Montra Electric, the e-M&HCV business vertical of TI Clean Mobility Private Limited under the Murugappa Group, announced a landmark achievement with the delivery of India’s first PM E-DRIVE–certified electric heavy-duty truck. The milestone delivery of the Rhino 5538 EV 6×4 tractor trailer to UltraTech Cement Limited underscores the growing commercial readiness of electric heavy trucks in India.
The vehicle was flagged off and handed over by Arun Murugappan, Chairman, Montra Electric, in the presence of senior leadership from both organisations. The certification under the Government of India’s ₹10,900-crore PM E-DRIVE scheme unlocks incentives of up to ₹9.6 lakh per vehicle, with ₹500 crore earmarked specifically for e-trucks, significantly improving long-term fleet economics through lower operating costs and reduced fuel price volatility.
Union Minister for Heavy Industries H. D. Kumaraswamy said the certification reflects India’s innovation strength in heavy-duty EVs and supports national decarbonisation and Net Zero goals. Designed for Indian operating conditions, the Rhino 5538 EV range—available in 6×4 and 4×2 variants—offers battery swapping, a 282 kWh LFP battery, 380 HP power, 2,000 Nm torque and a tested range of nearly 198 km, targeting ports, mining, cement logistics, steel plants and long-haul freight corridors.
