An interesting picture is emerging in India as the EV scene heats up. The big players like Bajaj Auto, TVS Motor Company and Hero MotoCorp and Honda Motorcycles & Scooters India have shed any reservation they would have had about India’s EV market to mark their presence. The movement of these big wigs in the 2-wheeler space is taking place amid a certain clout created by new entrants at the organised end of the EV market like Ather Energy and Ola Electric as well as at the unorganised end of the EV market by entrants like E-Ashwa, ADMS e-bikes, Miracle 5, etc.

What is turning the EV scene in India more interesting is how the small EV players that could be described as those belonging to the unorganised part, are organising themselves to take on the big wigs. A recent development in Maharashtra where the transport authorities seized and fined low-speed two-wheelers that could exceed the stipulated maximum speed of 25 kmph and possibly possessed batteries and motors that exceeded the capacity put down in the rules has led to the smaller EV players to organise themselves as an association that would help them deal with any such eventualities in the future. The treatment meted out to them during the event made them think of a strategy that would effectively make them portray themselves as bigger and stronger. Make them possess the ability to represent themselves better and to lobby effectively if the needs arises.  

A similar development is taking place in the three-wheeler category as well. Starting of as small enterprises, electric three-wheeler manufacturers from across the country are beginning to organise themselves as they find that the bigger and better organised players like Piaggio and Ampere are beginning to corner a share of the electric three-wheeler market in the passenger as well as the cargo carrier level.

Moving up the value chain and taking to work closely with Indian suppliers, the smaller three-wheeler manufacturers are investing in better R&D, seeking help from specialised associates at the testing and components supply end to ensure that their vehicles meet the regulatory demand as well as the market expectations.  

Smaller electric three-wheeler manufacturers are also working closely with financiers to drive sales while keeping an eye on the regulatory changes and announcement of incentives by states as they announce EV policies in line with the one that the Union Government has drawn. Drawing attention to the EV policy announced by the State of Haryana, Suman Mishra, CEO, Mahindra Electric Mobility, said that her ompany welcomes the move. Terming it as ground breaking, she averred, “What is encouraging is that there is a comprehensive EV policy backing this move. Slashing emissions from the road transport sector forms a pivotal part of India's efforts to de-carbonise its economy and a well-articulated, incentivised EV policy is crucial to creating a conducive environment for the adoption of EVs.” 

As the bigger players like Mahindra and Piaggio continue to invest in network expansion, technology upgradation and development of products that are more efficient, the smaller players are taking to collaborations. They are working closely with components suppliers – many of whom are common to the bigger players – to ensure reliance on technology and to enhance their ability to sell reliable EVs. An emerging EV supply chain is almost ‘God-sent’ to the smaller Indian EV manufacturers. Also, the emergence of unique solutions providers like those that are supplying battery pack casing to facilitate easy swapping or charging of the battery or those that are making available test and certification facilities that would otherwise need high investments.  

Opinions and feedbacks have been called for by an agency under the aegis of Niti Aayog to prepare a draft for battery swapping policy even as the BIS standard has been made mandatory for EV batteries. There is however a need to reconsider the battery dimension regulation as far as the terminals are concerned, it seems. An industry source mentioned that a new concept of sunken terminals which are safe and efficient rather than the lead-acid battery-like terminals said to be under consideration with appropriate protection show go a long way in revolutioning the use of lithium-ion batteries, he informed.

The battery swapping policy draft is expected to be made public by the end of July 2022 and a policy expected to be announced soon after. At the passenger vehicle level, it is the big wigs like MG Motors and Tata Motors who have been calling the shots. New entrants like BYD are also planting their feet in the market that is growing at a fair pace. As the charging infrastructure grows amid high fossil fuel prices, electric passenger vehicles are growing in the face of attractive incentives, a growing drive range and increase vehicle performance.  

At the CV level too, it is a combination of established players like Tata Motors and new entrants like Olectra-BYD and JBM that have been calling the shots. The EV proliferation is at the bus-end of the market. The buyers are mostly city and state transport organisations. The act of purchasing electric buses is also helped by government initiatives like FAME II, which is claimed to be public transport oriented, are helping their proliferation. Given the complex nature of contracts for the supply of electric buses to government and semi-government organisations, it is the organised players with a deep understanding of the market that are at the forefront. What is surprising is how the new entrants like JBM and Olectra-BYD have succeeded in getting a strong hold. Their e-buses too are found along side the e-buses supplied by Tata Motors and Ashok Leyland in most cities in India.  

EVs have been big levelling act in India, mentioned an industry source. He drew attention to how the smaller and bigger players are jostling for the same market space almost. A right thrust on infrastructure creation and an emphasis on generation of electricity from greener sources should help EVs to prove to an extent that their cost to the environment is lower than that of the fossil-fuel vehicles, he added. For EVs to be truly environmentally friendly, efforts are being for scientific recycling and processing of vehicles and their components. The small and big players are expected to work together to achieve this goal, making the EV ecosystem in India are ‘true levelling’ ground. Something, which the fossil-fuel intensive auto sector has so far been unsuccessful to create.  

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Switch Mobility, the e-buses and LCV business of the Hinduja Group, has flagged off the first batch of 10 electric buses (out of 100 e-buses) for the National Transport Corporation (NTC) of Mauritius.

The e-buses are said to be a special gift from the people and Government of India to the people and Government of Mauritius. The ceremonial launch was graced by Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, GCSK, FRCP, Prime Minister of the Republic of Mauritius; Osman Mahomed, Minister of Land Transport; Anurag Srivastava, High Commissioner of India to Mauritius and other eminent dignitaries from India and Mauritius.

