India’s electric mobility transition is entering a decisive phase with public transportation emerging as the flagship for decarbonisation. At the 4th East and Northeast Energy Conclave held in Kolkata, A.K. Saxena, Senior Director at The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), laid out an ambitious yet structured roadmap for how electric vehicles—particularly electric buses—can catalyse a cleaner, more inclusive transport future for India’s eastern and northeastern regions.

The event, organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce, brought together policymakers, energy sector leaders and infrastructure experts to deliberate on regional energy transition strategies. Saxena’s keynote address stood out for its clarity on India’s electric mobility outlook, emphasising that public transport electrification must lead the charge.

Data-driven rollout in Kolkata

TERI’s work with the West Bengal Transport Corporation served as a case in point. The state aims to deploy 1,200 electric buses in Kolkata and Saxena revealed how technology and granular data are at the heart of this transformation. “We carried out a comprehensive traffic survey using GIS mapping and drone analytics to understand routes, congestion points and energy demand,” Saxena said. The insights helped identify optimal locations for EV charging infrastructure across the city.

The approach reflects a broader shift in India’s energy planning—from top-down mandates to data-driven micro-planning. Saxena emphasised that charging infrastructure is not just about installation but about siting, access, demand forecasting and grid-readiness. “The efficiency of public EV fleets hinges on planning that is grounded in real-world usage patterns,” he noted.

National push

In tandem with regional projects, the event also marked the launch of a new EV web portal and a short film on decarbonising public transport, both developed by TERI. These tools aim to enhance public awareness, empower local governments and standardise best practices.

Saxena pointed to TERI’s development of the e-Amrit portal for NITI Aayog—a national dashboard for EV adoption—as another example of institutional capacity-building in the e-mobility space. The platform offers guidance on EV incentives, vehicle types, charging options and ecosystem partners. “Digital platforms like e-Amrit can help streamline decision-making for city planners, fleet operators and even individual consumers,” Saxena added.

Broader energy transition

But Saxena was clear that electric mobility cannot be addressed in isolation, it must be integrated into a larger energy transition framework. He pointed out that e-mobility needs to be powered by clean, renewable energy and not simply displace tailpipe emissions with upstream fossil fuel usage.

“India must ensure that new incremental energy demand from EVs is met through renewables plus storage, not coal,” he said. TERI’s own roadmap recommends phasing out inefficient coal plants and meeting new demand growth through clean sources, particularly solar, wind and hydro.

Battery storage and pumped hydro have been prioritised as key enablers, especially for regions with variable renewables and peak demand mismatches. Saxena cited examples such as the Purulia and Turga pumped storage plants in West Bengal and Aparindavati in Odisha as vital to integrating e-mobility sustainably.

Coordinated ecosystem

One of Saxena’s boldest proposals was the formation of an East and Northeast Energy Transition Council. This cross-state platform would allow for better coordination between utilities, transport agencies and regulators. He argued that states like Odisha, Bihar, Assam and West Bengal can benefit from collaborative planning, especially on issues like charging infrastructure interoperability, storage strategy and renewable energy synergies.

He also floated the idea of setting up solar parks and EV charging corridors specifically tailored for intercity public transport routes. “Kolkata to Bhubaneswar or Guwahati to Shillong could become future-ready with fast-charging lanes,” Saxena said.

On the urban distribution front, Saxena advocated for the creation of distribution system operators (DSOs), specialised agencies tasked with managing decentralised energy flows including bi-directional EV charging, rooftop solar integration and grid balancing. “With vehicle-to-grid technologies on the horizon, the distribution system can no longer be passive,” he asserted.

Inclusive transition

Saxena closed his remarks with a reminder that India’s energy transition must be socially just and inclusive. Electrification of transport must not leave behind regions dependent on fossil fuels or traditional automotive sectors.

“Coal mining communities and internal combustion engine industries must be given retraining opportunities, livelihood alternatives and transition finance,” he said. Public transport electrification, he argued, presents an opportunity not only to cut emissions but to create green jobs, especially in battery servicing, EV manufacturing and smart infrastructure installation.

He acknowledged that the economics of EVs, especially in public fleets, may not yet be universally favourable. “But if we keep waiting for perfect conditions, the transition will remain academic,” Saxena said. “At some point, bold decisions have to be made.”

As India eyes near-universal e-mobility by 2040, Saxena’s remarks offered a realistic yet optimistic roadmap. The push to decarbonise public transport backed by smart tools, local data and clean energy is not just about vehicles. It is about shaping cities that are cleaner, healthier and more equitable for the future.

And in the alleys and arteries of Kolkata, India’s next mobility revolution may already be taking shape.

