Chennai-based Jedlik Motors, also known as JedlikMoto, has unveiled a prototype of its e-POD, a fully enclosed electric two-wheeler for urban commuting. The innovative vehicle seeks to combine the agility and compact footprint of a two wheeler with the weather protection and comforts more commonly associated with a car. Founded by Raguram SK, the start-up has been looking at the e-POD as a solution for urban riders who wish to remain protected from the elements, while retaining the ease of weaving through traffic. According to the company, the e-POD will have a top speed of 120 km/h and a range of approximately 200 km on a single charge.
One of the e-POD’s key highlights is it’s crab-walk steering which allows lateral movement and improved manoeuvrability, particularly in congested city traffic and confined parking spaces. The technology is expected to make navigation of crowded city traffic far more intuitive than with traditional scooters or motorcycles.
The prototype also makes use of steer-by-wire technology and in-wheel hub motors to enable precise control and a lower centre of gravity for improved stability. In addition to performance figures, the e-POD is being equipped with several car-like amenities, setting it apart from the competition in the two-wheeler space. Features like air conditioning for year-round comfort, pushback seats, an infotainment system and approximately 600 litres of boot space for everyday storage needs are being considered.
Safety features such as a frontal airbag also highlight the company’s aim of providing greater protection than open two-wheelers currently provide. Jedlik Motors is looking at a commercial launch for the e-POD in June 2027. The launch is expected to begin with a pilot programme in Bengaluru, before moving on to Chennai and other cities. The company is looking to price the e-POD at around Rs 2.5 lakh on-road, while also considering a Battery-as-a-Service model which would bring the purchase price down to approximately Rs 1.5 lakh, with monthly battery subscriptions in the range of Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500.
With a small team of approximately ten people and a strong focus on in-house design for the majority of components, Jedlik Motors is making steady progress from the prototype stage towards production-readiness. The e-POD represents an emerging category of enclosed electric two-wheelers which could redefine urban mobility, by providing a middle ground between the convenience of a scooter and the comforts of a compact car. As the company continues to refine the vehicle ahead of it’s planned 2027 launch, the project highlights the increasing innovation from Indian EV start-ups seeking to address real-world commuting needs.