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    Tata Nexon EV to become cheaper by Rs 1.5 lakh in Delhi – New policy

    The Delhi government will provide a price cut of Rs 10,000 for each kWh of an EV’s battery capacity
    Decades ago, it was believed that by 2020 we would have flying cars as the ‘new normal’. Clearly, we are considerably far away from that aspirational dream. Instead, we are even struggling with a relatively poor adoption rate of EVs in the country.

    However, the latest guidelines from both central and certain state governments seem to be on the right path to help India accelerate EV adoption. Recently, the Delhi government rolled out an all-new Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy (read more) through which it intends to promote emission-free vehicles in the PV (passenger vehicle) segment. Under this policy, the government intends to provide an incentive of Rs 10,000 for each kWh of battery capacity. The overall applicable incentive is capped at Rs 1.5 lakh.
    Currently, India has three ‘proper’ EVs in the four-wheeler category: Hyundai Kona, MG ZS EV and Tata Nexon EV. The Tata Nexon EV has a battery size of 30.2kWh. Hence, it will be eligible for incentives up to Rs 1.5 lakh. Similarly, prospective MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona buyers will also receive price cuts up to Rs 1.5 lakh on the original ex-showroom price.

    Hyundai Kona getting charged at the PlugNgo electric car charging station in Delhi
    To further sweeten the deal, the Delhi government has completely waived off registration fees and road taxes for EVs. But there is a catch: these benefits are applicable only to the first 1,000 private EV buyers in Delhi’s jurisdiction. Customers will receive the benefits once their EV’s proof of purchase is submitted to the regional transport authority. Electric vehicles purchased under Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy will wear a sticker highlighting the same.
    It is good to know that the new policy from the Delhi government is relatively holistic. In addition to incentivising EV buyers, it also covers supporting infrastructure — one of the major challenges in EV adoption.
    In the future, electricity DISCOMs (Distribution Companies) will work in tandem with the government and optimize load-sharing to accommodate EV charging. Furthermore, there will be a different metering system and special tariffs for charging infrastructure. As a start, the Delhi government will incentivise existing buildings with Rs 6,000 to purchase charging facilities. Upcoming projects will have to dedicate 20 per cent of their parking space for EVs while having appropriate charging infrastructure.
    The government plans to upgrade existing infrastructure to achieve at least one charger in a 3km radius, from any point in Delhi. It will be interesting to study Delhi’s EV sales charts in the months to come. More

  • Cricketer Robin Uthappa Takes Delivery of Ampere Electric Scooter

    The scooter was presented as a part of Star Talk series on “IPL and the road ahead for India Cricket” via Webinar
    Ampere by Greaves presents “Sportstar Star Talk Series” a Webinar on the IPL Success Story and the road ahead for Indian Cricketers. The panel for this series includes Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Heath Streak, Dhiraj Malhotra- CEO of Delhi Capitals and KC Vijaya Kumar – The Hindu Sports Editor.

    It was at this meet that Ampere Electric wished the Indian Cricket Team and IPL great success in the future while Robin Uthappa – Indian Cricketer and holder of the 8th highest run score at the IPL was presented with an Ampere Magnus Pro electric scooter. Robin came with his family to receive the scooter which was a proud moment indeed for the bike maker and the recipient.
    Ampere Magnus Pro electric scooter is priced at Rs.73,990. It is powered by a 1200W motor allowing for acceleration from 0 to 40 km/h in 10 seconds and a top speed of 55 kmph. It offers a range of 100 km while in Eco Mode and 80 km in Cruise mode with its removable lithium battery. Charging is possible in 5-6 hours upto 100 percent. Suspension and braking is via telescopic front fork and twin shock absorbers at the rear and drum brakes at both ends with CBS offered as standard.

