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Tag: mobility

  • Greaves Electric Mobility 3W (GEM 3W)’s Eltra City completes a 225km record-breaking ride from Bangalore to Mysore on a single charge

    Greaves Electric Mobility 3W (GEM 3W)’s Eltra City completes a 225km record-breaking ride from Bangalore to Mysore on a single chargeBengaluru, August 17th, 2024: In a remarkable feat of endurance, durability, and innovation, Greaves Electric Mobility 3W (GEM 3W)’s flagship electric 3-wheeler passenger vehicle, Greaves Eltra City, has successfully set the record for the longest ride on a single charge by an electric three-wheeler. Eltra City covered an impressive distance of 225 kilometres from Bangalore to Mysore. This remarkable range achievement officially makes the Eltra the highest range 3-wheeler in India, ensuring uninterrupted travel and enhanced earning opportunities for drivers.

    Eltra City travelled through several key monuments of national significance on the way, including Vidhan Soudha, HAL Ajeet at Cubbon Road, and Tipu Sultan’s mausoleum, concluding at the Freedom Fighter’s Park in Mysore.

    The “Eltra City Freedom Ride” was organised to celebrate Independence Day, and reinforced Greaves Electric Mobility’s commitment to independence from fuel reliance and economic constraints by showcasing the Greaves Eltra, renowned for its impressive cost-effectiveness and zero emissions.

    Mr. K Vijaya Kumar, Director of Greaves Electric Mobility 3W (GEM 3W), expressed his excitement about this achievement and said, “The Eltra City Freedom Ride exemplifies more than just our cutting-edge electric vehicle technology; it stands as a testament to our dedication to creating sustainable and affordable urban mobility solutions. This journey strongly reflects our dedication to driving India’s progress towards a sustainable future, perfectly in sync with the nation’s celebration of growth and innovation.”

    The Eltra City is equipped with a 10.8 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 9.6 kW motor, ensuring optimal performance for effortless journeys. It features a payload capacity of 528 kg and boasts best-in-class attributes such as 14-degree gradability and 49 Nm of peak torque, along with hill hold assist, which guarantees a smooth driving experience in challenging urban environments. Additionally, the Eltra City prioritises safety, minimises maintenance costs, and maximises vehicle uptime.

    The journey was conducted in the vehicle’s Eco mode, which is vital for demonstrating to customers how to maximise range performance and to mitigate any potential dissatisfaction from range discrepancies. The strategic use of Eco mode, along with the vehicle’s strong features, emphasises its advanced capabilities and solidifies its status as a leader in the market. The company continues to lead the way in fostering an EV ecosystem that supports India’s goals for energy sustainability and reduced carbon emissions.

    Supported by the rich 165-year legacy and network of Greaves Cotton Ltd., Greaves Electric Mobility Private Limited is revolutionising electric vehicle ownership by creating an affordable and sustainable ecosystem that ensures uninterrupted, clean, and efficient last-mile mobility solutions.


    Mansi Praharaj

  • Ola Electric Introduces ‘Roadstar’ EV Motorcycles with a Range of New Features.

    Ola Electric unveiled its first line of EV motorcycles at the company’s annual launch event, Sankalp 2024, held at its Future Factory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu.

    The new and affordable EV motorcycles will come in three distinct variants: the Roadster X, Roadster, and Roadster Pro. The newly launched Roadster series offers a variety of price points and performance capabilities ranging from Rs. 74,999 to Rs. 2.49 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom).

    Key Features:

    In terms of features, all three models are quite well-equipped and offer a strong price-to-feature proposition.

    The Roadster features 4 riding modes: Hyper, Sports, Normal, and Eco. It has a 6.8-inch TFT touchscreen with MoveOS 5. It includes features like proximity unlock, cruise control, party mode, tamper alert, Ola’s ‘Krutrim Assistant’ for AI-powered features, a smartwatch app, and a road trip planner.

