The founder of IX Energy, a visionary in the field of sustainable transportation, embarked on a pioneering journey that would ultimately reshape the landscape of hybrid buses. The journey began with a groundbreaking collaboration with Tata Motors in the United States. Together, they embarked on a mission to revolutionize the way buses are powered, setting their sights on reducing emissions and enhancing fuel efficiency.

Hybrid with lead-acid batteries and get 9% fuel efficiency : In the initial stage of hybrid buses involved the utilization of lead-acid batteries. This marked the early stages of experimentation and innovation as they sought to find the most effective and environmentally friendly solutions for public transportation.

Hybrid with Li-ion batteries and get 14% fuel efficiency : As their partnership with Tata Motors deepened and technology continued to evolve, they transitioned to lithium-ion battery packs. This transition represented a significant leap forward in terms of energy storage and efficiency. Lithium-ion batteries offered higher energy density, longer lifespans, and quicker charging capabilities, making them a key component in the quest for sustainable and efficient hybrid buses.

In a pivotal moment for India’s electric mobility transformation, IX Energy Pvt Ltd took a pioneering step by collaborating with Tata Motors to develop the EED – Adapting Retrofitting in E-Mobility project. Focusing on the electrification of the TATA 1623 bus, this initiative represents a leap forward in sustainable urban transportation, with a comprehensive approach encompassing powertrain design, mechanical stability, control strategy, and vehicle dynamics.

Collaboration with Tata: The project signifies a dynamic collaboration between IX Energy Pvt Ltd and Tata Motors, two giants in their respective fields.

Transformation of the TATA 1623: The project involves the transformation of the TATA 1623 bus model into an electric vehicle, showcasing how retrofitting can play a pivotal role in transitioning India’s public transportation sector toward sustainability.

Promoting Electric Mobility: The successful retrofitting of the bus model serves as a model for other transportation providers looking to transition to electric mobility while leveraging existing vehicle assets

Supporting India’s EV Vision: The project aligns with India’s vision of widespread electric vehicle adoption, offering practical solutions for urban transportation providers to embrace cleaner and more efficient mobility options.

In 2019, IX Energy Pvt Ltd achieved a significant milestone by successfully delivering the ESD – Mahindra Comfio Hybrid Bus project. This transformation, conducted at Mahindra’s Pune facility, marked a major stride in the integration of hybrid technology into urban transportation, with functionality and fuel economy verified by Mahindra’s bus and truck division.

Mahindra Collaboration: The project was conducted in collaboration with Mahindra’s bus and truck division, highlighting IX Energy Pvt Ltd’s dedication to working with industry leaders to advance sustainable transportation solutions.

Fuel Economy and Functionality Testing: Rigorous functionality and fuel economy tests were performed to ensure the hybrid bus’s reliability, performance, and efficiency met the standards set by Mahindra.

IX Energy Pvt Ltd has made history as the first recipient of ICAT certification for a hybrid bus in the N2 category. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the evolution of hybrid technology in India, this project achieved an exceptional 25% increase in fuel economy.

ICAT Certification: This project received certification from ICAT, highlighting its adherence to international standards and safety regulations. It signifies a commitment to delivering a reliable and environmentally responsible solution.

Hybrid Electric Bus: The conversion of the TATA 1512 into a hybrid electric bus represents a significant leap forward in sustainable transportation. Hybrid technology combines a traditional internal combustion engine with electric propulsion, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

Fuel Economy: The project achieved a remarkable 25% increase in fuel economy, setting a new standard for efficiency in the N2 category of vehicles. This achievement underlines the project’s dedication to optimizing resource utilization and reducing environmental impact.

Maxwell Supercapacitor Banks: we have used of Maxwell supercapacitor banks, a technology currently owned by Tesla. Supercapacitors are known for their rapid energy storage and discharge capabilities, making them ideal for hybrid vehicles. By incorporating this technology, the project enhances the bus’s energy efficiency and regenerative braking capabilities.

This project focuses on the conversion of a TATA 1512 bus into a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), offering private fleet owners the advantages of increased mileage and reduced CO2 emissions.

ICAT Approved ESD Kit: The project deploys an ICAT approved ESD (Electric and Sustainable Drive) kit, ensuring compliance with international standards and safety regulations.

Trail in NCR Area: The ESD – HYBRID BUS project underwent a rigorous trial in the bustling and traffic-laden NCR (National Capital Region) area. This real-world testing ground provided valuable insights into the vehicle’s performance and efficiency.

Extra Mileage: The hybrid technology delivered increased mileage, a significant advantage for private fleet owners seeking to optimize fuel costs and extend the range of their vehicles.

Lower CO2 Emissions: By reducing fuel consumption and incorporating electric propulsion, the project succeeded in lowering CO2 emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce the environmental impact of transportation.

Enhanced Performance: Drivers reported heightened performance, including extra pick-up capabilities, making the hybrid bus a preferred choice for navigating traffic and challenging road conditions.

Regenerative Braking Efficiency: The regenerative braking system, a hallmark of hybrid technology, efficiently captured and reused energy during deceleration, further improving the vehicle’s efficiency and reducing wear and tear on the braking system.

The ESD – ASTC HYBRID BUS project stands as a beacon of hope for sustainable public transportation in the post-pandemic world. Through collaboration with ASTC and rigorous trials, IX Energy Pvt Ltd has showcased the potential of integrated electric power train technology to revolutionize urban mobility.

Fuel Efficiency : We proudly sign off with the achievement of a remarkable 18% increase in fuel efficiency thanks to our innovative Hybrid kit.

Integrated Electric Power Train: The ESD – ASTC HYBRID BUS project employs an integrated electric power train, emphasizing the seamless integration of electric propulsion technology into the existing fleet of public transportation buses.

Guwahati Pilot Run: After the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project marked the resumption of public transportation services with a pilot run in Guwahati.

In collaboration with ASTC, the project conducted a 90-day trial from ASTC Rupnagar to Chaya Gaon. This trial was a continuation of the success of a previous 9-meter electric bus trial, which demonstrated exceptional performance by covering a daily distance of 120 kilometers.

In a commendable effort to revolutionize public transportation and reduce its environmental impact, IX Energy Pvt Ltd collaborated with the State Government to introduce the ESD – HYBRID BUS project. This initiative demonstrates the power of hybrid technology in enhancing the fuel efficiency of existing bus fleets while contributing to sustainability and eco-friendliness.

1. Fuel Economy Test with TSRTC (Telangana State Road Transport Corporation):

The project deployed its ICAT-approved ESD kit in TSRTC buses to conduct comprehensive fuel economy tests on various routes. These tests aimed to evaluate the real-world fuel-saving potential of hybrid technology in the context of public transportation.

2. Remarkable Fuel Savings:

Over a three-month trial period, the ESD – HYBRID BUS project delivered exceptional results. The hybrid buses achieved a remarkable 26% peak fuel savings during high-demand periods and an 18% average fuel savings across all routes. These figures reflect the project’s commitment to not only reducing operating costs but also minimizing the environmental impact of public transportation.