Introduction
In the rapidly evolving landscape of urban transportation, electric vehicles are playing an increasingly crucial role. Among these, e-rickshaws have emerged as a popular choice for short-distance travel in many cities, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles. The Hooghly Motors Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ stands out as a prime example of this innovative transportation solution, combining efficiency, comfort, and sustainability in a compact package.
This article delves into the technical specifications, features, and benefits of the Hooghly Motors Butterfly E-Rickshaw+, exploring how this vehicle is setting new standards in the e-rickshaw market. From its powerful electric motor to its impressive range and passenger capacity, we’ll examine every aspect of this remarkable vehicle, providing insights into its potential impact on urban mobility and environmental sustainability.
Manufacturer Overview
Hooghly Motors Pvt. Ltd: A Pioneer in E-Mobility
Hooghly Motors Pvt. Ltd, the manufacturer of the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+, has established itself as a leading player in the Indian electric vehicle industry. With a focus on innovation and quality, the company has been at the forefront of developing sustainable transportation solutions tailored to the unique needs of Indian cities.
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ is a testament to Hooghly Motors’ commitment to creating vehicles that not only meet the demands of urban commuters but also contribute to reducing air pollution and carbon emissions. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and adhering to strict quality standards, Hooghly Motors has positioned itself as a trusted name in the e-rickshaw market.
Technical Specifications
Model and Category
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ falls under the e-rickshaw category, a class of vehicles specifically designed for short-distance passenger transportation in urban and semi-urban areas. This classification is crucial as it determines the regulatory framework under which the vehicle operates, including speed limits, licensing requirements, and areas of operation.
Power and Performance
Max Power: 1500W
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ is equipped with a robust 1500W electric motor. This power output is carefully calibrated to provide optimal performance for urban conditions. The 1500W motor offers several advantages:
- Sufficient torque for quick starts and smooth acceleration, essential for navigating through busy city traffic.
- Ability to maintain consistent speed even when fully loaded with passengers and luggage.
- Energy efficiency, balancing power needs with battery conservation to maximize range.
Max Speed: 22.19 km/h
With a maximum speed of 22.19 km/h, the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ is designed to comply with local regulations for e-rickshaws while ensuring efficient travel. This speed limit:
- Enhances safety for both passengers and pedestrians in crowded urban environments.
- Optimizes energy consumption, contributing to the vehicle’s impressive range.
- Allows for easy maneuverability in tight spaces and congested streets.
Mileage: 80-85 km
One of the most impressive features of the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ is its exceptional range of 80-85 km on a single charge. This impressive mileage offers several benefits:
- Reduces downtime for charging, allowing drivers to maximize their earning potential.
- Provides flexibility for longer routes or multiple short trips throughout the day.
- Alleviates range anxiety for both drivers and passengers.
The combination of this range with the vehicle’s speed and power creates an ideal balance for urban transportation needs.
Battery and Electrical System
Battery: 12 ER 100 L (EXIDE)
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ utilizes a 12 ER 100 L battery from EXIDE, a renowned manufacturer of automotive batteries. This choice of battery offers several advantages:
- High capacity, supporting the vehicle’s impressive range.
- Durability and reliability, crucial for the demanding conditions of daily urban use.
- Established brand reputation, ensuring easy availability of replacements and service.
Motor Input Voltage: 48V (12V X 4)
The electric motor operates on a 48V system, achieved by connecting four 12V batteries in series. This configuration provides:
- Improved efficiency compared to lower voltage systems.
- Better performance, especially in terms of acceleration and hill-climbing ability.
- Reduced current flow for the same power output, potentially extending the lifespan of electrical components.
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions (L x W x H): 2760 x 1000 x 1710 mm
The compact dimensions of the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ are optimized for urban use:
- Length (2760 mm): Provides ample space for passengers while remaining maneuverable in tight spaces.
- Width (1000 mm): Narrow enough to navigate through congested streets and lanes.
