Montra Electric Rhino 5538EV

Montra Electric Rhino 5538EV Overview and Market Role

Montra Electric Rhino 5538EV arrives from India with a clear purpose, heavy freight without diesel drama. Built by Montra Electric under TI Clean Mobility, the truck targets regional logistics where predictable routes and charging windows matter. Sales begin in September 2025, and fleet buyers already circle the order books. Pricing starts at 135300 USD (101200 GBP, 116200 EUR), positioning the truck below many European rivals. And yes, local engineering takes center stage here.

• Manufactured in India with a locally engineered chassis focused on durability.
• Launch window set for late 2025 fleet deliveries.
• Starting price tuned for cost focused logistics operators.
• Market positioning squarely aimed at short and medium haul decarbonized freight.

Technical Specs and Powertrain Details

Battery

The energy backbone relies on a 282 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, chosen for thermal stability and long cycle life. Estimated driving range reaches 198 km or about 123 miles per charge, ideal for hub to hub operations. DC fast charging brings the pack from 20 to 100 percent in under 60 minutes. Battery swapping trims downtime further, dropping exchange time to under six minutes. Such flexibility keeps trucks moving while schedules stay tight.

• Battery capacity 282 kWh
• Estimated range 198 km (123 miles)
• DC fast charge under 60 minutes
• Optional battery swapping capability

Performance

Power delivery comes from a rear mounted electric motor producing 380 hp or 280 kW. Torque peaks at 2000 Nm, translating to confident launches even at full load. Top speed caps at 80 kmh or 50 mph to preserve efficiency and safety. Gross combination weight reaches 55000 kg or roughly 121254 lb, placing the truck firmly in heavy duty territory. Regenerative braking assists both energy recovery and brake longevity.

• Power output 380 hp (280 kW)
• Torque 2000 Nm
• Top speed 80 kmh (50 mph)
• Gross combination weight 55000 kg

Two variants exist, a fixed battery model at 135300 USD (101200 GBP, 116200 EUR) and a swapping enabled version priced around 138800 USD (103800 GBP, 119300 EUR).

Exterior and Interior Design Focus

Exterior

The cab follows a flat front layout to maximize trailer length within regulations. A closed grille reduces drag while signaling electric intent. Halogen headlamps paired with LED daytime running lights support long duty cycles. Heavy duty 295 by 90 R20 tires reduce rolling resistance and enhance stability. Roof deflectors remain optional for fleets chasing marginal efficiency gains.

Interior

Inside, function rules over flair. A digital driver display replaces analog dials, showing range, energy use, and system temperatures. The sleeper cab allows rest during charging or loading delays. Adjustable air suspended seats reduce fatigue, while air conditioning comes standard. Telematics feed fleet managers with live diagnostics and route data.

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Pros

• High torque output ideal for heavy loads
• Battery swapping option minimizes downtime
• LFP battery chemistry favors durability
• Competitive pricing for heavy electric trucks

Cons

• Range suited mainly for regional routes
• Interior prioritizes utility over refinement
• Limited top speed restricts highway pacing

Pricing:

Base Model Cost: $135,300 USD (Estimated converted from ₹1.15 Crore)

Trim Configurations:

• Fixed Battery Variant: $135,300 USD

• Battery Swapping Variant: $138,800 USD

Market Positioning and Competitors

Rhino 5538EV competes in the nascent but rapidly growing heavy-duty electric trucking sector. Its primary value proposition lies in its total cost of ownership (TCO) benefits and the flexibility of its battery-swapping technology, which addresses the downtime concerns typical of EV logistics.

Conclusion and Buying Perspective

Fleet electrification moves faster when hardware fits real routes. Montra Electric Rhino 5538EV fits that bill with pragmatic engineering and sensible pricing. Range, torque, and uptime solutions align with daily logistics math. For operators ready to step away from diesel, the equation looks compelling. And the long term operating savings sweeten the deal.