By Priya Singh
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Updated On: 30-Jan-2024 03:04 PM
One of the most attractive aspects of the Surge S32 is its rapid conversion process, taking only 3 minutes. The S32 utilizes removable batteries sourced from Hero’s Vida e-scooter.
Surge, a startup fully owned by Hero MotoCorp and housed within HeroHatch (the company's incubation center), unveiled the Surge S32.
The Hero World 2024 event gained attention primarily for the Mavrick 440 and Xtreme 125R motorcycles. However, among these, another attraction was the innovative Surge S32.
Surge S32: Hero MotoCorp's Start-up Gem
Surge, a startup fully owned by Hero MotoCorp and housed within HeroHatch (the company's incubation center), unveiled the Surge S32. This electric vehicle (EV) is part of a modular platform and brings a unique feature to the table.
The Surge S32 stands out due to its ability to swiftly convert between a two-wheeler and a three-wheeler. Essentially, it transforms into a rickshaw without a front wheel, accommodating an e-scooter that serves as both the front wheel and the rear wheel when coupled.
Conversion Process: Quick and Convenient
One of the most attractive aspects of the Surge S32 is its rapid conversion process, taking only 3 minutes. The e-scooter can seamlessly decouple and function independently, offering flexibility in usage.
Independent Powertrains, Common Controls
Both the rickshaw and the e-scooter boast independent powertrains and battery packs. However, a shared control system simplifies user experience. When coupled, an electronic connector links the two, enabling the scooter’s handlebar controls to manage the rickshaw's powertrain and brakes.
The Surge S32, a groundbreaking urban mobility concept, has led to collaboration between Surge and Hero MotoCorp, necessitating the creation of a new registration category by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
New Registration Category: 'L2 -5'
To accommodate the unique characteristics of the S32, a new registration category named 'L2 -5' has been introduced. This category defines the S32 as a "2-Wheeler-3-Wheeler Combi Module" allowing a combination of a two-wheeled vehicle (L2 category) with a non-self-propelled rear module unit. This module can be separated or combined as needed.
Surge plans to offer the S32 in various designs, catering to different applications. These designs range from passenger-carrying configurations to diverse covered and non-covered goods-carrying options.
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Specifications of Surge S32
Depending on the application, the S32 exhibits varying power outputs and battery capacities. The scooter configuration provides a peak power of 6kW, while the rickshaw configuration reaches up to 10kW. Top speeds for the two configurations are 60kph and 45kph, respectively.
The S32 utilizes removable batteries sourced from Hero’s Vida e-scooter. The scooter accommodates two packs, resulting in a battery capacity of 3.87kWh, while the rickshaw can house up to six packs (minimum four), reaching a capacity of 11.62kWh.
Evolution from Concept to Production
Originally introduced as the Quark 1 concept by Hero in 2020, the Surge S32 is now nearing production-ready status after four years of development. The official launch of the S32 is anticipated later this year.
In short, Surge's S32 represents a significant advancement in urban mobility, addressing diverse transportation needs with its modular design and environmentally friendly electric powertrain.