Revised RBI’s priority sector lending norms to further boost economy: SBI reportIANS
The recent amendments in priority sector lending (PSL) guidelines by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should further help the economy grow faster and fine tune the building blocks of the factors of productions, mainly the MSMEs, agri and allied sectors, housing and exports, etc, a report by SBI Research said on Wednesday.
The RBI this week issued revised guidelines on PSL to facilitate better targeting of bank credit to the priority sectors of the economy. The new guidelines will come into effect from April 1.
According to the report, the revised PSL guidelines cater to enhancement of several loan limits, including housing loans, for enhanced PSL coverage and broadening of the purposes based on which loans may be classified under ‘Renewable Energy’.
There is also a revision of the overall PSL target for urban cooperative banks (UCBs) to 60 per cent of Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) or Credit Equivalent of Off-Balance Sheet Exposures (CEOBSE), whichever is higher.
“The higher limits set in housing segment should give a fillip to low cost/affordable housing across various population cohort, in particular tier-IV/V/VI cities wherein the banks, along with non-bank players, can find their next gold mine given the surge in demand for own/individual housing post pandemic,” the report noted.
Explicit recognition and prioritisation of renewable energy within the PSL framework has alleviated credit constraints, thereby escalation in the share of non-conventional energy credit to the overall energy credit, encouraging credit flows to the NCE sector that witnessed significant policy interventions too, the SBI report mentioned.
Revised RBI’s priority sector lending norms to further boost economy: SBI reportIANS
“As big banks continue facing problems in achieving PSL targets, it would be a prudent move to include all infrastructure loans given to Road projects, Port, Railways, Airports, Energy Sector Highways, etc. either as priority sector status or be exempt from calculation of ANBC for PSL achievement in line with infra bonds raised towards funding of infrastructure and affordable housing,” according to the report.
The RBI has also increased the loan limit for the repairs of damaged dwelling units in the revised circular.
This opens new opportunities for credit disbursement for FIs in one of the most secured niche areas, also lessening the burden on home-owners in search of liquidity to carry over the necessary repairs of their dwelling units in need and thus opens up a substantial market for credit off take, the report said.
With its 500 GW non-fossil fuel installed capacity target for 2030 and Net Zero target for 2070, India has embarked on one of the most extensive renewable energy expansions in the world.
On July 1, 2015, RBI had expanded the ambit of PSL norms to include loans up to Rs 15 crore to borrowers for purposes like solar-based power generators, biomass-based power generators, continue, micro-hydel plants and for non-conventional energy (NCE) based public utilities.
The limit was subsequently raised to Rs 30 crore per borrower on September 4, 2020.
In the recent guidelines, the limit was raised to Rs 35 crore per borrower. For individual households, the loan limit will continue to be Rs 10 lakh per borrower.
“Though the increase of Rs 5 crore appears to be small as compared to the revision made in last 2020 (five-year period), the small policy interventions definitely will go long way, for the NCE sector, to achieve dual objective of clean energy and PSL by boosting lending to the sector,” said the SBI report.
Okaya EV recently re-branded itself to OPG Mobility.Anshul Gupta, Managing Director of OPG Mobility, shares the company’s vision for its EV business, which includes e-2Ws, 3Ws, battery packs, powertrain components and EV chargers. We also discuss the recent rebranding to create a distinct identity for the EV business, separate from the battery-centric Okaya brand.
What was the thought behind the recent rebranding from Okaya EV to OPG Mobility?
Over the years, as we built our EV business and its ecosystem, we realized that the brand needed to connect with end consumers in the automotive segment while also distinguishing itself from our parent brand, Okaya, which is well-known for batteries and has a strong presence in the industry.
While Okaya’s reputation helped attract customers, positioning an independent automotive brand under the same name proved challenging.
To address this, we strategically created two distinct brands under the OPG flagship – Ferrato as a dedicated 2W brand and OPGOTTO for 3Ws. These brands have separate distribution networks, unique product lines, and a well-defined roadmap.
Okaya, as a battery brand, will continue its independent journey.
When you first entered the EV space, what kind of synergies from your legacy businesses helped drive your progress?
As a group, we have been in the electronics industry for a long time—Microtek is now a 38-year-old company. Along with electronics, we have also been involved in various IT ventures and are well known for our battery business, particularly lead-acid batteries. We started the lithium battery business back in 2016-17, even before the EV revolution had truly begun.
Microtek dealt with AC-to-DC conversion—just like inverters for lead-acid batteries—and it was the right time for us to explore the EV charging station space. From there, we moved toward the transition from lead-acid to lithium-ion batteries, which was happening gradually. Our experience in batteries proved invaluable.
EVs are primarily about batteries, with electronics and software playing significant roles and mechanical components making up the rest. Since our group had expertise in all these areas—IT, batteries, mechanical, and electronics—venturing into EVs in 2019 made perfect sense.
It also helped that we had in-house talent from our existing businesses, which we combined with market expertise to develop a product line after two years of research and development. Our commitment to LFP chemistry defined our scooter strategy, making us one of the first companies to introduce LFP battery based scooters with dual-battery options and multiple kilowatt-hour variants within the same model.
You offer charging solutions and EV batteries, along with your vehicles in the 2W and 3W segment. What is your overall vision for the e-mobility business as a group?
We aim to leverage our ecosystem to lower the TCO for Indian consumers and the markets we are targeting, ensuring sustainable growth and greater market penetration.
Our e-mobility business is structured into five key areas: two-wheelers, three-wheelers, EV components, EV charging, and energy storage.
The two-wheeler, three-wheeler, and component businesses naturally complement each other.
The EV charging products also cater to the four-wheeler, truck, and bus sectors—areas where we have no plans to manufacture vehicles. Our focus is on highway EV chargers. Additionally, we are working with stakeholders to deploy AC chargers for home and community charging. There is increasing demand from North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, and we plan to capitalize on exports in the coming years.
We are concentrating on battery-based energy storage systems, including battery-plus-UPS and battery-plus-inverter solutions for commercial, industrial, and residential applications. Since 2018, we have been deploying and testing energy storage solutions. Now, the priority is to scale these businesses aggressively.
With component manufacturing facilities, EV assembly lines for three-wheelers and their parts, and an increasingly stable industry framework—especially with government support for CCS2 and AC Type 2 chargers—the foundation is strong. The next phase is about scaling our operations to make a lasting impact.
When you mention the EV components business, apart from batteries, what other components are you currently offering?
In the L2 category, we manufacture motors, controllers, TFTs, and speedometers—both TFT-based and analog-segmented versions. Additionally, we produce wire harnesses, frames, and plastic parts. Among these, we have opened up certain components to the market, including batteries, chargers, motors, and controllers. We are also in discussions with strategic partners for plastic molding and painting, as we have our own paint shop, along with frame manufacturing.
For the L3 segment, we are involved in battery manufacturing, motor, controllers, chargers, and frames. The core powertrain components are available for other OEMs and the aftermarket. While we have yet to fully localize these components at our own facility, we are currently working with third-party manufacturers. As of now, we are focused on battery chargers, but we plan to expand into motor controllers as well.
Our EV component business is open to supplying to other OEMs. We have batteries for both 2Ws and 3Ws, along with distribution and aftermarket solutions. Initially, our focus was on refining battery designs, leveraging insights from having 60,000 to 70,000 scooters (including low-speed) and over 20,000 lithium-ion batteries for 3Ws on the road. Now that we have successfully optimized our batteries for both 2Ws and 3Ws, we have reopened our offerings to the market.
