There are about 51 electric three-wheeler manufacturers in India as per the data of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Of this a good number of companies could be termed as startups. They are young and dynamic. They are technologically very well oriented and belong to the 400 startups that are estimated to be currently operating the auto sector. 

Perhaps the most vibrant and diverse with a unique mix of entrepreneurs and technologists as part of the core team, the electric three-wheeler manufacturers seem better poised to grow because of their ability to understand and address the various segments on the passenger side as well as the cargo side. 

There’s competition from the unorganised sector, the products of which – mainly catering to last mile passenger segments – are found in many cities of North India such as Amritsar and old parts of Delhi. 

To add excitement to an already happening category in the Indian automotive market, US-based Biliti Electric Inc (Biliti) will conduct ‘ground breaking’ ceremony for its electric three-wheeler plant on the road that connects Hyderabad and Zaheerabad on 05 October 2023. 

A young company that was founded in 2021 in California, Biliti is a growing global mobility player guided by a clear mission to provide smart, efficient and affordable electric mobility solutions, as per the description on its website. 

Buoyed by the rising preference for electric vehicles and the way they seem poised to shape urban mobility and the cities of tomorrow, the American company engaged in the development of future-proof technologies will produce 240,000 units every year, according to sources aware of the development. The current plan is to make electric three-wheelers, they add.  

Stating that the plant would be the world’s largest of its kind, the sources mention that the investment towards it is roughly USD 150 million. The ‘ground-breaking ceremony’ will be done at the hands of the Telangana Chief Minister K C Rao in the presence of government officials and members of the senior management of the company, the sources inform.  

While the Biliti factory in Telangana is expected to provide employment to 3,000 people, it is also indicative of how the manufacturers are finding it worth making electric three-wheelers rather than electric two-wheelers or electric four-wheelers. The target audience or buyer/operator of a three-wheeler is grounded and knowledge enough to understand that suits his application needs in terms of the TCO, mentioned an industry observer. IT is therefore that companies like Omega Seiki, Euler and Altigreen has chosen to build electric three-wheeler over other types of electric vehicles, he added. 

The B2B nature of electric three-wheeler business is perhaps the reason why so many unorganised players are a part of it, albeit at a different level. Many of them are job shops with far less investment than the startups. 

The legacy players in the electric three-wheeler market and figuring in the list of SIAM (Society of Indian Automotive Manufacturers) are of the deep pocket variety. Those such as Bajaj Auto Ltd, Mahindra Electric (an arm of Mahindra & Mahindra) and TVS Motor Company are well diversified and technologically well entrenched. They are also well entrenched in areas like supply chain, manufacturing infrastructure and abilities, etc. 

If the lower entry barrier in the EV space has attracted new and young players in the three-wheeler category, the legacy players are fast closing the gap. It is somewhat like what is happening in the electric two-wheeler space, the industry observer mentioned. He drew attention to how white spaces or segment gaps in this space are also being plugged. 

Manufacturers like Tata Motors and Ashok Leyland are offering electric four-wheel light trucks to change the dynamics of the electric three-wheeler market the way it happened with the launch of the Tata Ace in 2005, he explained. 

The competition is turning complex and it is essential therefore that electric three-wheeler manufacturers up the ante by employing more advanced technology; by offering superior TCO than their vehicles currently offer and give more bang for the money that the buyer is ready to pay them. 

Among the young electric three-wheeler manufacturers, the likes of Altigreen, E-Trio, Omega Seiki and Euler Motors seem to be better placed to sustain and grow despite the competition from legacy players. The game seems to be about who offers the best TCO with the aid of technology. Incentives don’t seem to be a helping only to a point after looking at how the FAME Phase II policy was restructured for electric two-wheelers a few months ago. 

The Government is keen to make electric vehicles in the country grow but does not seem to be in favour of much incentivisation like China did to make its EV industry rise. The PLI scheme for batteries is a welcome initiative though. 

The effect of restructuring the subsidy for electric two-wheelers is not hidden. Their sales over the last few months have very well indicated it. The effect may be temporary, the fact is the Indian vehicle buyer is highly cost conscious. 

The TCO factor matters most in the case of electric three-wheelers therefore. It is either the deal maker or deal breaker. To ensure a superior TCO is absolutely necessary. A lot of homework in this direction is yet to done.  

The beauty is that some of the young and dynamic players have already acknowledged this and are silently working in that direction. They are leveraging the advantage of lower break even. The legacy players are well versed with the superior TCO factor and working in that direction too. The gap is expected to close between the legacy players and the young and newer players sooner than later. Such a development is already visible in the case of electric two-wheelers. 

