Wings EV, an innovative electric vehicle startup based in Indore, is poised to transform the Indian automobile market with its latest product, ‘Robin.’ Founded by Prakash and Pranav Dhandekar, this father-son duo aims to introduce a new category of transportation: the electric microcar. Robin is designed to offer a blend of manoeuvrability and eco-friendliness, promising a fresh alternative to traditional motorbikes and contributing to a cleaner environment.
Launch and Vision
The electric microcar Robin is set to make its debut in Bengaluru in April 2025. According to Pranav Dhandekar, CEO and co-founder of Wings EV, the vehicle is crafted to enhance personal commuting while addressing issues such as pollution, road congestion, and space utilisation. With its compact design and zero-emission technology, Robin is expected to appeal to urban commuters seeking a more sustainable mode of transportation.
Safety and Production Plans
Robin has successfully passed all necessary safety tests conducted by ARAI Pune, ensuring it meets high safety standards and surpasses existing two and three-wheelers in terms of safety. Wings EV aims to sell 3,000 units of Robin in its first year, aligning with the annual production capacity of 10,000 units at their Indore plant. The company has garnered support from investors such as Venture Highway and prominent angel investors from both India and Silicon Valley.
Market Research and Expansion
Wings EV has conducted extensive user research in six cities across India, with more than 300 test drives held in Bengaluru. After the initial launch in Bengaluru, Robin will be introduced in Chennai and either Hyderabad or Pune later in 2025. The company plans to expand its reach nationwide based on the success and demand observed in these markets, with the potential to establish a production unit in southern India if needed.
Variants and Features
Robin will be available in three distinct variants:
- Basic Model: A non-AC version with a 65 km range, priced at ₹2 lakh.
- Mid Variant: Equipped with a fan and offering a 90 km range, priced at ₹2.5 lakh.
- Premium Variant: Features an AC, 90 km range, and patented audio alert systems for enhanced safety, priced at ₹3 lakh.
The fully loaded Robin impressively handles inclines of up to 12 degrees, exceeding the standard requirement of 7 degrees, demonstrating its capability in various driving conditions.
Industry Impact and Future Outlook
Prakash Dhandekar, CTO and co-founder, highlighted that India sells over 18 million two-wheelers annually. He envisions a significant shift towards two-seater microcars like Robin over the next 15 to 20 years. Robin is powered by a drive-by-wire powertrain, similar to advanced aeroplane technology, reflecting Wings EV’s commitment to cutting-edge innovation and safety.
With the introduction of Robin, Wings EV is setting a new standard in India’s transition to electric vehicles. The combination of advanced technology and practical design aims to meet the evolving needs of urban commuters, offering a compelling alternative to traditional transportation options.
