YOUDHA EPOD

The YOUDHA EPOD is a smart electric passenger 3-wheeler (L3M low-speed passenger carrier) from Youdha Auto, priced from Rs 2.79 lakh for the 2100/Electric variant (ex-showroom). It is a compact three-wheeler with a monocoque chassis and day cabin that seats a driver and three passengers, aimed at ride-hailing and intra-city passenger operators who want the longest range in the electric auto segment.

Range and charging

The EPOD runs on an 11.8 kWh CAN-based LFP smart battery at 51.2 V that delivers a claimed range of 227 km on a full charge, among the highest figures in the electric auto class. Full charging takes around 4-5 hours on a standard charger, which suits an overnight top-up between daily shifts. The battery uses LFP chemistry with a CAN-connected smart management system, and the official brochure covers battery terms separately.

Performance and payload

A PMSM Advance motor producing 6 kW and 53 Nm of torque gives the EPOD a top speed of 45 km/h and a 22% gradeability, enough for city streets and flyover ramps. It runs within a 725 kg gross vehicle weight, uses hydraulic brakes with regenerative braking, and rolls on 120/80-R12 8PR tyres at all three wheels. The compact body measures 2750 mm long, 1340 mm wide and 1730 mm high, with a 2100 mm wheelbase, 160 mm ground clearance and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. Transmission is automatic with a 1-forward, 1-reverse gearbox.

Who should buy it

The YOUDHA EPOD suits ride-hailing drivers and passenger auto operators who run long daily routes and want to avoid mid-day charging, since the 227 km range and 4-5 hour charge time cover a full working shift. At its Rs 2.79 lakh ex-showroom price it competes with the Mahindra Treo and Bajaj GoGo on running cost, but buyers should confirm Youdha dealer and service coverage in their city before committing, as the network is built around Lohia group dealerships.