Elektrobit is a global company that creates software for cars. For over 35 years, it has been a leader in automotive technology, helping make vehicles smarter, safer, and more connected. Elektrobit’s software is used in over 600 million vehicles worldwide, powering more than five billion devices.
The company specializes in various areas of automotive software, including car infrastructure, connectivity, security, automated driving, and user experience. This means Elektrobit helps vehicles communicate with each other and with external systems, protects them from cyber threats, supports self-driving technologies, and improves the way people interact with their cars.
As a trusted partner to many car manufacturers, Elektrobit focuses on developing flexible and innovative solutions that adapt to the evolving needs of the automotive industry. The company’s software plays a crucial role in making modern vehicles more efficient, intelligent, and future-ready.
Elektrobit is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Continental but operates independently. This allows it to maintain its unique approach while benefiting from Continental’s vast industry experience. With a strong focus on innovation and high-quality software, Elektrobit continues to shape the future of mobility, driving advancements in automotive technology worldwide.
In a recent interview, Rashmi interacted with Sai Sridhar, Associate Director – Elektrobit India Pvt Ltd., in which he discussed about advancements in battery technology, role of government policies and subsidies in accelerating electric two-wheeler adoption, charging infrastructure challenges, innovative design and technological features to expect in next-generation electric two-wheelers, etc.
1. What are the key drivers behind the rapid adoption of electric two-wheelers in India?
One of the clear reasons for the rapid adoption of E2W in past years has largely to do with the push from the Government be it the subsidies & incentives through FAME and/or tax benefits. However, what cannot be dismissed is the “technology advancements” the new age and traditional OEMs have been able to achieve in the “digitally native” 2W. These advancements provide a host of options to the new age consumers for riding a “cool” device that’s very interactive, connected, and at reasonable prices. Improved battery technology and swappable battery solutions are further helping consumers to look at E2W as a practical solution for their daily needs without the anxiety of the “energy needed to cover the distance”. This is further supported by the entry of the “mavericks” (new age start-up OEMs) who are now competing with the established brands by offering innovative designs, better features, and competitive pricing. This increases consumer choice and boosts adoption rates, especially among tech-savvy young buyers. In summary, the combination of economic benefits, policy support, advancing technology, and increasing environmental consciousness has created a fertile ground for the growth of the E2W market in India. As these factors continue to strengthen, E2W adoption is expected to rise further.
2. How are advancements in battery technology shaping the future of electric two-wheelers?
Advancements in battery technology are playing a transformative role in shaping the future of E2W. Increased range is now turning into reality through higher energy density especially with the solid-state batteries gaining prominence. This is further yielding to more lighter and compact designs of batteries adding to the performance. With advancements in charging infrastructure and battery design, rapid charging allows a 50-80% charge in under 30 minutes. This aptly supported by an advanced Battery Management System (BMS) ensures optimal charging and discharging cycles improving efficiency and minimizing charging times. Many E2W now feature IoT-enabled batteries, allowing real-time monitoring of battery health, charge levels, and optimization suggestions. Advanced software can predict battery issues, reducing downtime and prolonging battery life. Not to forget, battery swapping enables riders to swap discharged batteries for fully charged ones at swapping stations. This model is gaining traction in urban areas, significantly reducing wait times compared to traditional charging. However, efforts to recycle lithium and other battery components need to be increased. Advancements in battery technology are not only addressing key limitations of E2W—such as range anxiety and long charging times—but are also driving innovation and adoption across global markets. As batteries become more efficient, affordable, and sustainable, E2W is set to dominate the future of personal urban mobility and play a pivotal role in the transition to a greener transportation ecosystem.
