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Tag: electric

  • Wardwizard Launches Striking Red Color Variants for Electric Scooters to Mark Diwali Festivities

    Mumbai, 1st November 2024Wardwizard Innovations and Mobility Limited, one of the leading manufacturers of electric vehicles under the brands ‘Joy e-bike’ and ‘Joy e-rik’, today introduced an all-new red color variants of its popular product, Gen Next Nanu + in the high-speed segment and Gen Next Nanu in the low-speed segment. These stylish new additions aim to capture the festive spirit, providing an exciting new option for customers looking to make a bold statement on the road with eco-friendly mobility choices that offer both performance and personality.

    As part of the festive celebration, Wardwizard’s offering of its popular e-scooters in the new red color embodies elegance, energy and a touch of sophistication. These new color variants are available at all authorized dealerships and distributors across India, making it easier for consumers to choose an electric ride that not only matches their lifestyle but also the vibrant energy of the season.

    Speaking about the launch, Mr Yatin Gupte, Chairman and Managing Director, Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Limited said, “We are elated to introduce this new vibrant red color for our Gen Next Nanu + and Gen Next Nanu models that perfectly capture the essence of this festive season. We are dedicated to elevating customer experience and help make this festive season memorable with innovative and affordable eco-friendly mobility solutions.”

    Wardwizard Innovations

    The surge in EV adoption is a testament to the growing awareness of both the environmental imperatives and the economic opportunities that electrification brings. Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Limited is actively promoting localization and the ‘Make-in-India’ initiative, leveraging Indian ingenuity by both designing and manufacturing in India. The production of the scooters takes place at the company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Vadodara, Gujarat.


    Joseph Andrew

  • Jupiter Electric Mobility acquires assets of Log 9’s railway and e-truck battery divisions • EVreporter

    Jupiter Electric Mobility (JEM), a subsidiary of Jupiter Wagons Limited (JWL) announced an acquisition of Bangalore-based Log9 Materials’ technology and business assets for its Railway Battery and Electric Truck Battery Divisions. JWL is a leading provider of mobility solutions encompassing rail, road, and marine transportation. JEM will also acquire Log9’s manufacturing facility in Devanahalli, Bangalore.

    The acquisition includes the engineering and production teams dedicated to railway and electric truck battery technologies, who will now become part of JEM’s workforce.

    This merger enhances JEM’s capabilities in the electric truck segment by enabling backward integration into battery production—an essential component of its electric light commercial vehicles (e-LCVs). For Jupiter Wagons Limited, JEM’s acquisition of Log9’s railway battery technology is an expansion of its Railways Product Landscape. By adding this battery division, JEM is positioned to support a range of applications in the Indian Railways segment.

    Notably, JEM and Log9 have already piloted battery products with Indian Railways, recently securing an order for Vande Bharat batteries in collaboration with Siemens.

    Mr. Vivek Lohia, Managing Director, JWL, stated, “This acquisition is more than a transaction; it’s an investment in JEM’s future. By integrating Log9’s technology and production capabilities into our portfolio, we’re able to expand our expertise in electric mobility and railways while reinforcing our dedication to sustainable and innovative energy solutions.”

    JEM is expected to launch its debut e-LCV ‘Tez’ in Dec 2024.

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  • Ola Electric Expands Service Network By 30%

    India’s biggest e-scooter maker Ola Electric has ramped up capacity at its service centres across the country by over 30 per cent to transform its service and elevate the after-sales experience of customers, sources said.

    The Softbank Group-backed firm, which commands nearly a third of the market share in India’s e-scooter market, has added more than 50 service centres and has hired over 500 service technicians across new and existing service centres to streamline operations and clear all backlogs. The company reportedly has also onboarded Ernst & Young for service transformation, strategy, and optimisation of overall service processes. The development comes in the backdrop of some centres reporting backlogs as demand outstripped their workforce.

    A senior company executive, who requested not to be named, said, “The company has added over 50 centres to its service network and has onboarded more than 500 service technicians across new and existing centres across the country”.

    “The company has silently been gathering all forces to overcome its service backlog. The company has already cleared around two-thirds of the service backlog and should be able to clear the remaining in the next couple of weeks,” added another senior official within the organisation, requesting anonymity.

