Mahindra E-Alfa Plus

The Mahindra E-Alfa Plus is a battery-electric auto-rickshaw from Mahindra Last Mile Mobility, built for daily passenger runs in Indian cities and semi-urban routes. Priced from Rs 1.78 lakh (ex-showroom), it is positioned as Desh ka e-Rickshaw for individual owners and small fleet operators who need a low-cost, low-running-cost last-mile vehicle. A 48 V electrical system and a 150 Ah battery pack give it a claimed range of 100 km on a full charge, with an 18-month warranty on the vehicle, battery and charger.

Range and charging

Mahindra claims up to 100 km of range on a full charge, enough for a day of city and semi-urban passenger trips. The battery takes about 10-12 hours to charge fully using the included 18 A off-board charger, so overnight charging is the practical pattern. The pack is rated IP67 for dust and water resistance, which helps the E-Alfa Plus run through waterlogged areas during the monsoon. The lead-acid pack keeps the purchase price low, but buyers should factor in the longer charge time compared with lithium-ion rivals.

Performance and payload

Power comes from a 1.95 kW permanent magnet synchronous motor that delivers 26.9 Nm of torque, propelling the E-Alfa Plus to a top speed of 25 km/h. A constant mesh transmission with 1 forward and 1 reverse gear, plus three speed modes (L, M, H), makes it easy to manage in stop-and-go city traffic. With a kerb weight of 436 kg and a gross vehicle weight of 816 kg, the e-rickshaw carries a driver plus 4 passengers, and its 5 per cent gradeability helps it climb flyovers even when loaded.

Who should buy it

The Mahindra E-Alfa Plus is aimed at individual auto-rickshaw drivers and fleet operators who run fixed city routes and need a dependable, affordable electric vehicle with an established service network. Its metal body with a 0.7 mm hardtop, 2168 mm wheelbase and 132 mm ground clearance give it a sturdy, stable ride, while free accidental insurance of up to Rs 20 lakh under UDAY NXT and 5 free services lower ownership risk. Buyers who need faster charging or higher speed should compare it with lithium-ion 3-wheelers such as the Mahindra Treo, Bajaj RE E-TEC 9.0 or Piaggio Ape E City.