In India.. this is a new Hyundai
Hyundai Motor India aims to enter the fast-growing electric three-wheeler (electric tuktuk) market in India while accelerating the shift towards zero carbon emission vehicles.
Informed sources indicated the possibility of Hyundai Motor India entering into a partnership with a local company working in the production of three-wheeled vehicles (also known as rickshaws) and four-wheeled vehicles, while talks are underway with TVS Motor Company.
Although the exact outlines of the partnership have not been revealed, it is expected that the Indian branch of the South Korean Hyundai Motor Group will share the chassis of the anticipated small vehicle with the automaker located in southern India, in the same way as the partnership between the Indian company and the German luxury motorcycle automaker B. MW manufactures motorcycles bearing the German company’s brand.
Hyundai plans to display test models of its small vehicles used in final delivery services, or what is known as “last mile delivery,” at the Bharat Transport Exhibition in India. Meanwhile, TVS is looking to enter the electric transportation sector, and has plans to launch its electric three-wheeler for last-mile services in 2025.
The entry of final delivery vehicles may also provide a springboard for Hyundai to introduce its app-based platform, including Shukal Intelligent Mobility Services, in the Indian market.
In March 2021, Hyundai Motor Group launched the “Shockell” smart transportation service, which was developed by the South Korean company’s artificial intelligence research laboratory.
The company began operating the service in Sejong, South Korea, as an integrated mobility platform that addresses local transportation challenges by offering flexible routes based on real-time demand. The name “Shuckle” combines the English words “shuttle” and “cycle” in reference to its provision of rotating services within specific areas. Through Shokle, Hyundai seeks to participate in the rapidly growing electric three-wheeler segment in India.
It is noteworthy that Mahindra & Mahindra accounts for about 40% of the electric three-wheeler market in India. At a time when its competitor Bajaj Auto is achieving rapid growth in this market. Start-ups such as Altegreen and Euler have also succeeded in finding a foothold in the market. (Associated Press – Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed)
