Introduction
In the rapidly evolving landscape of urban transportation, electric vehicles are gaining prominence as sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Among these innovations, the e-rickshaw stands out as a versatile and eco-friendly solution for short-distance commutes. The Hooghly Motors Butterfly Classic, manufactured by Hooghly Motors Pvt. Ltd., represents a significant stride in this direction, offering a blend of efficiency, comfort, and environmental consciousness.
This comprehensive article delves into the technical specifications, features, and warranty details of the Hooghly Motors Butterfly Classic, providing an in-depth look at how this e-rickshaw is poised to transform urban mobility.
Technical Specifications
Model and Manufacturer
The Butterfly Classic is a product of Hooghly Motors Pvt. Ltd., a company that has positioned itself at the forefront of electric vehicle manufacturing in India. By focusing on e-rickshaws, Hooghly Motors addresses the growing demand for sustainable last-mile connectivity solutions in urban and semi-urban areas.
Category: E-Rickshaw
The Butterfly Classic falls under the e-rickshaw category, a class of vehicles designed to replace traditional cycle rickshaws and auto-rickshaws in many parts of India. E-rickshaws offer several advantages over their conventional counterparts, including reduced physical strain on drivers, lower operational costs, and zero direct emissions.
Power and Performance
Max Power: 1500W
The Butterfly Classic is equipped with a robust 1500-watt electric motor. This power output is carefully calibrated to provide optimal performance for urban environments. The 1500W motor offers several advantages:
- Sufficient torque for smooth starts and stops in traffic
- Ability to handle slight inclines without significant loss of speed
- Efficient power consumption, contributing to extended battery life
Max Speed: 22.19 km/h
With a maximum speed of 22.19 km/h, the Butterfly Classic strikes a balance between efficiency and safety. This speed limit is in line with government regulations for e-rickshaws in many regions and offers several benefits:
- Improved safety for passengers and pedestrians in crowded urban areas
- Reduced energy consumption, leading to extended range
- Lower wear and tear on components, potentially reducing maintenance costs
Mileage: 80-85 km
The impressive mileage of 80-85 km on a single charge positions the Butterfly Classic as a reliable option for daily use. This range is particularly beneficial for:
- Drivers who can complete multiple trips without the need for frequent recharging
- Passengers who can depend on the availability of e-rickshaws for their daily commutes
- Reducing range anxiety, a common concern with electric vehicles
Battery and Electrical System
Battery: 12 ER 100 L (EXIDE)
The Butterfly Classic utilizes a 12 ER 100 L battery from EXIDE, a trusted name in the battery industry. This choice of battery offers several advantages:
- Reliable performance and longevity
- Deep-cycle capability, suitable for the frequent charge-discharge cycles of an e-rickshaw
- Maintenance-free design, reducing operational hassles for drivers
Motor Input Voltage: 48V (12V X 4)
The 48V system, achieved by connecting four 12V batteries in series, is an industry-standard configuration for e-rickshaws. This setup provides:
- Efficient power delivery to the motor
- Reduced current flow, leading to lower heat generation and improved overall efficiency
- Compatibility with a wide range of charging infrastructure
Chassis and Body
Dimensions (L x W x H): 2760 x 1000 x 1710 mm
The compact yet spacious dimensions of the Butterfly Classic make it well-suited for navigating through congested urban streets while providing comfortable seating for passengers. The thoughtful design ensures:
- Maneuverability in tight spaces
- Stability during turns and on uneven roads
- Adequate headroom for passengers
Weight Specifications
- Unladen Weight: 397 Kgs
- Gross Weight: 405 Kgs
The lightweight construction of the Butterfly Classic contributes to its efficiency and performance. The relatively low unladen weight helps in:
- Reducing energy consumption, thereby extending range
- Improving acceleration and handling
- Minimizing wear on components such as tires and brakes
Seating Capacity: 4+1 Passenger + 40Kgs (Luggage)
The Butterfly Classic offers a versatile seating arrangement, accommodating four passengers plus the driver, with an additional capacity for 40 kg of luggage. This configuration provides:
- Efficient people-moving capability for short urban trips
- Flexibility for passengers carrying groceries or small packages
- Potential for use in last-mile delivery services
Wheel and Brake System
Wheel Size: Fr/Rr – 90/90 -12
The 12-inch wheels with 90/90 profile tires offer a good balance between comfort and performance. This wheel configuration provides:
- Improved stability and handling on various road surfaces
- Better shock absorption for a smoother ride
- Adequate ground clearance for navigating speed bumps and potholes
Front & Rear Brake: Drum
Equipped with drum brakes on both front and rear wheels, the Butterfly Classic ensures reliable stopping power. The advantages of drum brakes in this application include:
- Consistent performance in various weather conditions
- Lower maintenance requirements compared to disc brakes
- Adequate heat dissipation for the vehicle’s weight and speed range
