Report on electric rickshaw and case studies

Report
Techno-Commercial Analysis of case study of Electrical Auto-
Rickshaw (To-To) in India
Prepared by- Ruzaan karanjia

TABLE OF CONTENT
Chapter Number Chapter particulars
Abstract
1 Introduction
1.1 Working Principle
1.1.1 Major Parts and Components
1.1.2 Environmental Aspects
1.2 Present Scenario
1.2.1 Present E-Rickshaw Services
1.2.2 Drawbacks of Present Scenario
2 Case Study at different locations, India
2.1 Case Study - 1
2.2 Case Study – 2
3 Future Scope
4 Conclusion
5 Bibliography and References

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Number Title of Figure
1 Electric Rickshaw
1.1.2 Environmental Aspect
2.1 Electric Rickshaw in Delhi
2.2 Electric Rickshaw in Udaipur

LIST OF TABLES
Table Number List of Table
2.1
Comparative cost analysis of different
types of rickshaws in Delhi.
2.2 Result of technical study.
2.3
Comparative analysis of Li-ion and Lead
acid batteries used in E-Rickshaws.

ABSTRACT
E-Rickshaws, India’s most efficient electric 3-wheeler auto passenger rickshaw by Lead-acid battery.
Electric rickshaws needs very less maintenance and could play an important role in solution to last
mile commuting problems. Apart from contributing to a clean environment, it can also lead to
empowerment of people from lower socio-economic backgrounds. These vehicles have gained much
popularity by the comfortable and economic mode of transport they provide to the costumers. They
are pulled by an efficient electric motor. Till yet only few foreign countries manufacture these vehicles.
Battery run rickshaws could be a low emitter complementary transport for the low-income people,
who suffer most from a lack of transport facility. If introduced in a systematic manner according to
experts.
1. INTRODUCTION
E-rickshaws are compact but very useful vehicles, with three wheels and use electric power from
batteries to run. They use an electric motor as power source which draws electric power from the
rechargeable batteries installed in the rickshaw body. These battery operated vehicles are perfect for
small distant transport. Both for the cargo and people, they are perfect for running on narrow streets
because of their small size. But the biggest reason for their popularity is low operating cost and zero
pollution emission. They are powered by electric motors instead of petrol or diesel motors which make
it best for pollution free, environmental friendly transport systems in short distances. Actually they
are not capable of running long distances. E-rickshaws are now one of the preferred modes of
transport in streets because of its low maintenance cost, low fuel cost eco-friendly. To noise pollution,
easy to drive and last but not the least livelihood, e-rickshaw is a boon to the common Man.
Without putting in much physical effort and without investing much money, the earning is quite good
for an e-rickshaw driver and hence it is an important means of livelihood for many.
These e-rickshaws consist of 3 wheels with a differential mechanism at rear wheels. Basically these
vehicles have a mild steel tubular chassis. The motor is brushless DC motor manufactured mostly in
India and China. The electrical system used in Indian version is 48V DC and can run 90-100 km/full
charge. Basic seating capacity is driver plus 4 passengers.
These vehicles are now started using in transporting light weight goods as e- loader. Hence there are
lots of opportunities of income.
Fig 1

In the working of an electric rickshaw the battery produces the DC current then the controller which
consist of an inbuilt inverter converts the DC to AC and then transfers that AC current to the motor.
Controller basically works between 24V to 72V depending upon how much energy will be consumed
and on the size of motor used. As the size of the motor vary because of its capacity to convert AC from
DC. The inverter in the controller takes energy from the battery and gives it to the motor and all this
transferring of energy/current depends on the consumption of current by the motor.
Motor Energy Controller Energy Battery
We know that the couplers which are present in the controller they are coupled with the throttle,
electric appliances and sensors of the vehicle. So basically there is a type of potentiometer, for every
throttle given to the vehicle there is range specified whose values keep on varying. On increasing
potential the controller gets to know that what is the range of electricity which gets transferred to the
motor and this range is between 2V to 5V. The working of E-Rickshaw is based on DC motor, battery
& suspension system. It uses a Brushless DC motor ranging from 650-1400 Watts with a differential
mechanism at rear wheels. Some variants made in fiber are also in use due to their strength and
durability, resulting in low maintenance. The battery used is mostly with a life of 6-12 months. Deep
discharge/cycle batteries designed for EVs are mostly used.
Fig 1.1

