Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited (MLMML), a subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd (M&M), has for the second consecutive time taken the title of the number one commercial electric vehicle manufacturer in India. This is the fourth straight financial year that the company has cornered the market, a testament to its strong hold in the sector. By spearheading the electrification of the L5 segment, Mahindra has effectively supported greater EV adoption with penetration levels in this category seeing a rise from 16.9% in FY23 to 24.2% in FY24.

This success has been powered by the company’s portfolio of commercial EVs, including its highly successful Treo and Zor Grand models. With innovation and sustainability as its core drivers, Mahindra remained the torchbearer for electric mobility revolution, especially in the last-mile transportation sector. Mahindra retains an dominant presence in the EV scene with L5 category market share of 37.3%, with established auto makers and newcomers seeking to grab space in the boom, with another notable player, Tata motors also in the race.

Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited is a wide-ranging commercial electric vehicles company. The company has a wide portfolio ranging from electric, petrol, CNG and diesel-powered three and four-wheeler passenger as well as cargo vehicles. Their Treo range, Zor Grand, and e-Alfa have seen significant adoption thanks to their reliability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, making them preferred among business owners and fleet operators.

Mahindra also became India’s first automobile manufacturer to surpass 200,000 commercial electric vehicles sales mark. That said, this accomplishment signifies the increasing need for efficient and affordable commuting options — particularly in urban and semi-urban communities. Treo has also become India’s best-selling electric auto with over 1 lakh units sold since its introduction. The numbers show success with Mahindra’s strategy and growing acceptance for EVs among the masses.

Mahindra added to its portfolio in FY25 considering changing market dynamics. With its metal body, the Treo offered an option for customers who preferred added durability and ruggedness. Also, the Mahindra ZEO was launched and it was the first ever small commercial vehicle (SCV) to be run on electricity, marking Mahindra’s entry into the four-wheeler commercial EV segment. The ZEO is a continuation of Mahindra’s highly successful electric three-wheeler range and underlines the company’s intentions to bring electrification into the cargo transport sector.

Mahindra’s EV success can be due to multiple factors like high affordability, lesser operational costs and government subsidies on electric mobility. Due to the increasing cost of fuel and a growing emphasis on sustainability, several businesses are now choosing electric vehicles instead of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) models. The Treo and Zor Grand have been a big hit with fleet operators, thanks to their high efficiency, low maintenance costs, and ability to zip through overloaded roads hugging the metropolis.

Mahindra is currently the leader in the commercial EV space and it comes not just from its strong product offerings but also its focus on creating a strong EV ecosystem. They have been investing heavily in charging infrastructure and battery technology to improve the ownership experience. Mahindra has engaged extensively with government agencies and private stakeholders to drive EV adoption and establish policies enabling sustainable mobility solutions.

Apart from its commercial vehicle portfolio, Mahindra & Mahindra has also been making waves in the passenger EV space. This aligns with the company’s overall plan to offer electric options across categories so that customers can find sustainable mobility in whatever they need. With upcoming new models and improvement of existing ones, Mahindra is set to remain the king of the electric mobility space.

Mahindra is anticipated to be at the forefront of India’s EV transition, as the market undergoes a major transformation. With innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions at its core, it has solidified its position as a true industry leader The company’s continued product diversification and drive to enhance charging infrastructure will solidify its dominance as the de facto name for commercial EVs.

India’s government is actively encouraging EV adoption through subsidies and tax incentives, and has even taken steps to improve the nation’s EV infrastructure, placing Mahindra in a proactive position. As both, individuals and businesses, embrace less carbon footprint, the demand for Mahindra’s offerings is set to grow exponentively. Whether it is its responsiveness to the latest market needs or its investment in future-proof technology offerings, the Fortune 10 Company will play a vital role in maintaining its leadership status for decades to come.

To conclude, Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited, has successfully held its ground as the number one commercial EV manufacturer in India for the fourth consecutive year. The company continues to lead the charge in electric mobility with its best-in-class share of the overall market, cutting-edge portfolio of products, and planned expansion into new vehicle segments. With the steady increase in adoption of EVs, Mahindra’s focus on sustainable and efficient mobility will only enhance its stature within the sector, ushering in a cleaner and greener tomorrow.

