During a conversation with Nitisha, Manu Agarwal, Founder of Alphasine Technologies, discussed gearboxes and differentials in the EV powertrain market, emphasising their motor’s remarkable 93% efficiency.
Q. When did Alphasine start, and why?
A. In 2018, my co-founder and I established Alphasine Technologies, focusing on sustainable solutions in powertrain, motors, and drive systems. We began developing the idea, aiming to design energy-efficient permanent magnet motors and controllers for various applications, including consumer appliances, electric vehicles, drones, UAVs, aerospace, defence, and industrial goods. Our core technology revolves around advanced motors and controllers. After officially incorporating in 2019, we commenced operational activities in 2021 following the development of key technologies. Initially, we were based in Delhi in a small, rented space, but due to the uncertainties brought by COVID-19, we relocated to Lucknow to operate with lower overheads. We are a team of two founders, and my friend and co-founder, Lav Arora, previously worked in Bengaluru. Our company, Alphasine, now has approximately 25 employees and is headquartered in Lucknow.
Q. What inspired the name ‘Alphasine’?
A. Alpha signifies a primary driving force, and ‘sine’ refers to the sine wave, a fundamental electrical waveform. Given that many signals are sine waves, especially in the continuous time domain, we chose the name Alphasine.
Q. What sets your EV components apart from competitors?
A. Currently, we focus on the L3 segment, where we manufacture the powertrain, including the motor, controller, and differential. The IPM motor is versatile, suitable for three-wheelers, low-speed, and high-speed two-wheelers, especially for mid-drive needs. Our FOC-based controller offers high efficiency and superior performance compared to imports available in the market, particularly from China. We offer 33mm, 35mm, and 42mm differentials in closed and open gearbox configurations, enhancing vehicle life and performance with improved efficiency and reduced noise. These products are in bulk production for three-wheeler markets, with plans to expand into L2 two-wheeler motors and controllers and R&D for higher vehicle segments. Our approach focuses on performance and efficiency, aiming to provide improved comfort and extended vehicle range, distinguishing us in the EV market.
Q. What distinctive characteristics does your motor offer?
A. For electric rickshaw operators, efficiency, reliability, and speed are paramount. Our motor provides up to 93% efficiency, surpassing traditional motors at 80-85%. This difference is crucial for maximising range, ensuring durability, and enhancing acceleration, resulting in a high-quality experience for passengers.
Q. What drove your shift to energy-efficient motors?
A. In 2018, we recognised the growing demand for sustainable solutions, particularly in the motor segment, as seen with the success of LED lights in the lighting industry. Anticipating a shift towards energy-efficient solutions, we focused on manufacturing these motors and controllers. This decision was driven by the belief that the market for permanent magnet motors was relatively niche with few players, presenting us with a significant opportunity to benefit various industries reliant on electric motors.
Q. How do you manage your supply chain?
A. We adopt a hybrid approach, with some aspects managed internally and others outsourced. This ensures an optimal supply chain and competitiveness. We initially outsource approximately 30% of operations, but we may bring more in-house as volumes increase to achieve cost advantages.
Q. Do you procure components from outside India?
A. We only source magnets and electronic ICs from outside India, as these components lack a manufacturing ecosystem domestically. Magnets primarily originate from China, while ICs are sourced from China, Taiwan, or Singapore.
Q. What factors have contributed to your recent production growth and investment?
A. Over the past two years, we have sold approximately 5,000 units and are increasing production to meet demand. Our current production capacity is now nearly 2,000 monthly units, with a scalable capacity of 50,000 to 60,000 units annually. We have invested nearly $2 million. Our expertise extends beyond the EV industry; we are capable of producing motors for various applications, from power tools to robotics and large EVs, showcasing our design, development, and manufacturing capabilities.
Q. What are your main revenue sources?
A. Our revenue primarily comes from selling products, particularly our differentials, with additional income generated from R&D projects. We anticipate a significant revenue contribution from our motors and controllers in the coming months.
Q. Who are your target audience?
A. Our primary target customers are OEMs manufacturing industrial goods, electric vehicles, and certain aerospace components.
Q. Have you encountered any design challenges while working on your product?
A. We face design challenges, particularly concerning the local ecosystem. Talent acquisition and meeting specific customer requirements have been hurdles, while technical challenges are more manageable. The key obstacles lie in human resources and local support, which require direct attention. Building a strong team and securing the right resources are paramount to establishing an organisation that fully meets customer needs.
Q. How do you source components for projects?
A. Depending on our needs, we either use our existing vendor network or engage with other suppliers to acquire the necessary equipment or resources. This flexible approach allows us to expand as project requirements evolve without rigid predefined plans.
Q. How is the fiscal growth and expectations for upcoming years?
A. We have experienced over 50% growth in the last two years and anticipate continuing this trend for the next two years. Our optimism extends beyond the electric vehicle sector to include aerospace, drones, and industrial goods.
Q. Are you seeking any vendors or partners for your business?
A. Certainly, we are open to working with various vendors and partners. However, what matters most is whether a potential partner shares our values and long-term vision. Our focus is not on quick profits but on building lasting relationships.
Q. Do you provide any workshops or training to colleges and institutions?
A. We recruit from local colleges and institutions and conduct workshops to explain the technology we use. Unfortunately, the education system does not treat machine design as a dedicated discipline; the focus is mostly on entering the software industry. However, as we progress, we aim to develop the right talent and resources based on market conditions.
Q. Do you provide an internship also?
A. We offer internships to individuals passionate about working in motors and controllers. Our past experiences with interns have varied; some have been positive, while others less so. We encourage those deeply passionate about this field and provide them with opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills while working on projects.
Q. Are there any upcoming announcements in the next few months?
A. We are developing three or four projects, including actuation systems, drone motors, and higher-capacity vehicle motors. These projects are in active development, and we aim to unveil them in the coming months. They are not currently commercially available, as they are still in the development stage.
