ThunderPlus Opens EV Charging Station on Repurposed Land in Bachupally

ThunderPlus has opened a new electric vehicle charging station in Bachupally, Hyderabad, on a plot of land that was previously underutilized. The facility represents the company's eighth charging station developed through its franchise model.

The station was established in partnership with Manoj, an IT professional who converted his unused land into a charging facility. Located between Bachupally and Bowrampet, the site features a 60 kW fast charger designed to serve two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, and light commercial vehicles.

The charging station operates as a public facility, accessible to all EV users without requiring a mobile application. This approach targets daily commuters and fleet operators in the area. The location serves the residential and commercial zones in the Bachupally corridor, which has seen increased development in recent years.

"India does not have a land shortage—it has an infrastructure utilisation problem," said Rajeev YSR, Executive Director and CEO of ThunderPlus. He noted that the franchise model allows landowners to convert dormant assets into charging infrastructure. "Through our franchise-led model and 250+ active charging stations across India, we are enabling everyday landowners and entrepreneurs to participate in the EV transition," he said.

Manoj said the partnership provided the technology and business framework needed to establish the station. "The company provided the right technology, support, and business model, making it rewarding to be part of a network that is building reliable charging infrastructure while creating a sustainable business opportunity," he said.

The franchise model addresses a key challenge in India's EV infrastructure development: the need for widespread charging networks without requiring companies to purchase land in multiple locations. By partnering with landowners, charging companies can establish presence in residential areas, commercial districts, and along transit routes.

ThunderPlus currently operates more than 250 charging stations across India. The company has announced plans to establish 100 additional franchise-based charging stations within the next six months as part of its expansion strategy. Each franchise location is intended to generate revenue for the landowner while providing charging services to the local community.

The expansion comes as India's electric vehicle market continues to grow. The government has set targets to increase EV adoption through various incentive programs and policy measures. However, the development of charging infrastructure has lagged behind vehicle sales, creating what industry observers describe as a gap between supply and demand.

The Bachupally station joins a network of public and private charging facilities being developed across Hyderabad and other major Indian cities. The station's fast charging capability allows for quicker turnaround times compared to standard chargers, which is particularly relevant for commercial vehicle operators who need to minimize downtime.

The franchise model represents one approach companies are using to scale EV charging infrastructure in India. Other models include company-owned stations, partnerships with retail outlets, and charging points at residential complexes. Each approach addresses different aspects of the infrastructure challenge, from highway corridors to urban neighborhoods.