Zero21 Smart Mule Passenger

The Zero21 Smart Mule Passenger is a fully built electric auto-rickshaw (L3M low-speed passenger carrier) from Zero21, priced from Rs 2.83 lakh. It seats the driver plus four passengers (D+4) on a 758 kg gross vehicle weight, and is aimed at city passenger transport, feeder routes and last-mile shared mobility where a low-speed, low-running-cost e-auto is the daily workhorse.

Range and charging

Zero21 claims a 90 km range on a full charge from the 100 Ah lithium-ion battery pack running at 48 V (about 4.8 kWh). A full charge takes 3-4 hours from a standard household socket, which suits overnight charging after a single day's shift. There is no fast-charge option, so operators should plan around a one-full-shift rhythm rather than a mid-day top-up.

Performance and payload

The Smart Mule Passenger is powered by a 2 kW BLDC motor with 23 Nm of torque and a 25 km/h top speed, driving an independent differential. The chassis-with-cabin layout rides on three wheels with coil spring suspension front and rear, drum brakes, and 4.00-10 tubeless tyres. It measures 2820 mm long, 1000 mm wide and 1790 mm tall, with a 1930 mm wheelbase and 170 mm of ground clearance. With a 758 kg gross weight and 410 kg kerb weight it carries roughly 348 kg of passengers and luggage, and its 10% gradeability and 4000 mm turning radius are well suited to narrow city streets.

Who should buy it

The Smart Mule Passenger is built for passenger-carrying operators: e-auto drivers, feeder and shuttle services, and small transport businesses that need an affordable electric vehicle for dense urban routes. The 25 km/h top speed and 90 km range make it a genuine city carrier rather than a neighbourhood toy, and running costs are negligible against a petrol auto. Buyers should confirm Zero21's service network and battery warranty in their city before committing, as the brand's dealer coverage is thinner than Bajaj or Mahindra's.