The Montra Electric Super Cargo enters the urban delivery segment with a focus on practicality and efficiency, writes Richa Tyagi.
Electric mobility has already made its mark in private transportation, but the commercial delivery segment is now catching up quickly. As small businesses and fleet operators look for more efficient alternatives to conventional fuel cargo vehicles, the Montra Electric Super Cargo enters the market with a clear focus: dependable range, practical load-carrying capability, and low operating costs.
First Impressions and Exterior Design
At first glance, the Super Cargo presents a clean and functional design. Its metal body feels sturdy, and the proportions are well-suited for navigating narrow city lanes. The aerodynamic wind deflector adds a subtle visual improvement while serving a practical purpose by reducing drag at urban speeds. The vehicle is offered in three colors, Plum Red, Stallion Brown, Steel Grey, and Indian Blue, which gives business owners some flexibility for branding.
The build quality appears consistent, and all panels feel securely fitted. While it doesn’t aim to stand out stylistically, it carries a more polished look.
Cargo Flexibility
Cargo utility is central to any delivery vehicle, and Montra provides multiple configurations. Along with a standard pickup tray, the Super Cargo can be equipped with enclosed containers in 140 cuft or 170 cuft sizes. These options accommodate everything from packaged goods to perishable deliveries.
The pickup variant supports a 580-kg payload, which is competitive for an electric three-wheeler alternative and suitable for most last-mile operations. On our test route, the vehicle remained stable with a moderate load, and the suspension handled typical city bumps without excessive bounce.
Driving Experience and Performance
The Super Cargo is powered by a 12 kW peak electric motor developing 70 Nm of torque. In practical terms, this translates to smooth acceleration off the line, useful in stop-and-go traffic. A full load does slow initial response slightly, but the torque delivery remains steady enough to handle inclines and short flyovers.
The 45 km/h top speed is adequate for dense urban environments, and during our drive, the Super Cargo maintained this speed comfortably on open stretches. Three drive modes, Eco, Drive, and Power, alter throttle sensitivity and energy consumption. Eco mode is clearly intended for maximising range, while Power mode offers a bit more responsiveness for load-heavy situations.
Ride Comfort and Handling
Ride comfort is a key concern for vehicles designed for long operating hours. The front double-leading hydraulic suspension absorbs smaller potholes reasonably well, while the rear leaf springs ensure the vehicle doesn’t sag under load. The setup leans toward firmness, which is expected for a commercial hauler, but it avoids being overly harsh.
Battery Performance and Range
The Super Cargo uses a 13.5 kWh LFP battery pack, and its chemistry is known for durability and thermal stability, important factors for intensive daily use. Montra claims 200+ km of certified range, but during mixed-condition test run, the estimates suggested around 160–175 km on a full charge. This aligns with the needs of typical delivery cycles, where vehicles usually operate within defined neighborhoods or city sectors.
One of the standout features is the 15-minute fast-charging top-up, which adds enough charge for short emergency runs. It isn’t a full recharge, but as a contingency feature during peak load hours, it adds significant value.
Cabin Experience and Driver Convenience
Inside, the Super Cargo offers a simple but organised cabin. The dual-tone seats provide moderate support, and the upright seating position ensures good forward visibility. Storage spaces are minimal but adequate for documents, water bottles, and small personal items.
A basic digital instrument cluster displays speed, battery status, and essential indicators. The inclusion of hill-hold control is practical on flyovers and slopes, preventing rollback during loaded starts. Reverse parking assist also helps when maneuvering in tight loading bays. A USB charging port adds convenience for drivers using mobile devices for route navigation.
Safety and Practicality on the Road
Safety equipment includes front disc brakes and regenerative braking, which help moderate speed smoothly and recover some energy. The braking system felt predictable during testing, and pedal effort was light enough for long shifts.
The Montra Electric Super Cargo positions itself as a practical solution for urban last-mile logistics. It doesn’t attempt to reinvent the category but delivers on key requirements: reliable range, useful payload, functional cabin features, and low running costs. For businesses evaluating the shift to electric fleets, the Super Cargo offers a balanced blend of efficiency and everyday usability.
