Bengaluru-based electric vehicle charging solution start-up Flextron has launched FlexStack, a made-in-India rapid-charging technology that is set to transform the EV experience for two-wheelers.

The start-up claims that FlexStack offers 10-minute rapid charging allowing EVs to charge at an impressive speed of 6km per minute, reaching 80 percent charge in just 10 minutes. This scalable solution provides fast charging with Battery-As-A-Service (BAAS), offering a seamless, low CAPEX solution.

FlexStack's innovative design it claims reduces charging downtime by 95 percent, increasing end-user productivity by 30 percent, which in turn boosts fleet operators' subscriptions. This it states is an ideal solution for fleet owners looking to enhance efficiency and increase the vehicle uptime. FlexStack can be integrated with existing EVs at a minimal retrofit cost, eliminating the need for additional battery swapping docks for EVs. The start-up says it can customise the batteries between 48V to 72V to meet different vehicle architecture, enabling multiple OEMs to adopt the technology and provide a competitive edge.

With a capacity of 2.5 kW and 50 AH at 52V, FlexStack charges from zero to 80 percent in just 10 minutes, and comes with a 3-year standard warranty, with an option to extend for an additional 2 years. The system utilises advanced liquid cooling technology for optimal performance and durability, with LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery chemistry ensuring safety and longevity.

The start-up is also introducing a subscription-based model, starting at an introductory price of INR 2,400 per month, offering unlimited charging. This approach reduces upfront capex on the fleet operators and end users, making rapid charging more accessible and supporting widespread adoption of electric mobility.

Ameen Khan, CTO, Flextron said, “At Flextron, we take immense pride in our commitment to support the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Our battery packs are built with locally manufactured cells, making us one of the early adopters of an entirely homegrown fast-charging battery system for electric two-wheelers. By introducing Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) and enabling rapid charging within just 10 minutes, we’re redefining the electric vehicle experience for EV Users. This innovation is poised to address the long-standing challenge of charging time.”

As part of its expansion strategy, Flextron aims to deploy 100 FlexGrid chargers in the next 90 days, to enable rapid charging in just 10 minutes with Flexstack, which provides 80-90km range. The chargers the company shares are priced competitively, being significantly less expensive than other GBT/CCS2 - DC chargers.

In comparison to a battery swapping station, the cost of FlexGrid chargers is said to be just one-third and also does not require grid upgradation.

Bengaluru-based electric vehicle company Ola Electric has commenced what could be seen as the next evolution of the automotive purchasing experience. The company has commenced pilot ‘HyperDelivery’ for its range of e-scooters, which will see customers get same-day delivery and registration for their EV.

HyperDelivery is being tested in Bengaluru, which will then be rolled out in a phased manner across India. HyperDelivery is being tested in Bengaluru, which will then be rolled out in a phased manner across India.

“We have significantly cut the processing time of registering the vehicles through AI-led automation and by moving the registration process completely in-house. We are excited to announce #HyperDelivery which has completely transformed the vehicle purchase and delivery experience in the automotive segment. With this we are ensuring a much smoother purchase experience for our customers, eliminating tedious purchase processes and longer delivery timelines,” said the company in a statement.

The EV maker shared that it is leveraging AI to automate the majority of the steps in a registration process, which eliminates the need for additional resources during the typical registration process.

Numeros Motors, a new-age original equipment manufacturer specialising in indigenous electric vehicles (EVs), has launched an NFT-backed loyalty programme in collaboration with Polygon. This first of its-kind initiative in the EV industry, integrating blockchain technology into customer engagement, will reward the first 1,000 buyers of Diplos with a unique digital collectible.

The NFT series ‘The Journey’ consists of 10 original artworks, each with 100 copies, that depict Diplos conquering the essence of India's many landscapes and the spirit of adventure that characterises the brand's motto, ‘Gets It Done’. Customers that own one join a limited group that prioritises performance, resiliency and progressive mobility. These NFTs, which are protected on Polygon's blockchain, provide exclusivity, authenticity and a more in-depth interaction with the brand.

This programme adds value to the Diplos experience by providing holders with access to premium products, invites to special events and priority customer service in addition to the NFT. These NFTs serve as a permanent remembrance of their role in Numeros Motors' history since they are soul-bound, meaning they are always connected to their original owners. In April of this year, Numeros Motors will also open its first store in Bangalore that is owned and run by the firm.

Shreyas Shibulal, Founder and CEO, Numeros Motors, said, "Diplos was built for those who move forward, challenge limits and embrace new possibilities. This NFT initiative is our way of recognising and celebrating our customers who believe in our vision. By integrating blockchain technology into customer engagement, we are creating an ownership experience that extends beyond the ride itself."

Sulajja Firodia Motwani, the Founder & CEO of Kinetic Green, was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Literature by the Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth Institute in Pune.

The recognition was conferred to Motwani for her contribution towards driving the adoption of electric vehicles in the country. An MBA from Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania, USA, she has also worked towards promoting manufacturing in the country and has held notable positions at the Federation of Indian Chambers Of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) and Indian Federation of Green Energy (IFGE).

“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive this recognition. The Firodia family has always by synonymous with strong values, nation building, self-reliance and a deep-rooted sense of nationalism. This acknowledgement inspires me to further serve for the greater good, a mission that we at Kinetic Green are constantly working towards,” said Motwani.

Škoda Auto has released a teaser clip of the all-new Elroq vRS, offering a first glimpse of both its exterior and interior. The world premiere is scheduled to take place digitally on 3 April 2025 and will be streamed live on Škoda’s official YouTube channel.

Following its digital unveiling, the all-electric compact SUV will make its public debut at Milan Design Week 2025 in the Padiglione d'Arte Contemporanea gallery in the Porta Venezia Design District. In keeping with Škoda's Be More Elroq campaign, the exhibition will showcase the Elroq vRS as the focal point of an experiential journey from 8 to 13 April 2025. The show will also feature the official launch of Botas sneakers, which are based on Škoda Modern Solid design principles, in honour of the company's 130th anniversary. These sneakers were created in collaboration with the Škoda Auto design team. Members of the Škoda team will wear one of the three versions that are planned for the occasion.