Terra Motors launches e-rickshaw

Japanese electric vehicles manufacturer Terra Motors on Thursday launched its "Y4Alfa" e-rickshaw, priced close to Rs.130,000 lakh.

"India is the second largest producer of three-wheelers in the world. Hence, India is an important market for us. We plan to sell 30,000 units of e-rickshaws and 20,000 sets of Terra Batteries by the end of the fiscal year," said Teppei Seki, country director, Terra Motors.

"Terra Motors is committed to bring in its high quality Japanese offering and services to the Indian market," Seki was quoted as saying in a statement.

According to the Japanese manufacturer of electric two- and three-wheelers, the "Y4Alfa" e-rickshaw is powered by Terra battery unit which gives a range of 100 km on full charge.

The company elaborated that the average weight of the e-rickshaw is 380 kg and it can accommodate five people, including the driver.

"The light weight e-rickshaw is water-resistance and is suitable for sustainable urban transport as it has low fuel costs compared to a gas-powered vehicle," the statement cited.

"Adding to its suitability for the Delhi's narrow roads, its steering wheel gives a driver easy maneuver and small turning radius. It also features rain covers that can be pulled down during inclement weather."

In addition to the e-rickshaw, the company launched its "Terra Battery" which has been priced close to Rs.27,000 with one year warranty and is manufactured in Bengaluru.

The company pointed out that the battery has a life span of at least eighteen months as compared to ordinary batteries, which reduces the operational cost significantly.