The initiative is a component of the City Investments to Innovate, Integrate, and Sustain (CITIIS) program, which falls under the auspices of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
Montra Electric, an electric vehicle (EV) brand under the Murugappa Group, has been enlisted as one of the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for the Rejuvenation of Auto-rickshaws in Amritsar through Holistic Intervention (RAAHI) project. This project falls under the City Investments to Innovate, Integrate, and Sustain (CITIIS) program, which is overseen by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
Launched in 2019, the RAAHI scheme aims to replace over 12,000 old diesel three-wheelers in Amritsar. The selection and review of beneficiaries are carried out by the Amritsar Smart City Ltd team. Under this scheme, each eligible beneficiary is granted a subsidy of INR 1,40,000. Customers opting for the Montra Electric Super Auto will receive this subsidy directly in their accounts, in addition to the FAME discounts. Furthermore, female drivers are entitled to a 90% subsidy for pink electric autos, and their families can access skill development courses from the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), as stated in a media release.
KK Paul, the Managing Director of TI Clean Mobility (TICMPL), expressed enthusiasm about participating in the RAAHI Project as an OEM partner and supplying advanced electric three-wheelers to beneficiaries. Montra Electric aims to improve last-mile mobility with innovative designs and performance, contributing to eco-friendly transportation in India.
The RAAHI project seeks to reduce air pollution levels in the city and is a key part of the CITIIS initiative. It encompasses six interconnected components: multiple electric vehicle charging stations, support for the three-wheeler industry, creation of livelihood opportunities, enhancement of pedestrian safety, improvement of first and last-mile connectivity, and promotion of cleaner air quality.
To qualify for the RAAHI program benefits, potential drivers must be members of the Amritsar Auto-Rickshaw Drivers Cooperative Society and possess an Aadhaar card or voter card, the registration certificate of their previous auto, a valid driving license, and a society membership slip.
TI Clean Mobility, a subsidiary of Tube Investments of India (part of the Murugappa Group), is transforming last-mile transportation with the Montra Super Auto. This vehicle features a top-tier 10 kWh battery pack, providing an impressive range of 203km (ARAI Certified), a peak torque of 60 Nm, and a top speed of 55kmph. It also introduces industry-first multi-drive modes for better fuel efficiency and a Park Assist Mode for easy navigation in city traffic. The vehicle is built with superior materials for enhanced safety and durability, the release added.