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Bengaluru-based electric vehicle manufacturer Ultraviolette Automotive has made a striking statement today with the European launch of its flagship performance motorcycles, the F77 Mach 2 and F77 SuperStreet, at a special event held in front of the Eiffel Tower. This move into the French market, following a successful debut in Germany, underscores Ultraviolette's ambitious drive to become a significant global player in the electric vehicle segment. With this the EV maker has established its presence in 10 European countries such as Germany, France, UK, Ireland, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg.

The F77 Mach 2 boasts a race-bred design, promising a dynamic and aggressive ride, while the F77 SuperStreet offers a more upright posture and refined ergonomics, prioritizing rider comfort without sacrificing performance.

Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & Co-Founder, Ultraviolette, said, “The launch of the F77 in Germany, France, the UK and other European countries is a defining moment for Ultraviolette and a landmark achievement for India’s automobile landscape. This launch signifies Ultraviolette’s entry into Europe’s most influential two-wheeler markets and underlines our intent to be a global force in the electric mobility revolution. As an Indian company, we are proud to bring futuristic design and cutting-edge technology to the world. This is a moment of global recognition for the talent and capability within India’s engineering and manufacturing ecosystem. Through our strategic distributor partnerships, we are not only expanding into Europe but also delivering a world-class ownership experience that reflects the best of what India has to offer.”

Both F77 models are capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 kmph in a mere 2.8 seconds. Powered by a 10.3 kWh battery pack, they deliver a peak power output of 30 kW and a staggering 100 Nm of torque, enabling swift acceleration and agile handling with a top speed of 155 km/h. These advanced motorcycles are equipped with Ultraviolette’s proprietary artificial intelligence system, Violette A.I., and industry-leading switchable Dual-Channel ABS developed by Bosch. Further enhancing the riding experience are features like 10 levels of Regenerative Braking, 4 levels of Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control.

Niraj Rajmohan, CTO & Co-founder of Ultraviolette, added “This isn’t just the introduction of motorcycles into new markets, it’s the global unveiling of years of relentless research, engineering, and innovation, born in India. We set out with a bold ambition to build the most advanced electric motorcycle in the world. Today, we are delivering that vision to international customers. The F77 is the result of deep in-house R&D, rigorous testing, and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance, innovation, safety, and design. For India, this milestone represents not just our ability to participate in the global EV transition, but to lead it with technology that competes at the highest level."

To celebrate the European launch, Ultraviolette is offering a special introductory price for all pre-bookings made up to 31 July 31 2025. The F77 Mach 2 will be available starting at EUR 8,990 (regular price: EUR 9,990), and the F77 SuperStreet will be priced from EUR 9,290 (regular price: EUR 10,390).

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Jupiter Electric Mobility (JEM), the electric commercial vehicle arm of Jupiter Wagons, has opened its first showroom in Jayanagar, Bengaluru, marking the regional debut of its flagship electric light commercial vehicle (eLCV), the JEM Tez.

Strategically positioned in one of India’s leading urban logistics hubs, the new facility is designed as a comprehensive experience centre offering sales consultations, test drives, service support and financing options. JEM also operates a dedicated service hub in Devanahalli to support its growing customer base in the region.

The JEM Tez is built to meet the demands of last-mile delivery and intra-city freight movement. It features a certified range of over 190 km, an 80 kW peak motor, 23 percent gradeability and a 1.05-ton payload capacity.

The showroom was inaugurated by Shivanand Kalakeri, IRS, Commissioner of Income Tax (DR), with key members of JEM's leadership present, including Gaurav Jalota, CEO, and Kartik Hajela, CEO of the Battery Division.

Vivek Lohia, Managing Director, Jupiter Group, said, “The inauguration of our first showroom in Bengaluru is a key step in our national rollout strategy. Bengaluru’s thriving logistics ecosystem and growing EV adoption make it the ideal launchpad for the JEM Tez.”

JEM is also actively investing in a full-scale EV ecosystem, partnering with firms such as Porter, Pulse Energy and Automovill to build infrastructure for charging, financing and aftersales support. Through its JEM Udaan programme, the company offers business support to JEM Tez owners.

The launch follows the recent commissioning of JEM’s 2.5-acre manufacturing plant in Pithampur, Indore, which has a capacity of 8,000–10,000 e-LCVs annually, with plans for expansion.

As part of its nationwide growth plan, JEM aims to expand into key EV markets, including Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai, further expanding its share in India’s last-mile electric mobility sector.

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India's USD 15 billion last-mile delivery sector, under pressure from e-commerce growth and urbanisation, is witnessing a green transformation. Jassper Shipping is emerging as a key player in this shift by making electric vehicles the cornerstone of its logistics operations. With 58 EVs already deployed and plans to expand to 150 within six months, the company is building a sustainable delivery network while creating better opportunities for its workforce.