For different e-mobility businesses, where are your manufacturing facilities located?
Our manufacturing operations are spread across 45 acres in Himachal Pradesh.
One of our main plants, covering 15 to 18 acres, focuses on components such as powertrain systems, lithium-ion batteries, energy storage batteries, and EV chargers. This facility operates on a ‘plant within a plant’ concept, with dedicated teams and subject matter experts managing different manufacturing zones.
Our two-wheeler vehicle assembly unit is about two kilometres away.
Around five km from the component plant, we have another facility dedicated to frame manufacturing. This fully robotic plant produces scooter frames and e-rickshaw frames, including coating processes.
Our fourth location houses plastic parts manufacturing and the paint shop.
We are also in the process of establishing a fifth unit for three-wheeler manufacturing. We are considering shifting this segment from Himachal to locations like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, or Haryana to optimize logistics costs and improve margins. Currently, our three-wheelers are manufactured in Himachal within our main component facility.
What is the overall team strength for your e-mobility business across all segments?
We have 489 employees on our payroll. If we include contractual workers as well, our total workforce ranges between 800 to 1,000. We also operate an overseas R&D unit, which is included in this count.
Could you talk about the level of localization? What are key import dependencies?
We have applied for a patent registration for our design for EV chargers. We have supplied nearly 1000 DC chargers to the market. The total count of our chargers in the market is neatly 3,500 units, all designed in-house, including components, control cards, and boards. PCBs are sourced from India, and mounting is done in-house with our assembly line. Some strategic components, such as microcontrollers, are sourced externally. Our localization level exceeds 85%, with the only remaining dependencies being rectifiers and screens as per the PMP guidelines. The charging guns have been localized as well.
For the 2W segment, we have achieved over 84% localization, excluding the cells. This is due to the in-house moulding of frames, plastic parts, motors, controllers, and other key components. The entire motor manufacturing process, from winding to assembly, is done in-house for BLDC motors, while mid-drive motor winding is planned for localization as volumes scale up. Controllers are manufactured internally, while some chargers are sourced from Indian partners meeting the PM E-drive scheme qualifications.
For the 3W segment, most components are localized. Cells are imported, but chargers, motors, and controllers are either manufactured in-house or sourced from Indian partners. Only for e-rickshaw, certain parts are imported directly, other that than, all parts are domestically sourced.
How was the year 2024 for you, and what numbers do you expect for this year?
Last calendar year, 2024, we saw a decline in numbers for the two-wheeler category, both in high-speed and low-speed segments. We have been actively working on identified areas to rebuild and scale our volumes.
To revive two-wheeler sales, we have made strategic changes in how communication, marketing, and retail operations function and distribution strategies. Strengthening relationships with dealerships is key, so we are engaging with them directly, ensuring their concerns are addressed. We have already started seeing results—our retail numbers for high-speed and low-speed two-wheelers doubled in February compared to the previous month.
For three-wheelers, we officially began retail operations just two months ago after a trial phase to test dealership viability. Now, dealerships are achieving returns on investment.
Unlike our rapid expansion in the two-wheeler business—where sales didn’t always meet expectations—we are following a phased approach for three-wheelers. This year’s key focus is ensuring profitability for our distribution partners while maintaining an optimal total cost of ownership for the end consumer.
In terms of overall numbers, last year was not as encouraging as the previous one. However, our goal for this year is to scale up significantly, attract investments, and onboard a financial partner to infuse capital into the business. We have clear applications for these funds and aim to grow the business towards an IPO route in the future.
With respect to your plans to scale the distribution network, what kind of on-ground presence are you targeting?
In the two-wheeler space, we currently have around 300 network partners, and our goal is to scale this up to approximately 550. When it comes to deeper market penetration, including sub-dealers, the average ratio is about 4 per main dealer. This means the total touchpoints should be between 1,800 to 2,000, including the sub-dealer network. Our first priority remains ensuring the viability of our existing dealerships. Some are already profitable, while others need additional guidance, which we are actively offering.
For three-wheelers, we have set a target of establishing around 190 principal dealership partners in the L3 and L5 segments.
Hero MotoCorp Ventures into Electric Three-Wheeler Market with Strategic Investment in Euler Motors
Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has announced a strategic investment of up to Rs. 525 crore in Euler Motors Private Limited, marking its entry into the electric three-wheeler segment. The investment, approved by Hero MotoCorp’s Board of Directors on March 20, 2025, underscores its vision to “Be the Future of Mobility” and diversify its portfolio in sustainable transportation. The acquisition is expected to conclude by April 30, 2025.
Key Highlights of the Investment:
Stake Acquisition: Hero MotoCorp will acquire approximately 32.5% of Euler Motors on a fully diluted basis through a mix of primary and secondary investments.
Market Opportunity: Euler Motors, founded in 2015, operates in over 30 Indian cities and specializes in designing, manufacturing, and servicing electric three-wheelers. It recently launched an electric commercial four-wheeler. The company reported a turnover of Rs. 172 crore for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024.
Growth Potential: Electric vehicles (EVs) are projected to account for 35% of total three-wheeler sales in the near future, positioning Hero MotoCorp to capitalize on this emerging trend.
Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman of Hero MotoCorp, stated, “This investment reinforces our commitment to innovation and sustainability. By partnering with Euler Motors, we aim to strengthen our leadership in the future of mobility while unlocking adjacent business opportunities.”
“A Bend In The Road Is Not The End Of The Road, Unless You Fail To Make The Turn.” – Helen Keller
Preamble
The history of roads stretches back as far as human civilization itself. From the moment early humans ventured out of their caves, the need for paths to navigate their environment began to emerge. Initially, these pathways were rudimentary, shaped by the natural terrain and the movement of people and animals. As societies grew more complex, these paths evolved into more structured and formal routes. With the invention of the wheel, the scope of travel expanded exponentially, allowing people to journey across greater distances and explore larger areas. This transformation marked a significant leap in human mobility.
However, the true revolution in road systems came with the rise of automobiles in the early 1900s. The widespread use of motor vehicles radically changed how people travelled, necessitating a complete overhaul of the existing infrastructure. Roads, which had previously been designed for foot traffic and horse-drawn carriages, now had to accommodate the speed and volume of modern vehicles. This shift fundamentally reshaped the transportation landscape, making the road system integral to the mobility revolution.
Today, we stand on the brink of another major transformation driven by the rise of smart cities. Smart cities leverage cutting-edge technologies to create more efficient, sustainable, and liveable urban environments. Among the many technical factors shaping this transformation—such as advanced connectivity, cloud computing, data analytics, sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence—one of the most significant areas of focus is the modernization of road infrastructure.
Smart roads are at the heart of this transformation. These roads are being designed and built to integrate seamlessly with new technologies that enhance mobility, safety, and sustainability. For example, sensors embedded in the road can collect data in real time, providing information about traffic conditions, weather, and road wear. This data can be used to optimize traffic flow, reduce accidents, and improve overall transportation efficiency. In addition, smart roads are designed to work with electric vehicles, offering charging stations along the route and incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels to power infrastructure.
As part of the broader concept of smart cities, these advancements in road technologies are not just about making roads safer and more efficient; they are about creating a future-ready mobility network capable of supporting the next generation of vehicles, including autonomous cars and smart transportation systems. The roadways of tomorrow will be intelligent, adaptive, and integral to the future of urban mobility, creating a seamless and interconnected transport ecosystem that benefits residents, travelers, and the environment. The future of road infrastructure is not far off, and it will play a critical role in shaping the cities of tomorrow.
