Electra EV, the EV powertrain supplier, has been in operation for seven years and is aiming to enhance its capabilities in line with its strategy for sustainable growth. It is assembling a new team dedicated to developing the SDV technology stack.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, a notable trend is emerging alongside the push towards electrification: Software Defined Vehicles (SDV). In a strategic move to capitalise on this trend, Electra EV, a seven-year-old startup and a significant player in electric vehicle powertrains, has announced plans to expand its business model to include SDV technologies. Founded by Ratan Tata, Electra EV is setting the stage for innovative changes with the appointment of Dr Himadri Bhushan Das as its Chief Solutions Architect.
Dr Das, whose impressive credentials include previous roles at Ola Electric and TVS Motor, joined Electra EV after a 20-month tenure at Ola Electric, which commenced in December 2022. With over two decades of experience in the automotive sector, his expertise will be pivotal in steering Electra EV’s new SDV-focused vertical. Leading a robust team of around 25 engineers, Dr Das is spearheading the development of a proprietary vehicle operating system (OS), a crucial component for transforming an automobile into an SDV.
Samir Yajnik, CEO of Electra EV, emphasised the strategic vision behind investing in their own vehicle OS. The aim is to provide original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with a highly customizable environment. This platform is designed to optimize vehicle longevity, energy efficiency, and driving range, offering modular customization options to meet the diverse needs of fleet operators and end-users alike.
Sumeet Dhar, COO of Electra EV, outlined the operational goals, indicating that the first layers of the OS, adaptable across different vehicle models, are expected to be rolled out by March or April of the following year. The complete tech stack is scheduled for completion by late 2025, positioning Electra EV at the forefront of the SDV space.
This initiative reflects the broader industry trend towards vehicle personalization, which is becoming increasingly prominent among OEMs across various segments. Dr. Das and his team are focusing on enhancing personalization capabilities to ensure that vehicles not only serve as transportation but also as companions to the users. This approach is critical in the highly competitive Indian market, where differentiation and technological leadership are key to securing a competitive edge.
Currently, Electra EV supplies powertrain solutions to about six OEMs, including Tata Motors, with the Tigor EV and Ace EV being the first set of vehicles powered by their systems. With ongoing discussions with approximately twelve additional OEMs and a recent $25 million investment from GEF Capital, Electra EV continues to expand its influence and capability in the industry. The company reported a turnover of INR 365 crore in FY24, underscoring its growing stature and commitment to innovation in the electric vehicle sector.
