City based Nezone Group and leading moulded plastic maker Ok Play has forged a partnership to manufacture indigenous e-rickshaws.
"We have collaborated with Ok Play to manufacture eastern region's first ICAT (International Centre for Automotive Technology) and Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) approved e-rickshaw," Nezone group managing director M L Beswal told PTI.
As steel pipe producer it is forward integration for us as we will be providing the chasis of the e-vehicle, he added.
Calcutta High Court's direction to the West Bengal government to form a high-power committee to take steps against unauthorized e-rickshaws comes as a boon for us, he said.
According to estimates, over a lakh e-rickshaws are plying across the state, most of which are either built with Chinese components and are unable to meet regulatory requirements.
PSU banks have also approved this product which will help buyers to get subsidised Mudra scheme loan to purchase the vehicle.
This is a complete green vehicle as even components used for body are all UV stable plastic body which is non-polluting, long lasting and edge free, Nezone officials said.
Feasibility is being carried out to make solar powered e-rickshaw as well, Benswal said.
He said if some direct fiscal benefit scheme is offered by the West Bengal government it would help in quick switchover to authorised e-rickshaw in the state.
The Delhi government has announced a subsidy of Rs 15,000 per e-rickshaw. The Maharashtra government has waived registration charges on such vehicles.
Several state governments have waived VAT on e-rickshaws. The union government has reduced central excise to 6 per cent on these battery operated vehicles.
