Start-ups, EVs rule the roost

Startups, electronic vehicle (EV) makers and new entrants were at the forefront on the second day of the biennial Auto Expo 2018, on Thursday, with firms showcasing a range of products from scooters to bikes to cars. About 12 start-ups are participating in the 14th edition of the Expo, with an aim to be part of India's transition from the internal combustion engine to electric mobility.

Electric two-wheeler maker Twenty Two Motors launched a smart electric scooter 'Flow', priced at Rs 74,740, and has plans to roll out over two lakh units in three years. The startup will build its manufacturing facility in Haryana by the second-quarter and will roll out 50,000 vehicles per year with an investment of $70 million. Deliveries will begin by the second-quarter of 2018.

American bike maker Cleveland Cycle Werks(CWC), which is marking its foray in the country, announced the launch of two models, Ace and Misfit. The company, which has distribution agreements in 23 countries, has joined hands with Laish Madison Motor Werks (LMMW) to bring its retro style motorcycles to the country and has a fully integrated assembly facility in Pune.

Swedish electric car maker Uniti announced its tie-up with India's Bird Group at the expo to launch a five seater electric car priced at Rs 7,14,000 (ex-showroom) by 2020. The company also showcased its two-seater electric car - Uniti One - alongside a virtual reality demonstration of the five-seater.

UM Lohia Two Wheelers showcased the world's first electric cruiser -Renegade Thor -- starting at Rs 4.9 lakh. The motorcycle is equipped with a five-speed gearbox and produces 30KW of power along with 70NM of torque. It runs on a lithium polymer high-power battery that can be charged 80 per cent in 40 minutes.