of now, Tata only has one electric LCV – Ace EV with 154 km of claimed range from a single charge. Tata’s Evogen architecture on Ace EV has a single motor setup delivering 36 bhp and 130 Nm from 0 RPM.Tata’s famed Fleet Edge fleet management suiteBeing a cut above Ace, Tata Intra EV or Intra V40 can be specced higher with around 200 km of range from a single charge, up to 50 bhp for zippy performance and slightly greater load-bearing capacity. On the inside, buyers can expect creature comforts like manual AC and infotainment screen, among others.Tata Motors stressed 100% uptime with Ace EV. Same ethos will be on offer with Intra V40 or Tata Intra EV as well. The company’s famed Fleet Edge fleet management solution is known to be effective in even managing large fleets at one’s fingertips.Tata Intra EV interiors patent leakedWith Intra EV, Tata Motors will take longer strides in achieving zero emission cargo mobility goal. Primary demographic for a product like this, are B2B and B2C business models along with last mile mobility, logistics and even custom applications like food trucks and more. More

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    TVS King Electric, King Kargo Electric Trademarks Registered

    Image for reference onlyWheels of Change: TVS Aims to Electrify the 3W Market. TVS King Electric, King Kargo Electric likely to feature the same powertrainBajaj and TVS are some of the leading 3W manufacturers but aren’t present in the top Electric Three Wheeler manufacturers list. Bajaj has developed and launched electric 3Ws, CV and electric Rickshaw (tuk tuk) in India already. So, it is obvious that TVS would want to sell e3Ws. Two electric 3W CVs from TVS are in development.TVS currently sells King Rickshaw and King Kargo 3W CV in India. Both without an electric variant. However, TVS King Electric and King Kargo Electric are trademarked as seen in the images below. Status for said trademarks state ‘Formality Chk pass’ and is likely to go live soon.TVS King Electric trademarkTVS King Electric, King Kargo ElectricOf the traditional name brands, Mahindra is the leading name in electric 3W segment with 18,608 units sold in FY 2023. Bajaj has launched Bajaj RE E-TEC 9.0 electric rickshaw and Maxima Kargo E-TEC 9.0 electric 3W CV in India with an 8.9 kWh battery. Also, Maxima XL Kargo E-TEC 12.0 with an 11.8 kWh battery.Mahindra is fortifying its 3W EV portfolio too with recently launched e-Alpha Super along with e-Alpha, Treo and Zor Grand, e-Alpha Cargo range. If TVS eyes the electric rickshaw and electric 3W CV segment, it would go up against these mainstream 3W EV manufacturers, and an ocean of startups.TVS King Kargo Electric trademarkConsidering the primary rivals, we would wager that TVS will have to compete at the highest level to make an impact in this space. For example, Bajaj’s E-TEC 9.0 range gets an 8.9 kWh battery, a 2-speed automatic gearbox for enhanced range and an onboard charger for convenience.Speaking of range, E-TEC 9.0 platform promises 178 km of range from a single charge, while E-TEC 12.0 platform promises 183 km of range on a single charge. Mahindra’s products are much more modest with range between 80 km and 130 km from a single charge.TVS Charges Up: Expected range, features and pricingAnticipate the TVS King Electric and King Kargo Electric to showcase a practical range tailored for intracity last-mile mobility tasks. Potentially up to 150 km—coupled with the inclusion of an onboard charger. Availability of a choice between a soft top or a hard top for the King Electric rickshaw are expected.Additional attributes such as high-profile tubeless tyres, weather-proofing, comfortable seat cushioning, decent instrumentation could feature. Potentially a handful of rudimentary telematics features for remote powertrain monitoring.Load capacity ranging from approximately 300 kg to 500 kg for the King Kargo Electric would be logical. As for pricing, it could be introduced at a starting point of around Rs. 1.5 lakh for a variant with a smaller battery and limited features, while a version equipped with an ample battery and more features might be positioned around Rs. 3 lakh. The anticipated timeline places the launch in the year 2024. More