E-rickshaws are gaining popularity in India as they are comfortable and economic, while keeping the environment clean. The passion to build a pollution free society and spread awareness about the ill effects of pollution led two city-based youngsters, Bharath Mamidoju and Parupati Madhukar Reddy to develop, “Sweekar”.
A post graduate from NIRD, Bharath, runs an NGO, Green Thumbs. While conducting ‘Green Sevak — Serving India from roots’ programme, an idea sprouted and a draft of Adapt Motors, which manufactures Sweekar and Sweekar-L (e-auto for passenger and commercial use) came to life. Sweekar is made at the Adapt manufacturing unit at Peddamberpet in Hyderabad, which is currently producing 500 units. “We have got orders from our dealers and private orders from Chennai, Vizag, Bangalore, Hyderabad and the surroundings,” says Madhukar, adding, “We have developed this unit with the help of our family and friends. Bharath says, “We have around 478 unit bookings and have been able to deliver 50 vehicles.”
Priced between Rs 1,10,000 and 1,20,000, these battery operated three wheelers have an emergency pedal charging system (EPCS) — which enables the user to generate electric charge through a self pedal mechanism. This enables the vehicle to run for an added 25KM on a charge generated through the pedal system. The e-rickshaw has a maximum speed of 25 km/hr and can carry four passengers plus the driver.
