A new electric pickup truck from Montra Electric has been spotted during testing, signaling fresh competition in the small commercial vehicle (SCV) market. Montra, a brand under Murugappa Group’s Tube Investments of India (TII), is known for its electric mobility solutions and appears ready to expand into the electric SCV segment.
Challenging Tata Ace EV and Mahindra ZEO EV
The electric SCV market in India is still developing, with limited options available. Two key players, Tata Ace EV and Mahindra ZEO EV, currently dominate this space. Mahindra recently launched its ZEO EV with a “Battery as a Service” (BaaS) program, making it a strong contender. Montra’s upcoming electric truck aims to carve out its niche by addressing practical needs like cargo space and efficiency.
Design Highlights: Practical and Functional
Spy shots taken in Chennai reveal the vehicle’s near-production-ready design. The truck features a boxy exterior, which maximizes cabin space while offering a commanding road presence. The test mule had camouflage on both the interior and exterior, but a few key details stand out:
- Dual windshield wipers for better visibility.
- Manually adjustable rearview mirrors for simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
- Flat load bay design without wheel well intrusions, allowing more cargo capacity.
- Steel wheels and low-mounted headlights enhance its ruggedness for commercial use.
- A sliding window at the rear adds to cabin ventilation and practicality.
Optimized for Commercial Use
The truck’s long and flat cargo bed is likely its standout feature, catering to businesses needing maximum load space. The step integrated into the bumper facilitates easy entry and exit for drivers and passengers, a thoughtful addition for frequent stops.
Technology and Features Borrowed from Super Auto?
Montra Electric already has a successful electric 3-wheeler, the Super Auto, which offers a range of up to 203 km per charge. It’s expected that Montra’s electric pickup truck will share components and features with the Super Auto, such as:
- A digital instrument cluster for essential vehicle data.
- Driving modes tailored to improve efficiency.
If Montra integrates these features, its electric SCV could become a compelling choice for businesses.
Launch Timeline and Expectations
Montra Electric’s new pickup truck is anticipated to launch in 2025. With a focus on practical design, advanced technology, and efficient powertrains, it could give tough competition to existing players in the market.
As the demand for electric commercial vehicles rises in India, Montra’s entry into this segment could be a game-changer.
