In a major milestone for India’s commercial EV sector, Montra Electric has launched the Rhino 5538 EV, the country’s first heavy-duty electric truck, marking a bold leap in the electrification of logistics and long-haul transport. Priced at ₹65 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom), the Rhino 5538 is engineered to tackle India’s most demanding freight requirements with zero tailpipe emissions.
Powertrain & Battery
At the heart of the Rhino 5538 lies a 282 kWh LFP battery pack, designed for reliability, safety, and long service life. The powertrain delivers a staggering 380 HP and 2000 Nm torque, putting it at par with conventional diesel-powered heavy trucks.
The vehicle supports both fast charging and battery swapping. Using a fast charger, it can charge from 20–100% in just 60 minutes, while the innovative battery swapping system enables a full replacement in only 6 minutes, drastically reducing downtime for fleet operators.
Payload & Range
With a 41-ton payload capacity and a Gross Combination Weight (GCW) of 55 tons, the Rhino 5538 establishes itself as a true heavy-duty contender. On a single charge, the truck offers a range of 189 km, making it ideal for short and medium-haul freight applications, especially in industrial corridors, ports, and mining sectors.
Variants & Pricing
Montra has introduced the Rhino 5538 in two operational models:
- Fixed Battery Variant: Priced at ₹1.15 crore
- Swapping Battery Variant: Priced at ₹1.18 crore
The ₹65 lakh tag is the introductory ex-showroom launch price, making it a cost-effective solution for large-scale fleet buyers aiming to transition into electric mobility.
Industry Significance
The launch of the Rhino 5538 represents a turning point for India’s commercial vehicle industry. Heavy trucks contribute significantly to vehicular emissions, and electrifying this segment could dramatically reduce pollution and operational costs. With government policies encouraging EV adoption and charging infrastructure expanding, the Rhino 5538 could pave the way for large-scale decarbonization of logistics.
Conclusion
By introducing India’s first heavy-duty electric truck, Montra Electric has not only showcased technological prowess but also addressed the growing demand for sustainable freight solutions. With cutting-edge performance, rapid charging/swapping capability, and industry-leading payload capacity, the Rhino 5538 is poised to redefine the future of heavy transport in India.
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