The Strom Motors R3, an innovative offering from a Mumbai-based startup, Strom Motors, has carved a niche for itself in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle (EV) landscape in India. Launched with the vision of redefining urban personal mobility, this compact, three-wheeled electric car is designed to tackle the chaos of metro city traffic while offering an eco-friendly and affordable alternative to traditional fossil-fuel vehicles. With its quirky design, practical features, and focus on sustainability, the R3 stands out as a bold step toward a greener future. Targeted primarily at city dwellers looking for a hassle-free commuting option, the Strom R3 promises a low running cost—claimed to be just 40 paise per kilometer—making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers in a country where fuel prices continue to soar.
What sets the Strom R3 apart is its unique reverse trike configuration, featuring two wheels at the front and one at the rear, which not only enhances stability but also gives it a distinctive aesthetic. This EV is more than just a mode of transport; it’s a statement of intent from Strom Motors to address the growing need for compact, efficient, and sustainable mobility solutions in India’s congested urban centers. Whether you’re weaving through the crowded streets of Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, or simply seeking a vehicle that aligns with environmental consciousness, the R3 aims to deliver a blend of practicality, affordability, and modern technology.
In this detailed exploration, we’ll dive into the technical specifications, available variants, pricing in metro cities, and a comprehensive overview of the car, including how it stacks up against its close competitors. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what the Strom Motors R3 brings to the table and whether it’s the right fit for your urban commuting needs.
Technical Specifications
The Strom Motors R3 is engineered to meet the demands of city driving while keeping things simple and efficient. Below is a tabular breakdown of its key technical specifications, sourced and verified from reputable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale as of March 23, 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Electric (Battery) |
| Battery Capacity | 30 kWh |
| Motor Power | 15 kW (20.11 bhp / 20.4 PS) |
| Torque | 90 Nm |
| Range | 200 km (claimed, full charge) |
| Charging Time | 3 hours (standard charger) |
| Top Speed | 80 kmph |
| Transmission | Single-speed Automatic |
| Seating Capacity | 2 |
| Body Type | Hatchback (Reverse Trike) |
| Kerb Weight | 550 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 185 mm |
| Boot Space | 300 liters |
| Wheelbase | Not specified (compact design) |
| Tyre Size | Wider tyres for stability (exact size unspecified) |
| Brakes | Ventilated Front Disc, Rear Drum |
| Suspension | Not specified |
| Battery Voltage | 48-volt system |
These specifications highlight the R3’s focus on efficiency and maneuverability, tailored for short commutes and tight city spaces. The 200 km range is a standout feature for its segment, though real-world performance may vary based on driving conditions and usage patterns.
Variants
The Strom Motors R3 is available in a streamlined lineup, with its offerings centered around a single core model as of now. However, earlier reports hinted at potential range-based variants, though current bookings and official sources primarily focus on the flagship version. Below is the variant table based on available data:
| Variant | Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| R3 2-Door | 200 km | Touchscreen, AC, Keyless Entry, Power Windows |
While initial discussions on platforms like Kazam.in suggested additional variants—such as R3 Pure, R3 Current, and R3 Bolt with ranges of 80 km, 120 km, and 180 km respectively—these have not been officially confirmed or widely available for booking as of March 2025. The R3 2-Door, with its 200 km range, remains the primary offering, equipped with modern features to enhance the driving experience.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Strom Motors R3 varies slightly across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table detailing the on-road price (ex-showroom + RTO + insurance) in key Indian metro cities, sourced from CarDekho and ZigWheels:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price | On-Road Price |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | ₹ 4.50 Lakh | ₹ 4.77 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹ 4.50 Lakh | ₹ 4.80 Lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹ 4.50 Lakh | ₹ 4.77 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹ 4.50 Lakh | ₹ 4.77 Lakh |
| Hyderabad | ₹ 4.50 Lakh | ₹ 4.78 Lakh |
Note: These prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealership offers, additional accessories, or government subsidies for EVs. The R3’s competitive pricing positions it as one of the most affordable electric cars in India, appealing to buyers seeking an entry-level EV.