A) Electric Motor: Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) type 6501400 W & 48V (Input) motor is used.
It is controlled via an electronic controller.
B) Electronic Motor Controller: The controller includes a manual or automatic switch turning the
motor on/off, selecting forward or reverse motion, selecting and regulating speed, regulating
or limiting torque and protecting against overloads. It is connected to the battery pack and
the controller feeds the input to the motor. Lamp, AC/DC converter and
Speedometer/Indicator.
C) Battery: Set of four 12V deep cycle lead acid/Li-ion batteries are used since the required
voltage is 48 V. These batteries are connected in series to the controller unit.
D) Differential: Chinese manufactured differential is used in e-Rickshaws which are connected to
the electric motor and rear wheels.
E) Front Shock Absorbers: Helical Spring with damper with hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers
are used.
F) Rear Suspension: Leaf spring carriage spring with rear shocker.
G) Brakes: Drum brakes, actuated internally, expanding shoe types are used. Brakes are mounted
on the chassis (Pedal brakes), so on pressing the pedal, the brakes will engage, stopping the
rear wheels.
H) Speedometer/Indicator: Speedometer generally used has analog dials. The one on the left
indicates vehicle speed and the one on the right indicates battery charge level. It is connected
to the controller unit.
I) Steering: Handlebar type steering is used.
J) Miscellaneous Spare parts: Centre locking, Alloy wheel, Rear light, Front glass, Front Indicator,
Head light, Ignition switch, Charger, Converter, left-right switch. Tyre, Wirings. Throttle set
etc.
Motor Controller Battery Differential Shock absorber Fig
1.1.1

1.1.2 Environmental Aspects
A) Low Emission: The data collected regarding the e-rickshaw travelling and charging patterns
revealed that the sole battery charging option for the vehicle owners remained the household
sockets. Thus the e-rickshaws could not be considered as a zero emission vehicle as the
charging relates to the CO2 emission at the thermal power stations. Coal-fired thermal power
stations in India have been reported to emit 1.281 kg of CO2 per unit of electricity generated.
Again CO2 emission considering full combustion of LPG (propane base) has been 1.53 kg/litre.
Considering combustion of L diesel for the two types of three wheelers the CO2 emission rate
has been considered at 2.71 kg/litre. Thus the specific CO2 emission of the motorized three-
wheelers for the passenger transportation has been calculated and shown in the table. The
results show that the e-rickshaw has been more efficient than that of the other motorized
versions of three-wheelers, whereas the specific CO2 emission is higher than that of the
mechanized van rickshaws.
B) Eco-Friendly: Since these vehicles run on electricity, it can never emit smoke. This way one can
travel across the city without polluting the air, Batteries used in these vehicles can be recycled
and can be disposed of without any problem.
C) No Sound Pollution: This e-rickshaw produces less noise compared to vehicles which run on
petrol and diesel. Since the entire engine of these e-rickshaws runs with electricity of the
battery attached to the vehicle which results in less noise.
D) Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reduction: Air quality benefits from electric rickshaws can be
attributed to a reduction in local air pollution compared with conventional diesel and petrol
e-rickshaws. IN-rickshaws contribute to zero emissions (local), a major source of air pollution
in urban areas.
Fig 1.1.2

1.2 Present Scenario
According to the research, In large population cities like Amritsar, Kanpur, Delhi, Indore, Udaipur,
Kakinada, Barddhaman, e-rickshaw plays a major role as feeder services to public transport in metro
cities, public transport in small & medium towns and mode of transport for tourists. All age group
people travel by e-Rickshaw mostly for their work trip. Urban Mobility India Conference & Expo 2019
says 90%
E-rickshaws on average carry more than 50 passengers per day. In areas like Kanpur, most of the
erickshaws carry more than 80 passengers per day due to overloading and use as a public transport.
In cities like Amritsar. 90% are occasional users (tourists) and in Kanpur & Delhi, there are 70:30 daily
and occasional users respectively. In Delhi. 70% of e-Rickshaws are owned while other 30% are rented
on average Rs. 300 per day.
1.2.1 Present E-rickshaw Services
● Laws: Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2015
● Regulatory bodies: RTO (Registration), Municipality (Infrastructure) and Traffic Police
(Enforcement)
● Route: Fixed by drivers. Travel distance less than 5 km.
● Infrastructure facilities: No charging points. No stands for Halts and Go. No parking areas.
● Vehicle technology: Motor power- 650 to 1400 W. Battery type 90 to 100 Ah
1.2.2 Drawbacks of Present Scenario
● Absence of Policy/Regulatory framework for e-Rickshaw for permit issue, route
rationalization, fare fixation.
● No Infrastructure facility: Stands facilities, Halt & Go Stands, parking areas for the night.
Availability of charging points 250m from junctions.
● There is unavailability of specified schedules, performance/standards and Fixing & Revising
fares.

2. CASE STUDIES AT DIFFERENT LOCATIONS, INDIA
2.1 Case Study-1
A Study of the Battery Operated E-rickshaws in the State of Delhi
2.1.1 Background of the Study
The e-rickshaws were introduced in Delhi for the Commonwealth Games in 2010, and close to 4,000
rickshaws were supposed to be introduced and regulated by the end of the year. The number of such
battery rickshaws has increased exponentially in the period between October 2010 and July 2014. In
the 4-year period. there have been many attempts to initiate a policy regarding the functioning of
these vehicles but there has been no concrete decision on the matter,
Table 2.1. Comparative Cost Analysis of the different types of rickshaws in Delhi
Type of Rickshaw Number in Delhi Initial cost Daily
earning
Rent
Cycle Rickshaw 7,00,000 6,000 - 12,000 300 - 400 30 - 40
Auto Rickshaw 1,50,000 1,50,000 - 3,50,000 700 - 1,000 300 - 350
E-Rickshaws 1,00,000 6,000 - 11,000 550 - 800 250 - 300

Electric Rickshaw in Delhi
Fig 2.1
2.1.2 Socio-Economic Study
● 89% of respondents had an increase in their salary from previous professions.
● 37% of respondents were either unemployed, or cycle rickshaw pullers.
● An estimated 1,00.000 can contribute to the government revenue.
● Approximately 3,00,000 people in the country depend on the profession including the
manufacturers, the workers and families.
● The Government of India announced the Deen-Dayal scheme in June 2014. which would help
in the financing and procurement of the battery rickshaws in the country.
● 80% of the respondents traveled to-and-fro from the Metro Stations as well. thus adding to
the transport ecosystem of the City.
● 65% of the drivers believed that their social status had increased due to the change in
profession, but only a small number (19%) thought that the change was extended to living
conditions as well.
2.1.3 Technical Study
The technical parameters are aimed at checking the safety of the e-rickshaws in operation, as well as
understanding the manufacturing cycle of the battery rickshaws.

The technical study also tried to assess the efficiency of the e-rickshaws. This would help in suggesting
the recommendations for the manufacturing policies that can be adopted by the state government.
The Indian Express, quoting a report prepared by TERI, finds that more than 80% of passengers felt
unsafe in an e-rickshaw. and expect a better design after the regulations are in place.
Table 2.2. Results of Technical Study
Technology parameters Mean values
1) Motor power 850 W
2) Battery voltage 48 V
3) Single battery capacity 85 Ah
4) Maximum load capacity 380 Kg
5) Maximum speed 33 Km/h
6) Charging time 8.2 hours
7) Battery recycling period 7.5 months
2.1.4 Key Results
The battery operated e-rickshaws have become an important part of the transport system of the state
of Delhi. The absence of a regulatory framework and manufacturing policies for the rickshaws have
resulted in a lack of safety structure for the rickshaws, and is a hazard for the commuters and hence
there is a need to regularize the operation of these rickshaws.
2.2. Case Study-2
E-Rickshaw Assessment for Udaipur, Rajasthan
2.2.1 Need of E-rickshaw in Udaipur
The mitigation measure to promote e-rickshaws is of interest for further exploration,
for the following reasons:
● The city of Udaipur has expressed explicit interest in this measure and would like to implement
it on a large scale. The Government of India is also promoting electric vehicles and has a vision
of complete electric mobility by the year 2030. The strategy is therefore in line with local as
well as national policies.

