EKA Mobility looking to ramp up presence in electric commercial vehicle market

EKA (Pinnacle Mobility Solutions Pvt. Ltd.),  is set to unveil  new electric bus variants and  small commercial vehicle (SCV) models next year, Vinay Nidige, Head- Eka’s private bus sales unit, yold Autocar Professional at the recently concluded Prawaas 4.0.

The Mitsui & Co., Ltd and VDL Groep-backed electric commercial vehicle firm, said that EKA’s expansion will see the introduction of 7- and 13.5-metre buses, adding to its existing lineup of 9- and 12-metre models. 

"We are gearing up for one of the largest product ranges in the electric bus market," said Nidige, underscoring the company's intent to capture a broader market share. 

In the SCV segment, the company aims to build on its current offering- a 1.5-tonne truck, as it looks to expand into the three-wheeler space. The new lineup will include both passenger and cargo variants with multiple seating and payload configurations, catering to diverse market needs. 

Nidige sees significant potential in the bus market, traditionally dominated by private players. While government orders have largely driven demand for electric buses in urban settings, he is of the opinion that the private sector will increasingly adopt electric coaches for travel. "We are preparing to enter the 13.5-metre coach platform, (which will be) ready by the first quarter of next year," Nidige stated, pointing to a shift in EKA's strategy towards new revenue streams.

The company’s collaboration with Mitsui and VDL Groep includes a joint investment of over USD 100 million (around Rs 850 crores) phased over several years. 

Mitsui,  will provide financial backing and strategic guidance, supporting EKA’s ambitions in select emerging markets. Meanwhile, VDL Groep, renowned for its leadership in electric buses and coaches through its subsidiary VDL Bus & Coach, will transfer cutting-edge technology to EKA, enabling local production of advanced electric buses tailored to Indian market needs.

The company  emphasissed that the above mentioned partnerships will be crucial in enhancing EKA's capabilities, not just in manufacturing but also in establishing robust systems and processes, necessary for scaling up operations.