Epsilon Carbon Integrates Five Electric Trucks Into Its Logistics Operations
- By MT Bureau
- September 05, 2024
Epsilon Carbon has integrated a fleet of five electric trucks into its logistics operations. This initiative is in line with its support towards India's ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070 and makes it the first Indian company in the sector to implement electric trucks for its raw material-coal tar logistics.
The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is poised for explosive growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 66 percent, putting the industry's valuation at USD 200 billion by 2030. Last year, Epsilon Carbon made its debut with a single electric vehicle, transporting over 29,000 MT of coal tar, or 16 percent of its annual major raw material requirement, while reducing CO2 emissions by 25.4 metric tonnes. The company projects that the addition of new electric trucks will result in a 127 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions reduction.
With a 258-kWh battery capacity and 185 km of range, all five of the vehicles are heavy-duty models that will facilitate an easy transition to electric logistics. The incorporation of electric trucks is in line with Epsilon Carbon's overarching sustainability objectives, which also include lowering its operational carbon footprint, implementing greener technology throughout the value chain and supporting India's more ambitious climate action targets.
Vikram Handa, Managing Director, Epsilon Carbon, said, “India’s road logistics industry plays a vital role in the overall economy, handling 70 percent of domestic freight. As responsible leaders in the chemical industry, we recognise the importance of integrating sustainability considerations through electric trucks, which shows our proactive commitment to minimising our environmental impact. This initiative also showcases our support towards India's ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070. As our fully integrated carbon black and specialty carbon facility in Bellary, Karnataka thus stands as a testament to this commitment, showcasing how sustainable practices can be seamlessly woven into large-scale industrial operations, we plan to executive the initiative from this plant."
Vingroup Launches ‘Trade Gas For Electric’ Initiative To Combat Fuel Volatility
- By MT Bureau
- March 11, 2026
Vingroup has launched a multi-market initiative called ‘Trade Gas for Electric’, responding to fluctuations in global fuel prices by incentivising a shift to electric mobility across Vietnam, India, Indonesia and the Philippines. The programme provides additional discounts for customers who replace their old gasoline-powered vehicles with new VinFast electric models. During the promotional period, those making the switch will receive an extra three percent off electric cars and a five percent discount on electric scooters, applied on top of existing incentives already available in each market.
In alignment with this effort, the broader Vingroup ecosystem is also enhancing affordability. GSM Green and Smart Mobility Joint Stock Company, operating as Xanh SM in Vietnam and Green SM in Indonesia, has implemented a temporary fare reduction. From 11 to 31 March 2026, customers using its electric mobility services will benefit from a 10 percent decrease in fares, offering an economical and eco-conscious travel alternative. This reduction applies across the specified markets, reinforcing the group's commitment to accessible green transport.
The layered incentives are designed to accelerate the transition away from gasoline dependency, providing financial relief and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. By layering these new discounts with existing programmes, Vingroup aims to make electric vehicle adoption more attainable. Depending on international developments and future shifts in fuel costs, the campaign may see an extension, reflecting the company’s dedication to fostering a cleaner living environment and greater economic stability for communities.
Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Sales, VinFast, said, “The special 'Trade Gas for Electric' programme launched in March across four key markets is VinFast’s timely response to geopolitical volatility that is affecting socio-economic conditions in many countries around the world. As one of the pioneering manufacturers leading the global electric vehicle revolution, VinFast together with companies in Vingroup’s green ecosystem aims to help reduce the impact of fuel prices on people’s daily lives while also lowering environmental pollution through smarter, more sustainable and more cost-efficient mobility solutions.”
Samarth E-Mobility Unveils Indigenous Full-Stack EV Technology Platform
- By MT Bureau
- March 10, 2026
Samarth E-Mobility has announced the development of a 100 percent indigenous electric vehicle (EV) technology platform. Engineered and manufactured in India, the full-stack system integrates critical components including the battery pack, motor and power electronics, which will power the company’s upcoming electric motorcycle.
The platform was developed over three years at the company’s R&D facility in Kalol, Gujarat. It features in-house hardware and software, including a battery management system (BMS), motor controller, power control module (PCM), DC-DC converter and an AI-controlled onboard fast charger with a 1500W capacity.
Samarth E-Mobility has completed homologation for its battery pack through NATRAX, while its BMS has been validated by iCAT. The technology has undergone 51,000 km of real-world riding and 3,400 km of torture testing to ensure reliability across Indian climatic conditions.
It has developed rare-earth-free motor, 1500W onboard fast charger with AI control and proprietary operating system and instrument cluster.
The company stated its manufacturing facility in Chhatral, Gujarat, has a monthly capacity of 45,000 units for the new products.
The company operates a 150,000 sqft manufacturing site, providing an annual capacity of over 500,000 units. By producing the technology stack in-house, the firm aims to reduce import dependency and build domestic intellectual property within the electric two-wheeler value chain.
Priyank Rakholiya, Co-Founder, Samarth E-Mobility, said, “India’s EV transition demands more than assembly-driven solutions. It requires deep engineering, indigenous innovation and products designed ground-up for Indian riders. At Samarth E-Mobility, we have spent the last three years building our entire technology stack in-house from battery systems and software architecture to motor and power electronics. Our endeavour is to enter the electric motorcycle segment, backed by validated technology, patented designs, and a clear vision to deliver reliable, high-performance electric mobility solutions. We will soon launch our brand in the premium aspirational space, reinforcing our commitment to building a truly self-reliant EV ecosystem in India.”
New CUPRA Born Debuts With Enhanced Design And Performance
- By MT Bureau
- March 06, 2026
CUPRA has unveiled an evolved version of its first all-electric model, the CUPRA Born, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to challenging conventions. The vehicle has been comprehensively re-engineered to offer a more intense and emotionally engaging driving experience, marked by striking exterior updates, a refined cabin and enhanced technology.
The exterior evolution embraces CUPRA’s dynamic design language, featuring newly sculpted front and rear bumpers. Distinctive triangular Matrix LED headlights complement a prominent illuminated CUPRA logo, which is now seamlessly integrated into the three-dimensional rear light cluster, enhancing the car’s visual presence.


