Aakash Mangla
Mr. Namit Sharma
aakash_m@nid.edu
This project explores the design of a compact, modular electric mobility solution tailored to the evolving needs of new-age Indian farmers. As agriculture becomes more technology-driven, farmers face challenges such as fragmented landholdings, unpredictable conditions, limited liquidity, and rising costs, often relying on unsuitable personal vehicles or shared tools. Field research and persona mapping revealed a gap for an affordable, multi-purpose vehicle adaptable to tasks ranging from fieldwork and deliveries to indoor farming and rough terrain use. Two design directions were explored: a modular platform concept and a battery-as-structure concept. Evaluated on modularity, affordability, power-to-weight ratio, operability, and footprint, the battery-as-structure concept emerged superior due to its lightweight, symmetrical, and repair-friendly design. Capable of both manual and autonomous operation, it supports diverse farming contexts including hydroponics and small-scale livestock. For OLA, the concept offers an opportunity to extend electric mobility into underserved rural markets while promoting sustainable and productive agricultural ecosystems.