Adapt Motors Sweekar

The Adapt Motors Sweekar is a low-speed electric passenger carrier from the Bengaluru-based manufacturer, built to the L3M class and sold as a 4-seater auto-rickshaw for city and neighbourhood duty. It is a fully built, three-wheeled vehicle with a Day Cabin, a 48 V battery system and a simple handle-bar setup. Adapt Motors sells the Sweekar directly, currently listed at around ₹1.68 Lakh, which makes it one of the more affordable passenger e-rickshaws on the market.

Range and charging

Adapt Motors quotes a certified range of up to 100 km and a typical driving range of around 80 km on a full charge, which is enough for a full shift of short passenger trips in a city. The 100 Ah battery pack, made up of four 12 V units in series, takes 4-5 hours to charge from empty using the standard charger supplied with the vehicle, with a plug-and-charge Anderson socket at the charging point. It is a lead-acid pack, so it is a lower upfront cost than lithium options but heavier and better suited to regular overnight charging.

Performance and payload

The Sweekar is powered by a 3000 RPM BLDC motor rated at 1 hp, paired with a direct-drive transmission that offers one forward and one reverse gear. Top speed is limited to 30 km/h, in line with low-speed passenger carrier norms, and the vehicle can handle a 14% gradeability. The kerb weight is 320 kg, with a wheelbase of 2020 mm and a turning radius of just 2.9 metres, making it easy to navigate narrow lanes and U-turns. Helical spring front suspension with hydraulic shock absorbers and a rear rigid axle with leaf springs are tuned for Indian road conditions, while drum brakes at both ends handle stopping duties.

Who should buy it

The Sweekar is aimed at first-time e-rickshaw owners and fleet operators moving passengers on short fixed routes, such as market-to-market runs and neighbourhood feeder trips. The low top speed keeps it in the cheap-to-run L3M segment, and the 5-person carrying layout (driver plus four) suits a shared-auto or school-van style operation. Buyers should budget for regular lead-acid battery maintenance and verify the Adapt Motors dealer and service network in their city, since the brand's footprint is still growing.