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  • Hyundai and CHARGE ZONE partner to install fast EV chargers in India • EVreporter

    Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed an MoU with CHARGE ZONE to install DC 60 kW fast chargers at 100 HMIL dealerships in India. This partnership aligns with the Government of India’s EV adoption strategies and aims to expand public EV charging infrastructure. The MoU was signed by Mr. Jae Wan Ryu of HMIL and Mr. Kartikey Hariyani of CHARGE ZONE at HMIL’s headquarters in Gurugram, Haryana. The new charging stations will be accessible to all EV users for intercity and intracity travel.

    Commenting on the next phase of HMIL’s EV roadmap, Mr. Jae Wan Ryu, Function Head – Corporate Planning, HMIL, said, “As India aims for greater adoption of electric mobility, it is equally important to bolster the EV charging infrastructure to counter range-anxiety and build customer preference towards adoption of electric mobility. By engaging in a strategic partnership with CHARGE ZONE, we are moving towards strengthening HMIL’s EV charging network, with 100 Hyundai dealerships now to be equipped with DC 60 kW fast chargers. All EV users (Hyundai & Non-Hyundai) will benefit from the augmented network of DC fast charging stations, accessible through the ‘myHyundai’ app or through the ‘CHARGE ZONE’ app. Such strategic alliances are crucial for accelerating the adoption of electric mobility solutions by customers and achieving India’s carbon neutrality goals.”

    Mr. Kartikey Hariyani, Founder & CEO – CHARGE ZONE, highlighted the strategic partnership, emphasizing, “Over the past five years, CHARGE ZONE has developed a renewable energy-powered EV charging network for electric cars and electric buses in India. Our collaboration with Hyundai Motor India Limited aims to enhance infrastructure for 4-Wheeler Electric Vehicles (BEVs), ensuring easy access and dynamic availability, providing a reliable and seamless charging experience.”

    Currently, HMIL has 19 dealerships equipped with DC 60 kW public EV charging stations. Together with CHARGE ZONE, HMIL aims to expand to an additional 100 charging stations located at its dealerships, along with a 24×7 customer support system.

    HMIL, under its EV roadmap, has invested to build an EV charging network across the nation with DC 180 kW and DC 60 kW chargers. Besides its dealership network, HMIL operates 15 more fast charging stations spread across key cities and highways in nine Indian states.

    HMIL has also developed a Charging Management System (CMS) platform – “EV Charge” hosted within the “myHyundai” mobile app, enabling EV customers across all OEM brands to access EV charging services. The CMS enables EV users to locate charging points of various CPO chargers, book charging slots, monitor remotely, and make digital payments. CHARGE ZONE’s network of chargers is also available in the “EV Charge” section on the “myHyundai” app, along with HMIL’s own chargers and those from third-party charging point operators.

    Also read: Hyundai and Kia partner with Exide for EV battery localization in India

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  • Strongest incentives from the state should be for EVs: BMW

    New Delhi: German luxury carmaker BMW on Wednesday said incentives are necessary to support the growth of the electric vehicle segment. The company, which on Wednesday introduced the all-electric MINI Countryman and electric scooter CE04 in the country, said the market here is still evolving and efforts should continue to smoothen and accelerate this transition. In a press conference here, BMW Group Senior Vice President, Region Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa Jean-Philippe Parain stated that the “strongest incentives from the state should be for EVs”. Incentives allow to bring an electric model to a price point where transition can happen towards an electric vehicle, he noted. Parain noted that in some countries, where customers drive longer distances, plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) can be a bridge. “But if I were to speak for India, I would focus on the full transition to full electric vehicles”, he added.

    In India the total tax incidence on hybrid vehicles in the country is 43 per cent, which is inclusive of GST, while battery electric vehicles attract a tax of about 5 per cent. Parain stated that there is potential for EVs in India and the company is looking to drive in more products into the country. He noted that besides battery electric vehicles, the automaker is also investing in internal combustion engine models, plug-in hybrids and also thinking about hydrogen vehicles. The company plans to remain flexible when it comes to technologies, Parain stated. Globally, he said that BMW is among the top sellers of EVs along with Tesla and BYD. He noted that the company’s sales were impacted in China. “India is an exception and there is a need to sustain this growth going forward,” Parain stated.