The 100 Switch EiV12 buses are purpose-built, developed in Chennai and can seat up to 45 passengers. The buses are delivered through an open tender conducted by Convergence Energy Services (CESL) in India, will be operated by the National Transport Corporation (NTC), Mauritius' state-owned public transport operator.

RG Venkataraman, Chief Commercial Officer, Switch Mobility, said, "We are proud to deliver our Switch EiV 12 electric buses to Mauritius, a key milestone that brings our 'Make in India, for the World' vision to life. The Switch EiV12 buses, which integrate advanced global technology with the strength of Indian manufacturing, support Mauritius’ vision for a sustainable and healthier future. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to clean mobility, enhanced urban transport, environmental preservation, and improved quality of life for Mauritian citizens. Through our intelligent technology we are dedicated to empowering Mauritius with smart, efficient, and eco-friendly transportation solutions that will drive progress towards cleaner, more resilient cities."

The Switch EiV12 efficient rear-end dual-gun charging interface ensures rapid recharging and also optimises depot spaces. It is powered by Switch iON, the proprietary telematics system, that offers real-time vehicle health monitoring, ITMS, and efficient fleet management. The company shared to prioritise passenger safety, the bus is equipped with an advanced Fire Detection and Suppression System (FDSS). The floor-mounted LFP batteries contribute to a lower centre of gravity, ensuring excellent vehicle stability.

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Bengaluru-based electric two-wheeler maker Ather Energy has expanded its product line-up in Nepal with the introduction with the Ather Rizta e-scooter.

It was in November 2023 that Ather marked its entry in Nepal with the Ather 450 series and most recently introduced the 2025 Ather 450 in the region. Since then, it has established 9 Experience Centres and 6 Service Centres in the region along with 22 Ather Grid fast chargers.

Ravneet Singh Phokela, Chief Business Officer, Ather Energy, said, "Nepal was our first international market, and over the last two years, we have seen strong consumer interest and a very encouraging response to the Ather 450 series. To meet the growing demand, we have also steadily expanded our footprint across the country. With the launch of the Rizta, we are tapping into a new segment of family buyers who prioritise comfort and convenience in their everyday rides. We are hoping to see the same strong response for the Rizta as we’ve seen for the 450 series."

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Swedish electric performance car brand Polestar has earned further acclaim for its innovative design philosophy. The Polestar 4 has secured the coveted Red Dot ‘Best of the Best’ award for 2025 in the Product Design category, celebrating its meticulous craftsmanship and bold design language. Both the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 also received the Red Dot Label in the same category.

As one of the world's most prestigious design competitions, Red Dot acknowledged the Polestar 4's standout feature – its unconventional rear-windowless design – while praising its seamless fusion of coupe-like dynamism and SUV functionality. Additional design highlights include sleek frameless mirrors, distinctive dual-blade headlights and celestial-inspired ambient lighting, all contributing to its award-winning aesthetic. The ‘Best of the Best’ honour represents the highest Red Dot recognition, awarded only to groundbreaking designs that redefine industry benchmarks. An international jury of design experts rigorously assesses each entry through hands-on evaluation across multiple criteria.

This latest achievement builds on Polestar's strong Red Dot legacy, which includes prior "Best of the Best" wins for the Polestar 2, Brand of the Year distinction, and recognition for brand identity and design literature. These accolades reinforce Polestar's position as a leader in automotive design innovation.

“The Polestar 4 impressively succeeds in harmonising the technical complexity of such an advanced vehicle with design qualities such as simplicity and clarity,” remarked the jury.

Philipp Römers, Global Head of Design, Polestar, said, “This recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of the Design Team here at Polestar. We are thrilled to see the work and commitment to distinctive design resonate with the jury.”

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Exicom Tele-Systems Limited, a leading Indian manufacturer of EV charging and critical power solutions, has successfully raised around INR 2.59 billion through its recently concluded Rights Issue. The offering, which saw strong oversubscription, highlights sustained investor confidence and robust promoter support.

The Rights Issue, open from 15 to 30 July 2025, allotted 1,814,000 fully paid-up equity shares at INR 143 per share in a 3:20 ratio for eligible shareholders as of the record date 7 July 2025. Promoters demonstrated their commitment by subscribing to approximately INR 1.20 billion, reinforcing their belief in Exicom’s future growth.

Proceeds will primarily strengthen the company’s financial position by reducing debt, with a target debt-to-equity ratio of 1:4 by FY26. The funds will also support global expansion efforts, including enhancing market presence in the US, Europe and Australia through Tritium, alongside covering general corporate expenses. This successful capital raise positions Exicom to accelerate its EV charging and energy solutions business while driving long-term value for stakeholders.

Anant Nahata, Managing Director and CEO, Exicom, said, “We are grateful to our shareholders for their continued trust in Exicom. The capital raised will strengthen our balance sheet and support our expansion, particularly in international markets through Tritium. While Tritium’s turnaround is taking time, we are in advanced discussions for several large global high-power charger deals that we believe can help change the course of the company. We will see this fully play out starting FY27. Back home, we remain strongly optimistic about the India opportunity, driven by the steady growth in EV adoption across the country. Our Harmony Direct 2.0 continues to gain traction, with early momentum translating into a strong sales pipeline. Meanwhile, Spin Air home chargers are securing consistent wins with leading OEMs, reinforcing trust in our technology and execution."

Shiraz Khanna, Chief Financial Officer, Exicom, said, "This Rights Issue marks an important step in enhancing our financial health. The capital raised will enable us to significantly reduce debt and support sustainable growth while maintaining prudent capital discipline."

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