    Ola was in the spotlight earlier this month following a public spat between its founder Bhavish Aggarwal, and standup comedian Kunal Kamra over the quality of service. Last week, HSBC Global Research maintained a ‘buy’ rating for Ola Electric shares, with a target price of Rs 110 apiece. The global research firm revisited Ola Electric’s service centres a month after an earlier inspection in September and noted substantial improvements in service centres.

  • Hyundai Motor unveils new hydrogen-based EV concept

    Seoul, Oct 31: Hyundai Motor on Thursday unveiled the concept of its upcoming passenger hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) named Initium that comes with an extended driving range and ample hydrogen fuel storage capacity.

    Initium is a concept by Hyundai that reflects the product and design direction of a passenger FCEV set for release in the first half of next year, Yonhap news agency reported.

    Named after the Latin word for beginning, Initium symbolises Hyundai’s role as a pioneer in the transition to a hydrogen-based society.

    At a media event in Goyang, north of Seoul, Hyundai Motor President and CEO Chang Jae-hoon highlighted that hydrogen is an energy source not only for future generations but one that is accessible and equitable to everyone.

    “Hyundai’s steadfast commitment to hydrogen over the past 27 years stems from a strong belief in its value,” Chang said.

    According to Hyundai, the design of Initium incorporates an aesthetic highlighting the strength and resilience of steel while also underscoring the pure nature of hydrogen.

    The model also offers a spacious interior along with distinct features. It features an increased hydrogen tank capacity and integrates aerodynamic wheels, enabling a driving range of over 650 kilometres.

    Additionally, enhancements in the fuel cell system and battery allow a maximum motor output of 150 kilowatts. The model also includes expanded seat recline angles and rear door openings to ensure a roomy second row.

    Hyundai Motor plans to showcase Initium to the public at the Los Angeles Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou motor show in China, both set to be held next month.

    Hyundai Motor made its first foray into the field of hydrogen in 1998 by establishing a dedicated hydrogen research organisation. In 2000, Hyundai introduced its first hydrogen vehicle in collaboration with US fuel cell company UTC Power.

    In 2013, Hyundai Motor became the first company to mass-produce hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, launching the Tucson ix Fuel Cell, and in 2018 introduced its dedicated hydrogen fuel cell model, the Nexo.

    Chang later said the adoption of hydrogen energy by the automotive industry was a “matter of time” and a “path we must take” despite growing business uncertainties surrounding electric and other eco-friendly vehicles as of late.

    “Hydrogen-based vehicles may not be profitable now, but they represent a milestone in realising a hydrogen society, making it a mission (of Hyundai Motor),” Chang told reporters.

    “Continuing to advance necessary technologies is crucial, and I believe we can secure global leadership.”

  • Hyundai Motor Offers 1st Look Of Upcoming Ioniq 9 Electric SUV

    Seoul: Hyundai Motor on Wednesday unveiled a teaser image of its upcoming all-electric Ioniq 9 sports utility vehicle, highlighting its massive-yet-sleek exterior design.

    The teaser for the three-row electric SUV presents the overall silhouette and the model’s elongated wheelbase. Hyundai said the Ioniq 9 draws inspiration from the sleek exteriors and cozy interiors of boats, reports Yonhap news agency.

    The Ioniq 9 symbolises the largest vehicle class in Hyundai Motor’s Ioniq lineup and the company’s inaugural venture into the realm of large electric SUV models.

    Hyundai plans to fully unveil the design and features of the Ioniq 9 at a global showcase event next month.

    Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor reached a major milestone of 100 million units in global cumulative production, an achievement accomplished in 57 years since the company’s foundation. The company said it delivered its 100 millionth and first vehicle, an Ioniq 5, directly to a customer.

  • Tata, JSW groups to invest over $30 billion in EV sector amid govt’s push: Report

    New Delhi, Oct 30: The Indian government continues to push for higher EV production in the country and for greater localisation of supply chains, which will be key to help the country reach the target of 30 per cent EV penetration by 2030, according to a report on Wednesday.

