5 most popular Electric Passenger Three-Wheelers in India

Let us now have a look at the Top 5 Electric Auto-rickshaws or electric three-wheeler in India.

Electric three-wheelers are in high demand, just like electric cars and bikes. The demand for three-wheeler in the Indian market is exponentially expanding. This forced the automakers to shift toward the electrification of their fleet to remain in the market. One of the causes for the growth of the electric three-wheeler market is to expand EV usage in the country.

Furthermore, due to fame policy, EV subsidies, government regulations, battery R&D, and advancements in EV infrastructure, commercial vehicle manufacturers are currently focusing on electrification and three-wheeler production. These factors have contributed to increased consumer numbers by making EVs more accessible, resulting in higher sales figures for three-wheeler producers.

The electric three-wheeler is leading the EV revolution in India, as seen by the fact that electric three-wheelers account for 81% of year-on-year sales in February 2023. This category has grown dramatically as a result of subsidies from the Central and State Governments, as well as strong program promotion by the governments. In addition, aggressive financing programs continue to support expansion in this area.

So, government regulations and subsidies have doubled manufacturers' profits and made it cheaper to buy an electric three-wheeler with gains, it is safe to say that now is the best time for you to start producing electric rickshaws or buy an electric three-wheeler or electric rickshaw to expand your fleet operations and transport business in India.

The main advantages of Electric three-wheelers are that they are eco-friendly and cost-effective. Electric vehicles are being used for first and last-mile journeys in India. The electric three-wheeler has become immensely popular in cities and towns as one of the most affordable last-mile vehicles compared to giving IC engines vehicle runs for their money. Numerous local players have started catering to this growing demand, yet they lack the technology or manufacturing capabilities of a world-class product.

During Phase II of FAME, the government intends to provide subsidies to over 5 lakh electric three-wheelers. Overall, the Indian government intends to take steps toward the ultimate goal of pollution-free transportation. Let us now have a look at the Top 5 Electric Auto-rickshaws or electric three-wheeler in India.

What do you mean by electric three-wheeler?

The Electric Three-Wheeler Market is divided into two sections:

Passenger Carrier: This category accounts for a sizable portion of the three-wheeler market. The Passenger Carrier is also known as an e-Rickshaw or Electric Auto Rickshaw. This vehicle is primarily used in metropolitan areas, where it accounts for the majority of intra-city transportation. Because of the low per-kilometre cost, it is gradually becoming the preferred choice over ICE three-wheelers.

Load Carriers: A modified version of the Electric Auto Rickshaw that is used to transport goods, also known as an Electric Three-Wheeler Loader. Because of its function, the loader looks very different from the e-Rickshaw. Load carriers have a higher motor power, allowing them to carry heavy loads (500 kg to 1000 kg).

Almost all E3Ws are powered by lead-acid batteries. These are inexpensive and simple to replace, eliminating the need to wait for recharging.

Electric three-wheelers (E3W), particularly rickshaws, have taken over large sections of Indian roads without regard for government policy. They are now the most common mode of transportation for last-mile connectivity (the last leg of a journey from a transportation hub to a final destination). According to various reports, there are over 1.5 million such vehicles in India. Every month, over 10,000 new vehicles are added to the fleet.

We have compiled a list of the 5 most popular Electric Passenger Three-Wheelers in India in this article. Furthermore, we will discuss briefly each of them.

1. Mahindra Treo

The Mahindra Treo is a revolutionary new electric vehicle, e-rickshaw, and cargo version. The Mahindra Treo, which is powered by advanced Lithium-ion technology, provides greater savings, superior ride quality, and the best-in-class interior space. Ride the wave of change with the Mahindra Treo for a brighter tomorrow! The Mahindra Treo's powerful engine delivers maximum power and the highest torque.

Key Features

• Brake: hydraulic brakes
• Wheelbase: 2073mm
• Mileage: 130 Kms/full charge
• Maximum Speed: 55 Kms/hr
• Battery: Lithium-Ion
• Seating Capacity: Driver+3
• Low running cost
• The Mahindra Treo is available in an Electric version with a Direct Drive transmission.
• Other features include connectivity, live tracking, telematics, App with the Treo to help customers run an efficient, value-for-money and environment-friendly vehicle.

Mahindra Treo’s price in India starts from Rs. 2.88 lakhs.

2. Piaggio Ape E City

The Piaggio Ape three-wheeler is India's most popular auto-rickshaw last-mile vehicle. The familiar Ape in diesel/CNG/Petrol form is now available in an all-electric battery-powered form. Piaggio wants to provide you with a greener, more sustainable last-mile vehicle that is lower in operating costs and higher in profit.

