Kolkata Police to add 183 electric motorcycles to its fleet.
The Kolkata Police plans to use the new electric motorcycles primarily for operations under the 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS), as stated by Commissioner Ajay Nand during the handover ceremony for the first batch. It was also indicated that the department is likely to add electric cars to its fleet soon. The batch of 183 electric motorcycles—specifically the X-47 model—was acquired from Ultraviolette Automotive. This is an adventure-style motorcycle that differs from the standard configurations the company offers to private buyers.
The Bengaluru-based (Karnataka) startup has developed a new patrol version called "Skyforce," and the 183 units being supplied to the Kolkata Police mark the first deployment of this configuration. The company has equipped these motorcycles with additional features such as LED turn signals, sirens, horns, a public address system, mounts for microphones and walkie-talkies, and side panniers. In addition to the custom equipment, special decals placed across the motorcycle make it instantly distinguishable from the X-47 versions offered to private buyers.
Ultraviolette manufactures the X-47 in two electric powertrain versions, and the new Skyforce version appears to correspond to the base variant. This variant combines a motor delivering 27 kW of power and 90 Nm of torque with a 7.1 kWh battery pack. This configuration allows for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds, a top speed of 145 km/h, and a range of up to 211 km on a single charge, according to the
Indian Driving Cycle (IDC). The top-tier version combines a motor generating 30 kW and 100 Nm of torque with a 10.3 kWh battery. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 145 km/h, matching the previous version. The product offers a significant improvement in real-world range, extending the IDC-rated range to 323 km.
Commenting on this development, Narayan Subramaniam, CEO and co-founder of Ultraviolette, stated: "This is a historic moment for Ultraviolette, as we become the first large-scale electric two-wheeler manufacturer to have its motorcycles join the police force." "Beyond the significance of this event, we are deeply pleased to know that our technology will support the daily duties of police officers, who work tirelessly to uphold law and order and ensure the safety of our cities."
"Adopting electric mobility represents a significant step toward sustainable and eco-friendly policing. These modern electric motorcycles will help improve our operational efficiency, patrolling, rapid response, and community engagement, while also contributing to environmental sustainability," said Ajay Nand, Commissioner of the Kolkata Police.
