Lectrix EV, the e-mobility arm of SAR Group, is all set to make significant strides in the EV segment. Established in 2020, the company is driven by the passion to provide reliable, innovative, and safe electric two-wheelers to consumers.
With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Lectrix EV caters to the evolving needs of the Indian EV marketInnovation, evolution, and experimentation are at the core of the company’s design philosophy. The company’s vision is to de-risk EV adoption for consumers.
In a recent interview, Abdullah interacted with Pritesh Talwar, President EV Business, Lectrix EV in which he discussed about current specifications for 2-wheeler EVs’ battery capacity, energy density of a battery influence the overall performance and range of an EV, advanced Battery Management Systems improve the performance and lifespan of EV batteries, battery degradation over time affect the performance and range of an EV.
1) What are the industry’s current specifications for 2-wheeler EVs’ battery capacity?
Currently, two-wheeler EVs in India typically feature battery capacities ranging from 1.5 kWh to 4 kWh. Standard electric scooters generally come with batteries around 2 kWh to 3 kWh, offering a range of 60-120 km per charge. High-performance models may have capacities up to 4 kWh, extending the range to 150 km or more. These capacities cater to varying consumer needs, balancing cost and range. The focus is on optimizing battery performance for urban commutes while keeping prices competitive and improving infrastructure for charging.
For instance, at Lectrix, we offer high-performance EVs like the LXS 2.0, tailored for urban commuting, with advanced lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries known for their safety and efficiency. Our batteries are designed to ensure that fleet owners get the most out of their EVs, whether it’s maximizing range or optimizing load capacity. With a focus on customized solutions, we cater to various needs, ensuring that our EVs meet and exceed industry standards while also providing additional services like battery leasing and swapping to enhance convenience and reduce upfront costs.
2) How does the energy density of a battery influence the overall performance and range of an EV?
Energy density, measured in watthours per kilogram (Wh/kg), is a critical factor in determining the performance and range of an electric vehicle (EV). A higher energy density means more energy can be stored in the same amount of space, directly translating to longer ranges and better overall efficiency. For instance, an EV with a higher energy density battery can travel further on a single charge, making it more suitable for long-distance travel and reducing the frequency of charging stops.
At Lectrix, our EVs are equipped with lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries, which provide an optimal balance of energy density and safety. While LFP batteries may have slightly lower energy densities compared to other chemicals, their flat voltage curve, especially between 30% and 70% state of charge (SOC), ensures consistent performance and reliability. This design choice is particularly beneficial for urban commuting, where efficiency and longevity are key. By maximizing the usable capacity of our batteries, we ensure that our EVs deliver high performance, making them ideal for both fleet owners and individual users who prioritize range and dependability.
3) How do advanced Battery Management Systems improve the performance and lifespan of EV batteries?
Advanced Battery Management Systems (BMS) are the unsung heroes of electric vehicle (EV) performance and longevity. These systems are designed to optimize the operation of the battery by closely monitoring its State of Charge (SOC) and State of Health (SOH). At Lectrix, our smart BMS technology ensures that our batteries are always operating within safe limits, preventing overcharging, deep discharging, and thermal runaways—all of which can degrade battery life and compromise safety.
One of the standout features of our BMS is its ability to perform cell balancing, which ensures that all cells in the battery pack are evenly charged and discharged. This not only improves the overall efficiency of the battery but also extends its lifespan. Additionally, our BMS provides real-time notifications and predictive insights, allowing users to plan maintenance proactively and avoid unexpected downtimes. For fleet operators, this means fewer replacements and repairs, leading to significant cost savings over time. In short, our advanced BMS technology is key to delivering a reliable and long-lasting EV experience, ensuring that our customers get the most out of every charge.
4) How does battery degradation over time affect the performance and range of an EV?
Battery degradation is a natural process that occurs over time and with usage, and it can significantly impact the performance and range of an electric vehicle (EV). As the battery ages, its capacity to hold a charge decreases, leading to a reduced driving range. This reduction in capacity can also affect the overall efficiency of the vehicle, as the battery requires more frequent charging and may struggle to deliver peak performance during high-demand scenarios.
At Lectrix, we address this issue with our smart Battery Management Systems (BMS), which are designed to minimize the effects of degradation. By continuously monitoring the State of Health (SOH) and State of Charge (SOC), our BMS ensures optimal battery usage and helps prevent premature wear. Additionally, our battery leasing and swapping models offer a practical solution to degradation concerns. By allowing customers to easily swap out older batteries for newer ones, we help maintain consistent performance and extend the lifespan of the vehicle, making EV ownership more sustainable and cost-effective.
