Karnataka Expands EV Charging, Backs Local E-Scooters

20 Jan 2026 CW Team

Karnataka has already installed thousands of electric vehicle charging stations across the state and plans further expansion as the automobile market steadily shifts towards EVs, Large and Medium Industries Minister MB Patil said.

On 12 January 2026, Patil formally handed over a Yamaha EC-06 electric scooter manufactured by Bengaluru-based River Mobility to Yamaha at its facility in the city. Under the arrangement, Yamaha will provide branding and technical expertise, while River will undertake production locally.

Patil described the start of manufacturing as a major milestone for Karnataka’s industrial and mobility ecosystem, saying it supports eco-friendly, seamless and sustainable urban transport while reinforcing the state’s position as a clean mobility hub.

The plant will manufacture around 2,000 scooters annually. The vehicles will be powered by locally produced batteries designed to deliver a lifespan of up to 100,000 km and backed by a 10-year warranty. The initiative is expected to create skilled employment, deepen localisation in the EV supply chain and generate new opportunities for ancillary and small-scale industries in the region.

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