Mumbai: Reliance BP Mobility Limited (RBML), operating under the brand name Jio-bp and Mahindra Group signed a non-binding MoU for exploring creation of electric vehicle (EV) products and services, alongside identifying synergies in low-carbon and conventional fuels.
The MoU also covers evaluating charging solutions by Jio-bp for Mahindra vehicles, including electric three- and four-wheelers, quadricycles and e-SCV (small commercial vehicles – sub 4 tonnes). This would include captive fleets and last-mile mobility vehicles of Mahindra Group.
The partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both companies in the areas of EV products and services, both the companies said in a joint statement.
Mahindra Group and its channel partner locations will be evaluated for setting up of Jio-bp Mobility Stations and EV charging and swapping points apart from utilising existing Jio-bp stations.
Recently, Jio-bp launched its first mobility station in Maharashtra, offering multiple fuelling choices, including EV charging infrastructure, while providing a world-class retailing experience.
Business models like Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and Battery as a Service (BaaS) will also be explored wherein Jio-bp could provide charging solutions to vehicles made by Mahindra Group.
The EV market in India is still in a nascent stage and through this MoU, various possibilities and orientation of database, operations support systems, software, pilot, and commercial-scale business model and types of charging and swapping facilities are proposed to be explored and implemented subject to techno-economic feasibility and necessary approvals.
The partnership aims at accelerating EV adoption in India with high-performance and swappable batteries that will help in dispelling range anxiety.
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 realise India’s net-zero emissions goals faster.