    The Roadster X features 3 riding modes: Sports, Normal, and Eco. It has a 4.3-inch LCD instrument console powered by MoveOS 5, providing various features including Ola Maps Navigation, regen, cruise control, DIY Mode, TPMS alerts, OTA updates, Digital Key Unlock, and connectivity via the Ola Electric App.

    The Roadster Pro features 4 riding modes: Race, Urban, Rain, and Off-road. It comes with a larger 10-inch TFT touchscreen display and will gain additional features like three-step traction control, anti-wheelie, geofencing, and ADAS with the upcoming MoveOS 5 software update. Thus, for those seeking high-performance EVs, the Roadster Pro is the star of the series.

    Commenting on the launch, Bhavish Aggarwal, CEO of Ola, said, “The Roadster and Roadster X will be available in the market by January 2025, while the Roadster Pro is expected to hit the market by Diwali next year.”

  • OLA Electric’s Groundbreaking Motorcycle Debut Revolutionizes the EV Market

    In a bold move that is set to electrify the two-wheeler industry, OLA Electric has unveiled its highly anticipated electric motorcycle lineup, propelling its stock price up by 16%, reaching Rs 128.30 per share.

    The trio of motorcycles—Roadster Pro, Roadster, and Roadster X—boasts cutting-edge technology, sleek designs, and unparalleled performance, promising to redefine the riding experience.

    What sets OLA Electric’s motorcycles apart is their innovative battery technology, making them an attractive option for eco-conscious commuters and thrill-seekers alike. Additionally, the motorcycles feature advanced safety features, including regenerative braking and traction control, ensuring a secure and exhilarating ride.

    Following an incredible reaction to MoveOS 5, this strategic expansion into the electric motorcycle category demonstrates OLA Electric’s dedication to promoting sustainable mobility solutions and lowering India’s carbon footprint.

    With this launch, OLA Electric is poised to capture a significant share of the burgeoning electric vehicle market, which is expected to reach unprecedented heights in the coming years.

  • Mahindra Thar Roxx 5-Door Model Released, Starting Price Rs 12.99 Lakh

    The five-door Thar aka Mahindra Thar Roxx has been launched in India. This model starts at Rs 12.99 lakh and has a dramatic new design, updated grille, C-shaped LED DRLs, diamond-cut alloy wheels, LED tail lights, and elegant rear door-mounted handles, among other features and specifications.

    Features and specifications

    When it comes to exterior features, Mahindra Thar Roxx boasts LED headlights featuring C-shaped LED DRLs, a new body-colored 6-slat grille, 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and a spare wheel mounted on the tailgate.

    For interiors, the five-door Thar offers the classic black and beige theme, independent centre armrests, ISOFIX child seat mounts on the sides, a foldout centre armrest, three-point seatbelts, and headrests that can be adjusted for each passenger.

    On the feature front, it provides two 10.25-inch displays, automatic AC with rear vents, ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, and keyless entry with push-button start/stop. In addition, keeping the safety aspect in check, the Thar includes six airbags, a 360-degree camera system, a tyre pressure monitoring system, electronic stability control, and an advanced driver assistance system suite that includes lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.

    Pricing

    The Mahindra Thar Roxx has been introduced with prices starting at Rs 12.99 lakh. The base MX 1 petrol and diesel models are available at Rs. 12.99 lakh and Rs. 13.99 lakh, respectively, while the prices for other variants go up to Rs 18.99 lakh.

  • Ola Electric launches e-motorcycles

    Bengaluru: Ola Electric on Thursday launched electric motorcycles and announced the integration of its battery cells in its own vehicles, starting Q1 FY26.

    The company launched Roadster, Roadster X and Roadster Pro electric motorcyles, with prices starting from Rs 74,999, Rs 1,04,999 and Rs 1,99,999, respectively. It also teased two upcoming motorcycles – Sportster and Arrowhead. “Today, two-third of India’s 2W market consists of motorcycles, and with Ola’s entry into this segment, EV penetration is poised to further accelerate in the Indian 2W segment,” said Bhavish Aggarwal, Founder and CMD, Ola Electric.

