Category: Auto & Electric Mobility

  • Exicom to acquire Tritium for USD 29.6 million

    Headquartered in New Delhi, India, Exicom Tele-systems Limited (NSE: EXICOM), an Indian manufacturer of Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers, announced that its subsidiary, Exicom Power Solutions B.V. Netherlands, along with other subsidiaries, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the business and assets of Tritium, a company specializing in DC Fast Chargers based in Australia.

    The Tritium Acquisition, with a total cost of up to USD 29,630,444, involves an initial payment of up to USD 6,130,444 before completion and a final payment of up to USD 23,500,000 upon completion, subject to the Business Sale Agreement. The acquisition is expected to close on or before August 31, 2024, or another mutually agreed date.

    Tritium, which has sold over 13,000 DC Fast Chargers in 47 countries, designs and manufactures hardware and software for liquid-cooled DC Fast Chargers for electric vehicles. Founded in 2001, Tritium’s chargers are designed for use in various environments and aim to simplify installation, ownership, and operation.

    This acquisition includes Tritium’s manufacturing facility in Tennessee, USA, and its engineering center in Brisbane, Australia. With this expansion, Exicom aims to enhance its global presence and reinforce its focus on research and development in the EV charging sector. The combined product offerings of Exicom and Tritium are expected to support various use cases globally and contribute to the expansion of EV infrastructure.

    Anant Nahata, CEO, Exicom said, “This acquisition is in line with Exicom’s strategic vision to be a key contributor to the world of tomorrow by enabling an emission free future for mobility. Exicom and Tritium have a complementary sales and product footprint and have each established leadership in their respective regions. We look forward to working with Tritium’s employees, customers, partners and other stakeholders to grow the business further and provide faster, more reliable charging experiences to EV users across the globe.”

    According to BloombergNEF’s “Economic Transition Scenario,” which forecasts EV growth based on current techno-economic trends, electric vehicles are projected to account for 45 percent of global passenger-vehicle sales by 2030 and 73 percent by 2040.

    Also read: Exicom partners with Hubject to bring Plug&Charge to India

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  • Maruti Suzuki Recalls 2,555 Alto K10; What Owners Need to Know

    On August 7, Maruti Suzuki India announced a recall of 2,555 Alto K10 vehicles due to a potential defect in the steering gearbox assembly that could affect steerability.

    The company recommends that owners refrain from driving the impacted vehicles until the component is replaced.

    Authorised dealers will handle inspections and replacements at no cost.

    Previously, in March, Maruti Suzuki recalled 11,851 Baleno units and 4,190 WagonR units from July 30, 2019, to November 1, 2019, due to a possible issue with the fuel pump motor that could cause engine stalling or starting problems.

  • SUV Coupe starting at INR 17.49 lakh • EVreporter

    Tata Motors has launched the Curvv.ev, an SUV coupe priced from INR 17.49 lakh. Built on the acti.ev platform within Tata Passenger Electric Mobility’s Pure EV architecture, the Curvv.ev marks Tata’s entry into the mid-size SUV segment with a new body style. The ICE variant will be released after the Curvv.ev launch.

    The Curvv.ev is the second product built on TPEM’s acti.ev platform. It will be available in three versions: Creative, Accomplished, and Empowered+. It offers a driving range of up to 585 km on a single charge with the 55kWh battery and 502 km with the 45kWh battery (ARAI certified, MIDC Part 1). The starting price is INR 17.49 lakh for the 45kWh variant and INR 19.25 lakh for the 55kWh variant.

    With the launch of the Curvv.ev, Tata Motors has introduced Tata.ev originals, a new range of EV accessories offering customization options. TPEM has also launched the Tata.ev Charge Point Aggregator, which consolidates over 9,000 charging points across India and integrates live status availability into the iRA.ev connected car app.

    Design and Features:

    • The Curvv.ev merges SUV functionality with a coupe silhouette, featuring a design with flush door handles, R18 alloy wheels, and Smart Digital LED lighting.
    • Interior features include a digital steering wheel, electric front charging lid, digital dashboard, phygital control panel, voice-assisted sunroof, digital shifter, and 500 liters of boot space.
    • The vehicle is available in multiple colors, including Virtual Sunrise and Empowered Oxide.