    BMW Group India President and Chief Executive Officer Vikram Pawah stated that EVs were suitable for India. Penetration of electric vehicles in India is encouraging and once products are available across all price points, the segment will grow very fast, he noted. Pahwa also noted that the automaker, besides introducing new models, is also investing in establishing charging infrastructure to aid the growth of the segment. BMW on Wednesday introduced the all-new 5 Series Long Wheelbase in the country with price starting at Rs 72.9 lakh. The company also introduced the new Mini Cooper S and the new all-electric MINI Countryman priced at Rs 44.9 lakh and Rs 54.9 lakh respectively. BMW Motorrad introduced premium electric scooter CE 04 at Rs 14.9 lakh.

  • Kia India adds EV6 to its ‘Kia Lease’ program for flexible mobility solutions • EVreporter

    Kia India has introduced a lease program for the EV6. The lease rental is INR 1.29 lakhs per month and includes insurance, maintenance, pick-up and drop-off services, scheduled and unscheduled services, and 24×7 roadside assistance.

    The EV6 lease program is available to:

    • Doctors registered with IMA or state associations, and heads of registered medical institutions, hospitals, or clinics.
    • Chartered Accountants registered with ICAI and heads of CA firms.
    • Other self-employed professionals.
    • Select corporates.

    Kia India, in partnership with ORIX Auto Infrastructure Services Limited, launched the Kia Lease program to offer a new ownership experience. The program caters to those with extended mobility needs, offering lease terms from 24 to 60 months with various mileage options. Besides the EV6, the program offers minimum monthly rental plans for the Sonet, Seltos, and Carens at INR 17,999, 23,999, and 24,999 respectively.

    The EV6 offers a range of up to 708 km and supports fast charging from 0 to 80% in 18 minutes using a 350kW charger. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and includes safety features such as eight airbags, ADAS level 2 suite, ESC, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.

    Mr. Myung-Sik Sohn, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, said, “Within 2 months of its launch, Kia Lease program has gained significant traction in Metro and Tier I cities, and the addition of the EV6 underscores our commitment to meeting customer demands and provide them the best of technology along with sustainable mobility solutions. The positive response reaffirms our confidence in the future of the Kia Lease program as we strive to make our vehicles more accessible to a wider range of customers”.

    In April 2017, Kia India signed an MOU with the Andhra Pradesh government to build a manufacturing facility in Anantapur District. Mass production began in August 2019 with a capacity of 300,000 units annually. Kia India has dispatched over 1.2 million vehicles from its Anantapur plant, including over 1 million domestic sales and 250,000 exports, said the company statement. The brand has a network of 588 touchpoints across 265 cities to date.

    Also read: Hyundai and Kia partner with Exide for EV battery localization in India

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  • Auto industry bosses upbeat as custom duty off on lithium, cobalt

    New Delhi: The proposed exemption in customs duty on import of lithium, cobalt and other rare minerals in the Union Budget 2024-25 is likely to lower the battery production cost and help in making electric vehicles more affordable for the buyers, auto industry leaders said on Tuesday.

    Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting the Budget, proposed to fully exempt customs duties on 25 critical minerals and reduce Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on two of them. “This will provide a major fillip to the processing and refining of such minerals and help secure their availability for these strategic and important sectors,” she noted. Minerals such as lithium, copper, cobalt and rare earth elements are critical for sectors like nuclear energy, renewable energy, space, defence, telecommunications, and high-tech electronics, Sitharaman stated. Auto industry body SIAM President Vinod Aggarwal said the exemption of customs duty on import of lithium, cobalt and other rare minerals and extension of concessional customs duty on Li-Ion cells till March 2026 and withdrawal of equalisation levy of 2 per cent on e-transactions is expected to propel the growth of the Indian auto industry.

    “The Indian automobile industry welcomes the continued emphasis on economic growth with several announcements, especially the strong fiscal support for infrastructure in the next five years,” Aggarwal stated. Liberal allocation for rural development and infrastructure of Rs 2.66 lakh crore is a welcome step that will boost the rural economy, he added.

