99 runs electric car pilot with Hitech Electric in Brazil

Contxto – Mobility collaborations seem to be popular, as seen with Grin’s and Yellow’s merger to create Grow Mobility. Well, there’s another promising project brewing in Curitiba, Brazil between 99 and Hitech Electric from Paraná.

Together, they’ve launched a rechargeable electric car pilot in the Brazilian city of 1.9 million inhabitants. This test-trial will reportedly run until August 18. 

Urban driving is pretty laid-back with these electric vehicles capable of reaching 68 km an hour. The battery recharges also cost around R$5 (approximately US$1.25) that can travel between 100 and 150 km before running out of power. 

Hitech Electric developed these vehicles with 99 specifically in mind.

“We have developed a specific vehicle configuration for 99, understanding their demands and needs,” said Rodrigo Contin, CEO and founder of Hitech Electric.

Two of the best rated 99 drivers in Curitiba got to drive these vehicles to facilitate research and development for both companies. 

“It’s a two-way street,” said Contin. “For 99 to understand how electric vehicles behave in the app, and for us to know the demands of drivers, the required charging speed and how many miles they drive each day.”

Electric vehicle revolution 

Both individuals and B2B partners purchase electric vehicles from Hitech Electric. The company’s rechargeable boxed truck is particularly popular among category B drivers. This mobility startup also sells vehicles online or in various showrooms across Brazil with five partner centers. Soon it plans to open three more. 

Purchase price begins at US$69,280 for a Hitech Electic car. Fuel savings for drivers can even reportedly reach US$15,000 a year. 

Considering that DiDi owns 99 and that sources expect China to lead the world in the “electric vehicle revolution,” all of this makes a lot of sense. Hitech Electric’s units are made and assembled in China but with “Brazilian engineering.” Imports are also made to ensure scalability. 

-JA