Article By
Sourabh Gupta

Automobile enthusiasts across the world have been skeptical about the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), despite their numerous advantages. While EVs offer benefits such as instant torque, lower running costs, and reduced emissions, they often lack the visceral driving experience that petrol and diesel-powered vehicles provide. The absence of a traditional gearbox, engine noise, and the tactile feedback of a manual transmission are some of the key reasons why many driving purists hesitate to embrace electric mobility.

However, Ford has come up with an innovative solution to bridge the gap between traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and the modern EV era. The company has filed a patent for a unique feature that could bring back the joy of shifting gears manually, even in an electric car. This development has sparked interest among car lovers, who have long yearned for a way to retain the thrill of driving while still enjoying the benefits of electrification.

Ford’s new patent, titled “Shifter Assembly for Electric Vehicles,” describes a manual gear shifter designed specifically for EVs. Unlike the traditional gearboxes found in ICE cars, this system is not mechanically linked to a clutch or physical gears. Instead, it is a simulated manual shifter controlled electronically to mimic the feel of a manual transmission.

The system is designed to provide the sensation of shifting gears by integrating mechanical linkages that give tactile feedback, much like a traditional manual transmission. The electronic power control unit and actuators work together to create an authentic shifting experience, making the driver feel like they are engaging with a real gearbox. This would not only enhance driver engagement but also help EVs appeal to a broader audience, including those who enjoy the dynamic driving experience associated with manual transmission cars.

A similar technology has already been seen in the Hyundai Ioniq 5N, which features a simulated dual-clutch transmission (DCT) system to enhance driver involvement. Ford’s approach takes this a step further by offering a dedicated gear lever, much like the one found in the iconic Mustang, adding an extra layer of realism to the driving experience.

For driving enthusiasts, the joy of being behind the wheel comes from the level of control they have over the vehicle. A manual transmission allows a driver to modulate power delivery, manage engine speed, and execute precise gear changes. The presence of a clutch pedal and the physical act of shifting gears create a deeper connection between the driver and the car.

ICE sports cars have long been celebrated for their ability to deliver an engaging and immersive driving experience. The symphony of an engine revving, the perfect downshift before a corner, and the precise engagement of gears all contribute to a thrilling ride. Many purists argue that modern EVs, despite their impressive acceleration, often feel somewhat sterile due to the lack of these elements. The absence of an engine sound, a traditional gearbox, and mechanical feedback can make EVs feel monotonous over time.

Ford’s e-manual transmission aims to bring back the lost charm of ICE vehicles by incorporating a feature that can provide a similar level of driver involvement. By offering a simulated gear-shifting experience, the company hopes to attract performance-oriented drivers who have been reluctant to transition to electric mobility.

The introduction of Ford’s e-manual transmission could be a game-changer for the EV industry. One of the biggest challenges automakers face in persuading traditional car enthusiasts to adopt EVs is the perceived lack of excitement and engagement in electric cars. By offering an experience that closely mimics the thrill of driving an ICE vehicle, Ford could bridge the gap between conventional and electric powertrains.

Additionally, this innovation aligns with the growing trend of automakers integrating gaming-inspired features into their vehicles. From drift modes to simulated engine sounds, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on making EVs more exciting for driving enthusiasts. Ford’s approach could set a new benchmark in this regard, potentially influencing other brands to develop similar technologies.

While Ford’s e-manual transmission is currently at the patent stage, its potential applications are vast. The feature could be integrated into future Ford EVs, particularly performance models that aim to deliver a more engaging driving experience. Imagine a future electric Mustang with a manual-style shifter, allowing drivers to relive the nostalgia of shifting gears while benefiting from instant electric torque.

This technology could also find its way into other segments, such as electric trucks and SUVs, where customers might appreciate the additional control and engagement it offers. Moreover, if successfully implemented, it could lead to other innovations, such as customizable shifting experiences where drivers can select different transmission styles based on their preferences.

Ford’s patent for an e-manual transmission represents a promising step toward making EVs more appealing to traditional car lovers. By combining the efficiency and sustainability of electric power with the excitement of a manual transmission, the company is addressing one of the key concerns that many enthusiasts have about the future of driving.

As the EV market continues to evolve, innovations like these will play a crucial role in shaping consumer perceptions and adoption rates. If Ford can successfully bring this technology to production, it may not only strengthen its position in the EV market but also redefine what it means to drive an electric car.

In the coming years, it will be interesting to see how other automakers respond to this trend. Whether Ford’s e-manual transmission becomes a standard feature in electric performance cars or remains a niche offering, one thing is certain: the automotive industry is on the verge of an exciting transformation, and car enthusiasts may not have to give up their love for manual shifting just yet.