Smart Road Technologies
Although society has witnessed dramatic advancements in mobility technologies and a significant increase in the number of vehicles on the road, leading to various traffic issues such as accidents and frequent congestion, roads—despite being the lifeblood of modern societies and economies—are still often seen as traditional civil and structural engineering projects. However, in recent decades, numerous technological innovations have emerged that challenge this conventional view and aim to address the pressing challenges of today’s road infrastructure.
The technology trend in road construction is rapidly evolving toward creating roads more “sensitive to their surroundings”. This is achieved by embedding a variety of sensors into the roads and developing a networked road system that operates with greater efficiency and effectiveness. Such advanced road systems seamlessly integrate into the fabric of futuristic smart cities, becoming an essential part of them. These next-generation roads are being designed by merging cutting-edge technologies—such as sensors, microprocessor chips, and high-end electronics—with traditional road construction methods. These technologies are then connected to a centralized server, enabling real-time communication and data updates.
With these advancements, traditional roads are evolving into smart roads capable of communicating not only with their surroundings but also with the vehicles travelling on them. They harness energy, maintain constant communication with a central server, and provide real-time updates. This dynamic flow of information will be pivotal in improving current traffic management and addressing issues such as congestion, disorganized traffic flow, and accidents. Moreover, these systems can quickly respond to emergencies like stampedes, traffic violations, and accident management. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can further optimize traffic flow by adjusting adaptive traffic lights and coordinating various roadways to ensure smoother vehicle movement.
The data collected through these smart systems can also be utilized for long-term analysis, enhancing road conditions, improving sustainability, and even reducing CO2 emissions by optimizing vehicle and energy use. These developments will not only make roads safer and more efficient but will also play a pivotal role in the transition to greener, more sustainable transportation systems.
We are entering an era where the “information superhighways”—which include connectivity, Internet, and data grids—will merge with physical transportation highways—the roads themselves—creating “living and intelligent roads”. Unlike today’s “dead and dumb” infrastructure, these new roads will interact dynamically with their environment, enhancing every aspect of urban mobility. To better understand this transformation, we need to examine recent advancements in road technology, such as the incorporation of electronics to make roads smart, intelligent, and responsive. Additionally, new technologies for energy harvesting from solar radiation and vehicle movement are helping make roads more sustainable.
While these innovations currently address specific challenges in today’s mobility systems, they represent only the beginning. As new technologies continue developing and integrating with existing infrastructures, they will ultimately create a new mobility ecosystem. In this future world, smart, intelligent, connected, and communicative roads will play an even more critical and central role in shaping how we move, communicate, and interact with our urban environments.
Roads Which Talk To Surrounding (R2X)
While Mobile networks have made significant inroads into the vehicular space, particularly through vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, which allows vehicles to communicate directly with one another, the broader concept of Road-to-Everything (R2X) is emerging as a key advancement in road communication technologies. R2X extends the communication network beyond vehicles, enabling roads to interact with other objects or entities moving on them or in their vicinity, including pedestrians, bicycles, and even drones. The importance of R2X lies in its ability to enable smart roads to communicate and exchange critical data, such as real-time information on weather conditions, traffic congestion, road conditions, traffic density, and the health of the road itself (e.g., damage, wear and tear). Additionally, R2X can share details like vehicle speed, physical presence, or road usage. This real-time flow of data can be used to send alerts to vehicles about potential hazards or traffic disruptions ahead, giving drivers and automated systems ample time to respond and take preventive measures. Such a communication network not only enhances road safety by helping vehicles avoid accidents but also contributes to the broader goal of improving the efficiency and sustainability of transportation systems. By enabling vehicles to react to real-time data, R2X helps reduce traffic congestion, enhance traffic flow, and optimise routing decisions. Furthermore, it provides opportunities for better accident prevention, more efficient emergency responses, and overall safer driving experiences for everyone on the road. In short, the R2X framework is pivotal in creating an ecosystem where roads are active participants in managing and maintaining road safety, ensuring the smooth operation of traffic, and ultimately contributing to a more intelligent and connected transportation infrastructure.
Musical Roads
Musical roads, a fascinating innovation in road design, are engineered to produce music or tunes when vehicles pass over them at a certain speed. These roads are typically constructed with grooves or rumble strips embedded in the road surface, spaced at precise intervals, which, when driven over, create a rhythmic sound corresponding to specific musical notes. Countries such as Japan, USA, Denmark, Netherlands, Taiwan, and South Korea have pioneered the construction of these roads, creating unique driving experiences that blend functionality with auditory art. The primary purpose of musical roads is to serve as a safety feature. The sound generated by the grooves acts as an alert to drivers, particularly on high-speed roads, to maintain the speed limit or stay within safe driving thresholds. The music is designed to play at the ideal speed, acting as an auditory cue to prevent drivers from speeding. In some cases, the melodies are crafted to enhance driver awareness and encourage safe driving behaviors. Additionally, these roads may also be used in specific areas to warn of hazards such as sharp turns, construction zones, or areas with pedestrian traffic. However, while musical roads can serve as helpful reminders for drivers, they do come with certain challenges. One significant concern is the potential for disturbance to nearby residents, especially at night. The repetitive nature of the sounds can be intrusive, particularly in quieter suburban or rural areas. As a result, many musical roads have been limited to highways, long country roads, or less densely populated areas, where the noise is less likely to disrupt daily life. In some cases, their use has been restricted or limited to specific times of day to mitigate potential disturbances to local communities. The concept of musical roads has been part of a broader trend of integrating artificial sensory features into road design, merging functionality with creativity. While their primary role is safety and driver awareness, they also add an element of innovation that makes driving a more engaging experience. As this technology evolves, future implementations will likely balance functionality with community concerns, potentially incorporating features like volume controls or dynamic sound modulation to reduce noise disturbance while still serving their purpose of improving road safety.
