Sandeep Ralhan: Steering Ryoto Electrix Towards a Greener Horizon

In the pursuit of advancing sustainable innovation, Ryoto Electrix CEO Sandeep Ralhan is committed to leaving no stone unturned. Guided by a profound ‘green vision,’ Ralhan has steered this impressive company from its early days to its current status as a frontrunner in green mobility and renewable energy solutions.

Join us as we delve into the exceptional leadership, vision, and innovation at Ryoto Electrix, and explore the significant initiatives that are paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.

Can you describe the journey of Ryoto Electrix and its evolution in the green mobility and renewable energy sectors?

Ryoto Electrix, a trailblazer in the electric two-wheeler industry, embarked on a mission to transform transportation with environmentally friendly alternatives, initially emphasizing electric vehicles (EVs) known for their exceptional performance and zero emissions. This vision rapidly took hold, positioning the company as a leader in the green mobility arena. As it grew, Ryoto Electrix acknowledged the interconnectedness of transportation and energy usage, prompting a shift towards renewable energy solutions. By incorporating solar, wind, and other renewable sources, the company sought to build a holistic ecosystem that not only fueled its EVs but also played a significant role in diminishing broader carbon footprints.

Ryoto Electrix boasts a formidable leadership team poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle industry. Led by CFO CA Ravi Jain, a seasoned finance professional with a wealth of experience, the company is anchored to his  strategic financial acumen. Complementing Jain’s expertise is CTO S Dhillon, whose extensive background with Maruti Suzuki & Honda ensures innovative technological advancements. Steering the company’s sales and marketing division is Director and Co-founder Muktika Sharma. Her remarkable proficiency in cultivating and expanding dealer networks underscores Ryoto Electrix’s commitment to robust market penetration and growth. Together, this dynamic trio embodies the firm’s vision and drive for sustainable mobility solutions.

As CEO, what is your greatest achievement with Ryoto Electrix?

As CEO of Ryoto Electrix, singling out one pinnacle achievement amidst our journey of innovation and expansion is a daunting task. Yet, if I were to pinpoint a standout accomplishment, it would be our seamless integration of cutting-edge technology with an unwavering dedication to sustainability. Our ability to not only pioneer groundbreaking EVs but also to cultivate an entire ecosystem around green mobility and renewable energy stands as a testament to our commitment to transformative change.

From the inception of Ryoto Electrix, our goal has been to revolutionize the transportation industry. Witnessing this vision materialize into a tangible impact has been immensely rewarding. Furthermore, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration within our organization has been instrumental in our success. By empowering our team to challenge norms and think creatively, we’ve consistently stayed ahead of the curve in an industry that’s evolving at lightning speed.

Moreover, our emphasis on forging strategic partnerships and alliances has played a pivotal role in broadening our scope and influence. Through collaboration with like-minded entities, we’ve amplified our impact and hastened the global adoption of sustainable technologies. Ultimately, our greatest achievement lies in our contribution to shaping a more sustainable future. Every electric vehicle on the road and every renewable energy solution deployed signifies progress toward mitigating climate change and safeguarding our planet for generations to come. As CEO, witnessing Ryoto Electrix lead this essential endeavour is profoundly fulfilling, as we continue to drive positive change and inspire others to join us on this journey.

What propelled the shift from the banking profession to entrepreneurship, and how did you overcome the challenges?

My shift from the structured banking sector to the world of entrepreneurship was driven by a profound desire for independence, impact, and the opportunity to follow my passion for innovation and sustainability. Although my banking career provided valuable insights, I was driven to forge my own path and make a significant contribution to an ever-changing environment.

Transitioning from a banking professional to a business leader came with its set of challenges. Embracing the dynamic and unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship required a major shift in mindset, including a comfort with ambiguity and the uncertainties of risk. Moreover, mastering new skills beyond finance, like product development and team management, demanded ongoing learning, seeking guidance, and collaborating with a diverse group of talented individuals.

Building credibility, expanding my network, and securing necessary funding also posed significant challenges. It required perseverance, effective storytelling, and a clear demonstration of market potential to establish a foothold in the entrepreneurial world. Nevertheless, with resilience, a laser focus on our vision, and a supportive team, we managed to navigate these hurdles, learning from setbacks and remaining flexible to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Despite the difficulties, this journey has been extremely fulfilling. The ability to create something meaningful, drive substantial change, and adhere to our core values has rendered every obstacle encountered along the way truly valuable.

Sandeep Ralhan, CEO

What challenges have you faced in introducing ‘Made in India’ electric vehicles and how have you addressed them?