    SIAM also welcomes several proposals in the Budget such as measures for skilling and upskilling and support to manufacturing and employment generation and support to MSMEs, many of whom form the large supplier base for the auto sector, Aggarwal said. Auto component body ACMA President Shradha Suri Marwah stated that the reduction in customs duty on critical minerals will encourage cell manufacturing in the country and add to the evolving EV ecosystem in the country.

    Deloitte India Partner Rajat Mahajan said the move is likely to encourage few players to indigenise battery production in India. He, however, noted that the Budget has been silent on direct benefits to the automotive sector. “The industry was not expecting a lot but was definitely looking for some announcements with respect to FAME III subsidies, and other direct benefits for EV/ NEV (New Electric Vehicle). We may have to wait to see if there are any further relaxations in the future by the FM or by the GST Council,” Mahajan said.

    BatX Energies Co-Founder & CEO Utkarsh Singh said the reduction of BCD and exemption of 25 essential minerals from custom charges is set to lower production costs for battery manufacturing and recycling, enhancing the affordability and accessibility of electric vehicles in India. The strategic move will significantly impact India’s EV market by lowering production costs and enhancing competitiveness, he added.

    Hero MotoCorp Executive Chairman Pawan Munjal said the Budget positions India as a technology-driven and knowledge-driven economy, reaffirming commitment to sustainable development.

    Ashok Leyland Executive Chairman Dheeraj Hinduja said reduction in duties on rare earth minerals will help in promoting sustainable mobility.

    Mercedes-Benz India MD & CEO Santosh Iyer said the Budget clearly underlines the government’s priorities on creating a robust foundation for a developed Indian economy.

  • Enhancing India’s EV charging infrastructure • EVreporter

    India’s EV market saw remarkable growth in 2023, with sales exceeding 1.5 million vehicles – a 50% rise from the previous year. This brought the total number of EVs on Indian roads to approximately 2.8 million. However, infrastructure development lags, with about 135 EVs per public charging station, far above the ideal ratio of 6 to 20. This gap presents a critical opportunity for innovative EV charging solutions and sustainable energy integration. Addressing India’s cultural, linguistic, and geographical diversity requires robust and adaptable EV solutions.

    Understanding Regional Diversity in India

    India’s geographic and climatic variations – from arid deserts to humid coasts, dense urban centers to remote rural areas -significantly influence the design and implementation of EV charging infrastructure. Each region’s unique characteristics, such as power grid reliability, climate conditions, and user behaviours, must be considered to ensure effective and sustainable EV charging solutions.

    The 3Is of Smart EV Charging

    To address the unique challenges of India’s regional diversity, EV charging infrastructure must be Intelligent, Interoperable & Interconnected, and Integrated.

    1. Intelligent:

    • Smart Algorithms: Advanced algorithms and data analysis optimize charging schedules, manage power loads, and ensure efficient energy usage. These systems can predict peak usage times and adjust charging rates to prevent grid overloads.
    • Data-Driven Decisions: Utilizing real-time data, these systems can make informed decisions about when and where to allocate power, maximizing efficiency and minimizing costs.

    2. Interoperable-Interconnected:

    • Connectivity Across Platforms: EV charging systems should seamlessly connect with various charging stations, energy management systems, and EV models, facilitating real-time data exchange and operational visibility. This interconnectedness helps in overcoming operational challenges and ensures smooth functionality across different networks, providing users with a seamless charging experience.
    • Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP): Adopting OCPP allows charging stations and central systems from different vendors to communicate, enhancing flexibility and reducing dependency on single suppliers.
    • Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI): Implementing OCPI enables real-time information exchange between charging point operators and service providers, improving user experience through better access to charging station data.

    3. Integrated:

    • Smart Grid & V2G: Smart grids play a crucial role in managing the variability of power supply and demand across different regions, ensuring stable and efficient power distribution for EV charging stations. Additionally, V2G technology enables EVs to discharge excess energy back to the grid during peak demand periods, supporting grid stability and earning revenue for EV owners. This bidirectional flow of electricity enhances the grid’s resilience and optimizes energy use, creating a dynamic system that benefits both EV users and the overall energy infrastructure.
    • Renewable Energy Integration: Solar and wind power can be harnessed to provide clean energy for EV charging stations. Solar panels can be installed in regions with high solar insolation, while coastal and high-altitude regions can benefit from wind energy.
    • Smart Batteries and Home Energy Management: Integrating EV charging systems with smart batteries and home energy management systems creates a holistic energy ecosystem. These solutions can store excess energy during low-demand periods and release it during peak times, optimizing energy usage and reducing strain on the grid.