Article By
Sourabh Gupta

India’s electric vehicle (EV) sector continues to witness a strong upward trajectory, with total EV registrations nearing the two-million mark in the financial year. The growth, spanning across electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and passenger vehicles, comes despite initial setbacks following the expiration of government subsidies. This surge signals a robust shift towards sustainable mobility in the country.

As of March 31, total EV registrations stood at 1.95 million units, reflecting a 16% increase compared to the previous year, which saw 1.68 million registrations. Just two years ago, in the financial year before last, only 1.18 million EVs were registered, showcasing the rapid adoption of electric mobility.

The electric two-wheeler (e2W) market played a significant role in this expansion, accounting for 58% of all EV registrations in the financial year. Initially, the segment saw a dip in sales due to the withdrawal of government subsidies under the FAME scheme. However, it rebounded quickly, driven by growing consumer confidence, an influx of new high-performance models, and aggressive expansion strategies by leading manufacturers.

Total e2W registrations for the year reached 1.14 million units, up from 0.95 million in the previous year. Analysts attribute this resurgence to the affordability and sustainability of electric two-wheelers, along with increased awareness among consumers. More brands have also entered the market, further fueling demand.

Ola Electric maintained its position as the top seller in the e2W segment despite experiencing some pressure on sales towards the latter half of the year. The company recorded 3.43 lakh unit registrations, slightly ahead of the 3.3 lakh units sold the year before. TVS Motors secured second place with 2.34 lakh units, a significant increase from 1.83 lakh units. Bajaj Auto climbed to the third spot, selling 2.26 lakh units, up from 1.07 lakh units previously. Ather Energy followed closely, with registrations rising to 1.3 lakh units from 1.09 lakh units. Hero MotoCorp saw an uptick as well, selling over 47,200 e2Ws compared to just 17,720 the previous year.

Meanwhile, Greaves, which includes the Ampere brand, witnessed a decline, selling approximately 40,500 units, down from 55,048 units. Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility, another listed EV manufacturer, registered sales of about 9,400 units, slightly up from 9,120 units. Overall, the e2W segment was served by over 500 players, highlighting the increasing competition in the market.

The electric three-wheeler (e3W) segment also showed steady growth, with a 10% rise in registrations. A total of 6.97 lakh e3Ws were registered during the year, compared to 6.33 lakh units in the previous year. This growth was primarily driven by new product launches and network expansion by key manufacturers.

Among e3W manufacturers, Mahindra Last Mobility retained its leadership position, selling over 68,650 units, up from 60,618 units. Bajaj Auto saw an exceptional surge in sales, recording more than 50,500 units—nearly five times its previous figure of 10,890 units. YC Electric registered over 44,500 units, while Piaggio recorded 18,400 registrations, although slightly lower than its previous 24,917 units. Omega Seiki and TI Clean Mobility both crossed the 6,000-unit mark, increasing their market presence.

Electric passenger vehicles (ePVs), which include electric cars and SUVs, also experienced healthy growth. The total number of registrations reached 1.06 lakh units, up from 0.91 lakh units in the previous year. This increase was fueled by the entry of new players into the market and expansion efforts by existing manufacturers.

Tata Motors continued to dominate the ePV segment with 56,600 registrations, maintaining its market stronghold. JSW MG Motor made an impressive leap, nearly tripling its sales to around 30,000 units from just 11,680 the previous year. Mahindra & Mahindra followed with approximately 6,500 units, slightly up from 6,115 units.

Market analysts predict that electric cars will continue to gain traction, with manufacturers focusing on affordability, range improvements, and better charging infrastructure. However, compared to two-wheelers, the adoption of electric cars remains relatively gradual. At present, fleet operators and shared mobility services are the primary drivers of ePV growth.

The overall EV market saw notable fluctuations in monthly sales. In March alone, total EV registrations stood at 1.87 lakh units, a slight dip from the 2.13 lakh units recorded in the same month of the previous year, which had been driven by pre-buying before the subsidy revisions. In February, total registrations reached 1.4 lakh units.

Despite periodic ups and downs, India’s EV sector is well on its way to sustained growth. With increasing awareness, expanding charging infrastructure, and continuous innovation by manufacturers, the transition to electric mobility is expected to gain further momentum in the coming years.

Article By
Sourabh Gupta