In a world that thrives on choice, green mobility has emerged as a beacon of versatility and convenience, catering to the evolving needs of individuals and businesses in the electric vehicle (EV) arena. As the pioneers behind the multibrand experience store concept, BLIVE seamlessly brings multiple premier EV brands under one roof. What sets them apart is not just the comprehensive range of top-quality brands they offer but also the enticing discounts and offers that make them a preferred choice for customers.
"Spearheading sustainable mobility, my Co-Founder, Sandeep, and I initiated our journey as an electric vehicle tourism company before 2018, when EVs were rare. To increase awareness of electric vehicles, we curated immersive experiences at popular tourist destinations, gathering valuable client insights. People who had experienced electric vehicles during tours expressed a keen interest in EV ownership. Thus, in 2020, we introduced India's first comprehensive online EV marketplace, and in November 2021, we opened our inaugural Hyderabad multi-brand EV store. Presently, we have about 30 outlets, primarily in Tier 2 cities; our presence also spans metropolises; and our expansion into northern India is underway, following significant success in the south and west", shares Samarth Kholkar, CEO & Co-Founder of BLIVE.
A Holistic EV Ecosystem
BLIVE offers a comprehensive platform that encompasses a wide array of electric vehicles. Starting with electric cycles, they feature an extensive selection of 15–20 brands.
Furthermore, the firm has forged strategic partnerships with prominent two-wheeler electric manufacturers. Their physical store locations proudly showcase a diverse range of twowheelers, including electric cycles and scooters, catering to high-speed and low-speed models. Beyond vehicles, BLIVE provides essential accessories, charging solutions, roadside assistance, service, warranties, and spare parts.
Moreover, BLIVE stores are equipped with charging facilities, transforming them into hubs for electric vehicles within their respective localities. They provide more than straightforward vehicle purchases by uniting the entire EV ecosystem, collaborating with manufacturers, charging companies, finance providers, insurance firms, buyback companies, and roadside assistance providers through more than 50 partners. Further, the firm has recognized the untapped potential in tier two, three, and four Indian cities and locations and is witnessing notable growth.
Nevertheless, BLIVE also provides rental, lease, and finance options through its platform, fostering partnerships with fleet operators, including e-commerce and food delivery aggregators. "For instance, in Hyderabad, if around 50 delivery executives are seeking rental vehicles, we offer two-way solutions. We can connect them with a fleet operator who has acquired vehicles from us or we direct them to our nearby stores with an inventory of 30–40 vehicles. This enables delivery executives to access vehicles without significant upfront capital, empowering them to utilize these vehicles for their deliveries, earn income, and contribute a portion of their earnings towards the rental rates", explained Samarth.
BLIVE offers a comprehensive platform that encompasses a wide array of electric vehicles
BLIVE's commitment to sustainability extends beyond environmental concerns to promoting inclusivity and community engagement. Firms encourage women entrepreneurs to join franchise networks by allocating half of the franchise fee toward becoming EV store partners. BLIVE's efforts have garnered recognition, including a distinguished membership from GCUK (Green Cross United Kingdom) and a gold award from Outlook Sustainability Awards as the Travel Enterprise of the Year.
Looking forward, BLIVE is on track to reach 100 stores by March 2024. Simultaneously, they are expanding their enterprise business by collaborating with large and mediumsized organizations, encouraging the use of electric vehicles not only for business purposes but also for their employees. As of now, nearly 30 enterprises have already partnered with BLIVE, aiding in the transition of their employees from conventional fuel-based vehicles to electric vehicles. This transition signifies a pivotal change driven by BLIVE, strengthening its platform, which is continually improving and built upon a robust technological foundation.
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