Haryana Inc: This man from Hisar is pioneering India’s EV revolution

What made you start your company?

The inception of Statiq was driven by a vision to turn sustainable transportation into a reality. Recognising the lingering hesitancy around electric vehicle (EV) adoption, we firmly believe that a robust charging infrastructure is indispensable for widespread acceptance. In 2019, our journey began with the creation of our first EV charger at my home, from where we also launched our first version of a mobile application. Raghav Arora – Co-founder of the company, myself, and other core team members dedicated ourselves to the establishment and growth of Statiq. Over time, we have successfully developed top-notch EV chargers and an advanced mobile application, utilised by thousands of EV owners on the roads. In our collaborative efforts, we not only focus on creating innovative solutions but also prioritise the fun of working together as a team. As the EV industry experiences growth, so does Statiq. What we are building extends beyond the boundaries of India; we are laying the groundwork in India for the benefit of the global community. We chose to build the infrastructure in the north region since me and Raghav both hail from this region only. Source of inspiration was the lack of EV infrastructure in the region.

Your accomplishments till now

Our journey with Statiq has been marked by significant milestones and notable achievements. In 2019, we earned the backing of Nasscom, setting a strong foundation for our venture. The year 2020 proved to be pivotal as both Y Combinator and Shell shared our vision, resulting in a successful fundraising round that garnered $28 million to further our goals.

In terms of infrastructure, we have made substantial strides by installing over 7000 chargers across 63+ cities. This widespread network contributes to the accessibility and convenience of electric vehicle (EV) charging, nurturing a more sustainable transportation ecosystem. One of our recent accomplishments is the introduction of StatiqConnect, a groundbreaking feature in the EV industry. This innovation provides users with real-time insights, streamlining the EV experience by consolidating essential information within the Statiq app. StatiqConnect eliminates the need for multiple Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) apps, offering users quick and convenient access to vital data such as charging information and driving range. This user-centric approach reflects our commitment to enhancing the overall EV ownership experience.

The challenges

One of the primary hurdles we face is the pervasive uncertainty among people regarding the adoption of EV vehicles. In India, the traditional mindset and apprehension about embracing new technologies pose significant obstacles. Many individuals remain hesitant due to concerns about charging infrastructure, range anxiety, and the overall unfamiliarity with electric vehicles. This skepticism is deeply ingrained, and overcoming it requires not only technological advancements but also concerted efforts in awareness and education. The existing charging infrastructure is another substantial challenge. While we are working tirelessly to expand our network, the lack of widespread charging stations remains a barrier to widespread EV adoption. Enhancing infrastructure is not just about quantity but also ensuring that charging points are strategically located for maximum convenience and accessibility.

Moreover, the general lack of awareness about the benefits of EVs contributes to the hesitancy. Educating the public about the environmental advantages, cost savings in the long run, and the continuous advancements in EV technology is an ongoing effort. Despite these challenges, we are fuelled by the vision of making sustainable transportation a reality in India. We are actively collaborating with various stakeholders, including government bodies, to address these issues collectively. Introducing innovative solutions like StatiqConnect, which provides real-time insights and streamlines the EV experience, is one step towards making EVs more user-friendly.

Future plans

Our future plans align with a vital role in contributing to India’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. Recognising the significance of renewable charging in realising this commitment, especially in light of India’s first-ever net-zero target set at COP26, we are proactively working towards this goal. Our aggressive approach involves the installation of 20,000 chargers by 2025, strategically positioned across key locations. This expansion aims not only to meet the growing demand for electric vehicle charging but also to play a crucial part in propelling India towards a sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation future. By focussing on widespread adoption of renewable charging solutions, we aim to be an integral player in the nation’s journey towards a greener and more carbon-neutral future.

Expectations from government

Clear policies can provide the necessary guidance for businesses and investors, encouraging a conducive environment for sustainable development. Incentives for clean energy solutions, such as tax credits or subsidies, can play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable charging infrastructure. These incentives can not only benefit businesses but also make electric vehicles more accessible to the general public. Continued investment in charging infrastructure is crucial for the widespread acceptance of electric vehicles. Government support in developing an extensive and well-distributed charging network will be instrumental in addressing range anxiety and encouraging more people to transition to electric vehicles. Collaborative efforts between the government and private enterprises are essential. Open dialogue and partnerships can facilitate the seamless integration of electric mobility solutions into the existing infrastructure. Furthermore, government-led awareness campaigns can contribute significantly to changing public perceptions and encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles. Promoting the environmental and economic benefits of electric mobility can play a crucial role in driving consumer interest.

Stress-busters

Why do we have to take stress in the first place is my mantra! And my furry friend- Eevee helps me implement this mantra! Apart from that, playing music helps me relax amid the chaos of life. Other than music, travelling also makes my soul happy- exploring new places, learning about the local culture is something that interests me. Reading books and contemplating life is another way to keep myself content and stress-free.

Beyond entrepreneurship

Beyond entrepreneurship, I strongly believe in the responsibility to make a positive impact on our society and the environment. It’s not just about building a successful business; it’s about contributing to sustainability, innovation, and social change. We are dedicated to leading the way towards a future that is both sustainable and eco-friendly. Our commitment goes beyond just making profits; we actively work towards addressing challenges like climate change and environmental degradation. We collaborate with like-minded partners, governments, and stakeholders to promote clean energy solutions and push the boundaries of what’s possible in the electric mobility sector. Moreover, ‘Beyond entrepreneurship’ for us means taking on social responsibility. This involves creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, investing in the well-being of our employees, and engaging with communities to make a positive impact. We understand that our success is closely tied to the prosperity of the communities where we operate.