    Ampere Magnus Pro electric scooter is built on the same a modified chassis as seen on the Zeal scooter. It is available in four colors of Metallic Red, Golden Yellow, Bluish Pearl White and Graphite Black and designed for use both by male and female riders with a total kerb weight of 82 kgs.
    On board features include LED headlamp, an LCD instrument cluster, apron mounted storage with an integrated UBS port, underseat boot light, keyless entry, and sits on 10 inch wheels at both ends fitted with tubeless tyres. Even if battery power dips below 10 percent, the rider can travel upto 10 kms using Limp Home Function.
    In the electric scooter segment, the Ampere Magnus Pro competes with the Gemopai Astrid Lite, and the Okinawa Ridge. In the same price range, it competes with petrol powered scooters such as the Honda Activa 125, Suzuki Access 125 and Hero Maestro Edge 125.
    Ampere Electric retails the Magnus Pro via its 200+ dealerships while buyers can also opt for online booking along with a range of finance schemes which the company has made available for customers. There is the battery subscription plan wherein customers can pay as less as Rs.49,990 by selecting the monthly battery subscription option of Rs.1,990 while those not opting for this plan can pay the full ex-showroom price of Rs.73,990. More

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    Hyundai IONIQ converted into an all electric global car brand

    What was a car name until now, has been converted into a car brand by Hyundai
    Hyundai Ioniq has taken on an altogether new meaning. What was until now a reference to the automaker’s compact sedan is from hereon known as the Hyundai EV brand. Until now, the Hyundai Ioniq sedan is available in three powertrains – electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid.

    Hyundai Ioniq, the brand will introduced three new electric cars over the next four years. Hyundai Ioniq EV platform will in its new avatar in early 2021 launch the Ioniq 5 midsize electric CUV, based on the 45 concept. The following year, the Ioniq 6 sedan (based on Prophecy concept) will be introduced, and Ioniq 7 in 2024.
    Hyundai concept EV 45 was showcased at International Motor Show (IAA) 2019 in Frankfurt, and is tribute to the brand’s first concept car. Ioniq 5 will be inspired by the past and integrated with cutting-edge parametric pixels. The design element will feature in future Ioniq vehicles. 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 6 sedan is based on Prophecy EV concept, showcased as recently as March 2020. It’s exterior design comes alive in its ‘aerodynamic silhouette of perfect proportions’. Ioniq 7 will be a large SUV.

    What Hyundai Ioniq means
    The portmanteau Ioniq, is a fusion of ‘ion’ and ‘unique’. Based on Project IONIQ, in 2016, Hyundai introduced the Ioniq vehicle with three electrified powertrain options in a single body type. Now, as a brand, Ioniq will be developed to achieve clean mobility goals. Ioniq vehicles will have even numbers allocated for sedans, and odd numbers for electric UVs.
    By 2025, the automaker wants to cement 10 percent market share in the global EV market, aiming to have a million battery electric vehicles on road by then, including Kia EVs. In line with ‘Strategy 2025’, Hyundai Motor Group aims to become the world’s third-largest automaker of eco-friendly vehicles by 2025, with 560,000 BEV sales in addition to FCEV sales.
    Hyundai Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)
    The modular Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) will focus on driving range, and fast charging, and all forthcoming vehicles. In line with Hyundai’s smart mobility vision, the lineup is congruent to a customer connected lifestyle experience. Ioniq brand being dedicated to battery electric vehicles will be responsible for the next gen of electrified and connected mobility solutions.
    Hyundai lists its current EV capabilities as ultra-fast charging, spacious interior, and battery-supplied power. The next step will bring together all this, and ‘future innovations that combine design, technologies and services to integrate in-car and out-of-car experiences for a seamless journey’.
    The EV-dedicated platform helps envision vehicle interiors as a smart living space. This is built around adjustable seats, wireless connectivity and unique features.
    “The IONIQ brand will change the paradigm of EV customer experience,” said Wonhong Cho, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor Company. “With a new emphasis on connected living, we will offer electrified experiences integral to an eco-friendly lifestyle.” More

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    Mahindra Electric seeks partners to strengthen its EV Portfolio in India

    Mahindra & Mahindra’s EV division is almost ready with the eXUV300 or XUV300 Electric subcompact crossover
    To strengthen the Indian automotive market’s infant yet growing EV scenario, Mahindra & Mahindra group is looking for strategic partners to scale up its subsidiary, Mahindra Electric. Despite facing a 94 per cent decline in profits for the June quarter due to COVID-19 and regional lockdown protocols, the Indian automaker states that its EV-launch plans stay unaffected. Mahindra Electric is arguably the pioneers of the nation’s push towards electric mobility in PV (passenger vehicle) segment.
    Immense interest in India’s EV space

    According to Pawan Goenka, Managing Director of Mahindra & Mahindra, the company has “invested significant capital in the segment”. He added that M&M officials are in talks with “multiple interested parties” to invest in Mahindra Electric. “We are fairly well invested (to drive the EV market),” states Pawan Goenka. In addition to a dedicated facility in Bangalore, the company has invested in its Chakan manufacturing facility to develop high-range battery packs.
    Mahindra & Mahindra group aims to be a dominant player in the global EV space with Mahindra Electric in the affordable PV segment. Higher up on the price ladder, Mahindra-owned Italian automaker Automobili Pininfarina will introduce performance-focused electric products (major portfolio expansion in the plans).

