Electric vehicles and technology company, EKA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Bengaluru-based battery technology startup Log9 Materials. Under the new strategic partnership, Log9 will provide its fast-charging advanced battery solution RapidX for EKA's new energy vehicles, including their recently launched pure electric bus range, EKA E9. The battery technology will also go into EKA's soon-to-be-launched range of Light Commercial Vehicles. EKA, a subsidiary of Pinnacle Industries, is one of the three commercial vehicle manufacturers approved under the Champion OEM Scheme of the Government of India's Auto PLI policy.
EKA recently introduced its first 9-metre pure electric and zero-emission bus, EKA E9
Talking about the new partnership, Sudhir Mehta, Chairman, EKA & Pinnacle Industries Limited, highlighted, "We are pleased to announce this new strategic alliance with Log9, a leading Indian battery technology company. At EKA, we are committed to providing a solid platform for sustainable, efficient, reliable public & commercial transport in cities, and our collaboration with Log9 is another step to strengthen our commitment. We look forward to creating a new ecosystem in global CV electric mobility that is equipped with powerful technology for mass adaptation."
Also Read: Log9 Materials To Offer InstaCharging Battery Tech For Electric Scooters
Log9's RapidX batteries are powered by InstaCharge battery technology which enables a charging time of less than 30 minutes on both the LCV and e-Bus platforms of EKA. The company has leveraged its cell-to-pack competency to develop its InstaCharge batteries that are claimed to provide 9x faster charging, 9x better performance, and 9x battery life. Log9's InstaCharge technology brings down the total charging time which further optimises the utilisation of charging infrastructure and operational profitability for commercial vehicles. They are also the first-of-their-kind batteries in India for electric buses and SCVs that come with a 15-year warranty, and long cycle life (of greater than 15,000 charge-discharge cycles).
Log9's RapidX batteries will enable InstaCharging these vehicles in under 30 minutes
Commenting on the partnership, Akshay Singhal, Founder & CEO, Log9 Materials added, "We are happy and proud to partner with EKA by Pinnacle Mobility Solutions to integrate our RapidX batteries for the first time into EKA's Electric Bus and LCV trucks that will be particularly useful for intercity logistics and movement purposes. Log9's RapidX batteries will enable InstaCharging these vehicles in under 30 minutes, which in turn will lead to less waiting times or downtime and increased vehicle utilisation on roads while offering optimum Power, Performance and Peace of Mind for the end-users."
EKA recently introduced its first 9-metre pure electric and zero-emission bus, EKA E9. The company says that the bus features a streamlined vehicle design, while the power and range have been maximised due to its monocoque stainless steel chassis and complete composite structure. With a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) lower than existing diesel-engine buses and other commercial vehicles, EKA E9 also promises to deliver sustainability and profitability to all stakeholders. EKA is also developing Light Commercial Vehicles, designed to help increase range and lower operating costs.