About the Strom Motors R3
Design and Build
The Strom Motors R3 is a head-turner, thanks to its unconventional three-wheeled design. Unlike traditional four-wheeled cars, the R3 adopts a reverse trike layout—two wheels upfront and a single wheel at the rear—which enhances its stability and agility. This configuration, combined with a compact footprint, makes it ideal for navigating the narrow lanes and bumper-to-bumper traffic of metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. The car’s exterior is minimalist yet futuristic, available in four striking color options: White with Black Roof, Red with White Roof, Silver with Yellow Roof, and Blue with White Roof. These dual-tone combinations add a playful yet stylish vibe to its appearance.
Weighing just 550 kg, the R3 is lightweight, which contributes to its efficiency and ease of handling. Its 185 mm ground clearance is adequate for urban roads, though it may struggle with poorly maintained rural terrains or high speed bumps. The 300-liter boot space is surprisingly generous for a two-seater, offering enough room for groceries, small luggage, or daily essentials—perfect for city dwellers who prioritize practicality.
Stepping inside, the R3 offers a compact yet functional cabin. The two-seater layout is cozy, with ergonomic seats designed for short commutes. While ingress and egress might require some adjustment—users on CarDekho have noted it “takes a bit of dignity to step in and out”—the interior compensates with modern touches like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital driver’s display, and climate control. Features such as voice and gesture commands, keyless entry, and power windows elevate the experience, making it feel more premium than its price tag suggests.
Performance and Range
At the heart of the Strom Motors R3 is a 15 kW electric motor (equivalent to 20.11 bhp or 20.4 PS), delivering 90 Nm of torque. While these numbers won’t set any speed records—its top speed is capped at 80 kmph—they’re more than sufficient for urban driving. The instant torque from the electric motor ensures nippy acceleration, allowing the R3 to dart through traffic with ease. Its single-speed automatic transmission keeps things simple, eliminating the need for gear shifts and enhancing the driving experience for first-time EV users.
The 30 kWh battery powers the R3 to a claimed range of 200 km on a full charge, which is impressive for its size and price point. However, real-world range may hover closer to 150-180 km, depending on factors like traffic conditions, driving style, and air conditioning usage. Charging takes approximately 3 hours with a standard charger, though specifics about fast-charging compatibility remain unclear. For home charging, a regular 15-amp socket should suffice, making it convenient for apartment dwellers or those with basic electrical setups.
The R3’s lightweight construction and efficient powertrain contribute to its standout running cost of 40 paise per kilometer, as claimed by Strom Motors. This figure starkly contrasts with petrol or diesel vehicles, where costs can exceed ₹5-10 per kilometer, depending on fuel prices. For daily commutes of 10-15 km, as noted by user reviews on CarWale, the R3 proves to be a reliable and economical choice.
Features and Safety
Despite its compact size, the Strom Motors R3 doesn’t skimp on features. The 7-inch touchscreen supports GPS navigation, music playback, and connectivity options, while the digital driver’s display provides essential information like range, speed, and battery status. The inclusion of voice and gesture commands adds a futuristic flair, though their effectiveness in noisy urban environments remains untested by widespread user feedback. Climate control ensures comfort in India’s diverse weather conditions, from scorching summers to humid monsoons.
Safety-wise, the R3 comes equipped with ventilated front disc brakes for shorter stopping distances and wider tyres for better grip and stability. While detailed crash test ratings are unavailable—common for vehicles in this segment—Strom Motors has hinted at future upgrades like parking assist and an Automatic Vehicle Following System, which could enhance safety in upcoming models. However, the lack of airbags or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) might be a concern for some buyers, especially when compared to four-wheeled competitors.
Target Audience and Practicality
The Strom Motors R3 is tailor-made for urban commuters, particularly in metro cities where parking woes and traffic snarls are daily challenges. Its compact dimensions—exact length and width aren’t widely specified but are noticeably smaller than conventional hatchbacks—allow it to slip into tight parking spots and maneuver through congested streets. The two-seater configuration suits solo drivers, couples, or small families with minimal luggage needs, though it’s not ideal for larger groups or long-distance travel.
