Montra Electric Deploys 100 Electric Reefer Trucks in India

Why It Matters

The move accelerates low‑carbon last‑mile delivery for temperature‑sensitive goods, a fast‑growing segment in India’s e‑commerce ecosystem. It also demonstrates that electric commercial vehicles can meet demanding refrigeration requirements at scale.

Key Takeaways

• Montra delivers 100 Eviator 350 refrigerated EV trucks to More Retail.
• Trucks maintain –25 °C to 25 °C, supporting cold‑chain grocery deliveries.
• 32 kWh LFP battery gives 130 km range, 1.7‑ton payload.
• LED lighting, digital cockpit, ADAS features enhance driver safety and efficiency.
• Partnership with Green Drive and TVS expands EV fleet in Indian quick‑commerce.

Pulse Analysis

India’s commercial‑vehicle market is rapidly embracing electrification, driven by government incentives and mounting pressure to curb urban emissions. Montra Electric, a home‑grown EV manufacturer, has positioned itself at the forefront by targeting the cold‑chain niche—a segment traditionally dominated by diesel‑powered trucks. By aligning with More Retail’s quick‑commerce network, the company taps into a high‑frequency, short‑haul delivery model where electric powertrains can thrive due to predictable routes and frequent recharging opportunities.

The Eviator 350’s technical package underscores its suitability for temperature‑sensitive logistics. A 32 kWh lithium‑iron‑phosphate battery delivers a 130‑kilometre range, sufficient for intra‑city runs while offering a 1.7‑tonne payload—larger than most competitors in the segment. Integrated refrigeration maintains a –25 °C to 25 °C envelope, and the vehicle’s suite of safety and driver‑assistance features, including LED lighting, digital instrument cluster, and reverse‑parking camera, improve operational efficiency and reduce downtime. These attributes translate into lower total cost of ownership compared with diesel counterparts, especially when factoring in fuel savings and reduced maintenance.

Strategically, the collaboration with Green Drive Mobility and TVS Vehicle Mobility Solutions provides Montra with a robust distribution and service network, essential for scaling EV adoption across India’s fragmented logistics landscape. Deploying 100 units signals confidence in the technology’s reliability and sets a benchmark for other retailers considering electric cold‑chain solutions. As more e‑commerce players prioritize sustainability, the Montra‑More Retail partnership could catalyze a broader shift toward zero‑emission refrigerated transport, accelerating India’s progress toward its climate targets.