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    Bill Gates Goes Local – Drives Mahindra Electric Rickshaw In India

    Decarbonization of the transportation industry – the humble electric rickshaw, companies like Mahindra contributeBill Gates driving electric rickshaw in India
    Mahindra Last Mile Mobility outlines a range of options including the popular Treo auto, versatile Treo Zor, and spacious Zor Grand. Mahindra’s efficient and sustainable last-mile electric three wheelers are efficient little vehicle’s. Perfect for navigating crowded city streets. And are reliable and an economical choice for short trips and daily errands. E3W applications are wide ranging – from deliveries and haulage to passenger transport.
    Bill Gates opts for Mahindra Treo in India
    Ergonomic seating and spacious interiors help manoeuvre the bumpiest roads, and feel these city roads. All the while reducing your carbon footprint and helping to build a greener future. Bill Gates says, “India’s passion for innovation never ceases to amaze. I drove an electric rickshaw, capable of traveling up to 131km (about 81 miles) and carrying up to 4 people. It’s inspiring seeing companies like Mahindra contribute to the decarbonization of the transportation industry.”
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    Exploring the Benefits of Electric 3-Wheelers for Last-Mile Transportation
    Three-wheelers, popularly known as tuk-tuks or auto-rickshaws, have been a preferred mode of transportation in many countries, especially in South Asia. With the advent of electric 3-wheelers, their success has only increased, and they are being increasingly adopted for last-mile connectivity. One of the significant advantages attributed to electric 3-wheelers is their eco-friendliness.
    As cities across the world look to reduce their carbon footprint, electric 3-wheelers offer a viable solution. These vehicles emit zero emissions, making them ideal for use in areas with high pollution levels. They are also noiseless. And a boon for elderly or disabled passengers who may have difficulty getting in and out of other modes of transportation.
    Bill Gates driving electric rickshaw in India
    e3W – Environmentally-Friendly Solution for Urban Mobility
    But the benefits of electric 3-wheelers do not end there. These vehicles are also low maintenance, with fewer moving parts, which translates to reduced maintenance costs for operators. The batteries used in electric 3-wheelers are also long-lasting, with some models having a range of up to 130 km on a single charge, making them suitable for long-distance travel as well.
    Cost of operating and maintaining these vehicles is relatively low, making them an attractive option for drivers. Additionally, electric 3-wheelers are exempt from several taxes, making them a financially viable option for operators. Electric 3-wheelers are easy to operate, making them an attractive option for drivers who may not have the necessary qualifications or experience to operate larger vehicles. They are also relatively easy to park, reducing the time and effort required to find parking in congested urban areas.
    The Rise of Electric 3-Wheelers in Last-Mile Connectivity
    Electric 3-wheelers are ideal for last-mile connectivity. They are compact and can navigate through narrow streets and alleys, making them perfect for use in congested urban areas. They are also faster than traditional bicycles and offer a more comfortable ride, making them an attractive option for passengers.
    The success of 3-wheelers, tuk-tuks, and auto-rickshaws can be attributed to their eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, suitability for last-mile connectivity, and versatility. With the availability of electric 3-wheelers, their popularity has only increased. As cities continue to look for sustainable and efficient modes of transportation, electric 3-wheelers offer a viable solution. More

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    Bajaj Electric Rickshaw Spied Up Close – 120 KM Range, Launch Soon