- Height (1710 mm): Offers sufficient headroom for passengers while maintaining a low center of gravity for stability.
Unladen Weight: 397 Kgs
The relatively light unladen weight of 397 Kgs contributes to the vehicle’s efficiency and performance:
- Reduces energy consumption, extending the range.
- Improves acceleration and handling characteristics.
- Minimizes wear and tear on components, potentially reducing maintenance costs.
Gross Weight: 709 Kgs
With a gross weight of 709 Kgs, the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ is designed to safely and efficiently carry a full load of passengers and luggage:
- Ensures structural integrity and stability even when fully loaded.
- Complies with regulatory requirements for e-rickshaws.
- Optimizes the balance between carrying capacity and overall vehicle performance.
Passenger Capacity
Seating Capacity: 4+1 Passenger + 40Kgs (Luggage)
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ offers a generous seating capacity:
- Four passenger seats provide comfortable transportation for small groups or families.
- Additional driver seat ensures proper weight distribution and vehicle balance.
- 40 Kg luggage capacity adds versatility for carrying groceries, small packages, or personal belongings.
This configuration makes the vehicle ideal for various use cases, from daily commutes to short shopping trips.
Wheel and Brake System
Wheel Size: Fr/Rr – 90/90 -12
The 12-inch wheels with 90/90 tires offer a balance of performance and comfort:
- Provides good road grip and stability.
- Offers adequate cushioning against road imperfections.
- Widely available size for easy replacement and maintenance.
Front & Rear Brake: Drum
Equipped with drum brakes on both front and rear wheels, the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ ensures reliable stopping power:
- Drum brakes are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements.
- Provides consistent braking performance even in wet conditions.
- Enclosed design protects brake components from dust and debris, extending their lifespan.
Starting System
Electric Starter
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ features an electric starter for convenience and reliability:
- Ensures quick and easy starting in all weather conditions.
- Reduces driver fatigue compared to manual starting methods.
- Contributes to the overall user-friendly design of the vehicle.
Additional Features
F M Radio With Sound System
Enhancing the passenger experience, the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ comes equipped with an FM radio and sound system:
- Provides entertainment during journeys, improving passenger satisfaction.
- Can be used for public announcements or advertising, offering additional revenue opportunities for operators.
- Adds value to the vehicle, differentiating it from basic e-rickshaw models.
Handle Lock
Security is ensured with the inclusion of a handle lock:
- Prevents unauthorized use of the vehicle when parked.
- Adds an extra layer of theft deterrence.
- Simple yet effective security measure that doesn’t require complex mechanisms.
Footmat
The inclusion of a footmat demonstrates attention to detail in passenger comfort:
- Provides a non-slip surface for safe entry and exit.
- Protects the vehicle’s floor from wear and tear.
- Easier to clean, maintaining the vehicle’s hygiene and appearance.
Handrings
Strategically placed handrings enhance passenger safety and comfort:
- Provides support for passengers while entering, exiting, or during the journey.
- Improves stability for standing passengers or during turns.
- Adds to the overall ergonomic design of the passenger compartment.
Back Moving Alert
A back moving alert system enhances safety during reverse maneuvers:
- Warns pedestrians and other vehicles when the e-rickshaw is reversing.
- Reduces the risk of accidents in crowded urban environments.
- Demonstrates compliance with safety regulations and best practices.
Color Options
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ is available in four vibrant colors:
- Red: A bold, attention-grabbing choice that can increase visibility on the road.
- Green: An eco-friendly color that aligns with the vehicle’s sustainable nature.
- Greenish-Yellow: A unique shade that combines visibility with a fresh, modern look.
- Blue: A calming color that can appeal to a wide range of customers.
These color options allow operators to choose a style that matches their brand or personal preference, adding a touch of customization to the vehicle.
Warranty Details
Hooghly Motors demonstrates confidence in the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ through comprehensive warranty coverage:
Chassis: 36 Months
The extended 3-year warranty on the chassis underscores the vehicle’s structural integrity and build quality.
