The Indian automobile industry is on the brink of an exciting transformation with the upcoming launch of Robin, an innovative electric microcar by Wings EV. Set to redefine eco-friendly commuting, Robin promises to deliver a unique blend of maneuverability, safety, and environmental benefits that will appeal to urban drivers looking for a practical and sustainable mode of transportation.
Contents
Wings EV: Pioneers of the Electric Microcar
Wings EV, a forward-thinking company based in Indore, is the brainchild of a dynamic father-son duo. With a clear vision to enhance personal commuting while reducing pollution, road congestion, and space usage, Wings EV is poised to make a significant impact on the Indian automobile industry. Co-founder and CEO Pranav Dandekar, a Stanford graduate with a PhD in computer science, emphasizes the company’s commitment to safety and innovation. Robin, the firm’s flagship electric microcar, has successfully passed all safety tests conducted by ARAI Pune, positioning it as a safer alternative to traditional two or three-wheelers.
The Robin Launch: A New Chapter in Eco-Friendly Commuting
Scheduled for its grand unveiling in Bengaluru in April 2025, Robin is designed to offer the agility of a motorbike with the comfort of a two-seater vehicle. Initially, Wings EV aims to sell 3,000 units of Robin in its first year, leveraging the 10,000-unit annual production capacity of their Indore plant. With its strategic launches planned in Chennai and Hyderabad or Pune later in 2025, the company is gearing up for a nationwide rollout, bringing Robin to eco-conscious consumers across India.
Key Features of Robin: Safety, Innovation, and Affordability
Robin will be available in three distinct variants to cater to diverse consumer needs. The basic non-AC model with a 65 km range is priced at ₹2 lakh (ex-showroom), while a mid-tier variant featuring a fan and a 90 km range will cost ₹2.5 lakh. The premium variant, offering a 90 km range, AC, and patented audio alert systems for enhanced safety, is priced at ₹3 lakh. All models boast impressive hill-climbing capabilities, successfully tackling inclines of 12 degrees, far surpassing typical flyover gradients.
Strategic Growth and Market Potential
According to Pranav’s father, Prakash Dandekar, CTO and co-founder of Wings EV, the Indian market currently sees sales of over 18 million two-wheelers annually. As consumer preferences shift towards more sustainable options, there is potential for a substantial segment of two-wheeler buyers to transition to electric microcars like Robin over the next two decades. To support this anticipated growth, Wings EV is considering establishing a production unit in southern India if demand justifies expansion.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Drive-by-Wire Powertrain
Robin is powered by a sophisticated drive-by-wire powertrain, akin to the advanced fly-by-wire systems used in aircraft, ensuring precise control and a superior driving experience. This technological edge highlights Wings EV’s dedication to innovation and excellence in the electric vehicle sector.
In conclusion, the launch of Robin signifies a pivotal moment for Wings EV and the broader Indian automobile landscape. With its emphasis on safety, manoeuvrability, and eco-friendly commuting, Robin is set to capture the imagination of consumers and industry enthusiasts alike, paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient future on India’s roads. Whether you’re an urban commuter or a technology enthusiast, Robin offers a compelling glimpse into the future of sustainable transport.
via TheHindu