Hero’s Game-Changer Convertible EV: Surge S32
Hero MotoCorp-owned Surge has disrupted the electric vehicle market with the unveiling of its innovative S32 EV. This electric vehicle seamlessly transforms from a three-wheeled rickshaw to a sleek electric scooter, reminiscent of the modular design seen in the Batmobile from Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy. The Surge S32 EV’s unveiling took place recently at Hero World 2024, where it stood out as a testament to Indian engineering ingenuity.
The S32 EV’s design is a game-changer, offering a two-in-one solution for both commercial and personal use. With a quick and effortless transformation process taking only three minutes, users can switch between a spacious and practical electric rickshaw for carrying passengers or cargo and a stylish electric scooter for personal commuting. The modular design is not only a marvel of engineering but also a nod to the iconic transforming vehicles seen in popular culture.
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The cabin of the S32 EV is equipped with a windscreen, lighting, and optional weather-protective soft doors, providing a comfortable and secure environment for passengers in its rickshaw configuration. What makes the Surge S32 truly stand out is its ability to conceal the compact electric scooter within this cabin. The detachable scooter, with LED headlights, indicators, and digital instrumentation, connects to the three-wheeler’s powertrain and battery through a manual electric interface. The seamless transition from a three-wheeled rickshaw to a two-wheeled scooter is a result of meticulous design and engineering.
#Hero has unveiled a revolutionary three-wheeler that transforms into a two-wheeler, showcasing the innovative spirit and ingenuity of Indian engineering. It's amazing to witness such groundbreaking advancements. #Innovation #MakeInIndia 🇮🇳 🛵 pic.twitter.com/yHJPzys5kb
— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) January 26, 2024
Hero MotoCorp’s Surge S32 EV boasts a modular design that facilitates a swift transition between its two forms. The robust 13.4bhp power output of the three-wheeler configuration makes it capable of carrying a substantial load of up to 500 kg, catering to various commercial applications. On the other hand, the two-wheeler variant delivers 4bhp with a quicker top speed, providing a dynamic and agile ride experience. The power is supplied by an 11 kWh battery for the three-wheeler and a 3.5 kWh battery for the scooter. The three-wheeler can reach speeds of up to 50 km/h, while the scooter can go slightly faster at 60 km/h.
In an official release, Hero MotoCorp highlighted that the Surge S32 EV is conceptualized and built in India, showcasing the country’s prowess in electric vehicle innovation. The product has accumulated 40 patents, underscoring its uniqueness in the market. It has been specifically produced for self-employed individuals, offering them the flexibility of both an electric rickshaw and an electric scooter within the same vehicle.
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RPG Enterprises Chairman Harsh Goenka shared his excitement about the Surge S32 on social media, posting a video on a popular platform with the caption, “#Hero has unveiled a revolutionary three-wheeler that transforms into a two-wheeler, showcasing the innovative spirit and ingenuity of Indian engineering. It’s amazing to witness such groundbreaking advancements. #Innovation #MakeInIndia.” Goenka’s post reflects the broader industry sentiment, acknowledging the significance of this breakthrough in the electric vehicle landscape.
The Surge S32’s two-in-one convertible electric vehicle is designed with self-employed individuals in mind, providing them with a versatile and efficient solution for their transportation needs. The initial appearance of the Surge S32 resembles a typical three-wheeled electric rickshaw, complete with a front passenger compartment featuring standard elements such as wipers, headlights, turn signals, and a windscreen. The possibility of soft doors with zippers for weather protection adds to the vehicle’s practicality.
The transformative magic happens with a single button press, lifting the front windshield vertically to reveal the electric scooter inside. The cabin of the three-wheeler undergoes a significant change, deploying a spring-loaded double-stand mechanism. Once freed from the vehicle’s cabin, the electric scooter showcases its LED headlights, turn signals, speedometer, and switchgear.
The Surge S32 intelligently divides its battery and power between the two-wheeler scooter and the three-wheeler vehicle. The Surge S32 (three-wheeler) features a 10 kW (13.4 bhp) engine and is equipped with an 11 kWh battery. In contrast, the scooter (two-wheeler) boasts a 3 kW (4 bhp) engine and a 3.5 kWh battery. This intelligent division ensures optimal performance for both configurations.
The top speed for the three-wheeler vehicle is an impressive 50 km/h, making it suitable for various commercial applications. On the other hand, the scooter can achieve a faster top speed of 60 km/h, providing a more dynamic and agile ride experience for personal commuting. The Surge S32’s ability to cater to both commercial and personal needs within a single vehicle enhances its appeal and utility in the electric vehicle market.