Introducing ‘Made in India’ electric vehicles (EVs) has been a journey marked by unique challenges, but our approach has been one of determination, ingenuity, and a steadfast commitment to sustainable mobility. Initially, the lack of adequate charging infrastructure posed a significant hurdle. To address this, we forged partnerships with government agencies and utility providers, accelerating the deployment of charging stations nationwide. Additionally, we invested in our network of fast-charging booths, ensuring convenient access for our customers and bolstering confidence in EV adoption.

Building consumer awareness and fostering widespread adoption of EVs proved another significant challenge. We tackled this through extensive marketing and awareness campaigns, emphasizing the myriad benefits of electric mobility, including cost savings, environmental sustainability, and superior performance. Incentives and subsidies were also offered to make EV purchases more accessible, catalysing interest among a broader audience and driving market growth.

Furthermore, ensuring a robust supply chain, navigating regulatory compliance, and staying abreast of technological advancements were paramount. By collaborating closely with local suppliers, engaging with regulatory authorities, and investing in R&D, we’ve established a resilient supply chain, maintained regulatory compliance, and remained at the forefront of EV innovation. Despite the challenges, we view each obstacle as an opportunity for growth and innovation, confident in our ability to drive the transition towards a sustainable future of mobility, both in India and beyond.

Sustainability is a core component of your business model. What specific practices does Ryoto Electrix implement to promote sustainable development?

Sustainability lies at the heart of Ryoto Electrix’s business model, influencing every facet of our operations, products, and partnerships. Our primary focus revolves around electric mobility solutions, where we design and promote electric vehicles powered by clean energy sources, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combating air pollution. This commitment to eco-friendly transportation not only contributes to a healthier environment but also aligns with our mission to drive sustainable development.

In conjunction with our electric vehicle production, we integrate renewable energy solutions such as solar and wind power into our infrastructure. By harnessing clean energy to power our facilities, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also demonstrate our dedication to renewable energy adoption. This dual approach of producing eco-friendly vehicles and powering our operations sustainably underscores our holistic commitment to environmental stewardship.

Furthermore, our sustainability efforts extend beyond our internal operations to encompass our supply chain, community engagement, and continuous innovation. We collaborate closely with suppliers to ensure adherence to environmental and social standards, engage with local communities to raise awareness about eco-friendly practices and invest in research and development to advance technology and drive further reductions in environmental impact. Through these comprehensive initiatives, Ryoto Electrix strives to be a leader in sustainable mobility, catalysing positive change and contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

How do you envision the future of electric vehicles and renewable energy in India?

The outlook for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy in India is incredibly promising, fueled by technological breakthroughs, supportive government initiatives, and increasing eco-awareness among consumers. I foresee a future where EVs become more common on India’s roads, driven by technological improvements that enhance affordability and convenience for the average user. With ambitious government policies designed to foster EV uptake, along with a growing network of charging stations, electric vehicles are set to transform the transportation industry and drastically cut carbon emissions.

Renewable energy is poised to play a pivotal role in India’s pursuit of energy sustainability and security. The nation has already made impressive progress in tapping into solar and wind energy, with bold goals to further boost renewable capacity in the years ahead. As technological advancements continue and costs fall, renewable sources are expected to compete more effectively with conventional fossil fuels, providing a cleaner, sustainable energy alternative. This shift not only diminishes India’s reliance on imported oil but also opens up new avenues for job creation and economic development within the renewable sector.

Nevertheless, challenges like energy intermittency, grid integration, and storage need to be addressed to fully leverage India’s renewable energy potential. Collaborative endeavors among government bodies, industry players, and academic institutions will be crucial in navigating these challenges and unlocking the comprehensive benefits of a clean energy future. With persistent efforts and ongoing innovation, India is ideally positioned to spearhead a sustainable, greener future driven by electric vehicles and renewable energy.

In terms of policy, what changes would you like to see to better support the growth of electric vehicles and renewable energy in India?

To better support the growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy in India, several key policy changes are necessary. First and foremost, robust financial incentives and subsidies should be implemented to stimulate demand for EVs. These incentives could include tax breaks, subsidies on EV purchases, and incentives for manufacturers to produce EVs locally. Similarly, subsidies and incentives for renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power, would encourage greater adoption and investment in clean energy infrastructure, fostering a more sustainable energy ecosystem.

Investing in a widespread charging infrastructure network is critical to alleviate range anxiety and facilitate the transition to electric vehicles. Government policies should prioritise the development of charging stations in urban areas, along highways, and in public spaces. Incentives could be provided to businesses to install charging stations, and regulations could mandate new construction projects to include EV charging facilities, ensuring accessibility and convenience for EV owners.

