Kinetic Green Secures $25 Million Investment from Greater Pacific Capital to Boost EV Production and Global Expansion
Kinetic Green, a prominent Indian electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced a significant investment of $25 million from Greater Pacific Capital (GPC), a leading global private equity firm. This funding is part of Kinetic Green’s Series A fundraising initiative, which aims to raise a total of $40 million. Founded in 2016 as a pioneering EV original equipment manufacturer (OEM), Kinetic Green is led by Sulajja Firodia Motwani, a third-generation member of the Firodia family, the founders of the Kinetic Group. The company has been a major player in India’s automotive sector for over five decades, known for iconic products such as the Kinetic Luna and Kinetic Honda, with over 10 million vehicles sold to date. Kinetic Green has established itself as a key player in India’s burgeoning EV market, offering a wide range of electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and golf carts. To date, the company has sold over 100,000 EVs, generating sales exceeding ₹1000 crores (₹10 billion).
India Launches Bharat Zero Emission Trucking Policy Advisory To Accelerate Decarbonization Efforts
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India launched the “Bharat Zero Emission Trucking (ZET) Policy Advisory” document at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe, New Delhi. The event, which marked a significant step toward India’s decarbonization efforts, was attended by key dignitaries, including Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary at the Office of PSA, and senior officials from the Ministry of Heavy Industries, NITI Aayog, IIT Madras, and the World Resources Institute (WRI). In his address, Prof. Sood underscored the critical role of Zero Emission Trucks (ZETs) in achieving energy security and reducing carbon emissions. He emphasized the need for technical expertise and targeted policy interventions to create a conducive environment for ZET adoption in India. The Bharat ZET Policy Advisory outlines 30 strategic policy interventions across five key areas: incentives, regulations, infrastructure, business and financing, and stakeholder engagement. These recommendations, designed to accelerate the adoption of ZETs in India, aim to achieve 100% ZET sales penetration by 2050, aligning with India’s Net Zero 2070 target.
AutoNxt Launches Electric Tractor on Independence Day, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde Inaugurates at Talao Pali Lake
AutoNxt has officially launched its Electric Tractor in a grand event held at Talao Pali Lake, Thane, at the stroke of midnight on Independence Day. The launch was conducted by the Honorable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Eknath Shinde, who marked the occasion by personally driving the Electric Tractor, demonstrating its power and precision. The event, which drew significant attention, was attended by the AutoNxt team, their families, and notable dignitaries, including senior MPs, MLAs, and corporators from Thane city. The Chief Minister praised the Electric Tractor’s potential to transform the agricultural sector and emphasized the Maharashtra State Government’s dedication to supporting EV-friendly initiatives. In a gesture of appreciation, Shri Eknath Shinde congratulated the AutoNxt team for their dedication in bringing this innovative product to market. He also presented the team with a sacred Ganesha idol, symbolizing his best wishes for their success. The AutoNxt Electric Tractor is now available for sale, marking a significant step forward in the journey towards sustainable and prosperous Indian agriculture.
Shell Ventures Leads $10.5M Investment in India’s FreshBus, Signaling Major Boost for Electric Mobility
Shell Ventures, in collaboration with Maniv Mobility, Riverwalk, and Alteria, has invested $10.5 million in FreshBus as part of a Series A funding round, marking a significant step forward in India’s rapidly growing electric mobility sector. The investment, a combination of equity and debt, underscores the rising momentum in the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market, particularly in the bus segment. India’s EV market is experiencing exponential growth, with digitization, technological advancements, favorable government policies, and a strong push toward sustainability driving the trend. According to the World Resources Institute (WRI), the country’s EV adoption rate is three times faster than the global average. In the past year alone, EV sales in India reached 1.7 million units, a 40% year-over-year increase, with electric two- and three-wheelers dominating 94% of these sales.
Selco Energy Access Fund Invests in Accelero Vehicles to Expand Motorized Mobility in India
The Selco Energy Access Fund, a subsidiary of SELCO India, has announced a strategic investment in eBik, a product powered by Accelero Vehicles India Private Limited. This investment is aimed at enhancing motorized mobility across India, particularly for individuals earning less than ₹15,000 per month. The high cost of traditional internal combustion (IC) vehicles continues to be a barrier for many, leading to a reliance on manual transportation. With the growing impact of climate change, the need for affordable motorized mobility has become increasingly critical. Accelero Vehicles is committed to providing sustainable and cost-effective mobility solutions through its products, including the Roadster Electric Bicycle and E-Cart engines. These innovations are designed to improve the quality of life for users by offering accessible and environmentally friendly transportation options.
Amazon India Aims For 10,000 EVs By 2025 In New Partnership With Gentari
Amazon India announced a strategic partnership with electric mobility firm Gentari to advance its EV deployment program, aiming for a fleet of 10,000 electric vehicles for last-mile deliveries by 2025. As part of this collaboration, Gentari Green Mobility Business will procure and deploy electric vehicles for Amazon India over the next three years. They will also provide comprehensive fleet management services to Amazon’s delivery service partners (DSPs) to ensure smooth operation and maintenance of the EV fleet. The partnership will expand the availability of electric three-wheelers for Amazon deliveries, enhancing access for DSPs. “Our aim is to support our delivery service partners by offering them appropriate electric vehicles, comprehensive vehicle lifecycle management services, and necessary charging and parking facilities,” stated Abhinav Singh, VP of Operations at Amazon India.
