REVA / G-Wiz History
Bangalore's battery-powered two-seater (2001–2007) — sold as the G-Wiz in the UK, it became the world's best-selling electric vehicle by 2006.
Photo: “2006 REVA G-Wiz 2” by Calreyn88 / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
History
Commercial production of the original REVA launched in June 2001 in Bangalore, targeting short city commutes in congested Indian metros. The car was a compact two-seater powered by a 4.8 kW DC motor and lead-acid battery pack, with a top speed of around 80 km/h (50 mph) and a city range of approximately 80 km (50 mi) per charge.
The UK proved to be the model's breakout market. In 2004, GoinGreen of London began importing the car under the name G-Wiz, and by 2006 the G-Wiz had become the world's best-selling electric vehicle — a remarkable milestone for an Indian startup. By 2008 more than 950 units had been sold in the UK alone.
The original REVA was sold in 26 countries and established RECC as the leading independent EV manufacturer in the developing world before being superseded by the upgraded REVAi in 2008.
Generations
First generation · REVA / G-Wiz
Photo: “2006 REVA G-Wiz 2” by Calreyn88 / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Lead-acid DC-motor city car; sold as G-Wiz in UK from 2004; became world's best-selling EV by 2006.
2006 Photo: “G-Wiz -2 28 07 2007 (932064472)” by thingermejig / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Body styles
- Hatchback
Related models
Collect the nameplate
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