    Smart Grid Technologies for Regional Adaptation

    Smart grid technologies enable real-time monitoring and dynamic adjustments to the grid, ensuring stable and efficient power distribution for EV charging stations.

    • Adaptive Load Management: Smart grids balance the load by distributing power efficiently, preventing grid overloads in high-demand areas while ensuring adequate supply in regions with fluctuating power availability.
    • Predictive Analytics: Utilizing data on regional power consumption patterns and weather conditions, predictive analytics optimize charging schedules and station placements, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the charging network.

    Designing Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

    Given India’s diverse climates, EV charging stations must be designed to withstand varying environmental conditions.

    • Durable Materials and Construction: Charging stations should be built using materials that can endure extreme temperatures, humidity, and weather events, ensuring longevity and reliability.
    • Localized Customization: Tailoring the design and technology of charging stations to regional climates, such as incorporating cooling systems in hot areas or corrosion-resistant materials in coastal regions, enhances their resilience.

    User-Friendly and Multilingual Interfaces

    To cater to India’s multilingual population, EV charging stations should feature user-friendly interfaces that support multiple languages and regional dialects.

    • Multilingual Displays and Instructions: Providing information in local languages enhances accessibility and usability, ensuring a seamless charging experience.
    • Voice-Activated Systems: Implementing voice-activated systems in various languages simplifies the interaction with charging stations, especially for non-tech-savvy users.

    Community and Policy Engagement

    Engaging local communities and policymakers is essential to develop customized EV charging solutions that meet regional needs.

    • Community-Driven Projects: Involving local stakeholders in the planning and implementation of charging infrastructure ensures that the solutions are aligned with regional requirements and preferences.
    • Flexible Regulatory Frameworks: Developing adaptable policies that consider regional diversity facilitates the deployment of tailored EV charging infrastructure and encourages innovation.

    India’s regional diversity presents both challenges and opportunities for the growth of EV charging infrastructure. By leveraging smart grid technologies, integrating renewable energy sources, designing climate-resilient infrastructure, and incorporating user-friendly interfaces, India can create a robust and adaptable EV charging network. The 3Is—Intelligent, Interoperable & Interconnected, and Integrated—are essential for developing effective EV charging solutions that cater to the country’s unique and diverse landscape. Engaging local communities and policymakers ensures these solutions are sustainable, supporting India’s transition to electric mobility while accommodating its unique and diverse landscape.

    Authored by:

    Puneet Aggarwal, Head- Smart Mobility and Sustainable IoT

    Jio Platforms Limited

    This article was first published in EVreporter Jul 2024 magazine.

    Also read: List of top EV charging solution providers in India

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  • onsemi Selected to Power Volkswagen Group’s Next-Generation EVs

    Hyderabad: announced today it has signed a multi-year deal with Volkswagen Group to be the primary supplier of a complete power box solution as part of its next-generation traction inverter for its Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). The solution features silicon carbide-based technologies in an integrated module that can scale across all power levels – from high power to low power traction inverters to be compatible for all vehicle categories.

    “By offering a complete power system solution that encompasses the entire power sub-assembly, we provide Volkswagen Group with a single, simplified modular and scalable platform that maximizes efficiency and performance for their vehicle lineup,” said Hassane El-Khoury, president and CEO of onsemi. “This new approach allows for the customization of power needs and the addition of features for different vehicles without compromising on performance, all while reducing cost.”

    Based on the EliteSiC M3e MOSFETs, onsemi’s unique power box solution can handle more power in a smaller package which significantly reduces energy losses. The inclusion of three integrated half-bridge modules mounted on a cooling channel will further improve system efficiency by ensuring heat is effectively managed from the semiconductor to the coolant encasement. This leads to better performance, improved heat control, and increased efficiency, allowing EVs to drive further on a single charge. By using this integrated solution, Volkswagen Group will be able to easily transition to future EliteSiC-based platforms and remain at the forefront of EV innovation.

