India is rapidly adopting electric vehicles as their preferred mode of transport. To provide an ‘electric’ option for supply chain/logistical purposes, auto manufacturers have come up with electric variants of cargo three-wheelers. At present, the electric three-wheeler cargo vehicle market is witnessing a tough competition with multiple players battling for market share.
Along with electric scooters, commercial electric three-wheelers are also gaining popularity due to lower running costs, ease of driving & zero emissions. These EVs offer greater convenience for last-mile deliveries. Also, adopting EVs can boost brand image. Consumers today are increasingly conscious of the environment, and prefer companies that prioritise sustainability. By deploying electric vehicles for supply chain operations, companies can exhibit their commitment to environment-friendly practices, positioning themselves as socially responsible players. This can result in improved consumer loyalty.
When considering an electric three-wheeled cargo vehicle, there are multiple factors to think about. Here, EVJoints brings you a checklist to go through before buying one:
Payload Capacity: The payload capacity of a cargo electric three-wheeler refers to how much load it can transport in one go.
It is important to choose a cargo vehicle with a payload capacity that matches your business needs. A higher payload capacity can allow you to transport more goods in one trip, saving you time & money.
Range: The range of an EV refers to the maximum distance it can travel on a single charge. While buying a cargo electric 3-wheeler, it is important to keep an eye on its range as it will determine the vehicle’s operational efficiency & productivity.
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): People may find the upfront cost of a cargo EV higher than a petrol/diesel vehicle, but the running costs & maintenance costs are much lower which makes a cargo electric three-wheeler a cheaper option in the long run.
Battery Charging Time: One must enquire about the time it takes to fully charge the EV’s battery, when buying one. Lesser charging time means less downtime for the EV and this ensures more trips & more business.
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Also, prefer opting for the EV which is fast-charging compatible.
Design: The design of a cargo EV is an underrated factor to consider while going for a purchase. A well-designed E3W cargo vehicle should be easy to operate & navigate. A test drive can give customers an idea of the EV’s features like good suspension, responsive brake pedals & a wide comfortable seat. Ergonomics & safety should be key considerations, as the vehicle will transport cargo in crowded city areas.
Also, keep an eye on the vehicle’s crash test ratings.
Telematics & Connectivity: For fleet owners, telematics holds vital importance in day-to-day supply chain operations. Telematics provides real-time data on battery health, charging status & vehicle performance, which allows for efficient fleet management & maintenance scheduling. Most commercial electric three-wheelers come with in-built telematics systems, offering insights that can help optimize operations.
Other connectivity features involve the use of apps, which can help in remote monitoring, diagnostics, system updates & guiding to nearby EV charging stations, thereby reducing downtime and increasing business efficiency.
Conclusion:
Electric three-wheeler cargo vehicles are the future of sustainable transport for middle-mile & last-mile delivery. Apart from startups, mainstream automakers are also entering the E3W segment. Multiple options to choose from is a luxury, but can also sometimes be confusing. By following the guide above, you can select the cargo electric three-wheeler which is most suited for you. For more such blogs, explore our EVGuide page.