● The measure has the potential to have a significant GHG, environmental and social impact
(noise, air pollution) as well as improving the image of the city especially among the tourists
which are an important source of revenue for the city.
● The measure has a high visibility impact and can create a positive impulse in order to
implement politically sensitive measures such as Transport Demand Management or
reorganization of the public transport.
● Electric rickshaws are already plying in some cities of India. However, e-rickshaws deployed on
a commercial scale are low-cost, low-power units which have a limited applicability scope due
to the range and power issues. Also, there exists a risk that they will not last for long in the
market due to power and quality problems. Therefore, it is essential to have a technically
sound strategy if such vehicles shall be promoted.
● Rickshaws are a very common means of transport in multiple Indian cities. A successful
deployment strategy could therefore be replicated widely.
Electric Rickshaw in Udaipur
Fig 2.2
2.2.2 Technical Assessment of E-rickshaw operation
A. Maximum Power - The observed maximum power was in the range of 1200 W to 1500 W.
Maximum power refers to the quantum of power that can be drawn from the diesel engine or
battery in the case of electric rickshaws. However, the battery is never operated at maximum
power because of safety requirements and the life of the battery.
B. Rated Power - The rated power was observed to be around 80 percent of maximum power.
Rated power is the maximum power at which a battery can be operated. It is less than the
maximum power rating of the battery. Manufacturers provide a level of operating power
under which the equipment will not be damaged while allowing a certain safety margin

C. Top Speed - The observed top speed with full load was between 15 to 20 km/hr compared to
25 km/hr claimed by manufacturer. Variants with lithium ion battery gave consistent speed
even on slopes compared to the lead acid variant. High power is withdrawn from a battery to
achieve higher speeds, which causes capacity fading in the battery, especially in the context
of high slope conditions.
D. Range - The observed range was in the range of 55 to 65 km on single charge against the 80
km per charge claimed by the manufacturer. The lower range can also be attributed to high
gradient in the city.
E. Battery Storage Capacity - Battery storage capacities determine the range of the vehicle. In
the case of electric rickshaws, a higher battery capacity increases the capital cost of the
vehicle. However, fewer charging cycles due to higher battery capacity might improve the
economy of the rickshaw. During the pilot the lead acid battery had a capacity of 110 Ah while
the Lithium ion one had a capacity of 80 Ah.
Table 2.3. Comparative analysis of Li-ion and Lead acid Batteries used in E-rickshaw
Parameter of comparison Lead acid battery operated
Erickshaw
Li-ion operated E-rickshaw
Battery cost Rs. 22,000 - Rs. 28,000 Rs. 85,000
Milage 60 Km - 70 Km 50 Km - 60Km
Charging time 8 hours 4 hours
Charging point required 15 A 15 A
Energy consumption for single
charge
5 Units 4 Units
Vehicle pickup Reduced at slopes Same on plane and slope
Weight 120 Kg 35 Kg
Warranty 6 months - 1 year 2 years
Battery life 8 - 10 months 2 years