    “We are very pleased to have onsemi as a strategic supplier for the power box of the traction inverter for our first tranche in the SSP platform. onsemi has convinced us with a deeply verticalized supply chain from the growth of the raw material up to the assembly of the power box,” said Mr. Dirk Große-Loheide, Member of the Extended Executive Committee Group Procurement and Member of the Board Volkswagen Brand for “Procurement.”

    Mr. Till von Bothmer, Senior Vice President VW Group Procurement for Powertrain, added, “On top of the verticalization, onsemi has furthermore provided a resilient supply concept with regional silicon carbide fabs across Asia, Europe and the U.S. In addition, onsemi will continuously provide the latest SiC generation to ensure competitiveness.”

    Volkswagen Group will also benefit from onsemi’s planned investment to expand its silicon carbide manufacturing in the Czech Republic. The investment would establish an end-to-end production facility in Europe for the traction inverter power system. The proximity of onsemi’s facility would fortify Volkswagen Group’s supply chain while improving logistics and allowing for faster integration into the manufacturing process.

  • Opportunities and possibilities • EVreporter

    A Software-Defined Vehicle manages its operations, adds functionality, and enables new features primarily or entirely through software. Software-defined vehicles support capabilities that go beyond the process employed at a manufacturer’s production line. These capabilities can be fine-tuned or upgraded with an over-the-air update.

    With software-defined vehicles, the hardware can remain fixed throughout the product’s lifecycle and also compete with new and upcoming versions with just an update to the software. Global brands like Tesla, Kia and more are leading this exciting transformation in the automotive industry where updates are not just limited to the dashboards but apply throughout vehicle electronics, writes Akhil Gupta, CEO and Founder of Delhi-based Mazout Electric.

    Below are some features of software-defined vehicles and the problems they solve for manufacturers and users.

    Over-the-air (OTA) updates – Vehicles can prolong their efficient usability by means of over-the-air (OTA) software updates, just like we do with our smartphones.

    Through OTA updates, manufacturers can tweak various parameters to enhance the performance of the vehicle, such as battery management systems, motor control algorithms, and energy efficiency protocols, directly to the vehicles without the need for physical intervention. For instance, charging parameters can be fine-tuned to optimize charging time and extend battery life. Or the vehicle’s performance can be adjusted with respect to the reduced battery life and/or wear and tear of the motor with use.

    Advancing technology and government regulations towards standardization has often led manufacturers being asked to implement certain changes to their protocols and parameters with immediate effect, which has led to halts on assembly lines. In most cases, this can be resolved via updates to the software layer, in SDVs and flashed across the products in the assembly line.

    In another instance, a vehicle manufacturer might identify a potential software bug affecting a specific model’s temperature estimation accuracy, let’s say. Instead of initiating a costly and time consuming recall, they can quickly rectify the issue through a targeted OTA update, ensuring all affected vehicles benefit from the fix instantly. It will also allow the manufacturers to scale the
    diagnostics and repair services across cities without having to install dedicated service centers, which consumes time and is cost intensive.

    Furthermore, OTA updates enable manufacturers to introduce exciting new features and enhancements. Consider EV fleets used for ride-sharing or delivery services that initially offered a basic infotainment system. With OTA updates, the manufacturer can introduce advanced safety features or navigation improvements, enhancing the ease of doing last-mile delivery.

    People’s needs evolve and they are always on the lookout for more innovation and advancements. SDV would enable just that.

    Hardware ownership would give data control and ownership to the manufacturers. With SDV, huge amounts of data will be created that can be analyzed to generate various insights, which would be crucial while providing the OTA updates. Sensor fusion and hardware-less sensor techniques will be the data mines generating crucial data.

    Developers can integrate different sensors and/or actuators and write application codes to flash new features to all existing vehicles via software OTA updates. For example, a developer could integrate a camera into the controller unit, download the libraries to sync with hardware, and write custom app logic, say, for adaptive cruise control. This software can then be used by vehicles that have a camera simply by updating their vehicle like they update their smartphone.

