India Set to Launch Electric Microcar “Robin” in 2025

August 16, 2024

The Indian automobile industry will soon see a new addition—a tiny electric car called the Robin. This new car is designed to make personal travel easier and greener, and it’s expected to help reduce city traffic congestion. The car is created by a startup called Wings EV, founded by Pranav Dandekar and his father Prakash. It’s set to launch in Bengaluru in April 2025.

About Robin

Robin is a small, two-seater electric vehicle (EV) that is very easy to maneuver, much like a motorbike. It has passed strict safety tests conducted by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) in Pune, ensuring it meets high safety standards.

Sales Goals

Wings EV plans to sell 3,000 units of Robin in its first year. They hope to increase production to 10,000 units at their factory in Indore. The company has received financial support from several investors, including prominent angel investors and the firm Venture Highway.

User Research and Expansion

Before launching, the company conducted extensive research, including surveys in six Indian cities and over 300 test drives in Bengaluru. After the initial launch in Bengaluru, Robin will be introduced in other cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, or Pune, before becoming available across India.

Pricing and Models

Robin will come in three versions:

Basic Model: No air conditioning, with a range of 65 kilometers per charge, priced at ₹2 lakh.

Mid Variant: Includes air conditioning and a range of 90 kilometers per charge, costing ₹2.5 lakh.

Premium Variant: Features air conditioning, a 90-kilometer range, and additional safety features, priced at ₹3 lakh.

Technological Features

Robin uses a modern drive-by-wire system, similar to the technology used in aircraft. This makes the car more responsive and safer for driving in urban areas.

Market Outlook

India sees over 18 million two-wheelers sold every year. Wings EV expects that more people will start choosing compact microcars like Robin instead of larger vehicles over the next 20 years, reflecting a shift in the automotive market.

More About Electric Microcars

Electric microcars, like the Renault Twizy, are small vehicles that weigh under 1,000 pounds and are perfect for city driving. They usually go up to 45 mph and have a range of 50-100 miles on a single charge. Charging these cars takes 3-8 hours, depending on the model. They often come with innovative designs that balance safety and compact size. Many also qualify for tax breaks and incentives. Their small size makes parking easier and helps reduce traffic congestion, which is great for environmentally conscious city residents.

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