States »SoutPosted at: Aug 5 2021 7:22PM Swiggy's leg up to build EV ecosystem, signs deal with RBML
Bengaluru, Aug 5 (UNI) In a bid to build an EV ecosystem to minimise the impact on the environment, Swiggy has signed an agreement with Reliance BP Mobility Limited (RBML) to build an EV ecosystem and battery-swapping stations for its delivery partners across the country.
Today’s announcement comes on the back of almost two years of pilots, during which Swiggy explored various models to determine what would make EV adoption easier and more profitable for its delivery partners.
"The Indian industry must continue to work towards driving the adoption of EVs as a part of the nation’s overall efforts to transition to sustainable and environment-friendly mobility. Swiggy’s commitment in this direction is a welcomed development. I urge other industry players to factor EVs in their business and operating models for a sustainable future," Niti Ayog CEO Amitabh Kant said.
The trails are currently running in Bangalore, New Delhi, and Hyderabad.
Making deliveries through EVs is expected to lower the running cost of vehicles by up to 40 per cent, leading to higher earnings for Swiggy’s delivery partners.
"With an objective to support GoIs vision of Electric Mobility, RBML has forayed into e-mobility services and is committed to create an ecosystem which will help accelerate adoption of Electric Vehicles in the country ... Our collaboration with Swiggy has the potential to bring disruption and increase EV adoption among delivery and transportation companies in the country," TBML CEO Harish C Mehta said.
To ensure a robust and sustainable last-mile food delivery infrastructure, RBML will install battery swapping stations every few kilometers. Swiggy will train the delivery partners on how to use the EVs, the swapping stations, and apps that monitor battery performance.
"Our fleet delivers millions of orders each month with our partners traveling an average of 80-100 kms daily. As we continue to work towards providing our consumers with greater convenience, we are also mindful of the environmental impact of our operations and are taking the necessary steps to make our journey more sustainable. Transitioning to EVs is an important step in this direction. It will have a positive impact not only on the environment but also empower our delivery partners to earn more," Swiggy CEO Sriharsha Majety said in a statement.
In yet another industry-first, Swiggy is working with Hero Lectro and Fast Despatch logistics to deploy electric cycles for last-mile deliveries. The pilot, currently live in Hyderabad, will expand to other metros in the coming months.
Hero Lectro Cargo e-bikes are specifically designed for last mile deliveries and can travel at a maximum speed of 25 kmph with a range of 70-75 kms per charge- making them ideal for short-distance deliveries.
In addition to being pollution-free, the advantage of e-cycles is that they do not need immediate swapping or recharging when the battery runs out. They can be charged on regular plug points or continue running on pedal power.
UNI BDN SHK1922