Reva unveils next-generation electric cars

Bangalore-based Reva Electric Car Co., manufacturer of India’s first electric car, unveiled in January the next-generation Reva cars. Reva said that it was working to further improve the cars’ charge time and speed, and will offer a new range to its consumers within the next two years. The range’s new features would include a proprietary energy management system, a fast-charge portal that can achieve up to 90% charge in one hour, roof-mounted solar panels, telematics for remote monitoring of car information and a powerful global positioning system. The proprietary energy management system efficiently manages the flow of energy, increasing the range to 150-200 km per charge, up from 80 km from the existing models. The company also announced that it will launch its lithium-ion battery-powered car in May 2009. The car will have a 120 km driving range. In related news, Reva and Reliance Digital, the consumer durables and IT arm of Reliance Retail, will partner to sell Reva electric cars at Reliance Digital outlets, top officials of both the companies said. Reva said the tie-up with Reliance digital targets technology and gadget buyers. “Sale of electric cars at Reliance digital outlets is part of our initiative that looks at alternate methods to reach potential customers,” RECC President (Sales & Marketing) R. Chandramouli said. (January 7/8 / February 8, 2009)