On the interior front, the focus is on driver engagement and elevated quality. A redesigned steering wheel now incorporates intuitive physical controls, while new door panels contribute to a more premium feel. The immersive digital environment is amplified by a larger 10.25-inch digital cockpit, supported by an augmented reality head-up display. The auditory experience has also been transformed, with a Sennheiser Contrabass sound system delivering deep, immersive bass, while a newly developed Interior Sound Signature strengthens the connection between the driver and the machine.

Performance remains a core pillar, with the new Born intensifying every journey through its hallmark electrifying dynamics. Drivers can select from four distinct motor and battery configurations. Features such as launch control, a new One Pedal Driving System and wider tyres for both 19- and 20-inch wheels further sharpen the driving experience. This performance is matched by an updated suite of safety systems, including Travel Assist 3.0 with cloud-enhanced functionality, new Crossroad Assist, an upgraded Front Assist and pre-crash protection with rear detection.
The new Born offers flexible powertrain choices to suit different needs. The V1 and V2 versions, equipped with a 58-kWh battery, achieve an estimated range of around 279 miles (approximately 449 km). For extended range, both these models and the range-topping VZ version can be specified with a 79-kWh battery, targeting approximately 372 miles (approximately 598 km). Personalisation is available through six exterior colours, including the newly introduced Timanfaya Grey.

Keto Motors Receives CMVR Approval For Urbanova KE9 Electric Bus
- By MT Bureau
- March 05, 2026
Hyderabad-based electric vehicle company Keto Motors has secured CMVR Type Approval Certification from the Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC) for its nine-metre Urbanova KE9 electric bus. The certification confirms the vehicle's compliance with safety and performance standards, including structural integrity and range efficiency.
The company is now initiating customer demonstrations and preparing for deployments across State Transport Undertakings (STUs), school fleets and employee transportation providers.
The Urbanova KE9 is engineered for urban mobility and smart city networks. Through a technology partnership with TRON, a Taiwanese E-bus OEM, Keto Motors utilises liquid-cooled battery technology, a self-developed Battery Management System (BMS) and Fleet Management Systems (FMS).
The e-bus features a 245 kW liquid-cooled PMSM motor delivering 3000 Nm of torque. A claimed cruise range of 188 km (IDC) and a top speed of 80 kmph. It can accommodate 31 seated and 11 standing passengers. It supports CCS2 fast charging support, regenerative braking, ABS and air suspension.
The company aims to start production in early FY2027 at the company’s 20-acre facility in Jadcherla, Telangana. The plant features in-house bus body manufacturing and testing systems, with an annual capacity of 1,000 units.
In addition to the nine-metre model, Keto Motors is developing 12-metre and 6-metre platforms to expand its presence across the public transport sector.
Venkatesh Challa, Director of Keto Motors, said, “Securing CMVR Type Approval for the Urbanova KE9 is a defining milestone for Keto Motors. This certification reinforces our commitment to delivering dependable, high-performance electric mobility solutions designed specifically for Indian roads and fleet operators. With approvals in place, we are now focused on accelerating customer deployments and supporting India’s transition toward clean, zero-emission public transport.”

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