Electrotherm concludes world’s first e-scooter ride at Khardungla in Ladakh

In line with the Indian government’s emphasis on promoting electric/hybrid mobility in the country, maker of e-scooters under the Yobyke brand, Electrotherm has showcased the utility of its battery-powered scooters by completing the first-ever electric bike journey to Khardung La Pass, the highest motorable road in the world.

With the objective to promote transportation based on clean energy in popular tourists destinations, members from Global Himalayan Expedition, an organization that works in the field of renewable energy and sustainable rural development, took two specially customized solar charged Yobyke scooters, sponsored by Electrotherm, and completed the journey of 80 kilometers in 4 hours 12 minutes.

Electrotherm says that by promoting its products in the terrain, it hopes to generate awareness about the alternate source of energy and reducing fuel emissions.

Commenting on the feat Basant Vaishya, Sr vice president and SBU head - Auto Division Electrotherm (India), said: “We are very proud of team GHE’s feat of scaling Khardung La Pass on YObykes. Clean energy is the need of the hour and with growing concern regarding vehicle pollution & high operating cost of two wheelers Indian consumers have already started switching over to low cost & environment friendly electric two wheelers. The region has seen a major upsurge of tourism and associated vehicular pollution, such interventions can definitely help the region reduce emissions and also be a very good transit medium for the city youth and tourists.”

These electric bikes, introduced at the 2015 Ladakh Marathon, will primarily be used to create awareness and educate the local youth on alternates to fossil fuels. The e-scooters are currently being tested in Ladakh, before they will be made available for local population.

The Indian government has envisioned a population of 5-7 million EVs and XEVs by 2020, and with more affordable and sustainable alternatives to conventional sources of energy coming in, the Indian motoring landscape is set to evolve.