As the demand for sustainable transportation grows, India is witnessing a revolution in electric mobility. One such innovation is the Vayve Eva, India’s first solar-powered electric vehicle (EV). Designed for urban commuting, the Eva is a compact, efficient, and eco-friendly solution for city roads.
Compact yet functional design
The Vayve Eva is a tiny, three-seater EV that prioritizes simplicity and practicality. It features a minimalist design with round LED headlights, a blanked-off grille, and aerodynamically designed 13-inch wheels. A distinctive feature of the Eva is its roof-mounted solar panel, which enables the car to generate up to 10 km of range per day from sunlight alone.
Inside, the Eva maintains its minimalist theme. The driver’s seat is positioned at the front, with two passenger seats placed behind. The dashboard hosts two digital displays—one for instrumentation and the other for infotainment. It also includes a 6-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, manual AC, and a fixed glass roof, adding to its simplicity.
Electric powertrain & battery options
The Vayve Eva is offered in three variants—Nova, Stella, and Vega—each with different battery capacities and range figures:
1. Nova
- Battery Pack: 9 kWh
- Power Output: 16 PS
- Claimed Range: 125 km
2. Stella
- Battery Pack: 14 kWh
- Power Output: 16 PS
- Claimed Range: 175 km
3. Vega
- Battery Pack: 18 kWh
- Power Output: 20 PS
- Claimed Range: 250 km
All variants come with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout powered by a single electric motor. The presence of a solar charging system makes it an interesting choice for users looking for an alternative charging option, reducing dependence on external power sources for short daily commutes.
Affordability & battery subscription model
Vayve offers two purchasing options: with or without the battery. If buyers opt for the battery rental model, they pay a per-kilometer usage fee of Rs 2 instead of owning the battery outright. However, there is a minimum usage cap:
- Nova: 600 km per month
- Stella: 800 km per month
- Vega: 1200 km per month
While this rental model reduces the initial purchase cost, it requires users to plan their usage accordingly.
Safety & features
The Vayve Eva comes with essential safety features, such as a driver’s airbag and 3-point seatbelts for both passengers. While it doesn’t include high-tech driver-assistance systems, it provides the necessary protection for city driving.
Other key features include:
- Fixed glass roof
- 6-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat
- Dual digital displays (one for instrument cluster, one for infotainment)
- Manual air conditioning
Who is it for?
The Vayve Eva is not a traditional long-distance EV but rather an urban mobility solution. It is ideal for:
- Daily city commuters who travel short distances
- Environment-conscious drivers looking for solar-powered alternatives
- Fleet operators who need a compact and efficient transport solution
How it stands in the market
The Vayve Eva is unique in the Indian market as no other solar-powered car is currently available. While it doesn’t have a direct competitor, it can be seen as an alternative to MG Comet EV in terms of size and affordability.
The Vayve Eva is an innovative step towards green mobility in India. With its compact size, solar charging capability, and practical city-friendly features, it caters to urban dwellers looking for an economical and sustainable way to commute. While it may not be a powerhouse, its affordability and low running costs make it a compelling choice for those seeking a smart and eco-friendly ride.