    Performance:

    • Built on the acti.ev architecture, the Curvv.ev delivers 123 kW / 167 PS power and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds.
    • Battery options: 45 kWh (502 km range) and 55 kWh (585 km range)
    • 55 kWh battery enables fast charging. Charging times are 40 minutes from 10-80% and 15 minutes for a 150 km top-up.
    • Three drive modes: Eco, City, and Sport
    • Multi-Mode Regen with Paddle Shifters. Equipped with smart power electronics and multiple charging options

    Technology and Safety:

    • The Curvv.ev features Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis Platform, a 31.24 cm touchscreen, 26.03 cm Digital Cockpit, and advanced driver assistance systems.
    • It includes real-time charger availability via the iRA.ev app, adaptive cruise control, and a safety package with 6 airbags.

    Warranty:

    Battery pack and motor come with a warranty of 1.6 lakh km or 8 years, while the vehicle itself has a warranty of 1.25 lakh km or 3 years.

    Speaking at the launch, Mr. Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicle and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “The Curvv.ev being launched today, offers an impressive estimated real-world range of 400-425km with its largest battery pack of 55kWh. Further, its specially designed fast charging capability ensures a top-up of 150km range in just 15-minutes. With a starting price of ₹ 17.49 lakh for the Curvv.ev 45, we are boldly bringing price parity between EVs and equivalent ICE vehicles. The extended range and attractive pricing of this product extraordinaire makes EVs an even more compelling proposition by breaking several perception barriers. Its tech-rich features, advanced safety and exhilarating infotainment will delight every EV buyer and enthusiast.”

    Bookings for the Curvv.ev open on August 12, 2024 with deliveries starting on August 23.

    Also read: Tata debuts ‘acti.ev’ architecture for EVs| unveils Punch.ev

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  • Tata Curvv EV Unveiled in India; Check Price

    Tata Motors EV unveiled the Tata Curvv EV on Wednesday. Its ex-showroom price is Rs 17.49 lakh.

    The electric SUV coupe offers two battery options with an ARAI-claimed range of up to 585 km.

    Specifications:

    Battery Packs: 45 kWh (Medium Range) and 55 kWh (Long Range)

    Power: 150 PS (Medium) and 167 PS (Long)

    Torque: 215 Nm

    Range: 502 km (Medium) and 585 km (Long)

    0-100 kmph: 8.6 seconds

    Top Speed: 160 kmph

    Charging: DC fast charging, 10-80% in 40 minutes

    The Curvv EV features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch driver’s display, automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, and JBL sound system.

    It also includes safety features like 6 airbags, ESC, blind spot monitoring, and Level 2 ADAS.

    Acoustic alerts will be emitted at speeds below 20 kmph to enhance pedestrian safety.

  • Neuron Energy secures INR 20 crores in Series A funding round • EVreporter









    Neuron Energy secures INR 20 crores in Series A funding round • EVreporter


























































    Neuron Energy, a startup specializing in electric vehicle batteries, has announced the successful completion of a INR 20 crores Series A funding round. This investment will be directed towards advancing battery technology and expanding production capabilities.

    The funding round saw participation from key investors, including the Chona Family Office and Capri Global Family Office. Neuron Energy plans to set up a 40,000 sq ft production facility in Delhi and a new R&D lab in Pune. The company projects revenues of INR 150-200 crores for the current fiscal year and aims to reach INR 300 crores by FY 25-26, positioning itself for substantial growth in the EV market.

    Also read: How major OEMs are attempting to secure the EV battery supply chain

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  • Maruti Suzuki India to introduce electric cars to propel country’s 2047 goal

    Hybrid cars improve fuel efficiency by up to 45 per cent and help reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions by 25 to 35 per cent

    Maruti Suzuki India said as India develops faster and aspires to become “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, the company will introduce electric cars in the next few months towards a sustainable mobility future.

    R.C. Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India, said that the company has not only helped the growth and prosperity of its stakeholders, but indirectly, it has also created millions of jobs that have benefited several sections of society.

