Reva i launched at Rs 2.99 lakh, Delhi govt offers rebate to buye

New Delhi, Jun 25 (UNI) In an attempt to reduce the adverse effects of global warming and spiralling oil prices, state Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit today unveiled a pollution-free electric car -- Reva i, priced at Rs 2.99 lakh.

Powered by a battery, Reva Electric Car Company (RECC)'s Reva i has neither clutch nor gear and brings down ruuning cost to only 40 paise per kilometre with a top speed of 80 km per hour.

The Delhi government, as part of its initiative to conserve environment, will offer incentives like 15 per cent subsidy on the base price of the vehicle, a 12.5 per cent exemption of VAT and refund of road tax and registration charges.

These subsidies will be paid from the State's 'Environment Fund', through a cess of 25 paise per litre of diesel known as the Environment Air Ambient quality cess.

''The Government of Delhi has been committed to taking steps to improve the environment in the city. Our initiatives to support battery operated vehicles is in line with our aim to improve the environment as well as to encourage a transport system that is effective, clean and benefits the society,'' Ms Dikshit told reporters here.

The company, which has already sold 2,500 vehicles and available in 13 countries, expects sales to pick up after the recent fuel price hike.

Auto companies have been looking at alternate fuels as sales have slumped due to rising input costs, which have pushed them into pass on the burden to the consumer.

RECC will open its first showroom in South Delhi later this month.

The company will offer doorstep aftersales service to its customers by using a unique computer system and on board diagnostics, which will ensure that service is quick and maintenance is kept to the minimum.

''The improved motor in the Reva i comes with a 40 per cent increase in mid-range torque, resulting in better acceleration and climbing and also has a 'Boost' mode for short-term acceleration/power. The maintenance-free brushless motor provides a smoother, quieter operation and will deliver greater efficiency,'' RECC Deputy Chairman and CTO Chetan Maini told reporters here.

In addition, the unique 'hill restraint' feature allows enhanced negotiation on slopes making it more convenient for its driver, he added.

RECC has its manufacturing facility at the Bommasandra Industrial Area in Bangalore in Bangalore with an installed capacity of 6,000 units and over 300 employees.

UNI PDT SR VC1725