Ultraviolette, the EV maker, has announced a collaboration with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) to kick-start the installation of charging stations for electric motorcycles across India. The strategic partnership, under the first phase of the project, will see Ultraviolette setting up charging stations for public use at HPCL retail fuel pumps in 12 select states, followed by expansion across the country as part of the second phase. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the recently concluded Bharat Mobility Expo 2024.
As per the MoU, Ultraviolette will have its fast charging stations not just along highways (National and State) but will also cover the 'most remote locations', leveraging HPCL’s network of retail fuel pumps across the country. HPCL has set a target of setting up 5,000 charging stations by December 2024, while it currently has over 2,600 charging stations pan India.
Ultraviolette's Comment
Sharing his thoughts on the partnership, Niraj Rajmohan, CTO & Co-Founder, Ultraviolette said, "We are delighted to partner with HPCL, which shares our vision of creating a robust EV charging infrastructure. This strategic partnership will enable us to leverage HPCL’s extensive network to offer a seamless and hassle-free charging experience while playing an active role in establishing a national charging infrastructure for electric motorcycles and enabling cross-country EV Motorcycle travel. We believe that this collaboration will accelerate the transition to cleaner forms of mobility, aligning with the Government of India’s ambitious vision for a cleaner and sustainable mobility landscape by 2030."
Ultraviolette F99
In India, the EV maker currently sells the F77 motorcycle, the international version of which was showcased along with the F99 factory racing platform at EICMA 2023. With this, the company made its debut in the European market, confirming its plans to expand its reach in the global market.
Speaking of the F99, it is an updated version of what was showcased at the Auto Expo 2023. It features changes in the form of a liquid-cooled drivetrain with 121bhp, active aerodynamics, and others. With 121bhp at its disposal, the F99 can sprint from a halt to 100km/h in 3 seconds. Meanwhile, its top speed and aerodynamic drag coefficient stand at 265km/h and 0.45, respectively. In comparison to the F77, the Ultraviolette F99 Factory Racing Platform has a 400V battery architecture. The battery here is an air-cooled unit.
Another highlight is its active aerodynamics drawing inspiration from supersonic fighter jet principles. The F99 gets an integrated air windshield and front cowl ducts that channel air towards the motor, resulting in improved performance. Also on offer is electronically-actuated 'Air-Blade' for enhancing airflow and downforce during cornering.
Featuring carbon fibre bodywork, the electric superbike tips the scales at 178 kilograms. Other design bits include angular panels, a muscular fuel tank, a V-shaped headlight, and a single-piece seat. In terms of hardware, it gets an aluminium structure with a machined swingarm, Ohlins suspension, Brembo monoblock callipers, and Pirelli racing slicks.
Touted as India's fastest electric superbike, the F99 will go on sale in the international market in 2025, with more details expected to be revealed soon.
Ultraviolette F77
The India-spec Ultraviolette F77 comes equipped with a 36.2bhp (27kW) air-cooled motor connected to a 7.1kWh battery pack. The company claims that the F77 offers a maximum range of 206km (IDC) and a top speed of 140km/h. Meanwhile, the Recon and Space Edition get a 39bhp (29kW) and a 40bhp (30.2kW) motor, respectively. These versions can be had with a 10.3kWh battery unit, with a range of 307km (IDC). As for the top speed, the Recon can clock 147km in 1 hour, while the Special version can cover 152km in an hour.
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