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

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      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

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      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

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

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      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

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      Tata Nexon Electric Subscription Plan Prices from Rs 42k per month

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      Owners can now enjoy possessing a Tata Nexon EV without having to pay the full price
      Tata Motors unveiled the Nexon EV in India in December 2019 and opened bookings soon after at a down payment of Rs.21,000. The Nexon EV entered a segment to compete with the Hyundai Kona electric and MG ZS EV and was priced at Rs.15 – 17 lakhs. It is is presented in three variants of XM, XZ+ and XZ+ Lux and offers an ARAI certified range of 312 kms.
      Tata Nexon EV with monthly plans

      With the ever increasing demand for electric vehicles, but the high costs involved, Tata Motors has introduced subscription plans for the Tata Nexon EV at a starting rent of Rs.41,900. Customers can select tenures from 18, 24 to 36 months and the rental amount include a comprehensive insurance cover, road side assistance and end to end maintenance.
      This monthly rental scheme on the company’s flagship electric vehicle is being offered initially in 5 cities of Delhi/NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. The offer is in collaboration with Orix Auto Infrastructure Services Limited, a leading leasing company in the country. For a tenure of 36 months, the monthly subscription rate is Rs.41,900, going up to Rs.44,900 for a period of 24 months and at Rs.47,900 for an 18 month leasing period.

      It will not involve any vehicle registration, road tax, etc making it a hassle free acquisition for the user. The monthly subscription covers all benefits and also includes free maintenance with servicing and doorstep delivery. The customers will also be provided with their own electric chargers installed at their homes or offices for the entire tenure selected.
      Benefits
      The Tata Nexon EV with monthly plans will benefit corporate who would prefer the leasing option over outright purchase. It will also be found useful for individual in the event of intercity job transfers while expatriates coming into the country for a limited period would also find this subscription plan a viable option.
      The plans are flexible. Users can opt for extension of the plan or just return the vehicle after the completion of the rental tenure. They can also exit the plan with a 1 month notice and return of the vehicle. More details about the Tata Motors EV Subscription Program is available on official site.
      The Tata Nexon EV is powered by a 3 phase permanent magnet synchronous motor offering 129 hp power and 245 Nm peak torque mated to an automatic transmission. The electric vehicle has two driving modes of Drive and Sport. The motor is paired with a IP67 certified 30.2 kWh lithium ion battery. The fast charger can charge the vehicle upto 80 percent in 60 minutes while a regular charger can charge the Nexon EV upto 100 percent in 8 hours. More

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      Royal Enfield Classic 350 modified electric motorcycle from Kerala

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      Kerala-based automotive components manufacturer Hound Electric calls its all-electric Royal Enfield, E-Bullet
      The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is easily the most popular choice in the Chennai-based motorcycle manufacturer’s ‘UCE 350’ single-cylinder lineup. Earlier this year, it was updated to BS6 emission norms with prices starting at Rs 1.67 lakh ex-showroom. This is a hike of roughly Rs 14,000 over its phased-out BS4 counterpart.

      Meanwhile, Royal Enfield is almost ready with the next-gen air-cooled ‘UCE 350’ range. The portfolio starts with the much-awaited Meteor 350 (Thunderbird 350/350X replacement. Royal Enfield had discontinued its ‘UCE 500’ lineup towards the end of BS4 era due to poor demand and rising competition. Furthermore, the highly desirable 650 Twins were available at a reasonable price jump. Potential customers could not find logic in buying a ‘500’ rather than paying extra and riding home a ‘650’ parallel-twin.
      Unlike the current BS6 ‘UCE 350’ lineup, the next avatar supposedly packs an OHC (Over Head Cam) setup. Performance figures should see a significant bump and one can expect a much more refined riding experience.
      E-Bullet by Hound Electric

      While the wider majority of Royal Enfield enthusiasts eagerly wait for the next ‘350’, Kerala-based automotive components manufacturer Hound Electric has given a BS4-era Classic 350 an electric twist. Dubbed E-Bullet, the idea came from Hound Electric’s CEO, Paul Alex. Interns D Harikrishnan and Mustafa assisted him in the Royal Enfield EV project.
      Work started almost a year ago. The initial plan was to make an all-electric Hero Splendor. However, the motor and battery configuration could not fit in the budget commuter motorcycle’s small tubular double-cradle chassis, without substantial alteration. The donor Classic 350 (built using factory parts over a frame sourced from a local scrapyard) provided enough room. Hound Electric states that it was almost a direct powertrain swap, minus a few additional fabrications.
      Specs & Cost

