Maini REVAi

Reva, India's first electric car, catalysed public interest in the incredible benefits of emission-free fuel and an environment-friendly mode of transport. The REVAi is a small 2-door hatchback measuring 2.6-metre long, 1.3-metre wide and 1.5-metre high. Weighing in at 750 kg, the car can accommodate two adults of average height in the front and two children in the rear. The rear seats fold down to increase cargo space. Maximum passenger and cargo weight is 227 kilograms.

Electric Vehicle (EV) technology is gaining popularity in a world buffeted by high global oil prices and a growing move towards environment-friendly, alternate energy sources. REVAi is certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the European Economic Community (EEC), paving the way for the REVAi to gain a foothold in the UK and Europe. The Reva Electric Car Company is the recipient of the SESI-Business Leadership Award (Electric Vehicles) in 2005, the Golden Peacock Innovative Product Award in 2004, the Thomas Alva Edison Award for Innovation in 2002 and the Dr M.S. Swaminathan Award for Environment Protection in 2001.

Selling between Rs 3,00,000 and 4,15,000 (ex-showroom, Bangalore), the REVAi seems over-priced in comparison to Maruti 800 and Alto (with air- conditioning). While running costs are incredibly low, the REVAi's lack of interior space and limitations of distance deny budget-oriented buyers the practicality of a small car. If one were willing to overlook its shortcomings, then 'Save the Planet' would be a significant reason to consider the REVAi.

The REVAi runs on eight 6-volt lead acid batteries that create 48 volts, and has an onboard charger to facilitate easy charging by plugging into any 15 Amp socket. Power flows through a 350 ampere motor controller to a DC motor rated at 4.8 kW (6.5 hp) and can handle up to 13.1 kW (17.5 hp). A small turning radius of just 3.5 metres makes the REVAi easy to park and best-suited for city commutes. It is a snap to drive in slow moving dense traffic.

The car has a maximum speed of 80 kmph and a maximum range of approximately 80 km (50 miles) on a full charge. The REVAi uses approximately nine units of electricity for a full charge, which works out to an average running cost of about 40 paisa per kilometer. An intelligent 'low battery' warning light and energy gauge allow for easy estimation of driving range. The front features independent McPherson Struts, and the rear has an A-arm with Panhard rod and coil-over shock absorbers. Four-wheel dual circuit hydraulic brakes, with integrated regenerative braking, provide impressive stopping power. REVAi requires minimal maintenance because of the minimum number of moving parts.

Driving the REVAi is easy; just turn the key, disengage the parking brake, turn the control knob to the forward position and accelerate. The REVAi's responsive steering is light, takes some getting used to and is at its best while navigating traffic. This nimble car comes with no gears, no clutch and will never stall while driving. At high speed, the REVAi tends to oversteer a bit; ride quality is not very comfortable on bumpy roads.

The REVAi has a quaint appeal to it unlike any other car in the hatchback segment. REVAi's modular design allows easy upgradation of the next generation Electric Vehicle technologies. The body is tall, rising up from a flat windscreen; large wheels ride on a small wheelbase. The car comes with a standard matt grey bumper on the nose but body-coloured bumpers are also available. In spite of having elevated seats and doors that open wide for easy entry and exit, seating inside the car is one feature where the car loses out. Headroom and legroom is cramped; the rear seat is only large enough to seat kids or hold a small amount of luggage; it does however fold down to accommodate extra luggage.

Logan's exterior is highlighted by prominent wheel arches, and smooth body sides and bonnet. The rear lamp clusters, placed at an angle, make the car's structured edges look even while the headlamps give a sharp look to it. The Renault badge is placed prominently on the grille.

Features like Climate Control Seat (CCS) and remote controlled AC provide comfort to passengers. Funky interiors incorporate a sweeping dash, thick steering wheel and prominent 'power' switch. Customers have a choice of personalising colour schemes from over 2,000 shades. Body-coloured bumpers and mirrors enhance the REVAi's style quotient. A remote lever opens the rear hatch without any manual involvement. Storage options are limited to spacious map pockets. The absence of an engine or other mechanical parts allows for a large crush zone in case of a frontal collision. The spare tyre, designed to be at the front, further helps in reducing impact.