Rising fuel cost in the global market has created a strong demand for the electric cars. Indian car-maker Mahindra has always been serious about electric car technology, a glimpse of which was seen with the electric sports car Halo concept at the 2014 Auto Expo show. The car-maker has also been known for its capabilities with the 'e2o' car built by its subsidiary Reva. Japanese car-maker Nissan has been a Original Equipment manufacturer for decades and the collaboration could trigger vital developments in areas of technological developments.
Dr Pawan Goenka, executive director, Mahindra & Mahindra and chairman, Mahindra Reva, said, “Yes, we are always open to talk to any OEM who wants to work with us and create the right kind of technology or infrastructure for electric vehicles. If Nissan is interested, we’ll be more than happy to talk to them.” Andy Palmer, chief planning officer and executive vice-president responsible for Zero Emission Vehicle Planning and Strategy, Nissan Motor Corporation when questioned about the possibility of joint venture and the perks associated with it, he said, “Nissan is open to collaboration with other EV manufacturers in India, in particular for the charging network. Charging infrastructure is one of the two prime movers for success of EVs.”
The Halo sports car from Mahindra is powered by an electric motor that generates about 140 bhp. As per claims made by the company, the electric car clock 100 km/hr in just about eight seconds. CEO Chetan Maini, Mahindra Reva Electric Vehicle, said, “This car has been fully designed and developed in India with all indigenous technology.” On the exterior front the car looks like its custom made for a race track performance. Smartly positioned LED lamps are worth a watch on this car. The car sports much aggression to please its race car fanatics. As per sources the car may be put up for sale sometime in late 2015 or early 2016 and the production version is likely to cost about Rs. 30-35 Lakh. It has a top speed of 160 km/ph with a range of 200 km on full recharge. This next generation electric sports car concept also sports advanced safety features, a dual touchscreen infotainment system and high end connectivity. Built in India and designed at the Mahindra Reva studio, the Halo will effectively act as Mahindra’s medium for the demonstration for technology for the growing global electric car market.
Currently Mahindra-Reva has been facing multiple challenges in the Electric vehicle segment. Though the company has achieved success on a technological front, it lacks the government support in Indian as well as international market. Post collaboration with Nissan its is expected that the Japanese car-maker shall assist with installers that are not covered by government subsidies.
Source: Autocar Pro