Wireless Digital Traffic Signs
Road signs have been an integral part of traffic management for centuries, serving as essential tools for guiding drivers and ensuring road safety. However, despite their long-standing presence, significant challenges remain regarding their proper placement and the effectiveness with which drivers can read, understand, and respond to them. In countries like India, there are over 110 road signs; in the USA, there are around 60; and in the UK, the number rises to 170. With such a wide array of signs, it can be overwhelming for drivers to remember, interpret, and act on them in real time, especially when navigating unfamiliar roads or under stressful conditions. The advent of smart road technology has provided a solution to many of these challenges by introducing programmable, connected road signs. These smart signs are embedded with chips that can be remotely controlled and connected to a centralized Traffic Management System (TMS). This system enables the dynamic broadcasting of messages to oncoming traffic in real time, ensuring that the correct information is provided when needed. Unlike traditional static road signs, smart signposts can be programmed to update instantly, allowing for more flexible communication with drivers based on current road conditions or emergencies. When a smart sign broadcasts a message, vehicles equipped with receiving units can detect and interpret the signal. This allows the vehicle to alert the driver and take necessary actions, such as slowing down, changing lanes, or preparing for an obstacle ahead. Beyond just displaying a message, these systems also integrate data from a cloud-based traffic analytics system. The cloud system collects and analyzes data from numerous vehicles on the road to predict and provide real-time traffic information, ensuring that the driver receives accurate, context-aware instructions. This additional layer of intelligence helps ensure that the right action is taken, based on not just the signs themselves, but the broader traffic environment. This technology offers several significant advantages. First, it reduces the need for drivers to constantly monitor road signs, especially in situations where visibility is poor, such as during bad weather, night time driving, or blocked roads. By providing alerts directly to the vehicle, the system minimizes distractions and allows the driver to focus on the road. The reliance on the driver’s judgment is also reduced, as the vehicle can help interpret the meaning of the sign and recommend the proper action based on real-time conditions. Additionally, the ability to remotely program and update these signs brings immense flexibility to road management. For instance, in cases of traffic congestion, road closures, or emergency events, the messages on the signs can be quickly adapted to provide up-to-date instructions to drivers. This is far more efficient than physically replacing or adjusting traditional signs. Furthermore, unlike image-processing programs used in some road safety technologies, the use of smart signposts with programmable chips doesn’t require complex algorithms for interpretation, making it easier to deploy and manage across a wide area. Another major advantage is the use of real-time traffic volume data, which can be automatically computed and incorporated into the system. By analyzing data from multiple vehicles, the traffic management system can provide insights into traffic flow and congestion patterns, which can be used to optimize road usage and improve overall traffic efficiency. For instance, when heavy traffic is detected, the system could adjust the signs to provide alternative routes or adjust speed limits to prevent bottlenecks. This intelligent use of data also improves the accuracy of traffic management decisions, helping to reduce delays, increase safety, and enhance the overall driving experience. In conclusion, the integration of smart, programmable road signs with connected vehicles and centralized traffic management systems represents a significant leap forward in traffic management technology. This system not only improves road safety and efficiency but also reduces the cognitive load on drivers by providing them with real-time, actionable information in a seamless and intuitive manner. The shift from static to dynamic, data-driven signage is a key step toward a smarter, safer, and more efficient transportation system for the future.
Roads with Smart Intersections
Road intersections have long been hotspots for accidents due to issues like blind spots, unexpected light changes, and obstructions from vehicles coming from different directions. These challenges complicate a driver’s ability to make quick, informed decisions, increasing the risk of collisions. To address these concerns, the concept of smart intersections has emerged, where technology plays a crucial role in enhancing safety and optimizing traffic flow. A smart intersection integrates multiple sensors installed at each crossroads, which work in tandem with a vehicle’s R2X (Road-to-Everything) connectivity. The “X” in R2X represents any object in the vehicle’s surroundings, including parked vehicles, moving vehicles, pedestrians, buildings, dividers, traffic poles, and more. These sensors continuously monitor the environment, providing real-time data about the intersection and surrounding traffic conditions. By combining this data with the vehicle’s connectivity, a real-time map of the situation is generated and shared with the vehicle and driver, offering crucial information that helps the driver make quick and informed judgments. For instance, the system could alert the driver about vehicles approaching from blind spots, pedestrians crossing, or even a traffic light about to change, helping to avoid potential accidents. In addition to improving driver safety, artificial intelligence (AI) can also be applied to smart intersections to enhance traffic management further. By analyzing data collected from various sensors, smart intersections can assess traffic density, roadway conditions, and current traffic flow in real time. This data allows the system to dynamically adjust traffic signal timings across multiple intersections to optimize the flow of traffic, reduce congestion, and improve overall road efficiency. For example, if there is heavy traffic in one direction, the system could extend the green light for that direction while minimizing wait times for other directions, or it could prioritize emergency vehicles in real-time. This combination of real-time sensor data, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, and AI-driven traffic optimization transforms traditional intersections into highly responsive, intelligent hubs. These intersections not only enhance safety by preventing accidents but also improve the efficiency of urban transportation systems, reducing traffic congestion and enabling smoother commutes. In the future, as smart intersections evolve and become more integrated with broader city infrastructure, they will play a key role in building smart cities. Through constant data sharing, adaptive systems, and connected networks, these intersections will ensure a safer, more efficient, and dynamic driving experience for all road users.
With Fast Emergency Rescue
Road accidents have become one of the most pressing issues globally, escalating with the rise in the number of automobiles on the road. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.3 million people lose their lives every year due to road accidents, and an estimated 20 to 50 million others suffer from physical disabilities as a result. This alarming trend is particularly prevalent in India, where road accidents and related fatalities rank among the highest in the world. A critical factor in improving the survival rate of accident victims is the concept of the “golden hour”—the time period that elapses between the accident and the arrival of medical assistance. This window is crucial, as prompt medical intervention can significantly increase the chances of survival and reduce the severity of injuries. The quicker the response, the better the chances of saving lives and preventing long-term disabilities. With the advent of smart road technologies and the increasing connectivity of vehicles through various communication channels such as R2I (Road-to-Infrastructure), R2N(Road-to-Network), R2E(Road-to-Everything), R2P (Road-to-Pedestrian), R2C (Road-to-Cloud), and R2H (Road-to-Hospital), it is possible to drastically reduce this crucial response time. Through these technologies, automatic crash notifications can be triggered immediately upon impact, along with the geo-location of the accident, which can be sent in real-time to all relevant agencies involved in handling the situation, including emergency responders, medical teams, and traffic authorities. This immediate, data-driven response system has the potential to revolutionize emergency response times. With real-time data being shared, medical teams can prepare ahead of time, ensuring they arrive at the scene fully equipped to handle the injuries. Additionally, this seamless integration of technologies could help direct ambulances to the accident site via the fastest route, bypassing traffic and reducing delays. By leveraging smart road infrastructure and vehicle connectivity, we can drastically improve the efficiency and timeliness of emergency responses, ultimately saving lives and reducing the long-term impact of road accidents.
On-Road Weighing of The Vehicles
With in-built weighing sensors embedded in smart roads, it is now possible to weigh transportation goods carriers while they are in motion. This technology, known as WIM (Weigh-In-Motion), offers a significant advantage by addressing two major concerns: overloading hazards on the roads and the wasted waiting time at traditional weighbridges. In the WIM system, multiple sensors are strategically placed across one or more traffic lanes. These sensors work together to measure various critical parameters, such as axle loading and vehicle loading, in real-time, all while the vehicle remains in motion. This allows for the continuous monitoring of each vehicle’s weight without the need for it to stop or slow down for inspection. As a result, the risk of overloaded vehicles—which can cause damage to road infrastructure and increase the likelihood of accidents due to reduced braking efficiency—is significantly reduced. Furthermore, WIM technology helps eliminate the need for traditional weigh-bridges, which require vehicles to stop and undergo manual weighing. This process often leads to significant delays, especially in high-traffic areas. Automating the weighing process on the move allows vehicles to be monitored seamlessly without disrupting traffic flow, reducing congestion and travel time. In addition to axle and vehicle weight, WIM systems can capture interrelated parameters such as vehicle speed, tire pressure, and even load distribution, offering a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s condition. This data can be used for real-time analysis, enabling authorities to flag vehicles that exceed weight limits or display potentially unsafe conditions without impeding traffic. Moreover, this collected data can be sent directly to the relevant authorities, who can take immediate action if necessary. By incorporating Weigh-In-Motion technology, smart roads can contribute to safer, more efficient, and sustainable transportation systems. This innovation not only protects road infrastructure from damage but also enhances road safety and reduces unnecessary delays, creating smoother travel experiences for all road users.
