Image Credit: Entrackr

Swiggy stated on Thursday that it will begin experiments to boost the use of electric vehicles (EVs) in its delivery fleet, allowing the food aggregator to operate more sustainably and without pollution.

Swiggy has partnered with Reliance BP Mobility Limited (RBML) to develop an electric vehicle ecosystem and battery-swapping facilities for its delivery partners across India.

The experiments are part of Swiggy's plan to cover 8 lakh kilometres of daily deliveries with EVs by 2025.

Making deliveries in electric vehicles is predicted to reduce vehicle operating costs by up to 40%, resulting in increased earnings for Swiggy's delivery partners. Its associates travel an average of 80-100 kilometres per day.

"As we continue to work towards providing our consumers with greater convenience, we are also mindful of the environmental impact of our operations and are taking the necessary steps to make our journey more sustainable," Sriharsha Majety, Swiggy's CEO, stated in a statement.

He said further "Transitioning to EVs is an important step in this direction. It will have a positive impact not only on the environment but also empower our delivery partners to earn more".

Also Check Out:

Zomato outperforms Tech Mahindra as its market capitalization rises 12 percent following its IPO; it can also surpass Bajaj Auto!

Grofers delivers orders to 7000 households in 15 minutes; Grofers' main focus is now on instant, fast delivery.

To compete with Domino's and McDonald's, Reliance Retail is in talks to buy QSR brand Subway India for Rs 1,860 crore.

Swiggy has also teamed with Hero Lectro, an e-bike manufacturer, and Fast dispatch logistics, a UK-based last-mile delivery company, to enable end-to-end delivery of Swiggy orders via cargo e-cycles.

The trials are taking place in Bengaluru, New Delhi, and Hyderabad right now.

The e-bikes are built exclusively for last-mile deliveries, with a top speed of 25 kmph and a range of 70-75 km per charge, making them ideal for short-distance delivery.

The e-cycles do not require quick changing or recharging when the battery runs out, in addition to being pollution-free. They can be charged using standard plug outlets or run on pedal power.

Swiggy has spent the last two years experimenting with different models to see what will make EV adoption easier and more profitable for its delivery partners.

In response to the initiative, Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant stated. "The Indian industry must continue to work towards driving the adoption of EVs as a part of the nation's overall efforts to transition to sustainable and environment-friendly mobility. Swiggy's commitment in this direction is a welcomed development. I urge other industry players to factor EVs in their business and operating models for a sustainable future." 

(Source: Economic Times)