3. What role do government policies and subsidies play in accelerating electric two-wheeler adoption?
Government policies and subsidies are critical drivers in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles. They need to anchor a supportive and conducive environment that reduces financial, infrastructural, and psychological barriers, fostering a more favourable market for EVs. One of the foremost policies promoted by the government was financial assistance/rebates on the purchase price of E2W through the FAME schemes. Under FAME I and II, about 371,000 EVs were supported with a total incentive of around Rs. 634 Crore as of July 2021, and 427 charging stations have been installed. Under FAME II, Rs. 1000 Crores is allocated for the development of charging infrastructure in the country. Further, tax benefits like exemptions from sales tax, import duties, or reduced registration fees lower the overall cost of ownership. On the infrastructure development support, charging infrastructure investments and battery swapping stations through public-private partnerships are promoted. The long-term policy roadmap with clear EV targets and ensuring consistency further help in providing manufacturers and consumers with a clear direction. Additional regulatory frameworks like mandating fleet electrification and zero emission zones could largely motivate more players to invest in the EV ecosystem. In summary, Government policies and subsidies play a pivotal role in reducing the upfront and lifecycle costs of E2W building confidence in the ecosystem, and addressing infrastructural and logistical challenges. By shaping market dynamics through a combination of financial, regulatory, and infrastructural measures, governments pave the way for widespread E2W adoption, ultimately advancing sustainable mobility and reducing greenhouse gas emissions globally.
4. How are charging infrastructure challenges being addressed to support the growth of electric two-wheelers?
The growth of E2W depends heavily on accessible and reliable charging infrastructure. Expanding charging networks is clearly one of the most important ways forward. Government and private players need to equally contribute to ensure this happens across the country and not just in specific spaces. Innovative business models like subscription-based / pay-per-use and partnerships with retail outlets, and local shops partner for charging solutions will make charging more affordable and accessible. This needs to be adequately supported by today’s advancements in technology through integration with IOT and mobile apps which enable real-time updates on charging station locations, availability, and pricing. Another important dimension is to institute the need for more solar-powered charging stations to promote renewable energy solutions and address sustainability while reducing dependency on grid power. Standardization of connectors, battery types, and communication protocols to ensure interoperability should be another key focus area both for the government and industry stakeholders. Strategic collaborations between EV manufacturers, energy providers, and governments should be seamless to address these challenges and ensure the adoption of electric two-wheelers can continue to rise while minimizing barriers for users.
5. What innovative design and technological features can we expect in next-generation electric two-wheelers?
As E2W becomes a cornerstone of sustainable mobility, the next generation is poised to revolutionize the way we perceive personal transportation. Packed with cutting-edge technology and innovative designs, these vehicles promise to offer unparalleled performance, safety, and convenience. On the performance, the most critical component is the battery. The next generation of vehicles will feature solid-state batteries with greater energy density for faster charging and safety. With better efficiency and capacity, they will help alleviate range anxiety by enabling longer trips on a single charge. Regenerative braking, Dual motor configurations, and customizable driving modes are further going to enhance the performance attributes. On the connectivity, today the E2W is at the forefront of adopting IOT integration that promises over-the-air updates, Smart displays with full-colour touchscreens, and smartphone compatibility seamlessly interacting with the rider. With regard to safety, Advanced Rider Assistance Systems are being spoken about widely, and features such as automated braking, and blind spot monitoring are being tested. Integrated cameras and sensors like radar offer 360-degree visibility and improved road awareness. Next-generation electric two-wheelers are set to push boundaries with innovative designs and technologies. From intelligent connectivity and advanced batteries to AI-driven personalization and sustainable practices, these vehicles promise to offer a smart, safe, and eco-friendly ride for future commuters. With such advancements, electric two-wheelers are not just a mode of transportation but a lifestyle choice for the environmentally conscious and tech-savvy alike.
