- What was the thinking behind the formation of the TII Group’s standalone company, TI Clean Mobility? It is the second time you have forayed into the EV market after almost a decade, following the launch of BSA electric scooters. What motivated this reentry?
TI Clean Mobility has been formed as a standalone subsidiary of TII in order to bring focus and drive growth. During our initial foray, the technology had not matured. Since then, we have been constantly honing our skills and knowledge while preparing for this reentry.
- Your initial offerings are in the electric three-wheeler and electric tractors segments. You have launched an electric three-wheeler, for both passenger and commercial uses, under the Montra Electric brand. Can you tell us a little more about the Montra electric three-wheeler, the Super Auto? Any special features, whether in terms of battery pack, motor, connected technology or reduced emission rates?
The product offers a superior proposition for the customer. It has best-in-class range, power and gradeability. Along with these performance features, it has best-in-class styling and space. It comes with its own telematics unit that provides information about vehicle performance and helps in delivering better customer experience.
- In the electric three-wheeler segment, what is your strategy to differentiate yourself from competitors like Mahindra & Mahindra and Piaggio?
As mentioned above, we strive to offer customers the best offerings in the market today. We will continue to innovate and try to stay ahead of the curve.
- Similarly, what do you offer that will set you apart in the electric tractors space?
There is no competition in the electric tractor space. Our offering will be differentiated from ICE tractors by much lower TCO and higher profitability. Moreover, due to higher torque at lower RPM, the performance will be much better.
- In the electric tractors segment, what was the thinking behind acquiring Cellestial, rather than evolving organically?
We went with the acquisition route to shorten development time.
- Beyond electric three-wheelers and electric tractors, would you be looking at expanding into the commercial market with new offerings like electric buses or trucks?
We have already ventured into the electric heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) by acquiring IPL Tech Electric (IPLT).
- Any plans of two-wheeler or four-wheeler offerings in the passenger space? If yes, why? If no, why not?
No, as a business we have decided to stay focused only on productive segments. Hence, we are operating only in commercial segments.
- Can you tell us a little about your geographic/dealership/distribution strategy: are there any particular regions or states you will be targeting at first, domestically? Are there any plans on the anvil for export markets?
This would vary with the segments. We will be operating pan India. For the initial few months, we will focus on closer geographies to have faster feedback and response time. In the three-wheeler segment, we have operations in all southern states, and are now working towards expanding in the rest of India. Likewise, we will be planning for other product segments based on the market and proximity.
- What do you think the Indian consumer wants? How do you hope to address these expectations?
The Indian customer is a very value conscious and expects promptness of service. We are delivering this through high featured and reliable products at very attractive price points. We have also developed a very strong channel for sales and aftersales services.
- Profits aside, what role does sustainability play in your decision to offer electric vehicles?
We strongly believe that EVs will play a significant role in improving the quality of our environment. This aligns well with our company’s vision of improving quality of life through ecofriendly mobility solutions.
- How do you plan to deal with supply chain upheavals, particularly lithium?
We are focusing on maximum localization to ensure a steady supply chain. Presently, there are no commercial lithium or cell sources in India. However, as they develop, we will certainly leverage them.
- What is your battery strategy? Will you be looking at battery swapping technology? New battery chemistries?
Our vehicles will be agnostic to the kind of cell chemistry or the type of battery. We will be choosing the type of cell or battery based on their performance, safety, cost, and availability.
- What do you see as the main drivers that will support growth in India’s EV space? What are the main challenges?
The main driver in EV adoption will be cost parity and reliability of solution. The main challenge will be to ensure a high quality, reliable, and cost-effective local supply chain.
- What would you like to see in terms of support in terms of regulations?
Government policies should encourage the development of more and better-quality components, while appropriate incentives would help cover some of the high present costs.
- Where do you see India’s EV market in the next 4-5 years? Where would you like TI Electric Mobility to be at this stage?
We believe EV adoption will vary from 10% to 40% in the next 4-5 years. We are confident that TI Clean mobility will lead this change in the commercial segment.
