Automotive startup Vayve Mobility launched Eva, an electric car with solar charging capabilities. The two-seater vehicle will be available at a starting price of Rs 3.25 lakh, with pre-bookings open at Rs 5,000 for deliveries scheduled in the second half of 2026.
The company is offering the Eva in three battery variants: 9 kWh, 12 kWh, and 18 kWh, with prices going up to Rs 5.99 lakh. The vehicle comes with battery subscription options and promises a range of 250 kilometers per charge, according to the company.
Eva features a liquid-cooled battery system, panoramic sunroof, and smartphone integration. The vehicle achieves a top speed of 70 kmph and can accelerate from 0 to 40 kmph in 5 seconds. According to the company, the optional solar roof can provide up to 3,000 kilometers of free charging annually, potentially covering 30% of typical urban driving needs.
"Eva combines practicality with energy independence," said Nilesh Bajaj, CEO of Vayve Mobility. Chief Technology Officer Saurabh Mehta added that the integration of solar panels with the electric motor was achieved after years of research.
The company claims Eva's operating cost at Rs 0.5 per kilometer, compared to approximately Rs 5 per kilometer for conventional petrol hatchbacks, attributing the efficiency to its compact size and lighter weight.
The launch comes as India's electric vehicle market continues to grow, with government initiatives like the FAME-II scheme providing incentives for electric vehicle adoption. According to industry data, electric vehicle sales in India have seen significant growth in recent years, though the majority has been in the two-wheeler segment.
Vayve Mobility's entry into the market with a solar-electric car adds to the growing lineup of affordable electric vehicles in India, where manufacturers are increasingly focusing on sustainable transportation solutions. The company will showcase Eva at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, running from January 17 to 22.
The electric vehicle industry in India has been expanding with both established automakers and startups introducing new models. However, challenges remain in areas such as charging infrastructure development and battery technology advancement, which companies and government agencies are working to address through various initiatives and partnerships.