The Front-end And Backend Of The Montra Eviator

e-LCV Montra Eviator challenges the status quo for new-age last-mile city logistics. The ground up platform, writes Richa Tyagi

- @Richa Tyagi in Richa Tyagi

A new wave of products engineered for India's demanding logistics ecosystem are cropping up. Among the latest entrants is the challenger e-LCV, Montra Electric Eviator. The 3.49-tonne (3,490 Kg) GVW SCV-pickup truck is positioned to meet the demands of last-mile city logistics in intra-city transport. The Eviator is a born-electric platform, claimed to have been engineered by Montra from the ground up.

During our evaluation, we drove a basic chassis-spec test mule, Eviator 350L, which revealed the core driving dynamics and structural behaviour. The mule hinted at the advanced features, such as the infotainment display and app-based telematics stressed upon, as restricted to higher, production-ready trims. The base variant given to us though demonstrated clear intent to modernise the working environment for drivers in a bid to transform surface logistics as cleaner, quieter, and more productive. Montra offers the Eviator in multiple charger and trim configurations. Prices range from Rs. 15,87,948 for the 3.3 kW CBC (Chassis with Cabin) variant and Rs. 15,99,405 for the 7.4 kW CBC variant, to Rs. 16,15,614 for the 3.3 kW FSD (Fully Built Super Deck) variant and Rs. 16,27,071 for the 7.4 kW FSD model.

EXTERIOR & DESIGN

The Eviator adopts a contemporary exterior approach now being worked upon by the CV OEMs more aggressively. The front fascia brings an uncanny resemblance to an eagle-inspired grille, paired with LED headlamps and integrated DRLs. While styling has traditionally been a secondary consideration in this segment, today's generation of owner-cum-drivers is increasingly aspirational, making modern design elements and a well-finished exterior more relevant than before. The lighting kit improves visibility in low-light conditions and contributes to energy efficiency, the company claims. Given the daylight drive, these claims remain to be validated.