Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who is at the helm of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in India, has been a pivotal figure in spearheading initiatives aimed at bolstering the growth of the Indian automotive sector. Under his guidance, the ministry has made significant strides, from the implementation of the stringent Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission standards to mandating airbags for improved safety, alongside enhancing the country’s road infrastructure. Amidst these professional achievements, an interesting personal anecdote about Minister Gadkari’s first vehicle has surfaced. During the unveiling of the new Kinetic Green E-Luna, Gadkari disclosed that his first vehicle was the Kinetic Luna, a gift from his mother.
The Kinetic Luna, a moped that became an emblem of affordability and efficiency during the 1970s and 80s, held a special place in the hearts of many Indian families. Its low cost of acquisition and operation made it a popular choice among the masses. For Minister Gadkari, the Luna was not just a vehicle but a cherished present from his mother, imbuing it with sentimental value. At the launch event of the E-Luna, he reflected on his first set of wheels, stating, “On this special occasion, I reminisce about my first vehicle – the Luna, a cherished gift from my mother to me.The Luna occupies a cherished spot in my heart as my inaugural vehicle, and despite possessing many other vehicles now, the memories tied to the Luna, a gift from my mother, are indelibly imprinted in my heart.
As India progresses in embracing greener and more sustainable transportation methods, Minister Gadkari has actively championed this shift.His portfolio of vehicles demonstrates a commitment to this vision, featuring a range of eco-friendly options including the previous generation Kia Carnival, Toyota Fortuner, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai FCEV. Furthermore, he has championed the cause for alternative fuels, promoting the use of electric and hydrogen vehicles across the nation. His efforts also extend to advocating for flex-fuel vehicles capable of running on ethanol, aligning with the latest BS6 Phase 2 emission norms that require new engines to be compatible with a 20 percent ethanol blend.
The Luna’s legacy continues with Kinetic Green, a subsidiary of the Kinetic Group, breathing new life into the brand with the launch of the all-new E-Luna. Priced at an introductory offer of ₹69,990 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the electric moped modernizes the iconic Luna for today’s eco-conscious consumer. The E-Luna merges the utilitarian design of its predecessor with contemporary technology, powered by a 2.2 kW (2.9 bhp) motor. Customers have the option to choose from battery packs of 1.7 kWh, 2 kWh, and 3 kWh capacities, with the 2 kWh battery providing a standard range of 110 km on a single charge, which can be extended to 150 km with the 3 kWh battery.
The E-Luna is equipped with modern features to enhance the riding experience, including a digital instrument console, USB charging port, telescopic front forks, 16-inch wire-spoke wheels, three riding modes, and a combi-braking system. Kinetic Green has positioned the E-Luna as a cost-effective mobility solution, boasting a running cost of merely 10 paise per km. The total cost of ownership is remarkably low, estimated at around ₹2,500, which includes an EMI of approximately ₹2,000 and a monthly charging expense of ₹300.
The narrative of Nitin Gadkari’s first vehicle, the Kinetic Luna, and its evolution into the E-Luna encapsulates the broader transition of India’s automotive sector towards sustainability and innovation. Gadkari’s personal story intertwines with his professional endeavors, highlighting his commitment to transforming the Indian auto industry while staying rooted in the memories that shaped his journey. The revival of the Luna as the E-Luna not only pays homage to a beloved classic but also signifies the forward-looking vision of India’s road transport and highways sector under Gadkari’s stewardship.