GEM SuperKing

The GEM SuperKing is an L5M high-speed passenger carrier (electric auto rickshaw) from GEM, priced from Rs 2.60 lakh (ex-showroom). It is a 3-tyre, fully built vehicle on a chassis-with-cabin platform with a day cabin, seating a driver plus three passengers. It is aimed at city and semi-urban auto operators who want an electric alternative with automatic transmission and low running costs.

Range and charging

The SuperKing runs on a 90Ah-180Ah battery pack at 48 V, delivering a claimed range of 90 km on a full charge. A full charge takes approximately 2.5 hours, which is short enough to top up between shifts or overnight from a home socket. The drivetrain is a BLDC motor with a 1 forward + 1 reverse gearbox, so the driving experience is simple and almost silent for a commercial passenger vehicle.

Performance and payload

A 7 hp electric motor producing 38 Nm of peak torque gives the SuperKing a 45 km/h top speed, with gradeability as per AIS-003/1999. The gross vehicle weight is 682 kg against a 282 kg kerb weight, and the 2,000 mm wheelbase with a 2,900 mm turning radius keeps it manoeuvrable in narrow streets. It rides on telescopic front suspension and leaf rear suspension with drum brakes, a handle-bar type steering, and a driver information display as standard equipment.

Who should buy it

The GEM SuperKing suits individual auto drivers and small passenger fleets running predictable city routes who want a high-speed L5 passenger carrier without a large upfront spend. The 90 km range and 2.5 hour charge time cover a single city shift, while the fully built day cabin body keeps weather protection and passenger comfort in mind. Buyers should confirm local dealer and service coverage and state EV subsidies before committing, as commercial 3-wheeler support varies by region.