Additionally, increased funding for research and development (R&D) in EV technology and renewable energy solutions is vital for innovation and cost reduction. Government-supported R&D initiatives can accelerate the development of advanced battery technologies, improve charging efficiency, and drive down the cost of renewable energy generation, fostering technological advancements that propel India towards a more sustainable energy future. Through these policy changes, India can create an enabling environment for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy, driving economic growth, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing energy security for the future.

What role will electric vehicles play in India’s goal of reducing carbon emissions in the next decade?

Electric vehicles are poised to play a pivotal role in India’s ambitious goal of reducing carbon emissions over the next decade, particularly in the transportation sector. Given that transportation is a significant contributor to India’s carbon footprint, transitioning to EVs offers a promising pathway to decarbonise this critical sector. With zero tailpipe emissions, EVs represent a cleaner and greener alternative to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, effectively reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation activities.

Furthermore, the integration of renewable energy sources into India’s energy mix presents a synergistic opportunity with the adoption of electric vehicles. India has been rapidly expanding its renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar and wind power. EVs can serve as a vital demand-side management tool, enabling the efficient utilisation of renewable energy by charging during periods of high generation. This integration not only maximises the utilisation of clean energy resources but also further reduces carbon emissions from the transportation sector, contributing significantly to India’s carbon reduction goals.

Moreover, supportive government policies, technological advancements, and increasing consumer awareness are expected to accelerate the adoption of EVs in India. Initiatives such as subsidies, incentives, and regulatory mandates aimed at promoting electric mobility are already gaining traction, driving consumer interest and investment in the EV market. As EV technology continues to improve and costs decline, coupled with the expansion of charging infrastructure, the adoption rate of electric vehicles is anticipated to rise, leading to substantial emission reductions and positioning India as a leader in sustainable transportation solutions.

Could you share details about any upcoming projects or initiatives that Ryoto Electrix is currently developing or planning to launch in the near future?

Although I can’t divulge specific details about upcoming projects or initiatives at Ryoto Electrix right now, I can confirm that we are consistently exploring new ways to improve our offerings and better serve our customers. Our dedication to research and development encourages us to pursue advancements in electric mobility, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable technologies.

Staying abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies is crucial for us, and we’re actively developing initiatives that align with our vision of fostering a more sustainable future. Whether it’s crafting cutting-edge electric vehicle technologies, broadening our renewable energy portfolio, or establishing new partnerships and collaborations, our commitment to innovation remains strong.

We will make sure to share detailed updates about our new projects or initiatives with our stakeholders as soon as they are available.

How does Ryoto Electrix integrate emerging technologies like AI and IoT into its products to enhance performance and user experience?

At Ryoto Electrix, we are dedicated to integrating emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) into our products to elevate performance and user experience. Through AI-driven efficiency enhancements, our electric vehicles and energy systems optimise energy consumption, predict maintenance needs, and refine overall performance. By continuously analysing data from onboard sensors and systems, our products adapt to real-world conditions, ensuring greater efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for users.

Our commitment to smart connectivity enables seamless interaction between our products and external devices, platforms, and infrastructure. Equipped with IoT sensors and connectivity features, our electric vehicles and energy solutions offer remote monitoring, diagnostics, and control capabilities. Users can access real-time data, monitor energy consumption, and manage charging or energy storage systems remotely, enhancing convenience, control, and peace of mind.

The integration of AI and IoT technologies enables us to personalise the user experience based on individual preferences, behaviours, and environmental conditions. Through intelligent data analysis and machine learning algorithms, our products deliver customised settings, recommendations, and features tailored to meet the unique needs of each user. From optimising driving modes for efficiency to providing predictive maintenance alerts, our solutions offer a personalised experience that enhances user satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty. With a focus on safety and security, AI-powered safety features and IoT-enabled security measures enhance the overall safety and protection of our products, ensuring a secure and reliable user experience.

How has the support of your family contributed to your success as CEO of Ryoto Electrix?

The support from my family has been a cornerstone of my tenure as CEO of Ryoto Electrix, playing a crucial role in my success across various facets. Their constant emotional backing has given me the strength and confidence needed to tackle the complexities of leadership, providing encouragement and faith in my capabilities during both tough times and moments of achievement. Their understanding and adaptability have been key in helping me maintain a healthy balance between my professional duties and personal life, allowing me to fulfill my responsibilities while enjoying valuable time with loved ones. This balance ensures I can lead with clarity, energy, and purpose.

Furthermore, my family continuously inspires and motivates me, pushing me to excel and set a positive example. Their steadfast confidence in my abilities energizes my commitment to advance Ryoto Electrix, embedding a profound sense of purpose and responsibility to make a meaningful impact. Their wisdom, guidance, and shared joy in our accomplishments remind me of the importance of my work and fortify my dedication to lead with integrity, vision, and commitment, highlighting the indispensable role of family support in my journey as CEO.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography