Analyzing Maxson Lewis Founder of Magenta Mobility Petrol Bike Purchase: Six Reasons Why it’s a Setback for EV Growth in India?
Maxson Lewis, the founder and CEO of Magenta Mobility, EV charging and technology company, recently purchased a petrol bike (Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2024 approx INR 17 Lakh). While he justified his decision by citing the limited availability of suitable EV bikes for his specific needs, his purchase has raised concerns about the potential impact on EV adoption in India.This has also raised question on future of EV companies in the country.
Here are six key reasons why his decision can be seen as a setback for EV growth:
Lack of Consistency: As a prominent figure in the EV industry, Lewis’s purchase of a petrol bike sends a mixed message. It can be perceived as hypocritical, given his company’s focus on promoting and developing EV infrastructure. While he may have had valid reasons for his choice, it undermines the credibility of his advocacy for electric vehicles.
Undermining Public Perception: Lewis’s decision could negatively influence public perception of EVs. If people see a key figure in the EV industry opting for a petrol bike, it could create doubts about the practicality and viability of electric vehicles for everyday use, especially for those with specific requirements like long-distance touring or off-roading.
Discouraging Potential EV Buyers: Many consumers look to industry leaders and influencers for guidance when making purchasing decisions. If they see someone like Lewis choosing a petrol bike, it might discourage them from considering an EV, especially if they have similar needs.
Missed Opportunity for Advocacy: Lewis could have used his platform to highlight the challenges and limitations of the current EV market, urging manufacturers and policymakers to address these issues. Instead, his purchase may inadvertently divert attention from these critical concerns.
Undermining the EV Ecosystem: The growth of the EV ecosystem depends on a strong demand for electric vehicles. By purchasing a petrol bike, Lewis is not contributing to this demand, which could hinder the development of charging infrastructure, battery technology, and other essential components of the EV ecosystem.
Change in perception: People having similar concerns on EV, but somehow changed because of Industry education and agressive marketing will now change the perception of the same people and it won’t take a minute for them to switch back to petrol vehicles. All the efforts of the EV companies and government will go in vain.
While it is understandable that Lewis may have had specific requirements that were not met by available EV options, his decision to purchase a petrol bike could have unintended negative consequences for the broader EV movement in India.
By carefully considering the implications of his choices, he could have better aligned his actions with his company’s mission and helped to accelerate the transition to electric mobility.