    “We estimate that the Tata and JSW groups alone will be investing over $30 billion into making EVs and EV materials over the coming decade, of which about $10 billion will be in South and Southeast Asia (SSEA),” said the report by S&P Global Ratings.

    As the world’s most populous country, India’s vast market potential is attracting substantial EV-related investment. EV adoption in India will progress with model launches that bring prices more in line with ICE models, and with improving charging infrastructure.

    “We also believe hybrids and vehicles powered by compressed natural gas will command meaningful market share alongside EVs in the light-vehicle and passenger commercial vehicle segments,” the report mentioned.

    The government recently launched the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme that has a financial outlay of Rs 10,900 crore over a period of two years. The PM E-DRIVE scheme will play a pivotal role in accelerating EV adoption and building critical charging infrastructure nationwide, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

    According to the report, the transition from ICE in India will initially be more about a shift to alternate fuels rather than pure electrification.

    “Government policies on imports and foreign investment will continue to play a critical role in India’s vehicle electrification,” it mentioned.

    India is increasingly important to the Korean entities Hyundai Motor Co. (HMC) and Kia, which combined rank as the second-largest carmaker in the country. The market accounted for about 12% of the group’s global sales volume in 2023.

    Hyundai plans to continue investing in India, including in local EV production. It will start with its first fully electric model made in the country, launching in January 2025.

    The company recently completed an initial public offering in India, and part of proceeds will be used to further their growth and improve its product offerings in that market, said the report.

    “We believe Tata Motors has sufficient financial headroom in its credit metrics to undertake its EV investments. In September 2024, the firm announced plans to invest about $1 billion in a new EV plant in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu,” the report noted.

    Its parent entity, Tata Sons Pte. Ltd., has also announced an investment in a lithium-ion battery plant in the northwestern state of Gujarat, with an initial capacity of 20 gigawatt hours. The plant will support more development of the EV supply chain in that region.

    The report estimates that rated carmakers will be spending more than $20 billion building electric vehicle (EV) production in South and Southeast Asia for the next few years.

  • Castrol India Appoints Kedar Lele as Managing Director

    Kedar Lele, MD, Castrol India

    Hyderabad: Castrol India Limited, a leading lubricant manufacturer, has appointmented Kedar Lele as its new Managing Director, effective November 1, 2024.

    Kedar joins Castrol India after two decade-long career at Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), where he last served as the Executive Director of the company, responsible for Sales & Customer Development, South Asia. With his deep expertise in leading high-performing teams, driving growth, and fostering innovation, Kedar is set to play a pivotal role in steering Castrol India’s future in the evolving automotive and lubricants industry.

    Commenting on the appointment, Rakesh Makhija, Chairman, Castrol India Limited, said, “We are delighted to welcome Kedar to the Castrol India. His vast experience in driving growth and leading large teams in complex markets makes him an outstanding choice to lead Castrol India. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Sandeep for his exceptional leadership over the past few years. His contributions have been invaluable in strengthening our position in the market, and we wish him success in his new global role.”

    Reflecting on his experience in the City of Pearls, as product lead and B2B Brand Manager for Monster.com over two decades ago, Kedar Lele, Managing Director, Castrol India Limited, said, “Hyderabad has always held a special place in my heart, as it played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to building strong customer relationships and the importance of cultivating strategic partnerships. The city’s vibrant business landscape and diverse market opportunities offered me invaluable experiences and insights into B2B marketing, product management, and advanced solution selling. I am excited to bring this knowledge to Castrol India, where I will focus on applying these learnings to further enhance our customer engagement strategies and strengthen our presence across key markets.”

    Castrol India has been a vital contributor to Hyderabad’s automotive ecosystem, with a well-established network of over 450 outlets, including Castrol Auto Service centres, bike points, numerous multi-brand car workshops, and an extensive dealer network, all catering to the city’s diverse automotive and consumer needs. With a dedicated focus on improving access to high-quality lubricant products, Castrol has expanded its presence across Hyderabad, ensuring that car and bike owners can benefit from advanced lubrication solutions.