Traffic Violations
As roads become smart, equipped with sensors, communication systems, and connectivity with vehicles, traditional methods of detecting traffic violations may become obsolete. In the past, enforcement relied on manual monitoring, cameras, or law enforcement presence, but vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity allows for more sophisticated, automated solutions. On smart roads, vehicles are constantly connected to each other and the Centralized Traffic Management System (CTMS). This real-time communication makes it easier to track violations such as speeding, running red lights, or illegal turns. Data from these vehicles is transmitted to the central system, where violations are immediately processed and analyzed. Additionally, the system can send real-time alerts to drivers about potential violations, like approaching red lights, helping them adjust their actions before an incident occurs. Automatic alarms can also be triggered for violations, which are then sent to law enforcement for swift action. Smart roads also enable predictive enforcement, using data to anticipate where violations are likely to occur based on traffic patterns and weather conditions. This allows for preventive measures, like adjusting traffic signals or rerouting vehicles to improve safety. In short, smart roads improve traffic violation detection, making enforcement more efficient, responsive, and effective, leading to safer, smoother roads.
Energy Harvesting & Charging of Electric Vehicles
Roads are increasingly being recognized as a valuable resource for solar & kinetic & frictional energy harvesting due to two key factors. First, their vast surface area is constantly exposed to solar radiation, making them ideal for capturing solar energy. Second, the continuous movement of vehicles across the road surfaces results in significant dissipation of kinetic and frictional energy. This combination of factors offers a unique opportunity to harness energy directly from the roadways. To capture solar energy, heavy-duty and rugged photovoltaic (PV) modules are integrated directly into the road surfaces, creating what are known as solar roads. These roads contribute to renewable energy generation and help reduce the surrounding infrastructure’s carbon footprint. Piezoelectric roads use devices embedded beneath the surface that convert mechanical energy into electrical energy to harvest kinetic and frictional energy from moving vehicles. These piezoelectric devices respond to pressure changes caused by passing vehicles, generating power in real-time. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), there has been a growing need for accessible and widespread charging infrastructure. EVs require regular recharging, but finding a charging station can be challenging in many areas, particularly rural regions or along long stretches of expressways. This has spurred interest in creating roads that can charge EVs while they are in motion, offering a convenient solution for recharging during travel. The concept of charging roads has become a focal point for innovation, aiming to eliminate the need for stationary charging stations and make EVs more convenient.
In 2016, France became a pioneer in this field by constructing the world’s first solar road. The 2,880 square meter stretch of road, located in Tourouvre-au-Perche, was covered with solar panels and used the generated electricity to power streetlights along the route. This ambitious project marked a milestone in the development of solar road technology. Since then, several other countries, including the United States, Sweden, China, the UK, and Japan, have followed suit by developing pilot projects and testing different types of energy-harvesting roads. These countries are conducting trials to assess the viability and efficiency of various road-based energy systems. While France has led the way with solar roads, Sweden has taken a different approach with its “electrified roads.” In 2018, a 1.2-mile stretch of road near Stockholm was transformed into a dynamic charging highway using magnetic induction technology. Cables buried under the road surface create electromagnetic fields, which are strong enough to be captured by a receiver in the vehicle. The receiver converts this energy into electrical power, which charges the vehicle’s battery while it is in motion. This innovative solution allows vehicles to recharge without needing to stop, significantly improving the convenience of EV travel.
Additionally, countries like China have been experimenting with other types of road-based energy systems, such as those that combine solar energy and wireless charging technologies. These projects explore the possibility of creating smart roads that can not only generate energy but also provide data services like traffic management and real-time weather updates. The future of energy-harvesting roads holds promise for a more sustainable transportation infrastructure that can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and improve the efficiency of electric vehicles.
As the development of solar and piezoelectric roads progresses, it’s becoming clear that these innovations have the potential to revolutionize the way we think about road infrastructure. By transforming roads into power-generating assets, we could create a future where transportation is cleaner, more efficient, and more integrated with renewable energy systems. With continued advancements in technology, we may soon see a widespread adoption of energy-harvesting roads, changing the landscape of transportation as we know it.
Roads with Smart Lighting
The first smart street lighting system was deployed in Oslo, Norway, in 2006, with the aim of optimizing street lighting based on factors like daylight, weather conditions, and traffic movement, all to conserve energy. Today, most street lights have been upgraded to energy-efficient LEDs, with additional technologies such as sensors and Wi-Fi integrated into the control units. These sensors detect the presence of pedestrians and vehicles, enabling the system to turn the lights on or off as needed, ensuring energy is used only when required while maintaining sufficient illumination for safety (i.e., on-demand lighting). The addition of wireless connectivity has further enhanced the system, allowing street lights to be interconnected and form networks. This connectivity enables remote control and dynamic pairing or grouping of lights based on traffic and environmental conditions, enhancing both energy efficiency and functionality.
Smart Road Lighting
Indian Scenario & Challenges
Having missed out on the technological advancements and, more importantly, the Great Automobile Boom that followed World War II, India faced significant challenges in modernizing its outdated road infrastructure during its formative years. While the country had a growing need for better roads, this demand became more pronounced starting in the 1980s with the introduction of the Maruti 800, India’s first new-age automobile, which was developed in collaboration with Suzuki Motor Co. of Japan. This compact car marked a turning point, as it became a symbol of India’s emerging automobile market, highlighting the need for more efficient and safer roads to accommodate the growing number of vehicles.
However, the real momentum for revamping the country’s road infrastructure began around 1995, when India opened up its automobile market to global players, spurring an influx of international automotive brands and technology. With the arrival of world-class vehicles and increased competition, there was an urgent need to modernize the road network to support these advanced automobiles. This period marked the beginning of significant improvements in road infrastructure, including the construction of highways, urban expressways, and better-maintained rural roads. The automotive industry’s growth became a catalyst for the government to prioritize infrastructure development, not just to accommodate modern vehicles but also to enhance the overall economic growth of the country.
The shift toward more comprehensive and modern road planning, combined with technological advancements, set the foundation for a more connected and efficient transportation network that would support India’s expanding economy and growing automobile market. As global automotive trends took hold, India’s roads slowly began to evolve from their outdated systems into more sophisticated infrastructure capable of supporting the country’s rapid industrialization and urbanization.
Despite the best efforts of all stakeholders involved in infrastructure development, it is important to recognize that while India ranks second globally, after the United States, in terms of the absolute length of its road network, it lags significantly in terms of road quality and design. Only about 69% of India’s roads are surfaced, and even these do not meet global standards. The roads in India have historically been neglected in all aspects—design, construction, and maintenance. They remain some of the most abused infrastructures in the country, facing numerous challenges such as rapid urbanization, heavy traffic flow, overloading, and public misuse. As a result, navigating the Indian road network can often feel like a nightmare, with poor road conditions and congestion contributing to the frustration.
With the impressive length of the network, India’s road infrastructure is still far from achieving even basic standards of efficiency or smart functionality. In this context, it is essential that the Indian government, along with engineers and infrastructure developers, shift their focus not only toward building smart cities but also toward transforming existing roads—many of which will serve as the arteries of these future cities—into smart and intelligent road networks. As the number of vehicles continues to rise, it is critical that these roadways evolve to meet the needs of modern transportation. If India’s road network can be upgraded to smart and intelligent systems, it will play a crucial role in enhancing the performance and functionality of smart cities. Otherwise, the outdated infrastructure could become a significant bottleneck, limiting the efficiency and growth of urban centers in the future. Thus, ensuring that road infrastructure is integrated with the latest technology is key to the success of both transportation and urban development in India’s rapidly evolving cities.