5) How do battery costs influence the overall cost and market adoption of EVs?
Battery costs are one of the most significant factors influencing the overall cost and market adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Traditionally, batteries have been the most expensive component of an EV, sometimes accounting for up to 40% of the total vehicle cost. This high cost has been a barrier to widespread adoption, as it makes EVs more expensive compared to their internal combustion engine counterparts. However, as battery technology advances and production scales up, costs are gradually decreasing. According to BloombergNEF, the cost of lithium-ion batteries has fallen by nearly 89% over the past decade, which has contributed to the declining prices of EVs.
At Lectrix, we’re tackling the cost issue head-on with innovative solutions like our Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model. By offering battery leasing and swapping options, we reduce the upfront cost of our EVs, making them more accessible to a broader range of customers. These initiatives not only help make EVs more affordable but also accelerate market adoption by addressing one of the primary concerns for potential buyers.
6) What role do regulations on battery disposal and recycling play in the sustainability of EV battery storage
Regulations on battery disposal and recycling play a crucial role in the sustainability of electric vehicle (EV) battery storage. As EV adoption increases, so does the need to manage the end-of-life of batteries in an environmentally responsible manner. Improper disposal of batteries can lead to significant environmental hazards, including soil and water contamination due to the release of toxic substances. To mitigate these risks, many countries have implemented strict regulations that mandate the safe disposal and recycling of EV batteries.
At Lectrix, we are committed to sustainability. For instance, our Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model extends the life of batteries through swapping and leasing.
7) What potential do solid-state batteries hold for improving EV performance and range compared to current lithium-ion batteries?
Solid-state batteries represent the next frontier in electric vehicle (EV) technology, offering the potential to significantly improve performance and range compared to current available batteries. Unlike traditional batteries that use liquid electrolytes, solid-state batteries utilize a solid electrolyte, which provides several key advantages. First, they have a much higher energy density, meaning they can store more energy in a smaller space. This translates to longer driving ranges for EVs, addressing one of the most common concerns among potential buyers.
Additionally, solid-state batteries are safer because they are less prone to overheating and thermal runaways, which can lead to fires. They also tend to have longer lifespans, as they suffer less from the issues of degradation that plague liquid-ronebased batteries. At Lectrix, we are closely monitoring the developments in s-lid state technology and are excited about the possibilities it holds for the future of electric mobility. While this technology is still in the development phase and not yet commercially available, its potential to revolutionize the EV industry is undeniable, promising safer, more efficient, and lo-ger lasting batteries that could accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles globally.
8) What strategies can automakers and infrastructure providers implement to alleviate range anxiety among potential EV buyers?
Range anxiety, the fear of running out of battery before reaching a charging station, remains one of the biggest hurdles to widespread electric vehicle (EV) adoption. To address this, automakers and infrastructure providers can implement several strategies. One effective approach is the development of an extensive and reliable charging network. By ensuring that charging stations are readily available and conveniently located, such as at workplaces, shopping centers, and along highways, the fear of being stranded can be significantly reduced.
In addition to this, customized solutions for fleets are also a great solution to accelerate e-commerce. Services like customized vehicle options, advanced fleet management tools, and dedicated support can help enhance efficiency and performance. For instance, we offer Ease of Ownership: Full-Service Lease with Maintenance, a Fleet Management Dashboard at your fingertips to track your fleet’s performance, Highly-penetrated battery swapping network that provides unlimited range; new swapping stations can be opened near your locations; AMC and extended warranties are available for suitable customers; Readily available spare parts due to in-house manufacturing.
In addition to this, innovative solutions like Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS), which allows users to swap their depleted batteries for fully charged ones at designated stations, This not only reduces downtime but also alleviates concerns about battery degradation over time. For example, Battery Leasing ensures that the customer can own the vehicle at a fraction of the cost as they don’t have to buy the battery. They can just lease it for a monthly rental as low as Rs 999 per month, which reduces the upfront cost of the EV by almost 40%, while the Battery Swapping + Battery Leasing model helps reduce the TCO and tackles range anxiety and downtime. In addition to battery leasing, users can also swap batteries. This means that riders can quickly exchange batteries at swap stations without having to wait in long queues, as they would at petrol stations. We have noticed that this model has significantly increased the income of gig workers by Rs 200–300 more per day (we have around 13.5K customers at present). This also allows customers to plan their journeys with an unlimited range and warranty.
Additionally, advancements in battery technology, such as increased energy density and faster charging times, are helping to extend the range of EVs, making them more practical for longer journeys.