Tata Motors Unveils Ultra EV 7M: A Game-Changer in Clean Mobility
Tata Motors has made a significant stride in the electric vehicle (EV) sector by unveiling its Ultra EV 7 metre electric bus at the Prawaas 4.0 event in Bengaluru. This innovative vehicle is designed to attract smaller corporates looking to enter the clean mobility space, particularly for employee transportation, while also targeting urban mass transit and last-mile passenger connectivity.
Prawaas 4.0: A Platform for Innovation
Prawaas 4.0 is a biennial event that serves as a crucial platform for bus and car operators in India. It brings together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to discuss advancements in transportation. Anand S, Vice President and Head of the Commercial Passenger Vehicle Business at Tata Motors, emphasized the importance of this event as an entry point for many corporates to step into the EV space. He highlighted the Ultra EV 7M’s potential to carve out a new niche in the market, particularly in urban mass transit and last-mile connectivity.
Specifications and Features of the Ultra EV 7M
The Ultra EV 7M is powered by a robust 213 kW electric motor, coupled with an IP67-rated 200 kWh lithium-ion battery. This configuration allows the bus to achieve an impressive range of up to 160 kilometres on a single charge. One of the standout features of the Ultra EV 7M is its fast charging capability, which enables a full recharge in just 2.5 hours. This makes it a practical solution for daily corporate and urban transport needs, ensuring that operators can maximize their vehicle usage without long downtimes.
Safety is a paramount concern in public transportation, and Tata Motors has prioritized this in the design of the Ultra EV 7M. The bus is equipped with an electronic braking system, electronic stability control, and an Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that includes Automatic Passenger Counting. Additionally, the vehicle’s regenerative braking technology enhances its efficiency and extends its operational range, making it a smart choice for modern transport needs.
Expanding Tata Motors’ Footprint in the EV Market
Tata Motors has established itself as a significant player in India’s electric bus market, having supplied approximately 2,900 buses under various government tenders in recent years, primarily in the 9-metre and 12-metre segments. The introduction of the 7-metre Ultra EV 7M is expected to broaden Tata’s reach, particularly among smaller, cost-sensitive operators seeking entry-level EV solutions. This move aligns with the growing demand for more compact and efficient electric buses in urban settings.
A Resurgent Market for Buses
The launch of the Ultra EV 7M comes at a time when India’s bus industry is experiencing a resurgence. The sector was one of the hardest hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, with the commercial passenger vehicle segment contracting by a staggering 85% at its peak. However, the industry has shown remarkable resilience, registering a 39% growth in the first quarter of FY25 compared to the same period last year. This recovery is driven by strong demand from state transport undertakings (STUs), corporate staff transport, and the tours and travel industry.
Anand S noted, “This signals the kind of momentum that the industry has shown,” and expressed optimism about continued growth in the coming months. State transport corporations are increasingly issuing new tenders, while corporate fleets are being modernized with a clear shift towards sustainable employee transport solutions.
Government Initiatives and Future Prospects
The Indian government’s push towards electrification is playing a pivotal role in the sector’s recovery. Policy measures such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) initiative are providing essential incentives that encourage the adoption of electric buses across the country.
As cities grapple with pollution and congestion, the demand for electric buses like Tata’s Ultra EV 7M is expected to rise. The vehicle’s adaptability makes it suitable for both corporate fleets and urban transport networks, positioning it as a versatile solution for various transportation needs.
Conclusion: A Transformative Journey Ahead
While challenges remain on the road ahead for India’s bus industry, the combination of a strong policy framework and rising demand for cleaner, more efficient transport options indicates a transformative journey is underway. Tata Motors, with its Ultra EV 7M, is poised to fill the product gaps necessary for promoting the adoption of clean mobility in the country. As the industry evolves, Tata Motors’ commitment to innovation and sustainability will play a crucial role in shaping the future of urban transportation in India.