    To ensure a seamless leadership transition, Kedar has been working closely with the outgoing Managing Director, Sandeep Sangwan, since September 1, 2024. This period of changeover has allowed Kedar to gain strategic insights into the company’s operations and foster strong relationships with key stakeholders.

    As part of the leadership shift, Sangwan will assume the role of Global Chief Marketing Officer at Castrol headquarters in London from November 1, 2024.

    With Kedar at the helm in India, Castrol is well-positioned for continued success in the Indian subcontinent. The company remains committed to sustaining its market leadership, pushing the boundaries of innovation, and fostering a rewarding environment for its stakeholders.

  • Maruti Suzuki To Supply Its First EV To Toyota

    Maruti Suzuki will supply its first-ever electric vehicle (EV) to Toyota Motor, both the companies said in the statement. The move marks their first collaboration on green vehicles.

    Suzuki Motor owns more than 50% stake in Maruti Suzuki. The production of the EV will commence in Gujarat during the spring of 2025

    As per resorts, the EV will be a sport utility vehicle (SUV) featuring a 60 kilowatt-hour. A Toyota spokesperson said that the new model will be launched by 2026.

    Currently, Maruti Suzuki does not sell any EVs in India or globally, but sells hybrid vehicles manufactured by Toyota’s Indian arm.

    As of now, Toyota sold 108,000 battery-powered electric vehicles till September. The sales Japanese automaker accounted for 1.5% of the global sales

    Previously, Suzuki and Toyota have collaborated on developing combustion fuel vehicles

  • EV collaboration between Suzuki and Toyota • EVreporter

    Suzuki Motor Corporation and Toyota Motor Corporation have announced plans to deepen their collaboration in the supply of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Suzuki will provide Toyota with a BEV SUV model, which is set to be manufactured at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India starting in 2025.

    Both companies, originating from Enshu in Japan’s Shizuoka Prefecture, have a shared history of transitioning from loom production to automobiles. Since 2016, under the guidance of leaders Osamu Suzuki and Akio Toyoda, they have expanded their collaboration to cover various areas, including vehicle production and mutual supply of electrified vehicles. This partnership has allowed them to reach markets in Japan, India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

    This new SUV is the first battery electric vehicle (BEV) resulting from the companies’ original equipment manufacturer (OEM) relationship between Suzuki and Toyota, and it will be launched globally. Through this BEV introduction, the companies aim to support their carbon-neutral goals. The model is designed as an SUV and provides a cruising range along with a cabin for passenger comfort. It features an optional four-wheel drive (4WD) system that can enhance drivability on rough roads and improve overall performance.

    The BEV unit and platform were developed collaboratively by Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu Motor Corporation, utilizing the strengths of each company.

    Suzuki President Toshihiro Suzuki‘s commented, “Suzuki will supply our first BEV to Toyota globally. I am grateful that the collaboration between the two companies has further deepened in this way. While continuing to be competitors, we will deepen our collaborations toward solving social issues, including the realization of a carbon-neutral society through a multi-pathway approach.”

    Toyota President Koji Sato‘s Stated, “By leveraging the BEV unit and platform that we jointly developed, we will take a new step in our collaboration in the field of electrified vehicles. This will allow us to deliver various choices that contribute to a carbon-neutral society to customers worldwide. We would like to learn from each other’s strengths, compete, and further joint efforts based on a multi-pathway approach.”

    Also read: Maruti Suzuki to launch 6 EV models by FY30-31

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  • Easing Sales In sub-Rs 10L Not Good For Mkt: Bhargava

    New Delhi: Decline in sales of cars priced less than Rs10 lakh, which once accounted for 80 per cent of the domestic market, due to affordability issues is a cause of concern, Maruti Suzuki India Chairman RC Bhargava said on Tuesday.

    As a result of the decline in sales of the segment, the overall growth in the car market is not happening, he said, adding people need more disposable income to bring back growth in the lower end of the market, although the company expects a 14 per cent overall retail sales growth this festive season. “Certainly, the fact is that the market under Rs10 lakh is not growing. In fact, it is declining.

    That is a cause of some worry because unless that lower end of the market grows, there is going to be no feeders into the upper market,” Bhargava told reporters in an earnings conference call.