While technology, engineering, manufacturing, quality, durability, pricing, supply chain management and value chain management are some of the factors that will play a key role in shaping the future of electric three-wheelers, a prominent factor will be how co-operations work and are nurtured. 

Co-operations will be extremely important for electric three-wheelers to succeed in a competitive market place where there is the pressure to reach the market early, stay exciting, frugal and technologically intensive. 

While even the young electric three-wheeler companies have figured the art of sustenance and growth besides acquiring the necessary resources, engaging skilled manpower, supply chain partners and expanding their reach in the market, regulatory and technology changes will remain a constant. 

The Government, it is clear, is looking at the EV industry to reduce tailpipe emissions. With companies such as BYD, Avatr and Changan of China set to flood the European markets with electric cars that are on par with what some of the best-known electric vehicle manufacturers like Tesla can offer at a price that is significantly lower, the unique status of the Indian EV market as the world’s largest micro mobility market in the making has the electric three-wheeler market in good stead.  

The definition of electric micro mobility is defined as vehicles weighing less than 2.5-tonne. Most of the electric three-wheelers as the contributor to Indian EV market’s growth as the world’s largest micro mobility market are well defined in the last mile delivery segment as e-commerce players among others exert to reduce their carbon footprint. The excitement lies is what lays beyond the application areas that have already been addressed. 

The semi-urban and rural markets are the ones that electric three-wheelers will next go to it looks like. As they do, yet another phase of strong growth and excitement will be unleashed.

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VinFast Auto India, a subsidiary of the global electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast, has launched the all-new VF MPV 7 specifically for Indian buyers. Priced at INR 2,449,000 ex-showroom, this premium electric seven-seater multi-purpose vehicle is engineered to deliver the space and adaptability that Indian families prioritise. The launch represents VinFast’s third product debut in the country within a single year, highlighting the company’s determination to strengthen its presence in India’s rapidly expanding electric vehicle market.

Understanding that space is the top concern for multi-generational Indian households, the VF MPV 7 features a theatre style seating arrangement that ensures genuine comfort even in the third row. With a wheelbase measuring 2,840 mm, the vehicle comfortably accommodates seven passengers. Storage capacity reaches up to 1,240 litres, allowing ample room for luggage, daily necessities and various family lifestyle needs, making the vehicle practical for both routine commutes and longer journeys.

Powering the VF MPV 7 is a 60.13 kWh lithium-ion battery that delivers an ARAI-certified range of 517 km on a full charge. Fast charging capability can replenish the battery from 10 to 70 percent in just 30 minutes. The front wheel drive system produces 150 kW and 280 Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from zero to 100 kmph in under 10 seconds. The exterior is finished with all-LED lighting, giving the vehicle a genuinely premium look inside and out.

A comprehensive ownership package accompanies the VF MPV 7, featuring three years of free maintenance, a 10-year battery warranty, a 7-year vehicle warranty, a 5-year suspension warranty, a 7-year paint warranty and 7-years of roadside assistance. This package offers best in segment assurance for customers. The VF MPV 7 joins the VF 6 and VF 7 in VinFast India’s expanding lineup. All models are locally assembled at the company’s factory in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, following a production philosophy of building vehicles in India for India.

Tapan Ghosh, CEO, VinFast India, said, “The all-new VF MPV 7 is VinFast’s third product for India and is most suited for customers with large families. It is designed to offer generous space for every member of the family, comfort that makes even the longest journeys feel effortless and intelligent features that elevate every single drive. With the VF MPV 7, we are entering a new segment, but more importantly, we are expanding our commitment to India.”

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Nissan has introduced the all-electric version of its JUKE model during its Vision event held at its global headquarters in Japan, signalling a decisive move forward in the brand’s electrification push across Europe.

This first ever battery-powered JUKE brings the model’s signature agility and bold personality into the zero-emission era, reinterpreting a favourite compact crossover for European roads. Since its original debut in 2010, the JUKE has won over 1.5 million customers in Europe by challenging conventional design norms. The new EV retains that distinctive character while supporting Nissan’s broader commitment to offer an electrified powertrain for every type of buyer.

The all-electric JUKE will join an expanding European EV family that includes the new MICRA, the third generation LEAF, the Ariya crossover, the Townstar light commercial vehicle and a future A segment EV. It will also share with the LEAF the ability to use Vehicle to Grid technology, helping integrate EVs into the wider energy system. Alongside these models, Nissan continues to offer e‑POWER hybrid technology for an EV like driving experience without plugging in, with hybrids such as the Qashqai e‑POWER and JUKE HEV remaining key options for customers.