User reviews on platforms like ZigWheels praise its suitability for short drives of 10-15 km, calling it a “good city car for moving through traffic.” However, some have pointed out limitations, such as the 3-hour charging time being a bottleneck for those without dedicated charging setups. For metro residents with access to home or workplace charging, though, this is less of an issue.
Market Positioning and Brand Vision
Strom Motors positions the R3 as a smart, eco-friendly solution with the potential to reshape urban mobility. The company’s ethos, as stated on CarDekho, revolves around driving greater tech adoption and offering sustainable alternatives to fossil-fuel vehicles. With India’s EV market gaining momentum—supported by government incentives and growing environmental awareness—the R3 taps into a rising demand for affordable electric options.
At an ex-showroom price of ₹4.50 Lakh, the R3 undercuts many four-wheeled EVs and even some petrol hatchbacks, making it an accessible entry point into electric mobility. Its quirky design and low operating costs further bolster its appeal, though its niche three-wheeled format might not resonate with buyers seeking a more conventional car-like experience.
Close Competitors
The Strom Motors R3 operates in a unique space, blending elements of electric hatchbacks and micro-mobility solutions. Below, we compare it with its closest competitors in terms of price, features, and purpose.
Vayve Mobility Eva
- Price: ₹4.49 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Range: ~100-120 km
- Seating: 2
- Comparison: The Eva, another Indian EV startup offering, is a direct rival with a similar price point and urban focus. However, its lower range and less feature-rich cabin give the R3 an edge in practicality and modernity. Both target city commuters, but the R3’s 200 km range and touchscreen infotainment make it more versatile.
PMV EaS E
- Price: ₹4.79 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Range: 160-200 km
- Seating: 2
- Comparison: The EaS E, a four-wheeled micro-EV, competes closely with the R3 in terms of range and pricing. Its conventional design might appeal to buyers hesitant about the R3’s trike layout, but the R3 counters with a lower starting price and unique styling. Feature-wise, both offer modern amenities, though the EaS E may edge out slightly with additional safety features.
Tata Tiago EV (Base Variant)
- Price: ₹4.99 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Range: 250 km
- Seating: 4
- Comparison: The Tiago EV, from a well-established brand, offers superior range and seating capacity, making it a stronger choice for small families or longer drives. However, its higher price and larger size make it less suited for tight urban spaces compared to the R3. The R3’s lower running cost and compact design give it a niche advantage.
Maruti Alto K10 (Petrol)
- Price: ₹3.99 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Range: ~600 km (24.9 kmpl, 27-liter tank)
- Seating: 4
- Comparison: While not an EV, the Alto K10 is a budget-friendly competitor for cost-conscious buyers. Its petrol engine offers greater range and refueling convenience, but higher running costs and emissions make it less sustainable. The R3 wins on eco-friendliness and futuristic appeal, though it sacrifices seating and range.
Competitive Edge
The R3’s three-wheeled design, low running cost, and feature-packed cabin set it apart in a crowded market. It appeals to early adopters of EV technology and those prioritizing sustainability over conventionality. However, its limited seating and unconventional layout might deter buyers accustomed to four-wheeled vehicles like the Tiago EV or Alto K10.
Final Thoughts!
The Strom Motors R3 is a bold, forward-thinking addition to India’s EV ecosystem, blending affordability, efficiency, and modern features into a compact package. Its 200 km range, ₹4.50 Lakh starting price, and urban-centric design make it a compelling choice for metro city commuters seeking an eco-friendly alternative to petrol cars. While it may not suit everyone—particularly those needing more seats or long-distance capability—its strengths lie in its niche appeal and low operating costs.
Against competitors like the Vayve Eva, PMV EaS E, and Tata Tiago EV, the R3 holds its own with a unique identity and competitive pricing. Whether you’re drawn to its quirky aesthetics, sustainable ethos, or practical features, the Strom Motors R3 offers a glimpse into the future of urban mobility—one that’s green, smart, and unmistakably Indian. For city dwellers ready to embrace the EV revolution, the R3 is worth a test drive to experience its potential firsthand.
