Revealed: Ola Electric’s secret weapon to dominate EV Market by 2026

Ola Electric has solidified its position as a leading force in the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market with the recent launch of its new electric motorcycles and a groundbreaking announcement regarding its battery technology. At its annual event, Sankalp 2024, held on August 15, 2024, at its Futurefactory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, Ola Electric introduced its new Roadster motorcycle series, showcased its indigenously developed Bharat 4680 cell, and unveiled its latest technological advancements.

Ola Electric Launches Roadster Motorcycle Series

Ola Electric’s entry into the electric motorcycle market with the Roadster series marks a significant expansion of its product line. The series includes the Roadster X, Roadster, and Roadster Pro, each designed to cater to different segments of the motorcycle market. The Roadster X is priced starting at INR 74,999 and is positioned as an entry-level electric motorcycle. It features a peak motor output of 11 kW and reaches 0-40 kmph in just 2.8 seconds for its top variant. The Roadster X offers a maximum speed of 124 kmph and a range of 200 km, making it a competitive option in the entry-level segment.

The Roadster, with pricing starting from INR 1,04,999, is designed for higher performance, reaching speeds of up to 126 kmph and covering a range of up to 248 km. It features a 6.8-inch TFT touchscreen and multiple riding modes, including Hyper, Sports, Normal, and Eco, catering to diverse riding preferences.

The Roadster Pro, priced from INR 1,99,999, is the flagship model of the series, offering a top speed of 194 kmph and a range of 579 km. It accelerates from 0-40 kmph in 1.2 seconds, powered by a 52 kW motor. The Roadster Pro features advanced technologies such as a 10-inch TFT touchscreen, four riding modes, and race-track capabilities, setting a new benchmark for electric motorcycles in the high-performance segment.

Integration of Bharat 4680 Cell

Ola Electric’s announcement of integrating its Bharat 4680 cells into its electric vehicles starting Q1 FY26 represents a strategic move to enhance its competitive edge. The Bharat 4680 cell, developed in-house, boasts significant advancements over existing battery technologies. With an energy density of 275 Wh/kg, it provides five times more energy than the widely used 2170 form-factor cells. Additionally, the cell features a wide operating temperature range of 10-70°C and supports over 1,000 charge cycles. The fast-charging capability of the cell, allowing for a 50% charge in just 13 minutes, positions Ola Electric as a pioneer in battery technology within the EV industry.

Introduction of the Gen-3 Platform and MoveOS 5

The Gen-3 platform, unveiled at the event, is poised to be the foundation for Ola Electric’s future electric vehicles. This new platform is designed to enhance scalability, performance, and efficiency, while also reducing costs. It reflects Ola Electric’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement in the EV space.

MoveOS 5, the latest iteration of Ola Electric’s operating software, introduces a host of new features aimed at improving the overall riding experience. Key updates include Group Navigation, Live Location Sharing, and Road Trip Mode, powered by Ola Maps. The software also enhances vehicle performance with features such as Smart Charging, Smart Park, TPMS alerts, and advanced voice assistance powered by Krutrim AI. The beta version of MoveOS 5 will be available by Diwali 2024, bringing new functionalities and improvements to the existing platform.

Industry Impact and Future Prospects

Ola Electric’s latest announcements underscore its ambition to transform the Indian EV market and position India as a global hub for electric mobility. With the introduction of the Roadster motorcycle series, the integration of advanced battery technology, and the rollout of the Gen-3 platform and MoveOS 5, Ola Electric is setting new standards in the EV industry. These developments are expected to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in India, drive innovation, and contribute to a sustainable future for transportation.