    Bajaj RE EV electric rickshaw has been delayed due to multiple reasons, but launch may finally come through this yearBajaj Electric Rickshaw SpiedBajaj currently leads in the three-wheeler space, with a market share of more than 70%. Bajaj RE rickshaw is preferred, as it is considered to be superior in terms of performance, durability, mileage, low maintenance, resale value and range of features.Users buying Bajaj RE can choose from powertrain options of diesel, petrol, CNG and LPG. Prices for the petrol variant start at around Rs 2.05 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). Upcoming Bajaj RE electric rickshaw will have a higher acquisition cost of around Rs 3.50 lakh. But users will probably gain in terms of reduced running cost.Bajaj RE electric rickshaw featuresBajaj RE electric rickshaw has largely the same appearance as that of its ICE counterpart. It is 8.6 ft. long, 4.2 ft. wide and 5.5 ft. tall. It has a ground clearance of 170 mm. Latest spy shots are credited to Nikhil Chadwal channel.Some key highlights include rounded front fascia, all-halogen lights, front plastic panelling, metal mudguard and R12 steel wheels. Space available is almost the same as that of Bajaj RE ICE rickshaws. The battery pack is likely to have taken much of the available cabin space.Bajaj Electric Rickshaw SpiedA number of differences can be seen in the driver section, where new plastic panelling has been used. The dashboard is now larger and comes with a lockable storage compartment. Instrument cluster is now fully digital, with two dials, placed on either side of the dashboard. Users can access critical information such as battery percentage, distance travelled and distance to empty.Bajaj Electric Rickshaw SpiedBajaj RE Electric range, specsBajaj RE electric rickshaw will have a range of 120 km on a full charge. Battery charging time is 4 hours, but could vary based on the type of charger used. It is not yet known if a fast charging option will be available for Bajaj RE electric rickshaw. It is certainly desirable, as it will increase the rickshaw’s revenue generating potential. With fast charging, rickshaw drivers can easily charge their vehicle during their breakfast or lunch time.Another option is to introduce a swappable battery system, which will work out even better than fast charging. But that will involve development of a large-scale network of battery swapping stations. Even if possible, such a system will take time to become a reality. One major hassle is that there’s currently not enough demand for electric rickshaws. Much of the sales still comprise ICE-powered rickshaws.Bajaj Electric Rickshaw SpiedFor electric rickshaws to go mainstream, special incentive programs need to be introduced. Subsidies are already available, but higher acquisition cost is still a major bottleneck. General distrust in a new system is another reason why the majority of buyers still prefer diesel, petrol and CNG rickshaws. Awareness about how electric rickshaws can increase income potential can probably help boost sales of electric three-wheelers.Source More

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    Jupiter Electric Commercial EVs Launched – JEM TEZ, EV STAR CC