Ikea Expands Sustainable Deliveries: 100% EV-Powered In Key Indian Cities, Same-Day Service Coming Soon
Swedish furniture giant Ikea announced on Tuesday that it is testing same-day delivery in Hyderabad, with plans to expand the service to all its markets in the next year. Additionally, the company has reached the milestone of 100% EV-powered deliveries in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune, aligning with its commitment to a sustainable value chain, according to a statement from Ikea India. Ikea also aims to achieve the same goal in Mumbai soon, where it expects to reach carbon-free deliveries in the coming months. Ikea plans to adopt an “EV-first” approach as it expands into new markets, including Delhi-NCR, where its next store is slated to open, as part of its sustainability strategy. At present, Ikea has stores in Hyderabad, Navi Mumbai, and Bengaluru, along with two city stores in Mumbai.
Lohia Introduces Narain iCE Passenger: India’s Latest Urban Electric Vehicle For Sustainable Mobility
Lohia, a prominent electric vehicle manufacturer, has introduced its latest offering, the Narain iCE Passenger. Designed and manufactured entirely in India, this electric vehicle aims to promote sustainable mobility and boost the country’s manufacturing sector. The Narain iCE Passenger is specifically designed for urban commuting, featuring a top speed of under 25 km/hr, making it ideal for city driving. It offers two battery options: a Lead Acid battery with capacities of 130/135/150 AH, or a Lithium battery with 51.2 V and 105 AH. The vehicle provides an impressive range of 100-120 km, ensuring reliable travel. The Narain iCE Passenger offers a comfortable and safe ride, thanks to its ergonomic design, adjustable seating, and shock-absorbing suspension. Safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS) and a sturdy frame. Charging times vary from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the battery you choose.
Kazam Closes $8 Million Series A3 Round, Aims To Drive EV Market Expansion
Kazam, a tech firm specializing in e-Mobility solutions, has raised $8 million in a Series A3 funding round. The round was spearheaded by Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia and India, with contributions from Avaana Capital, Alteria Capital, and other investors. As the Indian Electric Vehicle (EV) market, currently with less than 5% penetration, is projected to grow significantly, the need for scalable EV infrastructure becomes crucial. Kazam offers software and hardware solutions aimed at supporting Charge Point Operators, Fleet Operators, and Electricity Grids, with a focus on digitizing the e-mobility value chain. The new funds will be used by Kazam to expand its technology and product teams, enhance its platform capabilities, and strengthen its market presence.
Tata Motors Collaborates with Delta and Thunderplus to Expand EV Charging Infrastructure with 250 Fast-Charging Stations
In a major push towards green mobility, Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, has announced a strategic collaboration with Delta Electronics India and Thunderplus Solutions Pvt Ltd. This partnership aims to significantly expand the charging infrastructure for electric commercial vehicles by establishing 250 new fast-charging stations across the country. These stations will be strategically located in over 50 cities, including key urban centers such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Pune, and Kochi. The new charging stations will boost the existing network of 540 commercial vehicle charging points, supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in e-commerce, parcel, courier, and other industries aiming to reduce their carbon footprint through sustainable last-mile deliveries.
iVOOMi Partners with Octarange to Advance Electric Two-Wheeler Technology
In a major move to enhance the performance and reliability of its electric two-wheelers, iVOOMi has announced a strategic partnership with technology innovator Octarange. The collaboration aims to significantly boost the brand’s Research & Development (R&D) efforts, focusing on cutting-edge advancements in battery technology and charger systems. The partnership between iVOOMi and Octarange is set to drive notable improvements in battery performance and charging solutions. Key objectives include rigorous testing and evaluation of battery charging, discharging, and thermal characteristics to uphold top-quality and safety standards. Innovations such as wall-mount chargers and optimized battery performance are also central to the collaboration.
IIT Madras Startup Plugzmart Gains ARAI Certification, Strengthens EV Market Leadership
Plugzmart, an IIT Madras-incubated start-up specializing in smart EV chargers, has achieved a major milestone by obtaining certification for its 60kW DC fast charger from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). This certification validates the charger’s adherence to rigorous safety and efficiency standards set for EV charging equipment in India. Vivek Samynathan, founder and CEO of Plugzmart, expressed the significance of this achievement. He stated that the certification not only confirms the company’s commitment to quality but also solidifies its position as a leading player in the EV charging industry. Plugzmart is also gearing up to launch several new products to further expand its market presence.
Greaves Finance’s EV Lending Platform evfin Partners with River Mobility to Expand Electric Scooter Accessibility
In a strategic move to boost electric vehicle (EV) ownership, Greaves Finance Limited, a non-banking financial company (NBFC) and a wholly owned subsidiary of Greaves Cotton Ltd., has announced a partnership with Bengaluru-based startup River Mobility Private Ltd. This collaboration, centered around evfin, Greaves Finance’s 100% EV-focused lending platform, aims to provide customers with more accessible financing options for River’s stylish and multi-utility electric scooters. Under the partnership, River Mobility customers across India will have access to evfin’s competitive financial products, including low-interest loans and lease options. The highlight of the offering is a loan starting at an attractive interest rate of 5.99%, designed to make River vehicles more affordable and accessible to a broader range of consumers.
BLive and Awign Partner to Revolutionize Last-Mile Delivery with 10,000 EVs
India’s booming e-mobility and gig economy sectors take a significant step forward as BLive, the country’s fastest-growing e-mobility platform, announces a strategic partnership with Awign, India’s largest work-as-a-service platform. The collaboration aims to onboard 10,000 riders for BLive’s EV Rental Programme over the next 12 months, marking a substantial shift towards sustainable last-mile delivery solutions. Awign, recognized for its innovative work fulfillment solutions across multiple industries, is set to streamline the process of recruiting and managing gig workers for BLive’s ambitious project. With a community of over 1.5 million gig workers and partnerships across sectors such as Automotive, Retail, FMCG, and Pharmaceuticals, Awign’s involvement is poised to enhance the reach and impact of BLive’s initiative.
