TVS Motor, a leading manufacturer of two-wheelers and three-wheelers, is set to expand its electric vehicle portfolio with an electrified version of the iconic XL moped. The company has registered two new names, TVS XL EV and TVS E-XL, one of which is likely to be used for the upcoming electric XL.
Popularity and Potential of Electric XL
The XL moped is currently the only ICE-powered moped on sale in India and is popular among rural audiences and for intra-city last-mile delivery operations. With 41,635 units sold in February 2024, an electrified version of the XL could prove beneficial for TVS, not only in India but also in other developing nations.
Patent Design Reveals Key Details
A patent design leaked last year showed that the electric XL would have its batteries mounted directly below the main frame, where the engine is located on the ICE version. Unlike some electric two-wheelers, the XL EV will feature a mid-mounted motor with a chain drive to the rear sprocket. Other components, such as the suspension and wheels, are expected to remain largely identical to the ICE XL 100.
Expected Features and Specifications
The TVS XL EV is anticipated to have a battery capacity of around 2 kWh, with a claimed range of 100 km on a full charge. The electric moped will likely feature a different instrument cluster to display electric powertrain parameters, while retaining the same robust build and practicality of the ICE version.
Price Expectation and Competition
The TVS XL EV or TVS E-XL is expected to be priced around Rs. 20,000 more than the ICE version, which starts at Rs. 46,000 (ex-showroom). It will compete with recently launched electric mopeds like the Kinetic E-Luna, which is priced at Rs. 70,000 (ex-showroom). Given TVS's reputation for affordability, the electric XL could be priced competitively in the market.
The upcoming TVS XL EV or E-XL represents an exciting addition to TVS's electric vehicle lineup, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for commuting and delivery needs. With its launch, TVS aims to capitalize on the growing demand for electric two-wheelers and strengthen its position in the electric mobility market.