    Jupiter Wagons Ltd subsidiary, Jupiter Electric Mobility launches new e-LCVs at Auto Expo 2023 – 2 tonne and 7 tonne electric commercial vehiclesJupiter Electric Mobility launches Commercial EVsJupiter Electric Mobility (JEM) furthered its commercial electric vehicle market presence at Auto Expo 2023. JEM TEZ, a 2.2 tonne GVW vehicle, and the EV STAR CC, a 7 ton GVW vehicle, were launched. The Jupiter Wagons Ltd (JWL) subsidiary has formed strategic partnerships/alliances with foreign and domestic companies that specialize in the EV sector.These partnerships have helped strengthen the brand. JEM’s goal is to become a market leader in the commercial electric vehicle segment in India. The company plans to leverage the expertise of its partners to achieve this goal. And deliver innovative and reliable vehicles to customers.Jupiter Electric Commercial EVsJupiter JEM TEZ 2.2 ton comes with a range of 180 kms on single charge. It has been designed on high voltage architecture with a high efficiency powertrain. Powering the EV is LTO/LFP batteries with rapid chargeable LTO chemistry. Jupiter claims that battery life is 10+ years and it comes with a buyback of Rs 2 lakhs till 6 years. Battery warranty is 5 years. It gets Telematics enabled for live tracking and 7-inch touchscreen infotainment.Speaking about Jupiter EV STAR CC7 ton , it has a claimed range of 250 kms on a single charge. It is a purpose-built multi utility EV. Battery pack is designed to last a minimum of 2,500 charging cycles. Both DC fast charging and AC slow charging are possible. It comes with a spacious, all metal cabin. More details in the specs sheet below.Jupiter Electric Commercial Vehicles – Specs SheetJupiter Electric Mobility (JEM) has entered into a strategic alliance with GreenPower Motor Company, a North America based company that specializes in commercial electric vehicles in the passenger transportation and freight transport markets. This partnership will help JEM to enhance its existing capabilities and expertise in the mobility solutions business.Furthermore, JEM has also entered into strategic partnerships with Log 9 Materials for EV batteries and Xavion Mobility for vehicle design and development. These partnerships will help JEM in creating competitive products.End-to-end production of CEVsJupiter Electric Mobility (JEM) plans to undertake end-to-end production of the vehicles in India. And establish service facilities in key markets. This will help JEM to expand into the after-sales requirements for a seamless customer experience. Initially, the company will target the last mile delivery market, focusing on major metros. The e-LCVs will cater mainly to last mile delivery needs, tapping the major metros Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Pune, and Bangalore initially.Jupiter Electric Commercial Vehicles – EV Star CCJEM has manufacturing facilities in Jabalpur, Indore, and Kolkata, and boasts over 200 acres of campus space. They specialize in mass-scale manufacturing and auto component engineering. Their tech-enabled processes and skilled workforce give them an advantage in the market. They plan to offer a complete range of electric vehicles, including LCV, MCV, HCV, and buses. With well-researched and strongly engineered CEV products, JEM is poised to make a significant impact in the industry.Indian EV Market – Rs. 50,000 Cr by 2025The company’s large scale manufacturing facilities and expertise in auto component engineering will enable them to produce electric vehicles in mass quantities, thus making them more accessible to consumers. Additionally, the company’s focus on tech-enabled processes will ensure that their electric vehicles are at the forefront of innovation and technology. Overall, JEM’s combination of skilled workforce and advanced technology positions them well to become a known player in the electric vehicle market.Mr Vivek Lohia MD and Mr Vikash Lohia Director Jupiter Electric Mobility with JEM TEZThe electric vehicle market in India has the potential to reach Rs. 50,000 Cr by 2025, according to a study by the Centre for Energy Finance (CEEW-CEF). The Indian government has set a target to have at least 30 percent of vehicles on the road to be electric by 2030. This ambitious goal will require significant investment in charging infrastructure and EV manufacturing. The EV market in India is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. Increasing concerns over air pollution and oil dependency also favour demand for electric vehicles. Potential for growth of e-LCVs in the delivery segment is high as major e-commerce platforms are already working on global net neutrality targets. More

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    Tata Magic Electric 10 Seater EV Debuts – Range Up To 140 Km

    Tata Magic EV is directed at last mile delivery services – It gets fast charging option tooTata Magic Electric 10 Seater EVTata Motors has introduced the new Magic EV at the ongoing 2023 Auto Expo. It is based on the Ace EV which was unveiled last year and targets last mile delivery services while its applications could also include school, stage carriage, ambulance, etc.Tata Magic has long been a successful commercial vehicle in the passenger segment. With the launch of Magic EV, that offers zero emission mobility, it is a part of the company’s endeavour to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 across its commercial vehicle business.Tata Magic EV – Range, BatteryThe Magic EV is a Driver + 10 seater passenger vehicle. It measures 3,790mm in length, 1,500mm in width and gets laden and unladen height of 1,890mm and 1,870mm respectively while it rides on a 2,100mm long wheelbase. Ground clearance is at 160mm.Setting the benchmark for zero emission mobility, the Tata Magic Electric 10 Seater EV comes in with an advanced battery cooling system and an IP 67 rated water and dust proof driving parts. Detailed walkaround of Tata ACE EV below, is credited to Usha Ki Kiran.[embedded content][embedded content]Battery capacity is at 14-20 kWh capable of delivering about 90-115 Nm torque. It gets mated to single speed transmission and gets a semi-elliptical leaf spring suspension system at the front and rear.It is capable of slow, fast and home charging and offers a lower cost of operations. Via standard charging, full charge of the battery can be achieved in 6-6.5 hours while fast charging achieves the same in 1.1-1.7 hours. Range is up to 140 kms.On board features include a 7 inch TFT infotainment system, voice assist and reverse camera while the cabin is spacious enough for added luggage. No pricing details of the Tata Magic EV have been announced as on date. Launch is expected to take place later this year.Tata Magic Electric 10 Seater EVTata Electric – 2023 Auto ExpoIn the electric passenger vehicle segment the company has on offer Nexon EV, Tiago EV and Tigor EV. At the 2023 Auto Expo, the company showcased future lineup with the Avinya EV, Harrier EV and Sierra EV. In the commercial vehicle segment, along with the Magic EV, the company also had the Prime e28 and Ultra e.9 on display.Speaking about Tata Ace EV, which made its debut in May 2022 is currently priced at Rs 9.9 lakh. Tata Ace is also offered in petrol and CNG variants and prices start at Rs. 4.29 lakh (all prices – ex-showroom). It is based on Tata’s EVOGEN platform offering a certified range of 154 km on a single charge, powered by a single electric motor offering 36 hp power and 130 Nm torque. The first batch of Tata Ace EV has recently been delivered to Amazon, Delhivery, DHL, FedEx, Flipkart, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health, MoEVing, Safexpress and Trent Limited. More