The move comes as India accelerates its EV adoption, with 1.67 million electric vehicles sold in 2023-24, including 3,700 electric buses. Government initiatives like FAME-II's INR 11,500 crore subsidy and INR 800 crore for charging infrastructure further underscore this transition. Jassper's EV-first model delivers triple benefits: reduced carbon emissions, lower operational costs and maintained service excellence.

Unlike traditional logistics firms retrofitting existing fleets, Jassper has built its operations ground-up around electric mobility. The company collaborates with charging infrastructure providers and offers comprehensive EV training to delivery agents. Its unique approach addresses critical industry gaps by providing health/life insurance and competitive pay to gig workers – a rarity in India's logistics sector.

While competing with established players like Delhivery and Ecom Express, Jassper differentiates itself through its ESG-aligned strategy. The company plans to onboard 1,500 delivery partners across Tier 1 and 2 cities, combining environmental responsibility with social impact.

Pushpank Kaushik, CEO & Head of Business Development (Subcontinent, Middle East and Southeast Asia), Jassper Shipping, said, “At Jassper, our electric vehicle (EV) strategy is not just about cutting costs – it’s about driving sustainability and empowering our delivery partners. EVs are a core part of our long-term vision to reduce our carbon footprint, manage fuel cost fluctuations and improve partner profitability through lower operating expenses. As a part of our commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable logistics, we are creating job opportunities by aiming to onboard 1,500 new last-mile delivery partners across India over the next five years. This expansion will enhance our logistics network and help create more sustainable livelihoods. By focusing on efficiency, reach and reliability, we are building a delivery ecosystem that benefits both our partners and our customers.”

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Montra Electric, the clean mobility brand of diversified conglomerate Murugappa Group, has launched its 'SUPER CARGO' electric three-wheeler in Bengaluru. The new SUPER CARGO is aimed at the last-mile 3W cargo segment and claims to provide uncompromised range and power to easily navigate any terrain.

The SUPER CARGO boasts a Sturdy Boron Steel Chassis that offers superior strength and durability, along with best uptime in the category. Featuring the longest wheelbase in its category, it provides a spacious driver's cabin and a 6.2-feet load tray for large delivery applications. The 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery delivers a category-best on-road range of 170 km, while the powerful drivetrain produces 70 Nm torque and 11 kW peak power with 23 percent gradeability. The 1.2-tonne vehicle is engineered to carry all types of loads with ease. The vehicle also features regenerative braking and multiple drive modes for efficiency. On the safety front, the vehicle includes high-performance front disc brakes, hill hold function, reverse assist and provision for seat belts.

There are three cargo body options for the Montra Electric Super Cargo: the 140 cubic foot eCX d, the 170 cubic foot eCX d+ and the tray eCX. Furthermore, two models (Tray eQX and 170 cubic feet eQX d+) include a 15-minute 100 percent Quick Charging option. Super Cargo comes in four colours: Indian Blue, Steel Grey, Stallion Brown and Chilli Red.

Jalaj Gupta, Managing Director, TI Clean Mobility Private Limited, said, "The addition of the Montra Electric SUPER CARGO to our product portfolio marks an exciting new chapter of growth for us in the last-mile delivery segment. While we began our journey in the passenger 3-wheeler space with SUPER AUTO and expanded into first-mile logistics with our RHINO heavy trucks, one segment we always wanted to make a foray is – Cargo for mid and last mile. With EVIATOR, we have already made inroads into the mid-mile segment. And now, with the launch of the SUPER CARGO, we are entering the highly strategic last-mile delivery space. As a Tru-EV brand, our responsibility goes beyond just offering vehicles – it is about enabling a cleaner, efficient future. With this, we are proud to expand our presence across segments and power India’s mobility shift towards sustainability.”

Roy Kurian, Business Head – Last Mile Mobility, Montra Electric, said, “Montra Electric SUPER CARGO is engineered with deep customer insights. It is packaged with unique features, and the 15-minute full charging option is a great benefit for B2B players. The Super Cargo is well-suited for a variety of applications for both fleet operators and individual entrepreneurs. Our expanding dealer network assures uptime across the nation.”

Arun Vinayak, Co-Founder, Exponent Energy, said, “We are excited to partner with Montra Electric. Our 15-minute 100 percent charging solution has been well accepted by the market for its potential to unlock higher asset utilisation, and this strategic partnership with Montra Electric will help us take forward the clean mobility agenda at enhanced scale. We will closely work with the brand to expand our charging network in line with customer requirements across the cities they are present in.”

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