    Doing this with open-source and collaborative ecosystems would drive standardization and reduce development costs. The software would allow manufacturers to differentiate their brand with respect to the features they offer and in the manner in which they offer them to the end users.

    Complimenting the above features, scope for additional revenue via software services for the vehicle manufacturers is created. Value added services and application ecosystem will enable specific features which can be enabled with subscription by end users.

    What exactly enables a vehicle to be software-defined?

    • Operating system: An embedded real-time Operating system is key to laying the foundation for a software-defined vehicle.
    • Firmware, separated from hardware: A firmware capable of updating itself over time and independent of the hardware controlling it or the actual sensors it controls, enabling a change in libraries to facilitate any combination of sensors and microprocessors.
    • Sensors: A host of sensors to collect the data. With improved features, the sensors might output the same type of data, but the function can be enhanced to deliver more functionality as the software is improved without the need for hardware upgrades.
    • Cybersecurity: The increasing level of connectivity makes the software-defined vehicle an ever-greater target for cyberattacks. Homegrown solutions for cybersecurity would be the key. Recently, Biden called for blocking internet-connected Chinese EVs, citing that they posed risks to national security because their operating systems could send sensitive information to Beijing.

    Conclusion

    The era of advanced automotive software and electronics is upon us. As the software-defined vehicle becomes reality, companies throughout the automotive industry must act swiftly and strategically to harness its potential.

    Mazout Electric is building turnkey powertrain electronics solutions for electric vehicles on software-defined architecture. The author can be reached at akhil@mazoutelectric.com

    Also read: Automotive software can improve customer experience beyond just diagnostics

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  • Commercial vehicle sales surge amid rapid urbanisation, economic growth in India

    New Delhi, July 20: Driven by friendly government policies, rapid urbanisation and economic growth, sales volumes of commercial vehicles (CV) have nearly recovered to the pre-Covid times, according to Girish Wagh, Executive Director of Tata Motors.

    Wagh, Chairman of CII-ICVC (Indian Commercial Vehicle Conclave) emphasised the transformative juncture at which India’s CV industry stands.

    At a recent event in the national capital, he highlighted that India’s urban population is expected to reach 600 million by 2031, driving increased demand for CVs in sectors such as construction, logistics and public transportation.

    Projected GDP growth of 6-7 per cent and initiatives like ‘Make in India’ are further boosting demand for both heavy and light CVs.

    Wagh hailed the National Logistics Policy and the PM Gati Shakti initiative, as these will lay down a framework for a significant reduction in logistics costs.

    According to Nishant Arya, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, JBM Group, the global transportation sector accounts for approximately 24 per cent of direct CO2 emissions from fuel combustion and, therefore, “it becomes our shared responsibility to address this serious concern by use of technology, transition to alternate and green fuels.”

    According to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), the retail sales of automobiles in the country registered a 9 per cent growth in the April-June quarter in FY25, compared to the same period last year.

    Commercial vehicle retail sales witnessed a marginal increase at 2,46,513 units as against 2,44,834 units in the same period last year.

    “Commercial vehicle segment experienced a slowdown due to the elections and a pause in infrastructure projects. In April, elections dampened sentiment, causing delays in expansion plans,” said FADA president Manish Raj Singhania.

  • Mercedes-Benz expands BEV lineup | Reports best H1 sales in India • EVreporter

    Mercedes-Benz introduced two new BEVs in India: the EQA 250+ and the EQB 350 5-seater. These models aim to expand Mercedes-Benz’s BEV portfolio. Targeted at young individuals and families, these BEVs support the company’s EV roadmap for the Indian market, which includes six BEV models by the end of 2024, covering various customer needs. Mercedes-Benz India is also enhancing its charging infrastructure across its Franchise Partner network, with DC Fast and Ultra-Fast Chargers (60 kW and 180 kW), and complimentary AC wall box chargers for customers.

    Sales Performance:

    Mercedes-Benz recorded its highest-ever H1 sales in India with 9,262 units, a 9% increase compared to H1 2023. SUV sales represented 55% of total sales, with a significant demand for the TEV segment, which comprised 25% of total sales. The Maybach portfolio grew by 108% in H1 2024. The BEV portfolio grew by 60%, making up 5% of total sales volumes.

