As electric logistics gain momentum, key roadblocks remain. Avesh Memon of Rilox EV breaks down how limited charging infrastructure, high EV costs, and battery range concerns are being tackled head-on, in a chat with EFY’s Nitisha Dubey.
Q. Can you tell us about Rilox EV and its vision?
A. Rilox EV is an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing original equipment manufacturer (OEM) that has been in the industry for the past three years. Our parent company, Rilox, has been in the welding machine manufacturing sector for over 15 years, with a strong presence across India. With this foundation, we started Rilox EV to focus on last-mile logistics solutions, catering to both organised logistics companies and small and medium business owners. Our primary objective is to provide multi-utility electric vehicles that help business owners earn a livelihood.
Q. What are the key vehicle models offered by Rilox EV?
A. We offer three major EV models tailored to diverse needs. Our passenger vehicle is an affordable option priced between ₹60,000–₹75,000, delivering a range of approximately 80km per charge, ideal for everyday commuters. The Bijli Model is a sturdy, low-maintenance two-wheeler designed for small business owners, capable of carrying up to 200 kg with ease. For heavier logistics needs, we have introduced the Bijli Trio & Trio Max. These compact three-wheelers bridge the gap between two-wheelers and larger three-wheelers, offering a 500kg payload capacity. These vehicles are perfect for efficiently transporting agricultural produce, water bottles, and various goods.
Q. What differentiates Rilox EV from competitors?
A. Most EV manufacturers, like Ola, Ather, and Bajaj, focus on the passenger segment. In contrast, Rilox EV is dedicated to the logistics and small and medium enterprise (SME) segment, creating vehicles that serve business purposes rather than just personal transportation. They are designed for heavy usage, keeping durability in mind, and suited to industries like agriculture, fisheries, and water supply, requiring high payload capacity and reliability.
Q. What percentage of Rilox EV’s manufacturing is done in India?
A. About 70 per cent of our vehicle components, including batteries, motors, tyres, alloy wheels, and chassis, are sourced and manufactured in India. However, certain parts, such as magnets and stators, are not available domestically and have to be imported. But our core battery technology is sourced from leading Indian manufacturers.
Q. How does Rilox EV handle the assembly and sourcing of components?
A. Like major OEMs, we source key components from tier-one suppliers with extensive industry experience. For instance, companies like Bajaj and others do not manufacture tyres or alloy wheels themselves; they source from specialised manufacturers. We follow the same approach, ensuring high-quality standards through rigorous audits and quality control measures.
Q. How does the lack of charging infrastructure impact EV logistics?
A. It does, posing a challenge to widespread EV adoption. We are also addressing this by collaborating with battery-swapping service providers and integrating our network of 45 distributors in Maharashtra. This initiative will help us to reduce downtime for logistics operators and enhance operational efficiency.
Q. How does charging infrastructure impact delivery timelines and logistics?
A. As I said, efficient charging and battery-swapping networks are crucial for minimising vehicle downtime. Strategically placed charging stations and swap hubs will enhance efficient last-mile delivery and ensure minimal operational disruption.
Q. What strategies can logistics companies adopt to manage high EV costs?
A. One of the best strategies is battery swapping, which reduces upfront costs by nearly 50%. You see, the battery is the most expensive component. Rilox EV is also planning to introduce a rental and leasing model in the next financial year, allowing businesses to use our EVs without owning them. This will also significantly reducing financial barriers.
Q. How does Rilox EV address concerns about battery range limitations?
A. Our EVs offer battery ranges of up to 120km per charge, sufficient for most logistics needs. Additionally, we provide extra battery space for customers who require extended range. Our battery-swapping partnerships offer an unlimited-range solution for those with higher-range requirements.
Q. What role does government policy play in supporting EV logistics?
A. The government has been instrumental in EV adoption through initiatives like PM E-Drive, subsidies for charging infrastructure, and incentives for EV manufacturing. However, we believe there should be additional PLI schemes for SMEs like us.
Q. What are the environmental benefits of switching to electric logistics vehicles?
A. EVs contribute significantly to sustainability by reducing air pollution and carbon emissions. Additionally, they lower operational costs per delivery, making logistics more efficient and environmentally friendly. Many governments, like Delhi’s, are mandating fleets to transition to EVs, accelerating this shift.
Q. How does Rilox EV ensure its vehicles perform well under heavy payload conditions?
A. Our vehicles are specifically designed for rough and intensive use. Unlike passenger EVs driven gently, our logistics EVs endure heavy loads and rough terrain. To withstand these conditions, we focus on reinforced chassis designs, rugged suspension systems, and high-torque motors.
Q. What advancements in battery technology are needed for logistics EVs?
A. Real-time Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring and smart battery management systems will be key to optimising battery performance. We are currently developing our own IoT-enabled tracking and battery management system, which will be launched in the next fiscal.
Q. Who are your current clients?
A. We operate in both business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) segments. In the B2C space, there is a network of 76 dealers across India, serving business owners, SME operators, farmers, and daily users. On the B2B front, we are engaging with major logistics players such as Flipkart, Amazon, BigBasket, and third-party logistics (3PL) partners like ExpressBees to integrate our EVs into their operations.
Q. How does the lack of standardisation in EV technology affect logistics operations?
A. While the industry is evolving, there is still a lack of standardisation in battery technology, charging connectors, and vehicle design. This affects interoperability and slows adoption. However, with time, the industry will hopefully move towards common standards.
Q. How does Rilox EV manage supply chain challenges in EV manufacturing?
A. With 15 years of experience in supply chain management from our welding business, we have developed a robust procurement and logistics system. We follow a system-driven approach to manage inventory, ensure quality, and maintain steady production.
Q. What after-sales services does Rilox EV offer?
A. Our’s is a three-tier service model. This includes dealer-based service centres, where every dealer must maintain an in-house service facility; a mobile service network, with teams that provide on-site repairs and maintenance; and third-party service partners, who collaborate with experienced EV service providers to ensure coverage in remote areas.
Q. What are your current sales numbers?
A. Currently, we sell around 600–700 EVs per month. However, we anticipate significant growth next year as we expand our B2B partnerships and finalise a deal for 5000 vehicles with a leading aggregator.
Q. How was your last fiscal growth, and what are your future goals?
A. We experienced 45 per cent growth last year, and with the launch of two new products—Bijli Trio and a B2B-specific EV—we are gearing up to double our revenue to 100 per cent in the next fiscal year.