Controller: 6 Months
Critical for the vehicle’s electrical system, the controller’s warranty ensures protection against manufacturing defects.
TVS/Ceat/JK Tyre: 12 Months
The 1-year tyre warranty from reputable brands provides peace of mind regarding the vehicle’s most wear-prone components.
Water Proof Motor: 6 Months
Designed to withstand various weather conditions, the waterproof motor’s warranty safeguards against potential water damage.
Axiom Charger 15A: 12 Months
The charger’s 1-year warranty ensures reliable charging performance, crucial for the vehicle’s daily operation.
Wiring Harness Insulated Copper PVC Cable: 12 Months
The warranty on the wiring harness protects against electrical issues, enhancing the vehicle’s overall reliability.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ plays a significant role in promoting sustainable urban transportation:
- Zero direct emissions, contributing to improved air quality in cities.
- Reduced noise pollution compared to traditional fuel-powered vehicles.
- Energy-efficient design minimizes overall environmental impact.
By choosing the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+, operators and passengers actively participate in reducing urban carbon footprints and supporting the transition to cleaner transportation alternatives.
Economic Benefits for Operators
Operating the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ can offer several economic advantages:
- Lower running costs compared to fuel-powered vehicles due to cheaper electricity rates.
- Reduced maintenance expenses, with fewer moving parts than traditional engines.
- Potential for higher earnings due to increased passenger preference for eco-friendly options.
- Government incentives and subsidies in many regions for adopting electric vehicles.
These factors combine to make the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ an attractive investment for individual operators and fleet managers alike.
Conclusion
The Hooghly Motors Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ represents a significant step forward in urban transportation solutions. By combining efficient performance, passenger comfort, and environmental sustainability, this e-rickshaw addresses many of the challenges faced by modern cities in their quest for cleaner, more accessible mobility options.
From its powerful yet efficient 1500W motor to its impressive 80-85 km range, the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ is designed to meet the demands of both operators and passengers. The thoughtful inclusion of features like the FM radio, handle lock, and back moving alert system demonstrates Hooghly Motors’ commitment to creating a well-rounded vehicle that prioritizes safety, comfort, and practicality.
Moreover, the comprehensive warranty package offered by Hooghly Motors instills confidence in the vehicle’s quality and durability, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest in sustainable transportation solutions.
As cities worldwide continue to grapple with issues of air pollution, traffic congestion, and the need for last-mile connectivity, vehicles like the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ play a crucial role in shaping the future of urban mobility. By providing an eco-friendly, efficient, and economically viable alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles, the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ is not just a mode of transportation – it’s a catalyst for positive change in our urban landscapes.
The success of the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ and similar vehicles will likely pave the way for further innovations in the e-rickshaw sector, driving improvements in battery technology, motor efficiency, and overall vehicle design. As adoption rates increase and technology advances, we can expect to see even more capable and environmentally friendly e-rickshaws hitting our streets in the years to come.
In conclusion, the Hooghly Motors Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ stands as a testament to the potential of electric vehicles in revolutionizing urban transportation. It offers a glimpse into a future where our cities are cleaner, quieter, and more efficiently connected – one e-rickshaw ride at a time.
What is the maximum range of the Hooghly Motors Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ on a single charge?
The Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ has a range of 80-85 km on a single charge.
How many passengers can the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ accommodate?
It has a seating capacity of 4 passengers plus the driver (4+1), and can also carry up to 40 kg of luggage.
What type of battery does the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+ use?
It uses a 12 ER 100 L battery from EXIDE, with a 48V system (4 x 12V batteries).
What is the maximum speed of the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+?
The maximum speed of the e-rickshaw is 22.19 km/h.
What is the warranty period for the chassis of the Butterfly E-Rickshaw+?
Hooghly Motors offers a 36-month (3-year) warranty on the chassis.