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    Volvo Eicher Unveils India’s Largest Electric Bus, Electric Truck – 2023 Auto Expo

    As a part of the Government of India’s sustainability vision, there are a host of alternate fuel vehicles and smart solutions on display at the 2023 Auto ExpoIndia’s largest electric bus and electric truck – 2023 Auto ExpoVE Commercial Vehicles – a JV between Volvo Group and Eicher Motors has unveiled a host of mobility solutions from the Eicher and Volvo brands at the 2023 Auto Expo. The VECV has been doing well in terms of sales with a 17 percent YoY growth in sales to 7,221 units in December 2022 from 6,154 units sold in the same month last year. Of these sales, 7,003 units were of the Eicher brand while there were 218 units of Volvo sold during the month.The Eicher brand showcased the country’s longest electric intercity coach. Measuring 13.5 meters, this coach was showcased along with Eicher Pro 2049 electric 4.9 T GVW truck and Eicher Pro 8055 LNG/CNG truck.India’s Largest Electric BusThe former is designed to cater to last mile applications while the latter is best suited for long haul travel. The 8500 is designed to alternate to CNG fuel via a switch for a cleaner and greener operation allowing users to not only reduce vehicle emissions but to also improve fuel efficiency levels to a greater extent.Volvo Trucks on the other hand has its Volvo FM LNG 420 4X2 on display at the show while Volvo Buses is showcasing a 15 meter Volvo 9600 luxury coach. The tractor which is based on diesel cycle technology offers 15-20 percent improvement in fuel efficiency over pure electric powered vehicles. The Volvo LNG FM 420 4X2 truck gains in terms of advanced driver assist functions among which are lane departure warning and Automatic Emergency Braking System.Volvo Eicher at 2023 Auto ExpoVolvo 9600 is a state of the art coach in seater and sleeper configurations for a more enhanced travel experience. The Volvo 9600 coach is powered by a D8K 8 liter diesel engine offering 344 hp power at 2,200 rpm and 1,350 Nm torque 1,200-1,600 rpm mated to Volvo’s I-Shift automated manual gearbox.It gets electronic braking and hill start assist as a part of its on-board features along with push back seats, individual USB chargers, AC louvers and reading lights while sleeper coaches get ladders and restraints for children along with privacy curtains, storage shelves and reading lamps.VECV Hydrogen Fuel Cell, Hybrid TrucksAlong with these models, VECV has also showcased a prototype Eicher Hydrogen Fuel Cell Truck and Hydrogen ICE technology engine as a part of the Government of India’s Green Hydrogen Mission and offer a promising path to zero tail-pipe emissions. Each of the Eicher and Volvo trucks and buses receive support solutions with App based 100 percent connected fleet and an uptime center thus enhancing productivity and efficiency while at the same time reducing carbon footprint.Volvo Eicher at 2023 Auto ExpoMr. Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VECV, said, “As a successful Volvo Group and Eicher Motors JV, VECV was the first to build and introduce modern BS VI technology in India. Eicher and Volvo trucks and buses are backed by our 100% connected ecosystem which helps deliver on our promise of Productivity and Uptime for our customers.The electrification of the CV industry has already started with buses, and we believe that a range of alternative fuels, including LNG, Ethanol and Hydrogen are essential to lead decarbonisation of the CV industry. Under the banner of Smart Sustainability, VECV is well poised to harness this opportunity and play a transformative role for the Indian CV industry.” More

