ARENQ Working To Develop 3-Wheeler EVs With Swapping Facilities: VG Anil, CEO

ARENQ Working To Develop 3-Wheeler EVs With Swapping Facilities: VG Anil, CEO

How has the firm’s journey been since it started its operations?

We started our operations in 2021. Our journey was both challenging and rewarding. We’ve successfully positioned ourselves as India’s most trusted battery supplier, which is a notable achievement in a short time. Initially, we faced significant hurdles in recruiting skilled engineers and sourcing high-quality raw materials. However, the expertise and dedication of our sales team led to impactful collaborations. Our performance in the three-wheeler electric vehicle (EV) sector, especially in associations with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), has been particularly impressive. Also, we established relationships with promising partners in the Indian electric auto market last April.

Tell us about your partnership with KAL (Kerala Automobile Limited)?         

Our collaboration with KAL has marked a new chapter of innovation and growth. Despite initial challenges with the vehicle motor, our partnership with LucasTVS led to the development of a refined motor that was rigorously tested across various terrains. We’ve already received trade approvals from 13 states, with more expected shortly. This month, we will be inaugurating our first showroom in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This is part of our strategic plan to establish a showroom in every state, enhancing our market presence and accessibility. We’re optimistic that this partnership will not only pave the way for our current standing but also enable future advancements and wider acceptance of our products.

How you have planned the recycling of your batteries?

We have signed a formal agreement with a Maharashtra-based company, LICO Materials, to manage the recycling of our scrap or old cells. It is a step towards ensuring our used batteries are processed in an environmentally responsible manner. Through this partnership, we aim to minimize waste and contribute to a circular economy, thereby reducing the environmental impact of our operations.

How do you see the fate of battery technology in India?

We produce battery packs suitable for a wide range of segments, and our dedicated technical development team is continually working on expanding our applications. We anticipate a shift in the market dynamics over the next five years. While lead-acid batteries have traditionally been prevalent, their usage is likely to decrease. This trend is primarily due to the decreasing costs of lithium-ion batteries, making them more economically viable. As lithium-ion technology becomes more accessible, we expect it to increasingly replace lead-acid batteries, especially in sectors where performance and efficiency are crucial. 

What are the major challenges you see in India for the Indian battery makers?

One of the challenges in the industry is the influx of low-quality cells, often due to dumping by traders and non-technical manufacturers. This issue is damaging the lithium industry in India. These substandard cells pose risks to consumer safety and satisfaction while hampering the reputation of India’s emerging battery market. Having said that, strict quality control and robust standards can play a major role in ensuring the industry’s growth and sustainability.

What are your future plans?

We are currently focusing on expanding our portfolio in the auto segment with innovative solutions. Our key projects include the development of a hybrid 3-wheeler to offer more efficient and environmentally friendly transportation options. Also, we are testing a 3-wheeler model equipped with swappable batteries. It is a feature that promises to significantly enhance convenience and reduce downtime for users.