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      Electric two wheelers and three wheelers can be sold without a battery

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      MoRTH now permits sale and registration of Electric Vehicles without the battery
      While it seems absurd at first, the move is in fact a clever one. If one moves beyond comparing an EV to a mobile phone, then the battery conundrum is clearer to understand. The battery cost from hereon is to be compared with potential fuel expense over a comparable period. What this does is makes the EV more affordable, and at a comparable price to ICE vehicles.

      A green signal from Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) means one can register a new EV without the cost of pre-fitted batteries factored in. A letter to Transport Secretaries outlines sale of EVs without batteries. Registration of the same is guided by type approval certificate issued by the Test Agency.
      Furthermore, for the purpose of registration, there’s no requirement to specify Make/Type or any other battery details. While such specifications are not mandated. what is required is type approved products by test Agencies specified under Rule 126 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.

      Bajaj Chetak electric scooter. Image for reference.
      Which means, the prototype of the electric vehicle, and the battery (regular battery or the swappable battery) need to be type approved. The policy expands on making EVs accessible to one and all, and needs to be supported with dependable EV infra that lets EV owners charge and swap batteries as required.
      Announcements in the recent past has outlined vehicle electrification goals but blueprints on how these targets are to be achieved are difficult to access, and thereby understand. Across the EV spectrum, especially where two wheelers and scooters are concerned, the presence of new manufacturers piques interest, but electric two-wheeler sales remain limited.
      DELHI EV Policy 2020
      The recently announced Delhi EV policy on paper appears to be a push in the right direction. The state is committed to creating a special arm to make decisions regarding EVs, and also fund such projects. Delhi will approve subsidies and waivers for all EV purchases, and look into charging infra development among other aspects that can help ease EV adaption.
      There’s a notion that EV adaption will help reduce vehicular pollution, and will have far reaching effects in environment protection. The oil import bill will also benefit with reduction of oil imports. To reach such a goal, it’s imperative that the fledgeling Indian EV industry gathers steam. To promote and encourage use of electrical two-wheelers and three-wheeler vehicles, delinking cost of battery is a new approach.
      MoRTH takes into account the fact that 30-40 percent of total vehicle cost is in reality battery cost. With vehicles now permitted to be sold without the battery, the Ministry perceives that upfront cost of electric 2 wheelers (2W) and 3 wheelers (3W) would be lower than ICE 2W and 3W retail price. Of course, the battery will most likely be purchased or rented from the OEM separately, or as proposed, by the energy service provider. More

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      Detel Easy moped launched at Rs 20k – Cheapest electric two wheeler

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      The electric moped has a top-speed of 25 kmph and does not required registration or license
      Let’s talk about Detel, the consumer electronic firm before we proceed to their latest foray into the burgeoning world of e-mobility. Founded in 2017, the brand describes itself as a value-for-money startup that manufactures affordable electronic gadgets.

      Detel seems to be fascinated by the tag ‘the world’s most economical’ as evident from its world’s most economical feature phone priced at INR 299, the world’s most economical LED TV at INR 3,999, and now, the world’s most economical electric two wheeler at INR 19,999.
      Detel Easy
      The Detel Easy is a low-cost electric moped that has one primary objective – to be affordable to buy and run. The compact electric urban runabout prefers function over form. The company says that the Easy moped is characterized by low maintenance, quick charging and an easy-to-use product.
      Targeting ‘teenagers and people to wish to travel short distances or run errands’, the Detel Easy is powered by a hub-munted 250 W electric motor. With a top-speed of 25 kmph, one doesn’t require driving license or vehicle registration to ride this moped.

      Supported by a 48V 12 Ah Lithium iron phosphate battery pack, the Detel Easy has a claimed range of 60 km under ideal conditions. The battery takes 6-7 hours to achieve full charge through a regular power socket. The company is offering a free helmet with the purchase of its moped.
      The skinny step-through features circular headlamp, a compact foot board which also houses the battery pack, a single piece saddle and a narrow pillion seat complete with backrest. The front telescopic fork is related more to mountain bicycles than a scooter. The Detel Easy is also equipped with pedals, so if you ran out of charge, you can still find your way home without too much trouble.
      Apart from the cheapest price tag, salient features include steering mounted front turn indicators, alloy wheels, drum brakes and a front-mounted luggage basket.
      How to buy one?
      The Detel Easy is being sold online at www.detel-india.com for private buyers. Resellers, trade partners and people ordering in bulk can buy the moped on www.b2badda.com, an online e-distribution platform. The company has not revealed any details about aftersales service operations.
      The electric two wheeler is available in three color options – Pearl White, Jet Black and Metallic Red. The Easy is pitched as a much more affordable alternative to similar electric mopeds such as the Gemopai Miso and Saathi Electric. More

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      Skoda Enyaq iV electric crossover SUV debut on Sep 1 – Official sketches

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      The upcoming Skoda Enyaq crossover SUV employs Volkswagen Group’s MEB (Modular Electrification Toolkit) architecture
      Czech-origin automaker Skoda Auto, under Volkswagen Group, has released a fresh set of sketches or renders of its upcoming all-electric crossover SUV, Enyaq iV. The official debut will happen in Prague on September 1, 2020. Sporting Skoda Auto’s latest design and styling principles, the new Enyaq will be the first product to come out of Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform. Translated to English, MEB expands to Modular Electrification Toolkit.

      The company states that the Skoda Enyaq marks a new era in its timeline. According to the design team, the crossover SUV showcases “emotive lines and balanced, dynamic proportions” in addition to a “generous interior”. It is claimed to offer a “sustainable yet fun driving experience”.
      Global OEMs are heavily concentrating on all-electric powertrains across a wide price segment. Due to their immense demand, SUV or crossover body styles have become the go-to choices for newer electric products.

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      Karl Neuhold, Head of Exterior Design at Skoda Auto, has given a brief overview of the Enyaq’s vision and styling philosophy. The ‘emotive Skoda design language’ is already familiar to the world thanks to the new-gen Scala hatchback, Kamiq subcompact crossover and Octavia compact sedan (as per European standards).
      Fresh styling philosophy
      The upcoming Skoda Enyaq features sculpted lines, clear surfaces as well as crystalline elements inspired by Bohemian crystal art. Unlike existing Skoda SUVs and crossovers, the Enyaq has a shorted front end alongside an elongated roofline. Karl Neuhold comments that this unique trait gives the EV “a very dynamic look” and transforms it into a “proverbial space shuttle”. Large wheels and high ground clearance further strengthen its ‘SUV presence’.
      Being an all-electric product, the Enyaq does not need a large front grille for cooling or induction purposes. However, the signature ‘butterfly grille’ has always been one of the most significant bits on modern-day Skodas and hence, could not be easily omitted. On the new Enyaq, the grille component is set further forward and upright, blending well with the full-LED headlamps flanking it on each side.
      Functional design
      Compared to a mainstream ICE model under Volkswagen Group (employing MLB architecture), MEB products differ significantly in terms of height and overhangs. The battery pack rests inside the floor panel and demands taller body styles. The relatively long wheelbase of the new Enyaq hides this fact. Shorter overhangs were possible since the electric powertrain and its components take much lesser space than a conventional ICE example. Furthermore, the Skoda Enyaq iV boasts of an impressive drag coefficient of 0.27. More

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

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      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

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      Cricketer Robin Uthappa Takes Delivery of Ampere Electric Scooter

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      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

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      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

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      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

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      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