    “The company will continue to partner with India in its ‘Viksit Bharat’ journey following its proven approach,” he said while launching its annual integrated report for FY24. On reducing carbon emissions and the dependence on imported fuel, he said that considering India’s economic and social environment and the availability of resources, the best strategy would be to offer customers cars with different technologies and at different price levels. “We will be introducing electric cars in the next few months. While electric car use increases, customers should be encouraged to buy cars using strong hybrid technology, or CNG or ethanol and biogas. Pure petrol and diesel car use should be minimised,” Bhargava noted. Hybrid cars improve fuel efficiency by about 35 per cent to 45 per cent and help reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions by 25 per cent to 35 per cent. India has a very large potential for developing biogas from agricultural, animal and human waste. The company has started work on a trial basis to produce biogas. “We look forward to government policies that would result in rapid development of this fuel,” said Bhargava. According to Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India, they are proud of creating employment opportunities, enhancing the quality of life for many and contributing to nation-building. “Many of our business practices align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and with many of the government of India’s programmes, such as Make in India, Skill India, Startup India, and PM Gati Shakti,” said Takeuchi.

  • Retail sales of cars, SUVs surge 10 pc in July

    New Delhi, Aug 6: Retail sales of passenger vehicles in India, including cars and SUVs, posted a 10 per cent jump to 3,20,129 vehicles in July this year compared to 2,90,564 in the same month last year, driven by new model launches and higher discounts, according to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA).

    “Dealers reported benefits from good product availability, attractive schemes, and a wider range of products,” the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) Vice President C S Vigneshwar said in a statement.

    Heavy rains, low consumer sentiment, and intense competition posed challenges but dealers managed to sustain sales through strong promotions and incremental discounts, he added.

    However, Vigneshwar also pointed out that the growth is accompanied by high inventory levels which have surged to a historic high of 67-72 days, equivalent to Rs 73,000 crore worth of stock.

    “This poses a substantial risk for dealer sustainability, necessitating extreme caution. FADA urges passenger vehicle (PV) original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to be vigilant about potential dealer failures due to these high inventory levels,” he stated.

    Two-wheeler retail sales in July stood at 14,43,463 units, an increase of 17 per cent over 12,31,930 units in July 2023.

    The segment experienced robust growth due to a thriving rural economy, the positive effect of a better monsoon, and the government’s support programmes enhancing rural incomes, Vigneshwar observed.

    “The introduction of new products and better stock availability also contributed significantly, despite market slowdowns in certain regions, excessive rains, and increased competition,” he added.

    Commercial vehicle (CV) retail sales grew 7 per cent year-on-year to 80,057 units last month.

    “Positive factors included growth in the construction and mining sectors, while challenges such as continuous rainfall, negative rural market sentiment, poor finance availability, and high vehicle prices were also noted,” Vigneshwar said.

    Tractor sales declined 12 per cent year-on-year to 79,970 units in July.

    FADA, which collated vehicle registration data from 1,568 out of 1,645 RTOs across the country, noted that the near-term outlook across the auto retail segments shows a blend of optimism and caution.

    Two-wheeler sales are expected to be buoyed by factors such as a growing rural economy, positive monsoon impacts and the introduction of new products. The festive season beginning after the Aadi festival and favourable agricultural conditions are also likely to contribute to increased sales.

    On the other hand, heavy rainfall and inconsistent monsoon patterns may dampen demand in certain areas. FADA noted that the PV segment could see mixed results in the near term.

    High inventory levels pose a significant risk and it is crucial for PV OEMs to avoid further increases in stock to prevent financial strain on dealers, FADA said.

    The CV segment faces a modest outlook, with positive factors including improved market reach and the festive season, but challenges such as bad freight rates and ongoing rainfall pose a risk, it added.

  • JSW MG launches several EV ecosystem initiatives at DriEV.Bharat event

    Hyderabad: JSW MG Motor India has launched a series of pioneering electric vehicle (EV) innovations at DriEV.Bharat. This event was organised by the company at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, in partnership with leading industry players from diverse automotive and EV ecosystem domains. This first-of-its-kind event reflects the unwavering commitment of the manufacturer to advancing EV technology and the faster adoption of electric vehicles along with building a robust EV infrastructure for a hassle-free ownership experience. The event featured the launch of–eHUB by MG, the Industry’s first and largest charging platform by an OEM; of Project Revive, focused on repurposing EV batteries beyond cars; of EVPedia, India’s first dedicated educational and knowledge platform for electric car users; the MG-Jio Innovative Connectivity Platform (MG-Jio ICP), which will be standard in all upcoming MG vehicles.

    Underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, the industry’s first charging platform, eHUB by MG was introduced at the event. This is intended to simplify the EV charging experience for customers nationwide by providing them with a single platform. The company also introduced Project Revive, an initiative in partnership with TERI, Lohum and BatX, aimed at repurposing EV batteries beyond cars to provide a second life as renewable energy storage systems for sustainable community applications. This initiative promotes a circular economy, a system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources through principles of reuse, repair, and recycling, and supports India’s clean energy goals. Reinforcing its commitment to enhancing consumer awareness and addressing their queries, JSW MG Motor India launched EVpedia—an industry-first dedicated EV education platform. This initiative provides reliable, accurate, and engaging information on EV technology, benefits, costs, and maintenance. By debunking myths and fostering informed decisions, EVpedia builds EV advocacy and promotes broader EV adoption.

    The carmaker also announced that all upcoming MG cars will feature the MG-Jio Innovative Connectivity Platform (MG-Jio ICP) as a standard inclusion. This is a technology stack which introduces several firsts, including the MG App Store for in-car gaming, entertainment, and learning, superior voice capability in six Indian languages, and a groundbreaking Home-to-Car functionality. At the event, a panel discussion amongst industry experts, such as EY and IIT was held about the long-term benefits of EVs.

    Gaurav Gupta, Chief Growth Officer at JSW MG Motor India, highlighted the company’s vision to redefine the future of electric mobility in India, stating, “DriEV.Bharat reflects our unwavering commitment to advancing EV technology and enhancing the user experience to accelerate EV adoption. With initiatives such as our unified charging platform, battery second-life project, EV education, and the MG-Jio ICP, we are empowering the industry as well as our customers with smarter, more sustainable choices.”

    A pioneer in India’s electric vehicle landscape, JSW MG Motor has successfully launched the country’s first internet electric SUV, the MG ZS EV, and the innovative Street-Smart urban mobility solution, the MG Comet EV. Committed to fostering a comprehensive EV ecosystem, the brand offers 6-way charging solutions and aims to install 1,000 community chargers nationwide. Through strategic partnerships with key industry players and initiatives like the MGDP and MG Nurture, JSW MG Motor has engaged with over 1,500 startups and collaborated with more than 50 colleges to drive EV education and skill development.

    eHUB by MG

    eHUB by MG is a one-stop solution for EV charging, simplifying the process of locating, reserving, and paying for charging stations. With access to the almost entire charging network of the country through partnerships with leading providers like Adani Total Energies Limited (ATEL), BPCL, Chargezone, Glida, HPCL, Jio-BP, Shell, Statiq, Zeon, and many others who shall be on-boarded soon, eHUB offers a seamless charging experience. Available in 11 languages and equipped with trip-planning features, the app provides a hassle free EV charging experience.

    Project Revive

    Project Revive is a pioneering initiative to repurpose used EV batteries in partnership with TERI and Lohum. The project extracts healthy battery components and builds energy solutions for use in schools and community centres. By extending the lifespan of EV batteries, Project Revive reduces waste and provides reliable power to underserved communities. The pilot at a Mukteshwar school demonstrates the practical impact of this innovative approach to environmental sustainability.

    EVpedia

    EVpedia is an industry-first initiative that provides relevant information on electric cars. This innovative platform goes beyond just explaining electric vehicle technology—it offers practical tools like the cost of ownership tools and calculators, a repository of government policies, and a collection of publications and research papers. Through interactive displays, educational videos, and live demonstrations, users can explore the benefits of electric vehicles. Additionally, users can interact with our EV expert ‘eVir,’ an AI-powered chatbot embedded in the site, for quick and easy answers to all their questions, making the EV adoption journey smoother and more accessible.

    MG-Jio Innovative Connectivity Platform (MG-Jio ICP)

    MG-Jio ICP is a unique collaboration between MG Motor India and Jio that redefines the in-car experience. This platform introduces industry-first features like the MG Store, transforming the vehicle into a hub for gaming, entertainment, and learning, voice commands in six Indian languages, and, for the first time in the automotive landscape, a Home-to-Car functionality. The superior MG-Jio ICP offers unparalleled convenience and accessibility.

