Astro Motors’ Electric Three-Wheeler Reaches 19,024-ft Umling La Pass

An electric three-wheeler built by Astro Motors has climbed the Umling La Pass in Ladakh, which stands at 19,024 feet. The pass is the world’s highest motorable road, known for thin air, low temperatures and steep gradients. Few vehicles, especially electric ones, reach this altitude. The attempt highlights how electric drivetrains can function even in such harsh terrain

The vehicle, called the Astro Navya, is a cargo electric three-wheeler. It completed the route while carrying load. Umling La lies close to the Indo-China border, where internal combustion engines often lose efficiency. Yet, the electric model continued to operate. Its battery and motor managed the low-oxygen conditions and sharp inclines without interruption. The trial aimed to test the powertrain and energy system under environmental stress. The result showed that electric propulsion can sustain torque and traction where air density drops sharply.

Design and Powertrain

Astro Navya operates with a 10.2 kWh lithium-ion battery linked to a high torque motor. The unit has a manual gearbox, unusual for an electric three-wheeler vehicle. The unit can carry just less than 630 kg and travel at a maximum speed up to approximately 50 km/h.

These specifications are enough to allow for efficient movement across surfaces, including mountainous sloped regions and roads located in cold-weather environments. The evaluation also provided research data regarding energy output, motor response and drivetrain stability at high altitude.

Larger Description

This presents an interesting view into the evolving field of electric mobility in India, especially for small-format EVs that are capable of more than just urban routes. Demonstrating small format vehicles allows for further exploration on battery, controller and motor performance beyond extremes.

The performance at Umling La adds evidence that India’s locally developed EVs are maturing technically. Engineers can now analyse real-world results rather than controlled lab data.

Industry Note

Remsons Industries Limited acquired 51 percent of Astro Motors in 2025. The partnership aims to expand production in geared electric three-wheelers. The Umling La climb became a benchmark test that reflected the model’s resilience and mechanical consistency in demanding conditions.

The climb to Umling La was not a promotional event but a technical trial. It documented how an electric three-wheeler managed to operate where few vehicles can. The success underlines how Indian EV engineering is adapting to environmental extremes. 

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