In a remarkable display of innovation and self-reliance, a man from Kerala has built his own electric car at home that is not only functional but also fully approved for use on public roads.
Antony John, a 67-year-old career consultant from Kollam, designed and constructed this unique electric vehicle primarily for his daily commute. Named “Pulkoodu”, the car can travel up to 60 km on a single charge, and the best part? It costs just ₹5 to cover that entire distance — roughly the price of one unit of electricity.
With rising fuel prices pushing more people towards electric mobility, Antony decided to take things into his own hands. He invested around ₹4.5 lakh in the project, sourcing components and handling much of the wiring and assembly himself. The body was fabricated in a local garage, but the electrical system reflects his personal engineering touch.
Despite its homemade nature, the vehicle meets all necessary requirements to be street-legal in India. It has a modest top speed of around 25-30 km/h, making it ideal for city commuting rather than highway runs.
India’s electric vehicle market has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years. Major Indian and global brands have entered the segment aggressively, driven by government incentives, environmental concerns, and soaring petrol and diesel prices. While most buyers look at ready-made options from companies like Tata, Mahindra, or Ola, stories like Antony John’s highlight the spirit of grassroots innovation.
His creation proves that with determination and basic technical knowledge, affordable and practical electric mobility solutions are possible even at an individual level.
Highlights of the Homemade EV:
- Running Cost: ₹5 for 60 km (1 unit of electricity)
- Range: Up to 60 km per full charge
- Top Speed: Approximately 25 km/h
- Status: Fully street legal and registered
- Build Cost: Around ₹4.5 lakh
Videos of the car in action have gone viral multiple times, showcasing its quirky yet effective design. It stands as an inspiring example for countless enthusiasts who dream of building their own electric vehicles.
Antony John’s story reminds us that the future of mobility isn’t just about big corporations — sometimes, it starts right in someone’s garage with passion and ingenuity.