    Mahindra Funster Electric Concept
    The iconic design firm has only one product at present, Pininfarina Battista electric hypercar. It was unveiled at 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and production (limited to just 150 units) was scheduled to start sometime this year. However, COVID-19 and related confusions pushed the production timeline to 2021.
    Mahindra & Mahindra recently shared that it is looking forward to a new partnership to run the South Korean subsidiary, SsangYong Motor Company. Mahindra has decided to back off from investing further in SsangYong, except about $32 million to help it stay afloat. Certain parties have already shown interest in the company.
    Mahindra eXUV300
    The much-awaited Mahindra eXUV300 (or XUV300 Electric) will directly rival Tata Motors’ Nexon EV. Based on the brand’s all-new MESMA 350 architecture, the all-electric subcompact crossover (or “compact SUV”) promises a range of over 370km (under ARAI testing) on a full charge. Real-life range figures would exceed 300km.
    ‘MESMA’ expands to Mahindra Electric Scalable and Modular Architecture. It supports 60-280kW motors as well as battery capacities ranging up to 80kWh. Dual-motor setups (electric AWD) are also possible. The 2021MY SsangYong E100, the Tivoli-based electric crossover, is developed over MESMA. It is worth mentioning that the SsangYong Tivoli formed the base for Mahindra’s successful XUV300.
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  • Ather Electric Scooter Price Will Be Rs 15,000 Lower in Delhi – Says CEO Tarun Mehta

    Ather Energy sells the 450 and 450X scooter in Bangalore and Chennai – They will launch in many more cities, including Delhi this year
    Ather 450X was launched in January 2020. In fact sales that month were the brand’s highest for the year thus far, surpassing the 800 units mark. As sales resumed in May 2020 after partial lockdown in March, and complete lockdown in April, sales in May were low. June and July MoM sales are just about picking up. July 2020 sales was reported at less than 200 units.

    To boost sales, Ather will launch their e-scooter in many new cities, including Delhi. Now, with a clear outline of the Delhi EV Policy, Ather’s intent to begin ops in Delhi gets a fillip. Essentially, state benefits on offer will reduce on-road purchase price.
    “Ather will begin deliveries of our flagship scooter Ather 450X in the coming weeks in Delhi. The state’s policy effectively reduces the on-road cost of our scooters by nearly Rs 15,000. We look forward to being in the country’s capital very soon,” said Tarun Mehta, CEO, Ather Energy.
    Delhi EV Policy 2020
    While Delhi sees a large number of electric three-rickshaws pressed into daily service, especially where last mile connectivity is concerned, EV adaption as far as personal mobility vehicles goes has been lacklustre. Essentially, Delhi EV policy looks to incentivise purchases through subsidies and waivers, reduce pollution, and develop infra and activities around strengthening EV adaption to generate employment. Road tax and registration fee stands waived.

    Ather 450X electric scooter
    Delhi Government has drafted a EV policy is time bound, and target oriented. Importantly, it’s designed to boost purchase incentives. The state offered additional subsidy would make EVs more accessible. The policy outline charging infrastructure development, carried EV types, as well as a consideration of scrapping policy for old ECE vehicles. There’s no amount yet fixed for what the payout for an old ICE vehicle will be and whether or not this will be beneficial for all future vehicle purchases, or electric vehicles alone.
    As it stands, financial incentives for electric two-wheelers, e-rickshaws and electric freight vehicles will be up to Rs 30,000. The benefit is up to Rs 1,50,000 for electric cars. Proposed incentives via Delhi EV Policy will be applicable over and above e-vehicle incentives under central government.
    Delhi EV Policy in its current form is designed for a three year period to start with. Progress will be monitored through regular reviews. A state electric vehicle (EV) fund will bear policy related expenses. An EV board chaired by the state transport minister will oversee policy implementation. The policy outlines the sale of a total of 5 lakh new electric vehicles over a 5-year period.
    Infrastructure development outlines setting up 200 charging stations in a year, with an electric charging station every 3 kms. While it’s too early to predict policy success, on paper, the now progressive policy is planned to benefit a wide range of potential EV users. Delhi EV policy doesn’t benefit lithium battery e-scooters with speeds upto 25km/hr. More