  • Ola Electric launches e-motorcycles, to integrate own cells in EVs by Q1 FY26

    Bengaluru, Aug 15: Ola Electric on Thursday launched electric motorcycles and announced the integration of its battery cells in its own vehicles, starting Q1 FY26.

    The company launched Roadster, Roadster X and Roadster Pro electric motorcyles, with prices starting from Rs 74,999, Rs 1,04,999 and Rs 1,99,999, respectively. It also teased two upcoming motorcycles – Sportster and Arrowhead.

    “Today, two-third of India’s 2W market consists of motorcycles, and with Ola’s entry into this segment, EV penetration is poised to further accelerate in the Indian 2W segment,” said Bhavish Aggarwal, Founder and CMD, Ola Electric.

    “Coupled with the integration of our cells in our vehicles starting early next year, we are determined to chart a new course for mass EV adoption across India,” he added.

    The cell is currently under trial production at Ola’s Gigafactory. The company showcased the indigenously developed Bharat 4680 cell and battery pack, new Gen-3 platform and MoveOS 5 at ‘Sankalp 2024’ event at its Futurefactory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu.

    With a peak motor output of 11 kW, Roadster X is the fastest electric motorcycle in the segment. Available in 2.5 kWh, 3.5 kWh, and 4.5 kWh battery variants, the Roadster X clocks 0-40 kmph in 2.8 seconds (for the 4.5 kWh variant). It has a maximum speed of 124 kmph and offers a range of 200 km (top variant).

    Roadster Pro pushes performance and technology to newer heights. Powered by a motor with a peak power output of 52 kW and 105 Nm torque, the 16 kWh variant of the motorcycle accelerates from 0-40 kmph in just 1.2 seconds, 0-60 kmph in 1.9 seconds and clocks a top speed of 194 kmph, said the company.

    At par with its S1 scooter portfolio, Ola Electric will offer eight-year battery warranty for its entire motorcycle portfolio.

  • MG Windsor EV Set to Electrify India: Launch Date Announced

    JSW MG Motor India has officially revealed that the MG Windsor EV will make its debut in the Indian market on September 11, 2024.

    This eagerly anticipated electric crossover, rebranded from the Wuling Cloud EV, will be MG’s third all-electric offering in India and is targeted at the Rs 20 lakh segment.

    Specifications

    Length: 4,295 mm

    Width: 1,850 mm

    Height: 1,652 mm

    Wheelbase: 2,700 mm

    Interior Features

    Italian leatherette upholstery

    ‘Sofa mode’ recline function for rear seats

    Powered tailgate

    360-degree cameras

    Wireless phone charging

    Six-speaker audio system

    Ambient lighting

    Two-spoke multifunction steering wheel

    Panoramic sunroof

    Safety Features

    Four airbags

    Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

    Disc brakes on all four wheels

    Hill hold assist

    Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including features such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and lane departure warning

    Powertrain

    Battery: 50.6 kWh lithium ferro-phosphate (LFP)

    Motor: Single electric motor

    Power Output: 134 bhp

    Torque: 200 Nm

    Range: Up to 460 km on a single charge

    Charging

    Regular AC Charger: Over 7 hours for a full charge

    DC Fast Charger: 80% charge in just over 30 minutesMG Windsor EV Set to Electrify India: Launch Date Announced.

  • Ola Electric reports Rs 347 crore loss in April-June quarter, revenue up 32 pc

    Bengaluru, Aug 14: Ola Electric Mobility on Wednesday reported loss at Rs 347 crore for the April-June quarter, compared to Rs 267 crore in the same period last fiscal.

    The Bhavish Aggarwal-led company, which is now a listed firm, saw its consolidated revenue from operations jump 32 per cent to Rs 1,644 crore in Q1 FY25, compared to Rs 1,243 crore in the same period last fiscal.