Production of the all new all electric JUKE will take place at Nissan’s Sunderland plant in UK, reinforcing that site’s importance to the company’s global EV strategy. The first trial production phase for the JUKE will begin in the coming weeks. This effort is backed by Nissan’s design, engineering and development network across UK, Spain and Germany, highlighting long-term investment in Europe as both a manufacturing and innovation hub. The new JUKE EV is scheduled for launch in spring 2027.

Massimiliano Messina, Chairman, Nissan AMIEO, said, “Europe is central to Nissan’s electrification strategy, and we remain firmly committed to a fully electric future. With a rapidly expanding EV line-up, we are bringing greater choice and innovation to every segment, powered by our strong design, engineering and manufacturing footprint in the region. Together, this next generation of vehicles will accelerate our transition to zero-emission mobility.”

Clíodhna Lyons, Region Vice President, Product, Brand & Marketing Strategy, Nissan AMIEO, said, “JUKE has always stood for bold design and a willingness to challenge convention. With this third generation, we are bringing that spirit into the electric age. As our first fully electric JUKE, it will help us reach new customers while expanding choice across our electrified range.”

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Jakson Group, a leading diesel genset manufacturer, has announced an expansion of its energy solutions range following a financial year where revenue exceeded INR 90 billion (GBP 850 million).

The Group has expanded its presence across five new categories – Genset Xtra, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), Solar Kits, Mobile Light Towers and electric three-wheelers. This move is intended to broaden the company's presence across power generation, storage and sustainable transport.

The entry into electric mobility follows a partnership with a Bengaluru-based firm to develop research-backed three-wheelers. This adds a transport component to Jakson’s existing operations in solar power, green molecules and infrastructure engineering, procurement and construction (EPC).

Established in 1947, the group operates six manufacturing facilities and maintains a workforce of 3,500 employees serving approximately 100,000 customers.

Jakson Group is positioning itself as an integrated provider for the energy transition, moving from its origins in diesel generator manufacturing toward a diversified portfolio that includes alternative fuels and civil EPC services. With 12 international offices, the group is looking to align its domestic manufacturing scale with global energy requirements.

Sameer Gupta, Chairman, Jakson, said, “At Jakson, our mission has always been to power progress through innovation. With FY26 revenue of over INR 90 billion, Jakson today has both the scale and the responsibility to shape future-ready energy solutions. This portfolio expansion reflects our commitment to building an integrated energy ecosystem that is reliable, responsible and aligned with the evolving needs of customers in India and global markets.”

Sundeep Gupta, Vice-Chairman, Jakson, added, “The market today is looking for energy solutions that are efficient, dependable and future-ready. With this expanded portfolio, Jakson is strengthening its position as a diversified player serving evolving customer needs across sectors.”

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Lloyds Metals and Energy (LMEL) has completed the diesel-to-electric conversion of a Liebherr R996 excavator, marking the first time a mining machine in this category has been retrofitted for fully electric operations.

The project was executed by the company's internal engineering and technology teams and involved a redesign of the vehicle's power architecture and control systems. The shift to electric power is intended to eliminate carbon dioxide emissions associated with the machine's operation while reducing reliance on diesel fuel.

The engineering process included the development of proprietary digital monitoring and safety solutions to manage the high-power requirements of the heavy-duty excavator. By sourcing and engineering major subsystems within India, the project serves as a demonstration of domestic capability in advanced heavy engineering and sustainable industrial innovation.

LMEL expects the conversion to improve operational performance through the use of real-time diagnostics and predictive maintenance.

Established in 1977, LMEL operates iron ore mines in Maharashtra and is expanding its integrated steel operations. The company currently produces 0.7 MTPA of direct reduced iron (DRI) and has commissioned a 4 MTPA pellet plant, with long-term plans to increase iron ore dispatch capacity to 26 MTPA. Its sustainability strategy includes the deployment of electric vehicle fleets and the construction of slurry pipelines to lower transport-related emissions.

B Prabhakaran, Managing Director, Lloyds Metals and Energy, said, “This landmark achievement, is not just about electrifying a machine – it is about reimagining the future of mining. At LMEL, we believe that responsible mining and sustainability must go hand in hand. This achievement demonstrates India’s capability to deliver world-class, zero-emission solutions in even the most complex and heavy-duty environments. We are proud to contribute to a future where mining is both productive and environmentally responsible.”

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