    Product features:

    The EQA 250+ and EQB 350 4M are targeted at young customers seeking practical, intuitive BEVs. The EQA 250+ is equipped with features like a high-resolution head-up display, Burmester® Surround Sound System with Dolby Atmos and 12 speakers, augmented reality navigation, and MBUX Interior Assistant with gesture control. They also include THERMOTRONIC® dual-zone automatic climate control, PARKTRONIC® Parking Package with a 360° camera, and remote services through Mercedes Me Connect. Safety features comprise seven airbags, blind spot assist, active brake assist, and the PRE-SAFE® safety system. Both models feature 19” AMG alloy wheels.

    Pricing:

    • EQA 250+: INR 66 lakhs (all-India ex-showroom).
    • EQB 350 (5-seater): INR 77.5 lakhs (all India ex-showroom).
    • EQB 250+ (7-seater): INR 70.90 lakhs (all India ex-showroom). Bookings open for Jan 2025 deliveries.

    Financial Solutions:

    Mercedes-Benz Financial Services offers a financial solution with a 20% down payment for a 4-year tenure, resulting in an approximate EMI of ₹68,000 and a buy-back guarantee of 67% for the EQA 250+.

    Technical Specifications:

    The EQA 250+ and EQB 250+ share similar dimensions and a 70.5 kWh battery, with WLTP ranges of 497-560 km and 464-535 km, respectively. The EQB 350 4M features a 66.5 kWh battery with a range of 397-447 km. The EQA 250+ and EQB 250+ have 140 kW power output and 385 Nm torque, while the EQB 350 4M has 215 kW and 520 Nm. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is 8.6 seconds for the EQA 250+, 8.9 seconds for the EQB 250+, and 6.2 seconds for the EQB 350 4M. All models reach a top speed of 160 km/h. AC charging times are 7 hours 15 minutes for the EQA 250+ and EQB 250+, and 6 hours 45 minutes for the EQB 350 4M. DC charging times are 35 minutes for the EQA 250+ and EQB 250+, and 32 minutes for the EQB 350 4M.

    Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, stated, “Mercedes-Benz remains the most desirable luxury brand in the Indian market owing to continued customer trust in our products and services. With some of the most awaited products lined up for the upcoming festive season, we expect the remaining quarters to continue the forecasted growth. Customers are increasingly adopting sustainable lifestyles, reflected in their choice of vehicles. With the EQA and EQB, we target young customers desiring sporty, dynamic, highly intuitive BEVs. Our BEV roadmap for India is ambitious, comprising the most versatile BEV portfolio, starting from the EQA up to the upcoming EQS Maybach SUV, by end of the year.”

    Also read: Mercedes-Benz launches luxury EV EQS 580 4MATIC in India at INR 1.55 crores

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  • Thunder Plus and Oyika sign MOU to expand EV operations in Southeast Asia • EVreporter

    Thunder Plus, an electric vehicle (EV) charging company based in India, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Oyika, a battery swapping company headquartered in Singapore, to expand their operations in Southeast Asia.

    As part of this agreement, Thunder Plus will introduce its range of charging products, including two-wheeler and three-wheeler fast chargers, in Southeast Asia. These products will be integrated into Oyika’s battery swapping stations across the region.

    As part of this partnership, Raj Kumar, Director of Thunder Plus, presented the company’s flagship product, the Thunder Lite, a 3.3 KW AC universal charger capable of charging various vehicles (from 2 wheeler to 4 wheeler) and converting any wall or pole into an electric charging station.

    The partnership aims to strengthen Thunder Plus’s export market and establish a presence in the EV markets of Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Singapore. Both companies will exchange technological expertise and leverage each other’s business networks to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in Southeast Asia.

    “We are thrilled to collaborate with Oyika to bring our state-of-the-art charging solutions to Southeast Asia,” said Rajeev YSR, CEO – Thunder Plus. “This partnership not only enhances convenience for EV users but also aligns with our commitment to promoting sustainable transportation solutions globally.”

    Also read: List of top EV charging solution providers in India

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