Top 20 Countries with Largest Road Lengths
Top 20 Countries with No. Of Vehicles/ KM of Road
Top 20 Countries with Road Density (KM/ Sq. KM of Area)
Top 20 Countries with No. Of Vehicle/ Per Person
To move to smart & intelligent roads even in a smaller way, India faces tremendous challenges India is taking smaller steps one by one to begin its journey. In its very first attempt an Indian team from HP Lubricants and Leo Burnett India, has put a set of proto type “SmartLife” poles on NH1 (one of the most dangerous roads in the world & which connecting Jammu and Srinagar). These poles installed on the two side of hairpin bends, gauge the speed of approaching vehicles & communicate with each other to alert both the drivers by sounding a horn. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Id9OOlO4aRM).
However, modernizing the Indian roads is a herculean task for the government & may take years but it is certainly one of the high priority subjects. The time is right when India is investing heavily in infrastructure development in which the creation of smart roads with cutting-edge technologies could be easily merged. This would help India to make a leapfrog and catch up with the rest of the world. Also since India already has an ambitious target of converting 70% of all commercial cars, 30% of private cars, 40% of buses, and 80% of 2W/ 3W sales to EVs by 2030, the current road plan, as well as future road plans, must be made considering this fact in mind as smart roads would certainly be the requirements of matching the needs of future automobiles and other mobility systems which need to get integrated seamlessly with smart roads of future.
Epilogue
Although road technology in India has evolved slowly compared to other components of the mobility network, the Government of India’s focus on building world-class infrastructure, combined with the rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs), presents an ideal opportunity for this critical subsystem of the mobility network to become “smart.” Transforming India’s roads into intelligent systems will lead to increased automation, greater energy efficiency, reduced costs, enhanced safety, cleaner air, a greener environment, less traffic congestion, and fewer accidents and fatalities. In turn, this will significantly improve the quality of life for citizens. Roads should no longer be considered static infrastructure; instead, they must be viewed as a “dynamic and intelligent subsystem” of society. These smart roads should be able to sense their surroundings, monitor conditions, and respond proactively to various situations. The roads should be capable of real-time communication with a central server to provide regular updates on traffic conditions, road load, weather, accidents, and their exact location, among other variables. The possibilities are endless, and such advancements would make city operations more efficient and smoother. In the cities of the future, “the information grid,” “the electric grid,” and “the transportation grid” may merge into a cohesive, living neural system that powers smart cities. In this ecosystem, the Central Control Room would serve as the “brain,” while the smart road grids would act as the “central nervous system“. The EVs and connected autonomous electric vehicles (CAEVs) forming the transportation grid would represent the “hands and legs,” and the flow of information and power would serve as the “blood” circulating throughout this virtual ecosystem, creating a truly smart city—alive, responsive, and efficient.
Advances in smart roads for future smart cities by Chai K. Toh, Julio A. Sanguesa, Juan C. Cano and Francisco J. Martinez, GLG Group, San Francisco, CA, USA, Department of Computer Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Department of Computer Science, Centro Universitario de la Defensa, Zaragoza, Spain, Department of Computer Engineering (DISCA), Universitat Politecnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain, Computer Science and System Engineering Department, University of Zaragoza, Teruel, Spain (royalsocietypublishing.org/journal/rspa)
“Paving The Way Forward – Intelligent Road Infrastructure” by Suman A Sehra, Global Director, IoT Smart Cities and Transportation, Intel Corporation
A History Of Roads From Ancient Times To The Motor Age A Thesis Submitted In Partial Fulfillment Of The Requirements For The Degree Of Master Of Science In Civil Engineering By Herbert Reinhold Jacobson Georgia School Of Technology Atlanta, Georgia (1940)
Road To Sustainable Smart Cities Challenges, Opportunities And Emerging Trends by KPMG, March 21
Smart Roads: A Vision/ Discission Paper-Jan/2015 by Elena De La Pena, Dy Director General for Technical Affairs, Spanish Road Association, Chair, TC1 Smart Mobility)
Exponent Energy announced its advancements in rapid charging following BYD’s unveiling of its 1MW charging technology for electric vehicles in China. In a recent tweet, the company showcased its 1MW rapid charging technology for buses and stated that it will introduce a 1.5MW rapid charging technology for EVs later this year.
In August 2024, Exponent Energy partnered with Veera Vahana, a bus manufacturer, to launch the Veera Mahasamrat EV, an intercity electric bus with rapid charging capabilities. To support this, the company deployed a 1MW rapid charging technology for electric buses in India.
Commenting on the development, Arun Vinayak, CEO and Co-founder of Exponent Energy, tweeted, “As a nation we need to have self-belief that we can build and own all layers of EV tech. We’ve historically been followers in ICE. We can’t repeat that with EVs. There was a lot of excitement on the BYD 1MW charging. But we’ve already got 1MW charging right here. We’re actually doing this on standard off the shelf cells which makes it 10X accessible. BYD has fantastic cell material science capability. Allowing them to do 10C. Stuff we need to catch up on in India. Optimistic that we will have an Indian cell partner soon.”
Founded in 2020 by Arun Vinayak and Sanjay Balyal, both former executives at Ather Energy, Exponent Energy has developed a battery pack (e^pack), charging station (e^pump), and charging connector (e^plug). These components enable a 15-minute rapid charge and a 3,000-cycle life warranty for EVs, using standard Li-ion cells.
Exponent Energy states that over 1,700 EVs in India use its technology, with more than 3.5 lakh rapid charging sessions completed, covering 20 lakh kilometers. The company has expanded operations to five cities: Delhi NCR, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.
The company has raised $44.6 million across Pre-Series A, Series A, and Series B funding rounds from investors including Lightspeed, Eight Roads Ventures, YourNest VC, 3one4 Capital, AdvantEdge VC, and the family office of Dr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman & CEO of Hero MotoCorp.
Microfinance revival on horizon in India, banks to lead the charge: HSBC reportIANS
The outlook for microfinance institutions (MFIs) in India is improving after months of stress caused by overleveraging of borrowers, a new report said on Wednesday.
According to the report by HSBC Research, better loan collections and higher disbursements in February helped boost sentiment in the sector.
While the global brokerage firm expects a positive turnaround for MFIs in 2025, it also noted that some challenges still need to be addressed.
The report highlighted that “X bucket” collection efficiency in most states improved to 98.5-99.5 per cent in February. “X bucket” refers to accounts that had no overdue payments at the end of the previous month.
“X bucket” collection efficiency measures the percentage of EMIs collected from these accounts during a given month, compared to the total EMIs due from all such accounts in that period.
This improvement has also contributed to a reduction in high employee attrition rates, which had been a concern for the sector over the past year.
However, in Karnataka, a government ordinance caused significant disruptions in MFI operations in February.
Microfinance revival on horizon in India, banks to lead the charge: HSBC reportIANS
The state government’s proposed bill aims to completely exempt borrowers from repaying loans, including interest, taken from unlicensed and unregistered MFIs.
HSBC Research noted that individual microfinance institutions have taken steps to minimise the impact and stabilise their operations.
Looking ahead, credit costs for MFIs are expected to decline in the April-June quarter due to improving asset quality.
However, new regulations set to take effect on April 1, which cap lending to borrowers, are likely to push credit costs higher again.
However, HSBC Research believes banks with microfinance exposure have a stronger long-term growth potential.
These banks are better placed due to their improving asset quality and attractive valuations, which could lead to better returns for investors.
“Banks, with their diversified portfolios and stronger earnings resilience, are expected to be in a better position than standalone MFIs in the long run,” the report said.
