Piaggio Ape E-City Ultra and Ape E-City FX Maxx: Price, range and booking details

Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. (PVPL), India’s leading three-wheeler manufacturer and a subsidiary of the Italian Piaggio Group, has launched two new electric models aimed at transforming urban logistics: the Apé E-City Ultra and Apé E-City FX Maxx.

With cutting-edge battery technology, segment-leading range, and competitive pricing, these vehicles are designed to accelerate India’s shift to zero-emission last-mile transport, while focusing sharply on fleet operator profitability.

Technical Overview: Performance and Engineering Highlights

Apé E-City Ultra

• ARAI-Certified Range: 236 km, sufficient for uninterrupted day-long urban operations
• Powertrain: 9.55 kW motor (~12.8 hp) delivering 45 Nm torque
• Battery: 10.2 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) using prismatic cells with 25–30% higher energy density than older formats
• Build & Design: Full-metal body, 170 mm ground clearance, 28% gradeability
• Technology: 4G telematics, climb assist mode, digital dashboard with SOC/DTE, remote immobilisation.

Apé E-City FX Maxx

• ARAI-Certified Range: 174 km, optimised for standard intra-city loops
• Motor: 7.4 kW (~9.9 hp) with 30 Nm torque
• Battery: 8 kWh lithium-ion pack with prismatic cells and smart energy management
• Gradeability: Handles up to 19% incline, suitable for most urban routes

Shared Technical Advantages

Both models use prismatic cell battery systems, offering:

• Double the cycle life of traditional cylindrical cells
• Better thermal stability in Indian weather conditions
• Improved energy density for enhanced performance

Pricing and Warranty

Subsidy varies by state. Delhi offers up to ₹50,000, and Maharashtra up to ₹1.5 lakh.

EMI Breakdown (Based on 5-year loan @ 10.5% interest)

• Ultra: Approx. ₹7,505/month with ₹38,800 down payment

• FX Maxx: Approx. ₹6,383/month on the same terms

Competitive Landscape in Available Electric Rickshaw Options 

Key Observations:

• Apé E-City Ultra’s range is 56% higher than the Euler HiLoad EV
• FX Maxx undercuts Mahindra Treo Zor in price while delivering significantly better range
• Prismatic cell batteries offer longer life and greater stability versus rivals

Operational Efficiency and Cost Savings

Operating Cost per km:

• Diesel 3-Wheeler: ₹2.50
• CNG 3-Wheeler: ₹1.80
• Piaggio EVs: ₹0.80

Payback Timeline:

• The Ultra’s ₹58,000 price premium over the FX Maxx is offset in under 18 months for fleets running 150 km/day
• Estimated 5-year savings: ~₹5 lakh per vehicle versus diesel models

Operator Benefits:

• Reduced downtime with 3.75-hour charging (Ultra)
• Remote diagnostics and preventive alerts via 4G telematics
• LFP battery tech retains over 80% capacity even after 2,000 cycles
• 5-year warranty on battery and drivetrain

Strategic Positioning

Market Fit:

• Apé E-City Ultra is positioned for high-demand use cases: e-commerce delivery, cargo logistics, and cities with hilly terrain
• Apé E-City FX Maxx targets cost-sensitive fleet operators focused on intra-city passenger transport, local deliveries, and school vans

Infrastructure and Incentives:

• 500+ fast-charging stations planned along logistics corridors by 2026
• Fleet buyers (10+ units) are eligible for free telematics and priority delivery
• Anticipated support from FAME-III and local EV policies like Delhi’s “Switch Delhi” initiative

Executive Commentary

Diego Graffi, Chairman & Managing Director, Piaggio India:

“These vehicles are enablers of economic mobility. As pioneers in electric three-wheelers, we support India’s net-zero vision with scalable, future-ready solutions.”

Amit Sagar, Executive VP, CV Domestic Business:

“Customers demand reliable range, durable batteries, and low running costs. These models are designed specifically for demanding city conditions while supporting user livelihoods.”

Market Availability

• Bookings Open: August 1, 2025
• Test Drives Begin: August 15, 2025, at 1,200+ dealerships
• Deliveries Start: September 202

Source: Company’s Official Website

Final Thoughts

Piaggio’s launch of the Apé E-City Ultra and FX Maxx represents a focused strategy to serve both premium and budget-conscious fleet operators.

While the Ultra addresses range anxiety with a segment-leading 236 km range, the FX Maxx offers an affordable transition to electrification for small-scale operators.

With a legacy of over 3 million Apés on Indian roads and an extensive dealer network, Piaggio is poised to lead the shift toward cleaner, more profitable last-mile mobility across India. Also check out Top 10 Electric Rickshaw Loaders with Prices and Payload Capacity

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