    Ola Electric’s shares closed 2.6 per cent higher at Rs 111 apiece on Wednesday.

    The company delivered 1,25,198 vehicles in the quarter as against 70,575 units in the same period last year. It ramped up deliveries of its mass market scooter portfolio (S1 X portfolio) during the quarter which helped accelerate growth.

    The existing product portfolio (S1 Pro, S1 Air, S1 X+) also saw strong demand which continued growth momentum throughout the quarter, said Ola Electric in a statement.

    The automotive segment inched closer to breakeven with an EBITDA margin of 1.97 per cent for the quarter.

    Ola Electric has announced the integration of its cells in its own vehicles Q1 FY26, and is set to launch its electric motorcycle portfolio across mass and premium segments during its annual flagship event on August 15.

    For Q1 FY25, the company posted adjusted gross margin of Rs 377 crore for the quarter ended June 30. The adjusted gross margin stood at 21.94 per cent of revenue, up 873 bps YoY from 13.21 per cent for the same quarter last year.

    “The increasing scale of operations has benefited the company in the form of lower manufacturing costs and supply chain optimisations,” Ola Electric said.

    These benefits of scale are further amplified by the company’s scalable platform-based product development and manufacturing technology that results in high degrees of commonality across its products, it added.

  • As sale of EVs decrease, automotive firms slash technology spend

    After a post-pandemic surge, global automotive companies have started showing weakness this year. This is majorly because of sluggishness in EV (electric vehicle) sales, whereas last year saw an f EV boom. Consumers across the world purchased EV vehicles both in four-wheeler and two-wheeler segments in big numbers. This prompted automobile companies to come up with many new launches and splurge on research and development activities. But, the euphoria around EVs seems to be undergoing a sobering effect. Of course, there are many reasons for this. According to Goldman Sachs, there are concerns with regard to capital costs of EVs. It pointed out that used EVs were not able to realise much price in the market place. This has raised questions over return on capital on buyer’s mind. Secondly, consumers and investors are keenly looking at the policy norms coming out from different governments with regard to EVs. In an election year in the US and European economies, key stakeholders are waiting important policy announcements with regard to EVs such as subsidies and duties, among others. In the absence of that clarity, buyers are in a wait and watch mode. Thirdly, as EVs see higher adoption, there is now tangible deficit of charging infrastructure.

    Without the support of such critical facilities, buyers are holding back their purchases. This holds true for both developed and developing economies like India. Against this backdrop, now EV sales are falling for most segments across nations. For instance, sales in India plummeted by a sharp 14 per cent in June at 106,081 units as against May’s figure. This also marked the lowest monthly sale in the current calendar year. Last year, EV sales in the country declined due to the Centre’s decision to reduce the maximum subsidy for electric two-wheelers from approximately Rs. 60,000 to around Rs. 22,500. This move led to an increase of more than 20 per cent in the average price of two-wheelers. Experts also are of the opinion that consumers are giving preference to hybrid vehicles over EVs. As the sales figures dip, EV makers are now also holding back their investment plans. Many are reducing headcount, some are slashing spend on R&D. This spending cut is gradually impacting IT and engineering services companies across the world.

    Globally, automotive firms were betting big on EVs and that was the reason that technology firms had benefitted from higher technology spends. Today the spending cut is leading to loss of projects or ramp downs in the technology world. The market has already started to witness this factor playing out in the first quarter of FY25. Most engineering firms and even IT companies have not been to see much growth in this segment during Q1, mostly because the volume of work has come down. Most analysts don’t see the spend coming back till sales recovery in the EV space. This has forced IT and engineering services firms to go back to the drawing board and devise new plans for navigating through this evolving situation.

  • People should be wary of fly-by-night products like Ola Maps: MapmyIndia CEO

    MapmyIndia has claimed that Ola Electric took the license of its APIs and SDKs and then embedded and integrated it with their software. Verma also questioned Ola’s claim to have used OpenStreetMap to develop Ola Maps

    Homegrown digital navigation firm MapmyIndia has questioned claims of Ola-parent ANI Technologies on developing a navigational map of India and called the announcement a “gimmick”.

