Zero21 Teer

The Zero21 Teer is a high-speed electric auto-rickshaw (L5M passenger carrier) from Zero21 Renewable Energy Solutions, priced from Rs 3.49 lakh (ex-showroom). It is a 3-tyre, chassis-with-cabin auto built on a 2,130 mm wheelbase with a fully-built day cabin, seating the driver plus three passengers (D+3) with a 380 kg payload on a 680 kg gross weight. It is aimed at city passenger runs, feeder routes and last-mile shuttle work where a faster electric three-wheeler replaces a petrol or CNG auto.

Range and charging

The Teer is powered by a 48V, 200 Ah LiFePO4 battery pack (about 9.6 kWh) delivering a claimed range of 110 km on a full charge. Charging takes 3-4 hours from a standard domestic socket, which suits overnight charging between shifts. There is no DC fast-charge option, so the Teer is realistically a one-full-shift vehicle; operators running extended double-shift duty should budget for a midday top-up or a second vehicle.

Performance and payload

A 8.5 kW PMSM (permanent magnet synchronous) motor producing 72 Nm of torque drives the Teer to a 55 km/h top speed with a 15 per cent gradeability and a 5,248 mm turning radius. The independent differential transmission with a 1-forward/1-reverse gearbox, drum brakes with parking brake, telescopic hydraulic front suspension and coil-spring rear, and 4.00-8 tyres all round give it a stable, comfortable ride on urban roads. The 380 kg payload and D+3 seating make it a genuinely practical passenger carrier for city duty.

Who should buy it

The Teer suits auto-rickshaw drivers, small fleet owners and passenger-transport operators upgrading from petrol/CNG autos who want lower running costs without giving up speed. The 110 km range and 55 km/h top speed are honest limits for city feeder work; highway or long-route operations should look at larger three-wheelers. Buyers should confirm Zero21's service network and battery warranty in their city before committing, as dealer coverage is thinner than Bajaj or Mahindra.