Sulajja Firodia Motwani with Kinetic Safar

The vehicle with this new battery is currently under homologation and will be launched on pilot basis within 30 days. Company will provide the entire kit including Battery, BMS (battery management system) and charger to its customers. 

Cost of the Lithium ion battery solution will be higher than cost of the Lead acid version by approximately Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 60,000 but the same can be offset by the longer battery life (no need of replacement), higher confidence of the financiers who are willing to provide more attractive financing schemes to promote the new technology, service back up and conveniences like fast charging. 

Company is also keen to explore models such as battery rental, battery swapping and creation of charging points to further help penetration of this technology, along with its partners and support of the Government.

Use of lithium ion batteries will have many benefits including:

•             High Energy Density leading to low weight thereby operates for more kilometers between charges. For example 48 V-80 Ah lead acid battery weights 120 Kg, same capacity Li Ion Battery weighs only 35 Kgs.

•             Fast Charging due to high charge acceptance. Lead acid charging time is 8-10 hours or more, but same capacity Li -Ion can be charged in only 1.5-3 hours.

•             Long Life Unlike lead acid where life is typically 360 cycles, Li Ion cells have life of 1500 cycles (NMC) & 3000 Cycles (LeFePo4) i.e., a life up to 5 years.

•             Low Self-discharge if the vehicle is not used for some time its charge status remain same.

•             Low maintenance Li Ion Cell unlike lead acid or Ni cad do not require maintenance to ensure their performance.

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