Schaltbau launches Eddicy bidirectional contactors at Elecrama 2025. In this interview, Steffen Munz, Group CEO of Schaltbau GmbH, discusses the relevance of the newly launched brand and the importance of advanced contactors for the electric mobility and energy storage industry.
You recently introduced Eddicy C303 at Elecrama. What’s the story behind Eddicy?
Schaltbau is and has been a leader in direct current (DC) technology for over 95 years during which we have become a trusted supplier of the rail industry worldwide. To cater to the uniquely poised high growth industrial segment, Schaltbau has launched the new Eddicy brand.
With our Eddicy solutions and products,we are dedicated to now also advancing electrification in the energy and e-mobility sectors, providing safe, sustainable and energy-efficient solutions.
Where is the link between solutions for rail and products for energy and e-mobility?
It is our DC expertise. Today, DC technology is experiencing a renaissance with the energy transition because it can also be used wherever energy is charged or stored. Schaltbau manufactures contactors, connectors and switches that are required for switching DC circuits – also in energy and e-mobility applications.
Our decades of experience in DC technology is currently a globally sought-after competence. Further, our solutions and products, which meet the challenging rail standards, easily comply with the reliable and stringent demands for the new energy and e-mobility applications.
And who is seeking solutions by Schaltbau, or Eddicy, for that matter?
Not only is the rail industry growing, as old diesel locomotives are being replaced by electric ones:our Eddicy DC products are now required for everything that is to be operated electrically and with renewable energies: Cars, buses, trucks, ships, agricultural machinery, forklift trucks and much more.
Then there are applications that produce energy, such as solar parks where our contactors are used in the inverterapplications, or for storage of renewable energy or charging of electric vehicles. And DC grids will also play a much more prominent role in industrial manufacturing.
By providing reliable and forward-looking solutions, Eddicy empowers industries to harness the full potential of electrification – from a business, energy efficiency and sustainability perspective.
What’s the benefit for your customers?
Our purpose is to enable the economy and society to unlock the full potential of electrification.
The benefit of DC technology is that it can be used more efficiently without the usual losses that occur when direct current is converted into alternate current (AC) and vice versa.
In that sense, the benefit for customers is that our products help them increase energy efficiency and performance while safely connecting and disconnecting direct current loads. In addition, Schaltbau products provide reliability that ensures non-stop performance, which is critical for new energy and e-mobility applications.
Can you give an example?
EV Charging stations is an important application that immediately comes to mind. Charging with direct current enables electric vehicles to cover long ranges in a relatively short charging time.
Extremely important here is the use of galvanic isolation – which our solutions provide – to ensure safe charging processes. In the event of a fault, this function interrupts the flow of electricity under full load both in the charging station and the vehicle. This requires the contactors to be capable of not only to carry the full load currents but also be capable of switching ON-Load at the rated currents. This will be particularly vital when ultra-fast charging stations become available. They can operate with a voltage of up to 1000 volts and deliver a charging current of up to 500 amps – making charging as fast as refueling and fulfilling the highest safety requirements.
What’s your take on the Indian electric vehicles market?
It’s hard to overestimate India’s relevance as the fifth largest and fastest-growing economy in the world and its share in world trade and global supply chains. We witness the Indian market for electric vehicles (EVs) to grow exponentially, and the government’s initiatives are driving this growth, aiming for 30% of private car sales to be electric by 2030. Our aim is to support longer ranges, faster battery charging and energy efficiency to increase e-mobility adoption. And our local production capabilities ensure that we can meet the growing demand for high-quality electrical components which are manufactured in India.
What is the role of Schaltbau India & are you going to produce the products in India?
Schaltbau India Pvt. Ltd. is a 100% subsidiary of Schaltbau GmbH, Germany. The company was established in September 2009 and is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company.
Schaltbau India adopted the “Make in India” initiative way back in 2014 with the establishment of the manufacturing unit at Navi Mumbai. In 2022, Schaltbau India further expanded its manufacturing base in India by setting up a state-of-the-art second facility in Manesar, Haryana. These plants not only have manufacturing but also in-house type test facilities which enable us to cover complete life cycle management from design to end of life of our products.
Schaltbau India’s locally manufactured products qualify as a “Make in India” source and have been approved by industrial clients in the Rail and EV sectors.
What are the different application areas where the Eddicy C303 contactor finds use?
The C303 contactor series is designed to support applications with greater power needs up to 1000VDC and upto 500A currents, such as energy storage systems, fast-charging stations, electric vehicles, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and test benches for batteries.
These applications require efficient, reliable, and durable switching to manage bidirectional energy flow, minimize power loss, and ensure safe operation under extreme conditions. The C303 does exactly that for applications ranging from megawatt-scale battery storage to high-power EV charging and industrial electrification.
Can you tell us about the technical specifications of the C303 contactor? How do they compare to previous generations or competitor products?
The C303 contactor is a compact, high-performance switching device for applications with high making and short-time currents or large capacity. It features:
A high breaking capacity of up to 1.5 megawatts
A high making capacity (up to 2kA without contact welding)
Handles short circuits carrying up to 5,000 amps without contact welding
Has full bidirectionality to ensure the safe breaking of high-power loads
Using permanent magnetic arc extinguishing eliminates the risk of explosion and prevents damage and rapid aging.
With a very low contact resistance of slightly over 100 µΩ, it also shows best-in-class performance with low contact warming and low power loss due to optimized contact pills.
The 25% energy cost savings is a key unique selling point. What are the specific technical advancements contributing to this improved efficiency?
We want our solutions to be viable from a business and sustainability standpoint, so we aim for a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) due to enhanced efficiency and durability. The ultra-low contact resistance feature of the C303 helps to minimize power losses and heat generation, while robust design elements extend operational lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated downtime.
You mention the C303 can handle short circuits up to 5,000A without contact welding. What is the duration of this short-circuit withstand capability?
The C303 can withstand short-circuit currents up to 20 milliseconds, staying fully functional with no contact welding.
Can you explain the three coil control options and the performance trade-offs between them?
Each option addresses specific operational requirements, allowing for flexibility in various high-power DC applications.
The first version, Ecosave, features a standard coil combined with an integrated economy circuit, utilizing Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) for efficient electronic coil control. This design optimizes power consumption during both activation and holding phases, making it ideal for energy-conscious applications.
The second version, the High Efficiency Drive (HED), is equipped with an optimized coil, which ensures maximum efficiency without the need for an additional economy circuit. This simplifies the design and makes it suitable for systems where space and efficiency are critical.
The third version, the Pre-Charge, is designed as a pre-charging contactor and includes a standard coil without an economy circuit. It’s specifically tailored to limit high inrush currents when main contactors are activated, protecting system components during power-up sequences.
Beyond the technical specifications, what are the key advantages of the C303 from a customer’s perspective regarding, say, maintenance requirements and integration with existing systems?
C303 contactors are designed to be largely maintenance-free and are constructed with high-quality materials and robust engineering. They are built to reduce the frequency of maintenance interventions. Also, we want to make the integration with existing systems as seamless as possible with a compact and versatile design.
The unique Air-break technology makes these contactors unique and ensures higher switching capabilities as compared to the gas-sealed devices. The inclusion of an auxiliary switch with a mirror contact function enhances safety and facilitates easy integration into existing control circuits.
What is Schaltbau’s approach to supporting customers integrating the C303 into their systems?