  • Saathi Electric Moped Launched At Rs 57,697 On Road Pune

    Techo Electra Motors has now introduced its Saathi electric moped – The brand’s product range includes Emerge, Neo, and Raptor scooters
    Saathi electric moped, the brand says is ideal for product delivery. Retail price is listed at Rs 57,697, on-road Pune. Designed keeping in mind economic recovery and livelihood sustenance, Saathi is best suited to make small businesses self reliant for transport needs.

    Techno Electra Motors sees potential in the product from fleet operators. Equipped for short-distance commutes, Saathi is powered by a 48V 26Ah Lithium-Ion battery that delivers range of 60-70 kms per charge. It takes 3-4 hours to charge fully. The 60km range cost is estimated at Rs.12 (1.5 units/charge), translating to monthly savings.
    The moped runs on tubeless tyres, features front and rear drum brakes and alloy wheels, telescopic suspension, and reinforced high strength steel chassis. Saathi dimensions are listed at 1,720 mm in length, 620mm in width, and 1,050 mm in height. Below is the detailed features list of the new Saathi electric moped.

    It’s simple design harnesses on comfortable riding, and provides ample utility space with a front basket and rear bracket. The front basket is affixed in front of the vehicle below the headlight unit. The central location counters problems of the vehicle weight tipping over on any side owing to extra weight.
    Design
    The front basket is smaller than the width of the front column, and contents in it can be secured with a basket cover. Rear storage bracket looks sufficient and fits over the tail light extension from the single seat. This means, the rear storage doesn’t extend too far out from the small-ish moped. Kerb weight without the battery is about 50kgs. The rear bracket sits behind the single seat, again in a coral rectangular frame to ensure it’s functionality as a carrier is optimum.
    After-sales service includes 3-year warranty for the Lithium-Ion battery. Motor and controller warranty is listed at 12 months, charger at 1.5 years, and other manufacturing defects at 1 year. Smart features include Anti-Theft Alarm, Smart Repair Function, Fast Charger, Central locking system, and LED Headlight. The headlight bezel is a silver encasing. The rest of the bike is a mix of a yellow body with black bits. Front mirrors stand quite upright and are circular. Saathi electric moped bookings have started, and deliveries will start from 2nd week of October, 2020.
    Specifications

     
    MODEL NAME
    Saathi
    BATTERY POWER
    48V 26 Ah LITHIUM-ION
    BATTERY TYPE
    LITHIUM ION
    TYRE
    3 -10 TUBELESS
    SUSPENSION
    TELESCOPIC
    MOTOR
    BLDC HEAVY DUTY
    BRAKE SYSTEM
    FRONT: DRUM REAR: DRUM
    LIGHTS
    LED LIGHT
    USB CHARGING POINT
    AVAILABLE
    CENTRE LOCKING SYSTEM
    AVAILABLE
    WHEELS TYPE
    ALLOY
    NO OF GEARS
    AUTOMATIC
    CHASSIS
    Reinforced High Strength Steel Chassis
    Length*Width*Height
    1720mm*620mm*1050mm
    ENGINE OIL
    N
    KERB WEIGHT More

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    Delhi EV Policy Gives Additional Benefits To Electric Car, Scooter Buyers

    Delhi government’s electric vehicle policy is curated and derived after a study of global electric vehicle policies in consultation with experts in the country
    Pollution and Delhi are usually mentioned together. Delhi government has now introduced measures to reduce pollution in NCR, and boost economy. Delhi EV policy introduces subsidies, and waives road tax as well as registration fee for electric vehicles. The progressive policy has two objectives – Boost Delhi’s economy; and reduce pollution level and contribute to sustainable development.
    Financial Incentives

    It goes without saying, the policy would help generate jobs on various fronts. Financial incentives for electric two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws and freight vehicles will be up to Rs 30,000. For electric cars, this benefit will be up to Rs 150,000. The incentives will be applied over and above existing e-vehicle incentives already applicable under central government.
    The unicorn that is the scrapping policy, a notion with no clarity is now being undertaken by Delhi government. A scrapping incentive will be provided when replacing a fuel run vehicle for an e-vehicle. Loan interest for purchase of e-vehicles for commercial activities is waived. e-Vehicles are exempted from registration fees and road tax.

