Kalyani Powertrain, Revfin, and Bluwheelz Partner to Introduce retrofitted Electric Trucks in India

Key Highlights:

• KPTL, Bluwheelz, and Revfin team up for retrofitted electric trucks in India's logistics, targeting EV fleets in 5 years.
• KPTL homologates 10-16T GVW electric trucks for FMCG and e-commerce.
• Retrofitting is crucial for sustainable urban transport, and needs cheaper financing and supportive schemes.
• Revfin CEO advocates for simplified regulations for global decarbonization.
• Bluwheelz highlights 7-10T payload for intercity routes, focusing on sustainable transport.

Kalyani Powertrain Ltd (KPTL), Bharat Forge Ltd's electric mobility subsidiary, has partnered with Bluwheelz, a provider of sustainable logistics solutions, and Revfin, a digital lending platform focused on sustainable mobility, to introduce retrofitted electric trucks to the Indian logistics market. The initiative intends to help truck fleets transition to electric vehicles over the next five years.

Retrofitting is regarded as a critical stage in the evolution of urban transportation, helping to create sustainable and smart cities by extending the life of outdated vehicles and preventing them from being scrapped. 

KPTL has successfully certified retrofitted electric trucks in the 10-16T GVW category for the N3 Goods Carrier segment. These electric trucks in India are intended to support a variety of industries, including FMCG, e-commerce, cement, steel, and perishable commodities.

However, the adoption of retrofitted EVs and EVs in general would necessitate lower-cost financing from financial and climate-focused institutions, as well as support schemes and incentives for obtaining carbon credits.

Sameer Aggarwal, Revfin's CEO and Founder, underlined the necessity of retrofitting in reaching global decarbonization and net-zero targets. He also supported for rules that ease retrofitting procedures and extend vehicle registration beyond 15 years.

Amit Kalyani, Vice-Chairman and Joint Managing Director of Bharat Forge Ltd, noted that KPTL is committed to establishing sustainable transportation infrastructure and promoting retrofitted vehicles, which can result in a 24% reduction in Total Cost of Ownership when compared to new electric versions.

CP Sethi, CEO and Co-founder of Bluwheelz, stated that the modified electric trucks can carry payloads ranging from 7-10T and are intended to operate on interstate routes.

The move from internal combustion engine-powered vehicles to electric vehicles poses challenges, but a coordinated effort incorporating government initiatives, industry collaboration, and public participation can help overcome these obstacles and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Also Read: Tata Motors Approves Demerger of Commercial Vehicles Business

CMV360 Says

Retrofitting offers a practical solution to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. However, addressing financing challenges and streamlining regulations will be crucial for widespread adoption.