  • JSW MG Motor India launches EV ecosystem initiatives at DriEV.Bharat • EVreporter

    JSW MG Motor India showcased its EV innovations at the DriEV.Bharat event held in New Delhi, organized in collaboration with automotive and EV industry partners. The event included a panel discussion with experts from EY and IIT on the long-term benefits of EVs. JSW MG Motor India Pvt. Ltd. was formed in 2024 as a joint venture between SAIC Motor and JSW Group.

    Key Initiatives Launched:

    • eHUB by MG: It is an EV charging platform that simplifies locating, reserving, and paying for charging stations. It partners with providers like Adani Total Energies Limited (ATEL), BPCL, Chargezone, Glida, HPCL, Jio-BP, Shell, Statiq, and Zeon, covering a wide charging network in India. Available in 11 languages with trip-planning features, the app aims to streamline the EV charging process.
    • Project REVIVE: Project REVIVE, in partnership with TERI, Lohum and BatX, repurposes used EV batteries to create energy solutions for schools and community centers. By extending battery lifespans, the project aims to reduce waste and provide power to underserved communities. A pilot at a Mukteshwar school demonstrates its practical impact.
    • EVPEDIA: It is a platform providing information on electric cars, including cost calculators, government policies, and research publications. It features interactive displays, educational videos, and an AI-powered chatbot, eVir, to assist users with EV-related queries and facilitate the adoption process.
    • MG-Jio Innovative Connectivity Platform (MG-Jio ICP): It is a collaboration between MG Motor India and Jio. It features the MG Store for in-car gaming, entertainment, and learning, voice commands in six Indian languages, and Home-to-Car functionality.

    Gaurav Gupta, Chief Growth Officer at JSW MG Motor India, highlighted, “DriEV.Bharat reflects our unwavering commitment to advancing EV technology and enhancing the user experience to accelerate EV adoption. With initiatives such as our unified charging platform, battery second-life project, EV education, and the MG-Jio ICP, we are empowering the industry as well as our customers with smarter, more sustainable choices.”

    As per the company statement, JSW MG Motor has launched India’s first internet electric SUV, the MG ZS EV, and the urban mobility solution, the MG Comet EV. The company provides 6-way charging solutions and plans to install 1,000 community chargers. It collaborates with industry players and works with over 1,500 startups and 50 colleges to promote EV education and skill development.

    Also read: SAIC Motor (MG Motor) and JSW Group finalise automotive JV

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  • PV sales rise 10% in July on new launches: FADA

    New Delhi: Passenger vehicle retail sales in India witnessed a 10 per cent on-year jump in July driven by new model launches and enhanced discounts, industry body FADA said on Monday.

    Total passenger vehicle retail sales rose to 3,20,129 units in July, as compared to 2,90,564 units in July 2023. “Dealers reported benefits from good product availability, attractive schemes, and a wider range of products,” the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) Vice President C S Vigneshwar said in a statement. Heavy rains, low consumer sentiment, and intense competition posed challenges but dealers managed to sustain sales through strong promotions and incremental discounts, he added. Vigneshwar, however, noted that the growth is accompanied by high inventory levels which has surged to a historic high of 67-72 days, equating to Rs 73,000 crores worth of stock. “This poses a substantial risk for dealer sustainability, necessitating extreme caution.

    FADA urges PV original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to be vigilant about potential dealer failures due to these high inventory levels,” he stated. It is also crucial for the Reserve Bank of India to mandate financial institutions to implement stringent checks before releasing inventory funding, preferably requiring dealer consent or collaterals to prevent the escalation of NPAs, he added. Two-wheeler retail sales last month stood at 14,43,463 units, an increase of 17 per cent over 12,31,930 units in July 2023. The segment experienced notable growth due to a thriving rural economy, positive monsoon effects, and the government’s support programs enhancing rural incomes, Vigneshwar oted. “The introduction of new products and better stock availability also contributed significantly, despite market slowdowns in certain regions, excessive rains, and increased competition,” he added. Commercial vehicle retail sales grew 7 per cent year-on-year to 80,057 units last month.