      Hound Electric’s E-Bullet project employs a 10kW or 13.41bhp ‘AGNI 119’ PMDC motor (10kg) coupled to a 4.32kWh battery pack (32kg) from CALB. Peak torque stands at 30Nm while its top speed is claimed to be around 100km/h. The e-motorcycle, with a kerb weight of almost 166kg, can run for 70-80km on a full charge.
      Total build cost hit only about Rs 35,000 since Hound Electric already had the electric components. The E-Bullet might not sport the best packaging (there is literally a box underneath the stock fuel tank) but aims to be a good example of retrofitting an emission-free powertrain in a motorcycle. UK-based Electric Classic Cars has done something similar with the ‘Royal Enfield Photon‘ despite being way more expensive.
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      EESL to procure 250 electric cars – 150 sub 4 m and 100 above 4 m

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      After scaling back the 10,000 electric car order by 70%, EESL is now set to procure 250 electric cars
      EESL tender states ‘Procurement of 250 Electric Cars with 3-years Standard warranty and comprehensive AMC up to Eight Years – Design, Manufacture, On site Supply and Maintenance Support for Electric Cars Pan India Basis.’

      The requirement is for 100 Nos. of 4-wheeler E-Cars with more than 4M Length & range equal to or more than 300 KMs and 150 Nos. of 4-wheeler E-Cars with less than 4M Length & range equal to or more than 250 KMs.
      At the time, it was noted, ‘Open Competitive Bidding will be conducted in accordance with ADB’s Single Stage: Two-Envelope Bidding Procedure and there is no country restriction and universal procurement will apply.’ Submissions are to be completed by 3:00 pm, August 7, 2020.
      Bidder Restriction
      At roughly the same time, General Financial Rules 2017 was amended to impose restrictions on bidders from countries that share a land border with India on grounds of defence of India, or matters directly or indirectly related thereto including national security. The order defines that any bidder from such countries sharing a land border with India are eligible to bid if the bidder is registered with a registration committee to be constituted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). Political and security clearance from Ministries of External and Home Affairs respectively is mandatory.
      As per the tender, length requirement specifications determine, which manufacturers can bid for which category. However, the smaller cars do not have a drive range of 250 kms. When EESL first began placing orders, it was the Mahindra eVerito, and Tata Tigor EV in the limelight.
      Then came Hyundai Kona. With a battery almost three times of available EV cars competing for the EESL tender, Kona has a low running cost, and is a comfy drive. Hyundai Kona EV was launched in June 2019, and by October last year, an order for 10 units had been placed by EESL at a reported cost of Rs 23.71 lakhs. At the time, 4 units had been delivered.
      The following month, EESL scaled back its electric car order by 70 percent to 3,000 units. This was attributed to cancellation from Andhra the biggest customer, as there had been a change of guard in governance. In January 2020 soon after launch, when delivering the first unit to EESL, MG Motor India said it had received orders for 5 MG ZS EVs.
      In 2017, Energy Efficiency Services (EESL) had placed an order for 10k e-sedans from Tata Motors (Tigor) and Mahindra (Verito) to be supplied by March 2019. Range issues and not so robust demand, meant the supply date was extended to March 2020. At the time, about 2,000 units were supplied.
      With extension to March 2020 deadline, it was decided whatever units would be delivered by timeline would close the order. 1,000-odd units were expected by March 2020. With Covid-19 pandemic lockdown announced in March end, it’s not yet known how many vehicles were delivered, and what the final order closed at. EESL is aware that existing and new players have planned EV launches at varying price points. More

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      Ampere Magnus Pro electric scooter price Rs 50k on road – Here’s how

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      Industry first battery subscription plan has been launched by Ampere electric scooter in India
      Only recently, Hero Electric announced its association with Autovert in introducing subscription plans. Now, Ampere Electric Launches announces a battery subscription plan at a starting price of Rs 1,990 in partnership with Autovert Technologies.

      The collab brings forth a battery subscription plan through an IOT backed platform. The plan makes electric scooters even more affordable. In its starting phase, the plan is being introduced with select dealers in Bangalore, and will be available in other cities in the next phase of expansion.
      Benefits
      A battery subscription plan on offer reduces cost of vehicle acquisition along with being an alternative choice to buyers to getting more from a financing option. Customers can choose the Magnus Pro e-scooter by paying as less as Rs. 49,990 on road when selecting a monthly battery subscription of Rs. 1,990. For those who do not want to opt for the subscription plan, will have to ex-showroom price Rs. 73,990.

