India’s electric mobility push took a consumer-friendly turn as Montra Electric, the e-M&HCV arm of TI Clean Mobility under the Murugappa Group, delivered the country’s first PM E-DRIVE–certified electric heavy truck. The Rhino 5538 EV 6×4 tractor trailer was handed over to UltraTech Cement Limited, marking a milestone that directly benefits truck buyers and fleet operators.
What makes the development significant for customers is cost. Under the Government of India’s ₹10,900-crore PM E-DRIVE scheme of which ₹500 crore is earmarked for e-trucks—buyers of the Rhino 5538 EV can avail incentives of up to ₹9.6 lakh per vehicle. This substantially lowers the upfront price while improving long-term savings through reduced fuel costs, lower maintenance and protection from diesel price fluctuations.
The truck was flagged off by Arun Murugappan, Chairman, Montra Electric, in the presence of senior executives from Montra Electric and UltraTech Cement. Union Minister for Heavy Industries H. D. Kumaraswamy said the certification demonstrates India’s progress in electric heavy vehicles and supports national Net Zero goals. Designed for Indian conditions, the Rhino 5538 EV available in 6×4 and 4×2 variants with battery swapping and fixed battery options positions electric heavy trucks as a practical, money-saving choice for consumers in India’s evolving freight market.
