This strategic move aims to diversify Ola’s offerings beyond electric scooters and tap into the growing demand for electric three-wheelers in India.
Ola Electric Ltd, which has been surrounded with legal constraints and customer protests for several months, has now announced plans to expand its portfolio by introducing electric three-wheelers. The first model is expected to launch in the second half of 2025, with a subsequent model anticipated in 2026. This strategic move aims to diversify Ola’s offerings beyond electric scooters and tap into the growing demand for electric three-wheelers in India.
Recent reports indicate that the passenger version, tentatively named ‘Raahi’, is expected to launch within the next 3-4 months, aiming for a release by early 2025. The cargo variant is anticipated to follow, with a projected launch in the second half of 2026. According to Bahivish Agarwal, Ola’s CEO and managing director, the upcoming launch align with Ola Electric’s broader goal to expand its presence in the commercial vehicle sector, building upon its existing success in the electric two-wheeler market.
The company has faced challenges in recent months, including legal scrutiny and customer dissatisfaction. In October 2024, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued a show-cause notice to Ola Electric after receiving over 10,000 consumer complaints related to quality and after-sales service. Additionally, the Ministry of Heavy Industries ordered an audit of Ola’s service centers to ensure compliance with service and warranty standards.
On the other hand, Ola Electric is set to commence deliveries of its Roadster series electric motorcycles in the fourth quarter of the current financial year, with the Roadster X and Roadster models expected to reach customers by January 2025. In a strategic move, Ola has advanced the deployment of its Gen 3 platform to January 2025, ahead of the previously planned August timeline.
The Gen 3 platform introduces significant advancements in electric scooter design and performance including an integrated battery, magnetless motor, and electronics within the chassis.These innovations collectively contribute to a 26 percent improvement in performance and a 22.5 percent reduction in costs compared to the previous platform. As of now, all Ola electric scooters are manufactured utilizing the Gen 2 platform.