With the growing demand for electric mobility in the commercial sector, small businesses and fleet owners are turning to electric three-wheelers for efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective last-mile delivery. Two of the most popular electric cargo vehicles in India are the Mahindra Treo Zor and Piaggio Ape Electrik.
In this detailed comparison, we break down all essential aspects — performance, battery range, payload, features, and pricing — to help you decide: Which EV cargo truck is better for your business needs?
Overview: Mahindra Treo Zor vs Piaggio Ape Electrik
| Feature | Mahindra Treo Zor | Piaggio Ape Electrik (Ape E-Xtra FX) |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Electric 3-Wheeler Cargo Vehicle | Electric 3-Wheeler Cargo Vehicle |
| Manufacturer | Mahindra Electric | Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. |
| Launch Year | 2020 | 2021 |
| Ex-showroom Price (approx.) | ₹3.12 – ₹3.50 Lakhs | ₹3.25 – ₹3.60 Lakhs |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion (IP67 Rated) | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Capacity | 7.37 kWh | 8.1 kWh |
| Range (per charge) | 125 km | 90-100 km |
| Payload Capacity | 550 kg | 506 kg |
| Top Speed | 50 km/h | 45 km/h |
| Charging Time | 3 hours 50 minutes (Fast Charging) | 3.5 – 4 hours |
| Warranty | 3 Years / 80,000 km | 3 Years / 100,000 km |
1. Performance and Payload
The Mahindra Treo Zor offers a slightly better payload capacity of 550 kg, compared to 506 kg in the Piaggio Ape Electrik. If your business depends on transporting heavy loads or larger quantities, the Treo Zor is the more practical choice.
When it comes to top speed, the Treo Zor also leads at 50 km/h, providing faster delivery potential in urban environments.
2. Battery Range and Charging
✅ Battery Range
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Mahindra Treo Zor: Up to 125 km per charge
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Piaggio Ape E-Xtra FX: Offers around 90–100 km
For businesses operating longer daily distances, Treo Zor’s superior range provides reduced downtime and more trips per charge.
⚡ Charging Time
Both vehicles support fast charging, but Mahindra’s charging time is slightly more optimized, especially when using Mahindra’s dedicated charging ecosystem.
3. Design and Build Quality
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Mahindra Treo Zor comes with modular cargo box options — Delivery Van, Pickup, and Flatbed.
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Piaggio Ape Electrik is designed with a reinforced steel body and a dual front fork suspension, optimized for Indian road conditions.
While Mahindra leans towards a more modern design and ergonomic driving experience, Piaggio offers ruggedness and simplicity, which may appeal to traditional users.
4. Technology and Features
| Feature | Mahindra Treo Zor | Piaggio Ape E-Xtra FX |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Instrument Cluster | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Telematics Connectivity | ✅ Yes (Cloud-based system) | ✅ Available |
| Reverse Mode | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Regenerative Braking | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| USB Charging Port | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Mahindra’s telematics and digital control systems are more advanced, making it easier for fleet owners to monitor performance, optimize routes, and manage vehicles efficiently.
5. Price and After-Sales Support
Both EVs are priced similarly (₹3.1 – ₹3.6 lakh), but Mahindra Electric offers a wider dealership and service center network across India, which can be a critical factor in terms of uptime, maintenance, and service availability.
Piaggio, however, is also ramping up its EV service network and is known for reliable support in the ICE segment, which it is now transferring to its electric segment.
Pros and Cons
✅ Mahindra Treo Zor – Pros
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Higher battery range
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Better payload capacity
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Faster top speed
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USB charging port and better digital features
❌ Mahindra Treo Zor – Cons
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Slightly more expensive with additional tech options
✅ Piaggio Ape Electrik – Pros
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Trusted brand with ICE cargo legacy
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Lower maintenance cost
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Sturdy steel body, ideal for rough usage
❌ Piaggio Ape Electrik – Cons
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Lower range and speed
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Fewer tech features
Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
If your priority is higher range, better performance, and more advanced features, then the Mahindra Treo Zor is the better EV truck for your business.
However, if you’re looking for affordability, ruggedness, and reliability in tough Indian conditions, the Piaggio Ape Electrik is also a great value-for-money option.
FAQs: Mahindra Treo Zor vs Piaggio Ape Electrik
❓Which electric cargo 3-wheeler has the highest payload?
Mahindra Treo Zor leads with a 550 kg payload capacity.
❓Which EV truck is better for long-range delivery?
The Treo Zor, with up to 125 km per charge, is more suited for longer routes.
❓Which is more affordable?
Both are in a similar price range, but the Piaggio Ape Electrik might cost slightly less upfront.
❓Which brand offers better service?
Mahindra Electric currently has a broader EV-specific service and charging infrastructure.
❓Do both trucks offer fast charging?
Yes, both vehicles support fast charging, completing a charge in approximately 3.5–4 hours.
Conclusion
The choice between the Mahindra Treo Zor and Piaggio Ape Electrik depends on your business needs. For performance, range, and smart features, go with Mahindra. For cost-effectiveness and rugged daily utility, Piaggio is a worthy competitor.
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