      Magnus Pro Specs
      The plan helps address lifecycle management of the battery along with benefits including extended warranty of 5 years, full vehicle insurance, full vehicle service and maintenance for 24 months, attractive upgrade options, discounts on replacement battery, and more.
      Full vehicle subscription plans are available for the Magnus Pro and Zeal models, starting at Rs. 2,777 per month. With now and diverse subscription finance plans, Ampere electric scooter purchase process is designed to be accessible to interested buyers. The ease of ownership facilitates upgrading to another Ampere scooter once the fixed subscription tenure ends.
      Electric push
      The rough guideline is to see 30 percent of automotive sales being catered to by e-mobility by 2030. To achieve the goal, the need isn’t just to introduce updated EVs but to ensure accessible financing that nurtures faster EV adoption in the country. Ampere electric scooters are being retailed from 220 authorized showrooms in India. with a value proposition of 90 percent savings as compared to conventional scooters. The auto manufacturer says each Ampere electric scooter sold, is equivalent to planting 12 trees.
      While purchase of mass market two-wheelers isn’t as dependent on financing as big ticket purchases, the introduction of easy EMI offers, and subscription plans, helps ease the financial burden to a large degree. Easy upgrade options makes such purchases akin to consumer durable gadget purchases.
      P Sanjeev, COO, Ampere Vehicles said, “We are happy to partner with Autovert Technologies to introduce this unique battery subscription plan. With this association clubbed with special Ampere freedom offers, we are aiming to make Ampere Vehicles more affordable and accessible for the consumer.”
      Speaking on this announcement, Vinay Sharma, Co-founder and CTO of Autovert said. “The Battery subscription is possible, given the modular nature of the EV, which lends itself to decoupling the battery from the vehicle and specific services offered around its lifecycle. The EV ecosystem demands an alternative ownership model in order to drive faster adoption amongst an emerging customer base and we are happy to be in the forefront of this with our products and partners like Ampere to take it market.” More

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      Hyundai Kona Electric 1 year Service Cost is just Rs 1,043 – Owner shares details

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      Scheduled 10,000km service cost of the same Hyundai Kona EV (or Electric), done earlier, was zero rupees
      The Indian automotive industry is at a budding stage when it comes to all-electric powertrains. At the moment, two-wheelers (especially scooters) have the highest choices of ‘direct’ emission-free products. Bangalore-based Ather Energy has clearly set a high benchmark for made-in-India electric two-wheelers.

      On the other hand, India’s four-wheeler PV (passenger vehicle) segment has limited choices. The list currently includes Hyundai Motor India’s Kona Electric, MG Motor India’s ZS EV and Tata Motors’ Nexon EV. Mahindra & Mahindra is in the final stages of its eXUV300 or XUV300 Electric project. To the larger share of Indian buyers, electric vehicles still do not carry the desirability of a conventional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) option.
      One of the main reasons for this is high pricing (relatively). Furthermore, at least in the present market scenario, electric four-wheelers seem viable only in urban environments where there is enough supporting infrastructure. Yet it appears that EVs carry some less-discussed benefits over a regular ICE alternative.
      Surprising maintenance cost
      Arun Bhat S (@arunbhats on Twitter) has shared the one-year service cost of his Hyundai Kona Electric, proving that low maintenance charges could make up for an EV’s high initial cost. Trident Automobiles, a Hyundai dealership in Bangalore, charged him just Rs 1,043 for the electric crossover’s yearly maintenance.

      Hyundai Kona Electric Service Cost
      The bill breaks down to ‘tubeless repair seals’, consumables, calliper guide rod grease, sanitisation (Hygiene Care), general checkup and tyre puncture repair. Labour cost was set at Rs 118. If we consider only the mandatory items, one-year service cost for the Hyundai Kona EV hardly crosses Rs 500. This is still higher than the previous scheduled-maintenance cost since Arun paid absolutely zero for 10,000km service.
      An electric vehicle has far less moving and wearing parts inside its power plant. Auxiliary systems such as lubrication, cooling, belts and pumps are also minimal. Thanks to regenerative braking (also known as ‘brake re-gen’ or ‘energy recovery’), pads last longer as well. Certain EVs including Tesla models feature a ‘single-pedal’ mode which virtually eliminates the use of a brake pedal under normal city driving conditions. The energy recovery is strong enough to retard the vehicle’s motion.
      Hyundai Kona – Specs
      The Indian-spec Hyundai Kona, priced from Rs 25.30 lakh ex-showroom, employs a 39.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Peak output stands at 134bhp and 395Nm while boasting of an ARAI-claimed range of 452km (289km on WLTP cycle). International variants now get a 64Wh battery unit capable of returning 449km range as per WLTP stats. The motor makes 201bhp. More