Ape E City is a well-known passenger carrier three-wheeler with no sound, no clutch, and a fuel tank that looks similar to the regular one. You can use the Ape E City for your daily business needs because it is easy to drive, powerful and has enough space for 3-4 passengers, is packed with features, and has an overall superior build quality. The top speed is 45 kmph, and the driving range is approximately 110 km, with hydraulically actuated drum brakes.

Key Features

• Payload Capacity: 390 Kg
• Mileage: 110 Kms/full charge
• Maximum Speed: 45 Kms/hr
• Battery: Lithium-Ion
• Seating Capacity: Driver+3
• Running Cost: 39 paisa/km*
• GVW: 689 kg
• Wheelbase: 1920 mm
• Other features include safer doors and blue vision lamps for better night-time visibility.

Piaggio Ape E City’s price in India starts from Rs. 2.84 lakhs.

3. Atul Auto Elite Plus

Atul Auto is a well-known brand that manufactures a variety of conventional three-wheelers in the passenger and cargo segments, and it now offers an equally capable portfolio of full-electric three-wheelers. The Elite Plus is a passenger carrier e-rickshaw designed for last-mile mobility needs. Atul Elite Plus is a full-electric, battery-powered auto-rickshaw that promises lower operating costs and higher earning potential. For all of your last-mile mobility needs, the Elite Plus is an affordable, lightweight, and well-built vehicle.

Key Features

• Payload capacity: 400 Kg.
• GVW: 699 kg
• Mileage: 80 Kms/full charge
• Maximum Speed: 24 Kms/hr
• Battery: Lead Acid
• Seating Capacity: Driver+4
• The Atul Elite Plus is available in Electric and Automatic transmission configurations.

Atul Elite Plus price in India starts from Rs. 1.12 lakh.

4. Mahindra E-Alfa mini

Mahindra has another e-rickshaw in the segment, the E-Alfa mini, which is reasonably priced and promises better performance. The E-Alfa mini has a maximum power of 2 hp and a torque of 3.2 Nm, a 1000 W BLDC motor, and a certified range of approximately 85 km. The overall length is 2768 mm, the height is 1794 mm, the width is 995 mm, and the ground clearance is 195 mm. The seating arrangement is a driver plus four passengers.

Key Features

• Wheelbase: 2168 mm
• GVW: 758 kg
• Mileage: 85 Kms/full charge
• Top Speed: 25 Kms/hr
• Battery: Lead Acid
• Seating Capacity: Driver+4
• Five Colors: RED, BLUE, WHITE, YELLOW, GREEN

Mahindra E-Alfa mini price in India starts from Rs. 1.26 Lakh.

5. Kinetic Safar Smart

Kinetic Green is another brand that is attempting to compete with established players with its range of electric vehicles designed and developed in India for Indian driving and operating conditions. Kinetic Green's EV lineup includes passenger vehicles, commercial three-wheelers, and two-wheelers.

The Kinetic Safar Smart is a strong three-wheeler that can be purchased in the last-mile mobility category. With a BLDC motor, the Safar Smart can travel 80 kilometres on a single charge. Passengers have plenty of legroom, and the driver has comfortable seating. It comes with a three-year warranty as part of the FAME II subsidy.

Key Features

• Length: 2785 mm, Width: 998 mm, Height: 1790 mm
• Ground clearance: 220 mm
• Gradeability: 10.2 Degree
• Charging time: 2 hrs
• Battery - Lithium:4kwh, Lead Acid: 140 Ah
• 1.2 kw BLDC Type Motor
• GVW: 679kg
• The Kinetic Safar Smart is available in Electric and Direct Drive configurations.

Kinetic Safar Smart’s price range in India starts from Rs. 1.53 lakh.

List of the above-mentioned Most Popular Electric Passenger Three Wheelers in India

| MODEL | Starting Price ||----------------------------|-------------------|| Mahindra Treo | Rs 2.88 Lakh || Piaggio Ape E City | Rs 2.84 Lakh || Atul Elite Plus | Rs 1.12 lakh || Mahindra E-Alfa mini | Rs 1.26 lakh || Kinetic Safar Smart | Rs 1.53 Lakh |

Conclusion

Electric passenger three-wheelers have recently gained popularity, and because they are very environmentally friendly, the Indian government is also encouraging their use. They have implemented subsidies through the FAME scheme that can help you save money when purchasing these electric three-wheelers.

Always Choose the vehicle as per your requirement, it will help you increase your revenue. With that said, I'd like to conclude this article. Contact us if you need more information or have any doubts about purchasing electric passenger Three Wheelers in India. We will provide you with appropriate guidance and help you to make a better choice.

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