Jio-BP and Mahindra Group have teamed together to investigate battery swapping technologies for electric three-wheelers, as well as Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and Battery as a Service (BaaS).
Reliance BP Mobility Limited (RBML), which operates under the Jio-BP brand, signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Mahindra Group today. With this MoU, Mahindra Group and Jio-BP will look at the possibility of developing electric vehicle services and goods. In addition, the MoU will aid in the identification of synergies between low-carbon and conventional fuels, as well as the evaluation of Jio-BP charging solutions for different Mahindra vehicles, including electric 3 and 4 wheelers, quadricycles, and e-SCV (Small Commercial Vehicles – under 4 tonne).
The collaboration aims to capitalise on both firms’ expertise in the sector of EV goods and services. Apart from utilising existing Jio-BP stations, Mahindra Group and its channel partner sites will be considered for creating Jio-BP Mobility Stations, EV charging and switching points. Jio-BP just opened its first Mobility Station in Maharashtra, which provides a world-class shopping experience while providing several fuelling alternatives, including EV charging facilities. In addition, commercial concepts like Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and Battery as a Service (BaaS) will be investigated, with Jio-BP potentially providing charging options for Mahindra Group cars.
“The MoU also covers evaluating charging solutions by Jio-BP for Mahindra vehicles including electric 3 and 4 wheelers, quadricycles and e-SCV (Small Commercial Vehicles – sub 4 ton),” Reliance BP said in their statement.
Given that India’s electric vehicle sector is still in its infancy, this MoU might open up a slew of new options and orientations, as well as operations support networks and commercial-scale operating models. In reality, under this MoU, a variety of charging and switching facilities might be investigated and implemented, pending their techno-economic viability and relevant clearances.
The alliance will also assist to expedite EV adoption in India by providing high-performance and interchangeable batteries which will greatly reduce the range anxiety in the current EV models. Consumers who can bring a drained battery to a nearby switching station are likely to find the solutions quite convenient. After paying a little fee, you may walk on with a fully charged battery in minutes. These creative ideas will widen both firms’ horizons and help India achieve its net-zero emissions targets more quickly.
The company statement stated: “The solutions would afford great convenience to customers who can ideally bring in a depleted battery to their nearest swapping station and within minutes move on with fully charged batteries by paying a nominal fee. Such innovative solutions will broaden the horizon for both the companies and help realize India’s net-zero emissions goals faster.”
