Ola Electric Auto Rickshaw “Rahi” to revolutionize the three-wheeler segment with the possibility of battery swapping technology.
Ola Electric’s much awaited three-wheeler auto rickshaw was spotted today during testing in Bengaluru. This gave EV enthusiasts a first real glimpse of the company’s venture into the electric three-wheeler market of India. Expected to be named the “Raahi,” this sighting suggests that Ola is serious about expanding beyond electric scooters and getting ready to make waves in this rapidly growing 3W segment.
Ola Three-Wheeler: What We’ve Seen So Far
The test model spotted today in Bengaluru resembles its earlier patent design releases, featuring a sleek and modern exterior. Interestingly, the spied prototype lacks doors, leaving a wide, open entrance for the driver and rear passengers. But don’t worry, future versions might have fully enclosed cabins, and there’s even a possibility of air conditioning, making it more comfortable for passengers in different weather conditions.
Ola Auto Rickshaw: Design and Features
As for the design, Ola seems to completely changed the norms for three-wheelers. The three-wheeler “Ola Raahi” features stylish projector LED headlights and bold square daytime running lights (DRLs), giving it a futuristic feel, just like its recently introduced lineup of electric bikes. From the test mule, a single-blade windshield wiper could be seen. It is something that we don’t see normally on auto-rickshaws. It shows Ola is focused on blending both style and functionality into its upcoming lineup of electric rickshaws.
The rear of the vehicle is the only part that feels familiar, resembling typical auto rickshaws we see on roads every day. The Ola rickshaw is equipped with 10-inch wheels and tubeless tires, while the seating arrangement at the back appears spacious enough to accommodate three passengers comfortably.
One of the standout features that might make the Ola electric rickshaw a game-changer is the possibility of a removable and swappable battery. Buyers in India are anticipating that after the Patent design was revealed in May 2024, having the design number ” 389216-001″. If it becomes a reality, it could be an added advantage for passenger vehicle drivers. By integrating quick battery-swapping technology in three-wheelers, Ola would help businesses save time and gain more profit, which would otherwise be lost due to the charging time.
Confirmation from Bhavish Aggarwal
This spotting and the developments about Ola Electric Rickshaw aren’t just a speculation. Ola Electric’s Managing Director and Chairman, Bhavish Aggarwal, confirmed in an interview with CNBC-TV18 on September 5 that the company plans to bring the electric rickshaw to market “soon.” He emphasized that Ola’s experience and technology in the two-wheeler segment can be easily adapted for three-wheelers, making the transition smooth.
“We’ve already showcased some of the technology around this, and the manufacturing strength we’ve built for our two-wheelers will be easily transferable to three-wheelers when the time comes,” says Bhavish Aggarwal, MD, Chairman, Ola Electric.
The Growing Electric Three-Wheeler Market
Ola’s timing for the launch of an electric three-wheeler in India couldn’t be better. The electric three-wheeler market in India is heating up, with sales climbing despite a reduction in government subsidies on 3W and stricter safety regulations for EV batteries. Just in August 2024, Mahindra managed to sell over 83,000 units in the three-wheeler category, confirming the high demand for efficient electric passenger vehicles in India.
With the launch of Raahi, Ola Electric could shake up the electric 3W market, competing against three-wheeler giants like Mahindra, and Ape. Similar to Ola’s electric scooter strategy, the company is expected to bring affordable pricing and innovative features to its three-wheelers, potentially disrupting the current 3W landscape.
What’s Next?
While Ola hasn’t released specifics about the three-wheeler’s powertrain or a confirmed launch date yet, the fact that it was spotted in testing suggests it’s moving closer to production and launch. Industry insiders predict a launch sometime in late 2024.
As Ola Electric steps into this new segment, it will be interesting to see how the electric three-wheeler rickshaw competes with existing brands and new electric passenger vehicle startups alike. Given Ola’s track record of disrupting markets, this electric rickshaw could be the next big thing in urban passenger transport.
While we gather more information on the Ola Auto Rickshaw, read about Ola’s latest lineup of affordable electric bikes under Rs 1 Lakhs.