We see our customers as partners and, therefore, provide comprehensive documentation of our applications, an experienced technical support team and our worldwide network of sales and service locations to ensure that our customers receive timely support and local assistance to meet their goals. Our highly knowledgeable application engineering teams work closely with the customers at the design stage to ensure successful validations.
With regard to the C303, we stand ready in India and elsewhere to ensure the successful implementation and reliable operation of the C303 contactors in our customers’ e-mobility and energy applications.
On March 18, 2025, Omega Seiki Pvt. Ltd., an EV manufacturer, and Clean Electric, a clean energy company, launched the Omega Seiki NRG, an electric passenger three-wheeler. Priced at INR 3.55 lakh (ex-showroom), the vehicle is designed for fleet owners, businesses, and individuals looking for an alternative to fuel-powered transport.
The demand for long-range electric passenger vehicles is growing as India transitions to sustainable transportation. According to the company, the Omega Seiki NRG is designed to lower operating costs and reduce downtime for fleet operators and small businesses. The company plans to deploy 5,000 units by the next financial year to support the wider adoption of electric mobility.
Uday Narang, Founder and Chairman of Omega Seiki Pvt. Ltd. commented “We are extremely excited to unveil the Omega Seiki NRG, a product that marks a significant milestone in our commitment to revolutionizing the electric vehicle market in India. This launch underscores our vision of promoting sustainable mobility, and with the Omega Seiki NRG’s impressive range of 300 kilometers on a single charge, we are confident that it will meet the growing demand for high-performance, eco-friendly transport solutions. With the backing of our strong technological capabilities and the growing EV ecosystem, Omega Seiki continues to lead the charge towards a greener future.”
Mr. Akash Gupta, Co-Founder of Clean Electric, added: “Long-range electric 3-wheelers are the need of the hour as 3-wheeler captains drive 100-150 KM daily, and in peak season, their daily running can be as high as 200 KM. With an industry-leading range which is ~25% higher than the industry best, Omega Seiki NRG will set the gold standard in the e-3W category, enabled with the option of convenient and affordable over-night home charging & day time top-up charging on universal DC public charging stations. We feel this will enable electric three wheelers to run unlimited KMs, putting an end to range & charge anxiety. This solution has the potential to enable >50% EV penetration in the 3-wheeler segment. We are proud to partner with Omega Seiki who have always been at the forefront of developing industry leading solutions in the EV segment.”
The Omega Seiki NRG is equipped with Clean Electric’s FLO 150, a 15 kWh LFP battery pack featuring Direct Contact Liquid Cooling (DCLC) technology. According to the company, this system is intended to provide thermal management and maintain performance in various conditions. Clean Electric states that its cell-to-pack architecture is designed to optimize energy storage, enabling a range of over 300 km.
Key Features:
Price: INR 3.55 lakh (ex-showroom)
Range: 300+ km per charge
Battery: 15 kWh LFP pack
Warranty: 5 years or 200,000 km
Charging: 150 km top-up in 45 minutes on Bharat DC-001 infrastructure
Omega Seiki has expanded its product lineup and manufacturing operations in India. The company states that it was the first OEM to offer electric two-, three-, and four-wheelers. It has manufacturing facilities in Delhi NCR and Pune, with plans for expansion in Chennai. Omega Seiki reports having a dealership network of over 250 locations across India.
The impact of US trade reciprocal tariffs on India will be minimal as the country has diversified its exports kitty, pitched value addition, exploring alternate areas and works on new routes that transcend from Europe to the US via the Middle East, redrawing new supply chain algorithms, a new SBI Research report said on Monday.
The decline in the exports is expected to be in the range of 3-3.5 per cent, which again should be negated through higher export goals across both manufacturing and services fronts, the report mentioned.
India will also be able to take advantage of the aluminium and steel tariffs imposed by the US last week. India has a trade deficit for aluminium ($13 million) and steel ($406 million) trade with the US where it can potentially take advantage.
The US reciprocal tariffs are expected to come into effect on April 2, and intense bilateral talks between New Delhi and Washington are currently on.
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said last week that he “had a forward-looking discussion with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on a mutually beneficial Bilateral Trade Agreement” between India and the US.
IANS
“Our approach will be guided by ‘India First’, ‘Viksit Bharat’ and our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Goyal posted on X, along with a photo of his meeting with Greer.
Goyal had previously met Greer and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick during his visit to the US. This followed US President Donald Trump and PM Narendra Modi’s talks on negotiating the first tranche of a mutually beneficial, multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by the fall of 2025.
According to SBI Research, India has also been talking about free trade agreements (FTAs) with several partners – both bilateral and regional – in a bid to boost export-oriented domestic manufacturing.
India has signed 13 FTAs in the last five years with its trading partners like Mauritius, the UAE, Australia, etc.
The country is also negotiating FTAs with the UK, Canada, and the EU, targeting sectors like services, digital trade, and sustainable development.
India and New Zealand have also announced the launch of negotiations for a comprehensive and mutually beneficial FTA.
The FTA with the UK alone is expected to increase bilateral trade by $15 billion by 2030. Future FTAs will likely focus on enhancing digital trade, with projections indicating that the digital economy could add $1 trillion to India’s GDP by 2025, according to the report.
“The shift towards regional supply chains and the impact of geopolitical changes, such as the US tariff war, are influencing India’s FTA strategies to ensure alignment with global trade dynamics,” the report added.
These FTAs cover a wide array of topics, such as tariff reduction impacting the entire manufacturing and agricultural sectors; rules on services trade; digital issues such as data localisation; intellectual property rights that may have an impact on the accessibility of pharmaceutical drugs; and investment promotion, facilitation, and protection.
EKA Mobility, a provider of electric mobility solutions backed by Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Japan) and VDL Groep (Netherlands), has partnered with KPIT Technologies and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) to introduce a 9-meter hydrogen fuel cell bus at Cochin International Airport (CIAL), Kochi.
The hydrogen fuel cell bus, designed for over 30 passengers, will operate at CIAL as part of a Proof of Concept (PoC) project with a three-year operational period. The bus was showcased at the Global Hydrogen & Renewable Energy Summit held in Kochi on March 12 and 13.
Under this collaboration, EKA Mobility integrated KPIT’s hydrogen fuel cell technology into its 9-meter electric bus, while BPCL developed the hydrogen generation, dispensing, and refueling infrastructure in Kochi. This initiative includes both vehicle deployment and the establishment of necessary hydrogen infrastructure to support operations.
Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder & CEO of EKA Mobility, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating: “At EKA Mobility, we are devoted to pioneering clean energy solutions for sustainable urban transportation. The introduction of our hydrogen fuel cell bus in Kochi highlights our commitment to innovation and sustainable mobility. With our strong equity alliances and engagement with BPCL and KPIT, we seek to speed India’s transition to hydrogen-powered public transportation.”
Mr. Kishor Patil, Co-founder, MD and CEO of KPIT Technologies, said, “Building sustainable solutions by reimagining mobility is at the heart of KPITs vision. We have been persistently working on Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology and other green solutions. We are pleased to be technology partners in this collaboration with EKA Mobility and BPCL, where we come together as an ecosystem around Hydrogen Fuel Cell powered buses to power net zero ambitions of large infrastructure projects in Kerala”
This initiative is part of Kerala’s plan to reduce carbon emissions and assess the feasibility of hydrogen-powered commercial transportation. The project will test the use of hydrogen fuel cell buses in India and examine the potential for investment in hydrogen infrastructure. It will also provide insights for policy discussions on the expansion of hydrogen-based mobility solutions.