6. How are Indian electric two-wheeler manufacturers competing with global players in terms of technology and pricing?
As the E2W revolution gains momentum in India, local two-wheeler manufacturers are emerging as strong contenders in a market dominated by global players. Leveraging unique strategies in both technology and pricing, they are shaping the future of mobility while addressing local needs. Large Indian players are adopting lithium-ion batteries to achieve competitive performance, while simultaneously exploring solid-state battery technologies and swappable batteries to address range anxiety and charging time concerns. Many Indian companies focus on optimizing for local road conditions, heat tolerance, and energy efficiency early in the design stage being oblivion to the local conditions. For instance, vehicles are designed for longer mileage in dense traffic and hot weather compared to their global counterparts. Integration of IoT and smart features like mobile app connectivity, GPS tracking, and over-the-air updates shows Indian OEMs embracing modern innovations. Companies are increasingly localizing production to reduce reliance on imports, especially for key components like motors and controllers. This enhances cost efficiency while promoting “Make in India” goals. Indian companies have maintained a clear edge in pricing, targeting middle- and lower-income groups. Vehicles are priced strategically (₹60,000 to ₹1.5 lakh) to compete with ICE scooters, making them more attractive in a cost-sensitive market like India. Schemes such as FAME II have helped reduce upfront costs, benefiting Indian manufacturers and end-users alike. However, having spoken about the competitiveness of the local players, some global players offer longer battery life and faster charging times, which Indian firms are working hard to match. Global companies usually have a more robust global supply chain network, whereas Indian players are still ramping up consistency in sourcing high-quality components locally. While Indian manufacturers focus on affordability for domestic markets, global brands target premium customers and exports, leaving Indian brands with limited international influence. Indian manufacturers are competing effectively by combining affordability with incremental innovation tailored to local market needs. The trajectory toward sustainable R&D, expanding battery infrastructure, and leveraging economies of scale positions them well to challenge global giants, especially in emerging markets. However, to capture the premium segment or compete internationally, investments in advanced R&D and global outreach need to accelerate
7. What are the biggest barriers to mass adoption of electric two-wheelers in rural and urban areas?
E2W is emerging as a key component in the global shift toward sustainable transportation. These vehicles offer eco-friendly mobility solutions, reduced operating costs, and the potential to combat climate change by minimizing dependence on fossil fuels. Yet, despite their promise, the adoption of electric two-wheelers faces significant challenges, particularly in rural and urban settings. The largest barriers to the adoption of EV in the rural areas are the limited availability of Infrastructure and affordability concerns. Unaware of the lower operating costs and/or maintenance costs their initial purchase price remains high relative to the income levels in many rural households. Misinformation further inhibits the adoption significantly. Durability and Suitability are other key issue as rural terrains can be harsh. Many electric two-wheelers are not designed to meet these requirements, leading to perceptions that they are not suitable for rural usage. Not to forget Frequent power outages and unreliable electricity grids in rural areas make it difficult to charge electric vehicles consistently, deterring potential buyers. However, on the Urban side, while they are relatively better equipped, the charging infrastructure is still insufficient to meet the demands of a growing EV market. Limited availability of fast chargers and overcrowding at charging stations are common issues. Urban congestion and a lack of dedicated parking or charging spots for two-wheelers make using and maintaining electric vehicles inconvenient for many city dwellers. E2W has the potential to revolutionize mobility in both rural and urban areas. However, addressing the barriers to their mass adoption requires a concerted effort from governments, private companies, and local communities. By expanding infrastructure, offering financial support, and fostering awareness, stakeholders can pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future in transportation.
8. How will increased adoption of electric two-wheelers contribute to India’s sustainability and carbon neutrality goals?
India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 and significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. A key area to focus on for this transformation lies in revolutionizing the transportation sector, where the adoption of electric two-wheelers (E2Ws) can serve as a major catalyst. Transportation accounts for nearly 10% of India’s total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with a significant portion coming from two-wheelers due to their widespread usage. With over 200 million two-wheelers on Indian roads, the transition to electric variants has the potential to dramatically cut emissions. Electric two-wheelers, powered by renewable energy sources, produce zero tailpipe emissions, leading to cleaner air in densely populated urban centres. India imports over 80% of its crude oil, creating economic vulnerabilities and adding to the environmental burden. Through the transition to E2Ws, the nation can decrease its dependence on imported fossil fuels, improving energy security while simultaneously reducing the carbon footprint associated with oil consumption and refining processes. Further, integrating E2Ws with the renewable-powered grid ensures a sustainable and low-emission lifecycle for electric mobility. Unlike their internal combustion engine counterparts, electric two-wheelers operate almost silently. The reduction in noise pollution contributes to better urban living conditions, enhancing the quality of life and creating more liveable cities, which is a crucial aspect of sustainable urban development. With continued government support and public awareness, adoption of E2Ws will significantly contribute directly to lowering national emissions and setting a global precedent for sustainable transportation.