    In an interview after sending a legal notice to Ola Electric, MapmyIndia CEO Rohan Verma questioned Ola’s claim that the map has been supplied by a startup Geospoc Pvt Ltd, which was acquired and became a subsidiary of ANI Technologies, based on its financial records as developing a digital navigational map of a large country like India requires huge investments and expertise.

    Verma denied any risk to the company’s business due to Ola Maps as its quality is not good.

    “We don’t see a business risk, because we don’t see a good product coming from there. People are complaining left, right and centre, about their (Ola) updated cab app, their updated electric vehicle app, that their maps are pathetic and causing users problems. Everybody knows that these are just announcements and gimmicks,” he said.

    When contacted, an Ola spokesperson said, “Ola strongly refutes the baseless and motivated statements made by MapmyIndia. They are a clear indication of the company’s desperate attempts to stay relevant by maligning its competitors. The company’s single-product business has clearly lost its edge to superior and new-age players.”

    Ola has responded to MapmyIndia’s legal notice and now the responsibility rests with them to prove their case. Ola stands by the integrity of its business and will take all steps needed to protect its interests.” MapmyIndia sent a legal notice to Ola on July 23, three days before the release of Ola Electric’s Red Herring Prospectus, for breach of terms and conditions of the licence agreement that Ola Electric had signed in 2021 with the company to use APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) and SDKs (software development kits) for navigation.

    Verma said ANI Technologies had signed a licence agreement with MapmyIndia way back in 2015 to use map data.

    Electric two-wheeler maker Ola Electric in its RHP has stated that Ola Maps is owned by, and supplied to it by an extremely small startup Geospoc Pvt Ltd. “One should see Geospoc’s bona fides and investments, or more pertinently the lack of them, whether before or after the acquisition by Ola, and then add on the context that Ola Electric licensed Mapmyindia APIs and SDKs…Then one really wonders as to the veracity and bona fides and quality and accuracy of Ola’s claims about Ola Maps,” Verma said.

    MapmyIndia has claimed that Ola Electric took the license of its APIs and SDKs and then embedded and integrated it with their software.

    “It is known that building maps is a serious business. It requires long investment of time, capital and expertise. World over, despite many trying, you have very few players globally who sustained or succeeded. It is just not possible that someone can just come up and say suddenly that I have created maps without the right track record and bona fides, let alone somebody that has been actively using map data and APIs and SDKs of some other company for multiple years,” Verma said.

    He also questioned Ola’s claim to have used OpenStreetMap to develop Ola Maps. “If any well-meaning Indian goes to www.openstreetmap.org, they themselves will realise why it shouldn’t be used. The accuracy of these various competitors’ maps is definitely something that people will find very much lacking. It’s not easy to build an accurate map. On the product side, people should be very careful of these gimmicky, Fly By Night products,” Verma said.

    Talking about the company’s June 2024 quarter financial performance, Verma said that CE Info Systems, owner of MapmyIndia brand, has had a good start to the year. “We are on track for our milestone of achieving Rs 1000 crore revenue by Financial 2027 or 2028. We are an annual business, and quarters can be lumpy,” he said.

    CE Infosystems posted a 12.1 per cent increase in consolidated profit after tax to Rs 35.9 crore in the first quarter ended June 30, 2024. The company had reported a net profit of Rs 32 crore in the same period a year ago. The consolidated revenue from operations grew by 13.5 per cent to Rs 101.5 crore during the reported quarter from Rs 89.4 crore in the June 2023 quarter.

    “We ended last year with, I think, an open order book of Rs 1300 crore and that grew from Rs 900 crore open order book the year before. Those are the predictors for the growth in the revenue. It’s fairly easy to predict growth in our revenue based on seeing the order book history,” Verma said.

    He said that the company is now also going to foray in international markets with an initial focus on South East Asian countries.