What if an EV charger itself comes to the vehicle in a van? That, too, with an affordable subscription model via WhatsApp? Highlighting ways to conquer the current challenges of the Indian EV sector and expansion goals, sparXcharge’s Imthias Mohamed narrates their innovation to EFY’s Nitisha Dubey.
Q. Could you give us a brief overview of your company and its services?
A. Our company, sparXcharge, based in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, started its journey in the last quarter of 2023 as India’s first mobile EV charging service provider. We offer on-demand EV charging, eliminating the need for customers to visit stationary charging stations. These mobile chargers, backed by battery technology, are mounted in purpose-built vans that travel to customers, offering a quick and convenient service. We have a prototype in operation, and we are planning a soft launch with ten mobile charging units in the second quarter of this year.
Q. What makes this EV charging solution unique?
A. Our service brings the charger to the vehicle, eliminating the time and hassle of visiting a charging station. Additionally, our service utilises a WhatsApp-based chatbot for booking, payment, and scheduling. Users only need to contact us via WhatsApp rather than managing multiple apps, which is particularly convenient for Indian consumers.
Q. Can you tell us about your ‘three-wheel’ business model?
A. Our business model has three main components:
- Mobile EV charging
- Battery recharging stations in the city
- An in-house tech platform for real-time tracking, charge management, and user interface
By keeping everything in-house—from the technology to tracking and customer service—we ensure quality and reliability for our customers.
Q. Who are your target customers?
A. We cater to both business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) segments. For B2B, we partner with shopping malls, workplaces, and fleet operators, providing convenient charging at their locations. For B2C, we offer subscription-based services, providing daily or on-demand charging, as well as rescue charging for EVs that run out of charge while on the road.
Q. What is the coverage range of your service, and how fast can you respond to customer requests?
A. In Thiruvananthapuram, we have divided the city into 10 zones, each with a three-kilometre radius, aiming to reach any location within 10 minutes. We have plans to extend our service to other cities and highways as well, providing for long-range and high-capacity EVs, such as trucks and buses.
Q. How do you manage the vehicles and equipment for mobile charging?
A. Our mobile charging vans are custom-built and equipped with our technology, but we lease them rather than purchasing. We have leasing partners and have made custom modifications for safety, especially when dealing with compressed natural gas (CNG) and lithium-ion battery configurations.
Q. How are you ensuring safety and compliance for your mobile charging units?
A. Safety is paramount for us. Our prototype has received certification from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), ensuring it complies with Indian standards. The entire unit, from the battery management system to the cooling systems and emergency shut-off features, has been rigorously tested to maintain safety in all conditions.
Q. Can you share some industry trends in mobile EV charging?
A. Currently, the industry includes stationary chargers, small portable chargers (which require grid access), and our focal field, mobile EV charging. We are also exploring solar energy options to make our service more sustainable.
Q. What challenges does the EV industry in India face?
A. The main challenge is the limited range for EVs. Besides, the scarcity of charging stations and difficulties finding suitable locations with adequate grid capacity adds to the issue. We look to solve these by providing on-the-go charging and grid flexibility, reducing the need for additional infrastructure.
Q. How does your mobile charging impact energy demand and grid capacity?
A. By charging our units during non-peak hours, we help balance grid demand. Unlike stationary charging stations that typically experience peak usage between 6-10 PM., we recharge our mobile units in off-peak hours, thereby avoiding additional strain on the grid.
Q. How does your mobile charging service compare to stationary charging stations in terms of cost and convenience?
A. Our mobile charging is designed to match or be slightly cheaper than home charging rates. You see, with our subscription model, customers pay a fixed rate, which includes unlimited on-demand charging within a specified range. This pricing structure makes it affordable, particularly for urban users who drive moderate distances daily.
Q. Do you work with other vendors or partners for growth?
A. Yes, we collaborate with charging station equipment manufacturers, real estate owners for charging station space, and, as I said earlier, leasing companies for our vans. This allows us to grow without heavy upfront costs, especially in terms of infrastructure.
Q. How do you currently generate revenue?
A. Our revenue comes primarily from subscriptions. We offer monthly and yearly plans for customers who need regular charging, as well as pay-as-you-go services for occasional or emergency charging needs. Currently, our daily charging operations range between 150 to 200 kilowatt-hours (kWh), at around 12 rupees per kWh.
Q. What does the subscription model entail?
A. Our subscription model allows customers to pay a fixed yearly or monthly fee for a certain level of daily charging, such as 10-20 kWh. They can call us whenever they need charging, and we will dispatch a van to their location. This provides both convenience and predictable costs for users.
Q. What future plans does your company have?
A. We are aiming to roll out our service in around 25 cities over the next few years, covering both urban areas and key highways. But with battery technology evolving fast, we are taking a smart, steady approach. Our focus is on ensuring our tech keeps up with higher-capacity batteries and longer-range EVs hitting the market. For now, we are building a strong foundation in Kerala and Tamil Nadu before expanding further.
