Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has inaugurated its inaugural electric vehicle (EV) battery-swapping station in Kolkata, marking a significant stride in promoting sustainable and accessible electric mobility solutions. The facility, situated at a retail outlet in New Town on the eastern outskirts of the city, is a collaborative effort between IOC and Sun Mobility, according to a company statement.
This move is expected to be a game-changer for two and three-wheeler EVs, offering a convenient and efficient solution for battery swapping. The director of marketing at IOC, V Satish Kumar, emphasized the transformative potential of battery swapping technology, stating that it presents a substantial opportunity for sustainable electric mobility solutions. The newly opened facility is anticipated to play a crucial role in fostering EV adoption and driving the energy transition in eastern India.
Looking ahead, IOC, in partnership with Sun Mobility, plans to install more battery-swapping facilities at its retail outlets over the coming months. This expansion aims to provide drivers with convenient access to quick battery swaps, reducing downtime and enhancing the overall convenience of EV usage.
Sun Mobility CEO Anant Budjatya highlighted the state-of-the-art technology as a catalyst propelling mobility into the future. He emphasized its role in overcoming bottlenecks for EV users, contributing to a seamless and efficient electric mobility experience. As the EV infrastructure continues to evolve, initiatives like this battery-swapping station underscore the commitment to sustainable transportation and pave the way for increased EV adoption in the region.