Additional Features
Starting System: Electric Starter
The electric starter ensures quick and effortless initiation of the vehicle’s operation, contributing to:
- Reduced driver fatigue
- Improved efficiency in stop-and-go traffic
- Enhanced overall user experience
FM Radio With Sound System
This entertainment feature adds value for both drivers and passengers, offering:
- An enjoyable atmosphere during rides
- Potential for playing informative content or advertisements
- Enhanced passenger satisfaction, potentially leading to increased ridership
Handle Lock
The inclusion of a handle lock serves as an anti-theft measure, providing:
- Basic security when the vehicle is parked
- Peace of mind for drivers
- Potential reduction in insurance premiums
Footmat
The footmat enhances the comfort and cleanliness of the vehicle by:
- Providing a non-slip surface for passengers
- Protecting the floor from wear and tear
- Facilitating easy cleaning and maintenance
Handrings
Strategically placed handrings improve passenger safety and comfort by:
- Providing support during turns and sudden stops
- Assisting passengers while entering and exiting the vehicle
- Enhancing overall stability for standing passengers
Back Moving Alert
This safety feature alerts pedestrians and other vehicles when the e-rickshaw is reversing, contributing to:
- Improved safety in crowded areas
- Reduced risk of accidents during maneuvering
- Enhanced overall safety profile of the vehicle
Warranty Details
Hooghly Motors demonstrates confidence in the Butterfly Classic’s quality and durability through its comprehensive warranty package. Let’s examine each warranty component in detail:
Chassis: 36 Months
The extended 3-year warranty on the chassis underscores the structural integrity of the Butterfly Classic. This coverage:
- Provides peace of mind for owners and operators
- Indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the vehicle’s build quality
- Potentially reduces long-term ownership costs
Controller: 6 Months
The 6-month warranty on the controller, a critical component of the electrical system, ensures:
- Protection against manufacturing defects
- Potential for reduced downtime in case of early failures
- Confidence in the reliability of the vehicle’s power management system
TVS/Ceat/JK Tyre: 12 Months
The 1-year warranty on tires from reputable brands like TVS, Ceat, or JK offers:
- Assurance of quality and performance
- Protection against manufacturing defects
- Potential cost savings on early replacements
Water Proof Motor: 6 Months
The 6-month warranty on the waterproof motor provides:
- Confidence in the motor’s ability to withstand various weather conditions
- Protection against manufacturing defects
- Potential reduction in maintenance costs during the initial period of operation
Axiom Charger 15A: 12 Months
The 1-year warranty on the Axiom 15A charger ensures:
- Reliable charging performance
- Protection against manufacturing defects
- Potential cost savings on early replacements
Wiring Harness Insulated Copper PVC Cable: 12 Months
The 1-year warranty on the wiring harness offers:
- Assurance of quality and durability in the electrical system
- Protection against manufacturing defects
- Potential reduction in maintenance costs related to electrical issues
Conclusion
The Hooghly Motors Butterfly Classic represents a significant step forward in the evolution of urban transportation. By combining efficient electric propulsion with thoughtful design and reliable components, this e-rickshaw offers a sustainable solution for short-distance commutes and last-mile connectivity.
The vehicle’s technical specifications, including its 1500W motor, 80-85 km range, and versatile seating capacity, make it well-suited for the demands of urban environments. Additional features such as the FM radio, handle lock, and back moving alert enhance the overall user experience and safety.
Furthermore, the comprehensive warranty package demonstrates Hooghly Motors’ commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. This combination of performance, features, and after-sales support positions the Butterfly Classic as a compelling option for individual operators, fleet owners, and urban planners looking to implement sustainable transportation solutions.
As cities continue to grapple with issues of congestion, pollution, and accessibility, vehicles like the Hooghly Motors Butterfly Classic will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of urban mobility. By offering an eco-friendly, efficient, and reliable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles, the Butterfly Classic is not just a means of transportation – it’s a step towards a cleaner, more sustainable urban environment.
What is the maximum range of the Hooghly Motors Butterfly Classic on a single charge?
The Butterfly Classic has a mileage of 80-85 km on a single charge.
How many passengers can the Butterfly Classic accommodate?
The e-rickshaw has a seating capacity of 4 passengers plus the driver (4+1), and can carry an additional 40 kg of luggage.
What is the maximum speed of the Butterfly Classic?
The maximum speed of the Butterfly Classic is 22.19 km/h.
What type of battery does the Butterfly Classic use?
It uses a 12 ER 100 L battery from EXIDE, with a 48V system (four 12V batteries connected in series).
What is the warranty period for the chassis of the Butterfly Classic?
The chassis comes with a 36-month (3-year) warranty.