Starya Mobility, a Bengaluru-based startup, evolved from developing EV components to retrofitting scooters, is adapting to India’s dynamic electric vehicle market.
Starya Mobility, established in 2018 by co-founders including CEO Ravi Kumar and CTO Gowrav, has evolved from focusing on developing motors and controllers for new electric vehicles (EVs) to specialising in retrofitting existing ones. With its headquarters in Bengaluru and a workforce of 65-70 employees, the company has pivoted towards retrofitting, showcasing its capabilities with the successful transformation of an Activa scooter. This strategic shift was driven by the co-founders’ passion for vehicles and technology, mainly influenced by the high costs associated with new EVs.
Initially focused on creating affordable electric solutions without compromising quality, Starya Mobility now offers retrofitting services for select scooter models, such as the Activa, priced between `55,000 and `89,000, depending on the model’s power. The retrofitting process includes a thorough scooter evaluation, multiple retrofit options, required RTO inspections and approvals, conversions at Starya’s facility, and rigorous quality checks to ensure safety and compatibility.
Their retrofit kits include permanent magnet synchronous (PMS) motors and controllers designed around field-oriented control (FOC) technology, ensuring efficiency and reliability. These components, along with a robust warranty system covering various parts like the battery, motor, and controller, underline the company’s commitment to quality.
Starya’s business model covers vehicle retrofitting as well as post-conversion servicing and maintenance, all managed in line with government regulations. The process also includes legal disposal of internal combustion engine parts through authorised dealers.
The company’s growth strategy includes expanding its retrofitting services and potentially developing new EVs. This dual approach aims to cater to individual consumers and business clients (B2B), as demonstrated through a strategic partnership with Exedy Clutch India, a subsidiary of a Japanese tech giant. This collaboration, involving a significant investment from Exedy, supports Starya’s technological advancements and expansion plans in India and internationally.
However, Starya Mobility faces challenges, notably the lack of government subsidies for retrofitting, which affects its pricing competitiveness against subsidised new EVs. To counter this, they propose extending similar subsidies to retrofitting services, significantly lowering costs and enhancing market competitiveness.
Despite these challenges, Starya Mobility is actively working to validate its market fit and prepare for future growth by confirming strong demand for its retrofitted scooters. They have already converted 300+ scooters in Bengaluru and plan to scale up once demand is firmly established. Their approach includes maintaining high quality standards and utilising both locally produced and imported materials to ensure the efficiency of their retrofit kits.
Starya Mobility represents a significant player in India’s evolving EV landscape, focusing on retrofitting as a sustainable solution that preserves existing vehicles while upgrading their functionality. Strategic partnerships complement their efforts, and a focus on both consumer and business markets positions them well for future growth despite current regulatory and market challenges.
