EKA (Pinnacle Mobility Solutions Pvt. Ltd.) is gearing up to expand its electric commercial vehicle portfolio with the launch of new bus models and small commercial vehicles (SCVs) next year. Vinay Nidige, head of EKA’s private bus sales unit, shared this development at the recent Prawaas 4.0 event, according to the company.
Backed by Mitsui & Co., Ltd and VDL Groep, EKA plans to introduce 7- and 13.5-meter electric buses, adding to its current range of 9- and 12-meter models. Nidige emphasized the company’s goal to offer one of the largest selections in the electric bus market, signaling a push to increase its market share.
In the SCV segment, EKA aims to expand beyond its existing 1.5-tonne truck offering, venturing into the three-wheeler space. The new lineup will include both passenger and cargo variants with various seating and payload options to meet different market demands.
Nidige also highlighted the growing potential of the private bus market, traditionally led by government orders for urban electric buses. He expects private players to increasingly adopt electric coaches for intercity travel, with i9ts’s 13.5-meter coach platform set to launch by the first quarter of next year, marking a strategic shift for the company.
EKA’s expansion is bolstered by a joint investment of over USD 100 million (approximately Rs 850 crores) from Mitsui and VDL Groep. Mitsui will provide financial and strategic support in selected emerging markets, while VDL Groep, known for its expertise in electric buses through its subsidiary VDL Bus & Coach, will transfer advanced technology to EKA, facilitating local production of electric buses tailored for the Indian market. The partnerships with Mitsui and VDL Groep are expected to play a key role in enhancing EKA’s manufacturing capabilities and establishing strong systems and processes to support its growth.