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    Tata Ace Electric Launch Price Rs 9.99 L – First Deliveries Start

    At Rs. 9.99 lakh (ex-sh), Tata Ace Electric deliveries have begun to partners in B2B, last mile and logistics fieldsNew Tata Ace ElectricTata Ace has been one of those vehicles that defined the segment it is offered in. Even after a decade after its launch, Ace is still synonymous with LCVs under 1 tonne. So much so that most people still call LCVs under 1-tonne capacity as Ace. Such is its popularity. A couple of months ago, we saw the launch of Yodha 2.0 along with new Intra 50 as well.With changing times, adaptability is on Tata Motors’ key agenda. With Ace, Tata is going electric for 2023. First unveiled in May 2022, Ace EV has now launched at Rs. 9.99 lakh (ex-sh) and deliveries have begun for B2B business orders and last-mile delivery companies. Tata Motors promises 154 km of range from a single charge and offers 5 years complementary AMC pack as well.Tata Ace Electric Deliveries BeginMainly targeted at intra-city cargo and delivery businesses, Tata Motors has also stressed 100% uptime as well which is a boon for these companies. Along with Ace EV, Tata Motors has introduced Tata Fleet Edge, which is a next-gen fleet management solution, and Tata universe, which is an eco-system that binds relevant Tata Group Companies with India’s leading financers for funding.Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Girish Wagh, Executive Director, Tata Motors, said, “Introduction of Ace EV on Indian roads marks a major step forward for Tata Motors towards zero-emission cargo mobility goal. Tata Ace EV is one of holistic solutions co-created with our partners effectively catering to a host of intra-city distribution needs.New Tata Ace Electric – First deliveries startThis platform delivers superior value propositions to all stakeholders as well. The company is grateful for the trust and support of our customers (various B2B companies and cargo delivery companies). Encouraging response from partners toward Ace EV inspires the company to accelerate our endeavours in sustainable mobility and support India’s net-zero aspirations.”Tata Ace EV deliveries have commenced to leading e-commerce, FMGC and their courier partners and logistic service providers like FedEx, Flipkart, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health, Amazon, Delhivery, DHL (Express & Supply Chain), MoEVing, Safexpress and Trent Limited and more.Specs & PricingWith Ace Electric, Tata Motors is debuting their EVOGEN powertrain with a certified range of 154 km from a single charge. Being an EV, Tata Motors has offered regenerative braking as well. Tata Ace EV is said to be safe from all weather conditions as it features an advanced battery cooling system. Uptime is paramount for logistics and B2B companies.To increase uptime, Tata Ace Electric is equipped with fast charging capabilities as well. Ace EV is powered by a 27 kW (36 bhp) motor with 130 Nm of torque at 0 RPM. Cargo space is rated as 208 cubic feet and it comes with 22% grade ability at fully loaded conditions. Prices start from Rs. 9.99 lakh (ex-sh) and have no immediate rivals in 4W LCV segment with 1-tonne capacity. More

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    1,500 Tata Electric Buses To Operate In New Delhi – Agreement Signed

    Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and TML CV Mobility Solutions agreement signed for 1,500 Tata Starbus electric busesTata Electric BusA definitive agreement between Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and TML CV Mobility Solutions, a Tata Motors owned subsidiary. This is the largest order to date for electric buses by DTC. And is part of the Grand Challenge by Convergence Energy Services Limited tender.The agreement covers supply, operations and maintenance of 1500 low-floor, 12-metre air-conditioned Tata Starbus electric buses. The 1500 electric buses will run on routes in New Delhi. And the agreement is signed for a period of 12 years.Tata Electric Buses Delhi, BengaluruOver time, Tata Motors has already supplied more than 730 electric buses across Indian cities. Its collective fleet has cumulatively clocked over 55 million kilometres, with an uptime of over 95 percent.Earlier in the month, TML Smart City Mobility Solutions Ltd. Signed a similar agreement with Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) for operations of 921 electric buses in Bengaluru.The order is a part of the larger tender by Convergence Energy Services Limited.Tata Electric BusWith an increase in the number of electric buses making their way into city wide bus services, the time for modernisation has begun. Considering the long term nature of such contracts, buses will be introduced to fleets in a phase wise manner.As such, one shouldn’t expect an influx of public transportation all at once but as entire routes get converted to electric routes, electric buses will be made available. The government’s stance on EV adoption leans on state transport fleet conversions.Electric mobility with zero-emission, noise-free busesShilpa Shinde, IAS, Managing Director, Delhi Transport Corporation said, “We are pleased to have signed an agreement for the largest order of 1500 electric buses in Delhi. This is a significant step towards embracing electric mobility in the capital city. The induction of zero-emission, noise-free buses will greatly help in improving the city’s air quality. The new buses will also immensely benefit the commuters with its ultra-modern features and comfortable seating.”Asim Kumar Mukhopadhyay, Chairman, TML CV Mobility Solutions Limited said, “It is indeed a historic occasion for us as we sign a definitive agreement for the country’s largest electric bus order. Our relationship with DTC, which stands strong for over a decade, is based on the foundation of mutual trust and cooperation and this order will further strengthen it. We are confident that the electric buses will provide sustainable, safe and comfortable public transportation to the commuters of Delhi.” More

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    Otua Electric 3W Cargo Launch Price Rs 3.5 L – Range 165 Kms

    Otua is slated to be of the highest quality, command the highest load carrying capacity and have the longest range per chargeOtua Electric 3W CargoDandera Ventures, a firm engaged in the manufacture of last mile delivery and logistics vehicles has introduced the new cargo electric three-wheeler called OTUA. It is priced from Rs 3.5 lakh to 5.5 lakh (ex-showroom) and boasts of several industry leading capabilities.  Otua Electric 3W Cargo is also being offered on a subscription basis. The company is currently targeting the logistics and last-mile delivery sector, sales will also be initiated for individual buyers across select markets in India.OTUA Electric Three WheelerThe last couple of years has seen the last mile delivery and logistics industry go from strength to strength. It is also set to grow to a $5 billion market in the years ahead with several auto makers keen to grab a slice of this pie. The auto industry as a whole is slowly but surely moving ahead in the electric vehicle arena in a bid to conserve energy and save the environment.Otua is Auto spelt backwards – a word play for the traditional AUTO. Otua made its first appearance in the reality show Shark Tank and a deal was signed by Kshitij Bajaj, Founder and CEO of Dandera Ventures with Ashneer Grover, co-founder and former Managing Director of BharatPe.Otua Electric 3W CargoOtua is said to come in designed especially for the logistics and last mile delivery segment catering to both B2B and B2C logistics. It is designed as an all-electric vehicle and is a 100 percent Made-in-India product. It comes in with several industry leading capabilities, among which are its outstanding performance, facilities for highest volume at 183 CC, highest load carrying capacity of 900 kgs and longest range at 165 kms per single charge (expanded to over 300km).Otua three wheeler, two door electric vehicle is presented in a white exterior colour scheme with black accents seen on its windscreen, wing mirrors and door handles with a separate load body or compartment. It also offers best-in-class road visibility for drivers.Designed and developed by Dandera Ventures’ R&D Division, OTUA comes in with an aerodynamic design that reduces air drag co-efficiency by 25 percent when compared to other similar vehicles in its segment. It has a large driver cabin with air conditioning and is a connected EV with a Driver Fleet Management App. Dandera OTUA is powered by a 15.8kWh battery pack along with a 12.8kW and 49Nm electric motor. Top speed is limited to 55 km/h. It rides on steel wheels fitted with disc brakes on all three wheels.Booking and DeliveryOtua is now available for pre-booking with the company confirming that deliveries will commence from the first quarter of 2023. Initially, deliveries will be effected in Delhi NCR, Maharashtra and Gujarat and will be expanded across the country in a phased manner. The Otua electric three wheeler cargo electric vehicle does not have any other competition in its segment specially where its  load bearing capacity is concerned. More