by Usha Praveen

Unveiling of the EKA 9, the 9-meter electric city bus by Eka Mobility, has been among the key moment of Prawaas 4.0 event 2024 in Bangalore, India.

EKA by Pinnacle Mobility Solutions is the latest initiative from the Pinnacle Industries group. Pinnacle Industries, a leading automotive seating, interiors, and speciality vehicles company, has collaborated with the Dutch conglomerate, VDL Group, an established manufacturers of electric buses, trucks & coaches globally, to establish EKA by Pinnacle Mobility Solutions. Synergy from Group Companies are leveraged: Pinnacle Industries – Bus Seating Systems & Interiors; VDL Pinnacle – Smart Lean Factory; Instor India – Bus Structural Parts.

At the same expo Prawaas 4.0, Volvo – Eicher joint-venture VECV showcased 3 vehicles, including EV intercity coachTata Motors raised the curtain on its new 7-meter Ultra EV minibusVeera Vahana and Exponent Energy launched a “15-minute charging” intercity electric bus and JBM presented E12 Galaxy electric coach at Prawaas 4.0.

eka 9

Overview of the EKA 9-meter e-bus

EKA by Pinnacle Mobility Solutions is one of the 20 applicants approved under the Central Government’s Automotive PLI scheme to boost domestic manufacturing of advanced automotive technology products. 

The EKA 9, 9.2-meter long, is designed to address the growing need for efficient, sustainable, and reliable public transportation solutions in urban areas.

It features monocoque chassis and is available in two platform heights, 650mm and 900mm, catering to different operational requirements and making it adaptable to various urban transit environments. 

EKA 9‘s modular architecture allows for flexible seating configurations, making it versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, from standard city routes to specialized transit services. The bus seats 32 passengers, with dedicated space for a wheelchair and a driver. It includes a wheelchair ramp, ensuring accessibility for differently-abled passengers. 

eka 9

EKA launches 9-meter electric bus at Prawaas 4.0

Powered by a 200 kWh Lithium Ferrous Phosphate battery, the EKA 9 features centrally located, liquid-cooled battery ensures optimal performance and can be fully recharged in just 60–90 minutes via a CCS2 system. Electric drivetrain delivers 213 kW of power and 2,352 Nm of torque.

The vehicle is equipped with auto drive, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering, and an ergonomically designed center console, all of which enhance the driver’s comfort and ease of operation. It features Electronically Controlled Air Suspension (ECAS) both at the front and rear

The EKA 9 is equipped with a factory-fitted air conditioning system, demister, and bacterial filtration system, ensuring a comfortable and clean environment for passengers. Plus, EKA 9 is equipped with comprehensive safety systems, including short circuit protection, over-temperature protection, and lightning protection, ensuring safe operation in various conditions. 

Finally, the India-made 9-meter e-bus is offered with smart connectivity features, allowing operators to monitor performance, battery health, and route efficiency in real-time. This enables more effective fleet management and maintenance planning.

EKA Mobility’s slogan, “Be Smart, Go Electric”, encapsulates the company’s commitment to promoting sustainable and intelligent transportation solutions.

Highlights

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