The lead acid battery variant rickshaws struggle over higher gradients with full capacity. In the case of
Li-ion battery operated e-rickshaws, they performed much better than regular lead acid battery
operated-rickshaws over slopes.
2.2.3 Key Results
There is a need to develop and standardize the charging infrastructure so that use of e-rickshaws can
be promoted. An e-rickshaw can run maximum 65 kms in a single charge after which it needs to be
recharged. Conventional lead acid battery takes around 8 hours for charging. Lithium ion battery offers
faster charging options, however, its high cost makes them unaffordable.
3. FUTURE SCOPE
1. The e-rickshaw technology is rapidly improving especially vehicle power and battery efficiency.
Therefore, the strategy to shift towards electric mobility should be flexible enough to absorb
the constructive developments. The initial step is to develop a long term multiyear
implementation plan with the well planned phasing of existing old and polluting rickshaws.
2. Design Halt and Go stand for these rickshaws like bus stands which will use Off grid and On
grid solar charging stations.
3. Feasibility study of a Mass Transit system equipped with Electrical (also solar) energy which
will state a more efficient and clean system can be.
4. Design Charging Station like conventional fuel stations.
5. Awareness of sustainable program among citizen to encourage people to use public transport
and provide first and last mile connectivity
6. Promote fiscal and non-fiscal incentives and subsidies to push sales of renewable energy
powered vehicles and discourage conventional fuelled vehicles.
7. Roll out public transport based on renewable energy.
8. The e-rickshaws can be equipped with digital gadgets including GPRS andnCCTV cameras,
keeping women's safety in mind.
9. Providing economic stability to drivers giving cheaper/subsidized loans, rent fixation, optimum
fare structure, setting up local repair workshops, higher revenue through advertisements and
social security under different schemes.

In the next one to two decades, we can imagine whole India running on renewable energy and we look
forward that India will be a role model country for countries with growing economies in Renewable
Energy based Transport.
4. CONCLUSIONS
The e-rickshaws are energy efficient than other forms of motorized public road transport vehicles in
the country. Most of the people use battery operated rickshaws for their working purpose, daily travel.
They chose it because the fare is lower than the other transport modes. Proper implementation of the
e-rickshaws has the potential to address the issues of environmental pollution due to transportation
as the specific CO2 emission for the e-rickshaw is much lower than other fuelled vehicles. One of the
major positive sides of e-rickshaws is that it emits a lower level of pollutants than other vehicles. But
e-rickshaws consume huge amounts of electricity at the time of battery charging and create traffic
jams also. The major challenges are required to be addressed for the proper implementation of these
e-rickshaws. The present technology of the e-rickshaw needs enhancement for the compatibility with
the present day traffic. The designing of the vehicles requires maintaining safety standards for the
passengers thus requiring proper inspection of these vehicles by the right authorities. The number of
these e-rickshaws operating in the different regions in the country needs proper regularization and
thus the eradication of vehicular conflicts by proper route management between the passenger
vehicles, E-rickshaws have the potential to reduce the fuel oil consumption for passenger
transportation which may lead to both economic and environmental benefit.
5. BIBLOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES
1) Deepanjan Majumdar, Tushar Jash. Merits and Challenges of E-Rickshaw as an Alternative
form of Public Road Transport System: A Case Study in the State of West Bengal in India. 2015
International Conference on Alternative Energy in Developing Countries and Emerging
Economies.
2) Anil K. Rajvanshi. History of Electric Rickshaws at NARI. Chapter from the book "Romance of
Innovation",
3) Shashank Singh. A Study of the Battery Operated E-Rickshaws in the State of Delhi. Working
paper: 323
4) Tanya Singhal. Tanushree, Purwa Maheshwari. E-Rickshaw Management System.
International Journal of Advanced Research in Computer Science, Volume 9. No. 3.
5) K.S. Reddy. S. Aravindhan, Tapas K. Mallick. Techno-Economic Investigation of Solar Powered
Electric Auto-Rickshaw for a Sustainable Transport System.
6) E-Rickshaw: The Future of Indian Cities. h Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2016.
Institute of Urban transport (India) Md. Sohel Rana, Fahim Hossain. Shuvangk Shusmoy Roy,
Mr. Suman Kumar Mitra. Exploring Operational Characteristics of Battery Operated
ERickshaws in Urban Transportation System. American Journal of Engineering research (AJER),
Volume-2, Issue-4, pp-01-11, MGM's JNEC

7) https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charging_station

Report on electric rickshaw and case studies

More Related Content

What's hot

Similar to Report on electric rickshaw and case studies

Recently uploaded

Report on electric rickshaw and case studies