Jupiter Electric Mobility (JEM), the EV arm of Jupiter Wagons Limited (JWL), has leveraged its engineering expertise to develop Tez, an electric light commercial vehicle (eLCV) launched at a starting ex-showroom price of INR 10.35 lakh. Building on its strong legacy in railway rolling stock manufacturing, JEM aims to expand its presence in the growing last-mile and mid-mile logistics segment, offering efficient and sustainable mobility solutions.
JEM has positioned itself focusing on smart city infrastructure. The company has expanded its capabilities by acquiring Log Materials' Railway and Electric Truck Battery Divisions, along with a state-of-the-art facility in Bangalore. This acquisition strengthens JEM's supply chain, ensuring better control over its battery technology, a critical component in electric mobility.
Market Positioning
JEM Tez wants to differentiate itself from competitors by offering a high-voltage powertrain. This allows for superior acceleration, payload capacity, and operational efficiency compared to existing options in the market. Its battery technology and fast-charging capability provide a significant advantage over traditional electric LCVs, particularly in the commercial sector where uptime is crucial.
JEM has also forged partnerships with industry leaders like Log Materials for battery technology, Automovill & Battwheels for service infrastructure, and Pulse Energy for charging networks. These collaborations are aimed at enhancing customer experience and addressing key concerns related to EV adoption.
By partnering with dealers and fleet operators, JEM is trying to make electric commercial vehicles more accessible to a wider audience across major metro cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata.
Looking Ahead
JEM’s commitment to innovation does not stop with Tez. The company has outlined plans to introduce 2-tonne and 3-tonne eLCVs within the year, followed by a passenger variant. With a focus on high-voltage battery systems and improved payload capacity, these upcoming vehicles are expected to reinforce JEM’s leadership in the eLCV market. The brand strongly believes LFP battery chemistry will be stable for a few years because of its efficiency and longevity.
Additionally, the company is working on applications for refrigerated transport, catering to businesses that require temperature-controlled logistics. Unlike some competitors that face limitations due to low-voltage platforms, JEM’s high-voltage architecture ensures that refrigeration units can be seamlessly integrated without compromising range or torque output.
Approach To EV Adoption
Vivek Lohia, Managing Director, Jupiter Wagons Limited, acknowledges that EV adoption requires a holistic ecosystem approach rather than just selling a vehicle, unlike traditional automotive manufacturers. The company is actively investing in training dealers, expanding service networks, and integrating advanced telematics to provide real-time insights for fleet operators.
Recognising the growing need for rental and lease-based business models, JEM has introduced the GEM Drishti system—a proprietary telematics platform that enables remote monitoring of vehicle performance, driver behaviour, and payload conditions. This system is particularly beneficial for fleet owners and financiers, ensuring better asset management and reliability.
Engineering & Performance
The Tez is designed with a well-balanced chassis and robust suspension, ensuring a smooth ride even on challenging Indian roads. Its specifications include a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 2,330 kg and a payload capacity of 1.05 tonne, making it suitable for urban and semi-urban transportation. The vehicle has a wheelbase of 2,150 mm and a ground clearance of 155 mm, allowing it to navigate uneven roads with ease. We had a quick ride on the vehicle, and it feels torquey and has a short turning radius making it very practical. The steering could use some hydraulic assist though for easier city use.
The Tez features an 80 kW peak power motor delivering 265 Nm of torque, ensuring quick acceleration and efficient power delivery. The vehicle boasts a top speed of 80 kmph and an IDC range of 318 km, though its real-world operational range is over 180 km per charge. The 23% gradeability further highlights its capability to handle inclines and flyovers with ease.
Battery Technology & Charging
JEM has opted for Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry, known for its stability and longer life, which get shipped over from the Bangalore facility. The 30.24 kWh battery supports AC and DC fast charging, making it practical for commercial use. The vehicle takes around four hours to charge using a 7.5 kW charger, while fast charging enables a 40+ km range boost in 30 minutes. Some configurations will support a full charge within 20 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime for fleet operators.
Practical Utility
The Tez is equipped with several features aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety. It has a high-torque drivetrain that delivers instant power, making it suitable for varied terrains. Twin headlights and fog lamps for better visibility in different weather conditions, and improves the design adding some aspirational value to the eLCV.
It comes with telematics for real-time vehicle monitoring for efficient fleet management purposes. There is a ‘Limp Home’ function that allows controlled operation in case of emergency. The ‘Creep’ function assists in hill-hold situations.
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Jupiter Electric Mobility Expands With JEM TEZ e-CV Launch & Indore Plant Inauguration