    Ather Electric scooter will launch in Delhi soon.
    Today’s announcement will be valid for three years and will be reviewed regularly. To facilitate the proposals, a state electric vehicle (EV) fund is being set up to bear expenses related to the policy. An EV board chaired by the state transport minister is being set-up. The board will pave the way for policy implementation. The government is hopeful for 5 lakh new EV registrations in the next 5 years.
    Delhi cabinet approved Delhi Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, 2019 last year to get to this stage. Delhi already sees a notable number of e-three-wheelers plying on its street but the adaption to electric cars and electric two-wheelers isn’t quite so enthused.
    Charging Infrastructure
    To promote the use of EVs, the Delhi government is keen on infrastructure development and is keen to set-up 200 charging stations in a year, and and install an electric charging station every 3 kms. The policy blueprint will facilitate timely education of eBuses into the transport system. Within 1 year, Delhi Govt aims to induct 35,000 e-vehicles and paving the way for 25 percent electric vehicles by 2024.
    Delhi EV policy addresses forward moving measures to give the EV industry a fillip in the right direction. Being a time bound and target-oriented policy would mean infra development at the same pace for policy goals to come to fruition, and offers over and above FAME II scheme.
    Customers who haven’t benefitted from central government’s subsidy scheme can avail subsidy under Delhi EV policy. The independent policy doesn’t run on exchequer money, and could set precedence for other states to follow suit. For now, Delhi EV policy doesn’t benefit lithium battery e-scooters with speeds upto 25km/hr. More

  • Hero Electric leads market share beyond reach through April – July FY20

    JMK Research and Analytics EV monthly updates sees Hero Electric leading the electric scooter/bike segment for the first four months of FY21. Market share stands at 37 percent in the high-speed segment. Hero Electric dominates 45 percent market share in remaining categories, which places it in a leadership position across all electric two-wheeler segments.

    Hero Electric has revealed that in the current months, online sales channels have been a focus area. This paved the way for 40,000 customer engagements, and resultantly, six-fold increase in online sales over April – July FY20.

    With sales operations restarted, a number of schemes have been introduced to attract audiences. Hero Electric expects to achieve record sales through the current FY despite the lockdown for FY21. This month, Hero Electric has announced a partnership with Autovert Technologies. With this, customers can now opt for subscription-based financing plans. All-inclusive subscription plans start at Rs 2,999 per month and is inclusive of bundled services like comprehensive insurance, service and maintenance, loyalty bonuses, and upgrade options.
    High Speed EV sales January – July 2020
    With Covid-19 pandemic lockdown announced in March end, the industry as a whole has been impacted severely. With business restarting in May 2020, automakers are rescheduling launches, delayed BS6 introductions, and catering to deferred deliveries that couldn’t be upheld for a major part of Q1 FY21. Electric vehicles have met with sales contraction.

    Cumulative high speed (speed higher than 25 kmph) EV sales through 2020 January – July is reported at 61,981 units. July growth is reported at 19.6 percent MoM over June 2020. Sales was up at total industry sales of 7,411 units, up from 6,193 units. This includes electric three-wheeler sales too. Okinawa sales was reported at over 400 units with Hero Electric following close.
    Hero Electric and Okinawa are close competitors in vying for top place in the segment. Hero Electric sales for the last 3 months is following a marginal MoM growth path like most manufacturers.The manufacturer was able to report a sales fillip as FY20 ended with March sales being at a spectacular high having surpassed the 1,000 units mark at ease.

    Sohinder Gill, CEO, Hero Electric said, “Our quick thinking, willingness to take risks, and trying different methods paid-off to not let the lockdown negatively impact our business. This fresh approach also kept our people, driven, and motivated and our stakeholders assured. We are happy to have been able to attract customers, more in fact, during this troubled period of lockdown and pandemic.
    Coming out on top with the highest number of electric scooters sold – across all categories – between April and July, is a testament of our unwavering determination to work Hero Electric, 36% Company B 28%, Company C 14%, Company D 13%, Company E 7%, Others 1%. We have great plans for the second half of 2020, and we are not going to let anything deter us from achieving what we set out to this year. Our no-emission mission continues.” More