Why constant R&D is key to success in EV Sector : Kanchi Patel, Co-founder, Abzo Motors

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The Electric Vehicle industry, commonly referred to as “EV”, is poised for a transformative revolution. Driven by mounting environmental concerns and remarkable improvements in vehicle ranges, the demand for electric vehicles is on a sustained upward trajectory. It is becoming increasingly cost-competitive when compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles. Furthermore, there are strong indications that this momentum will only gain more strength in the future. In fact, according to reports, The EV market is projected to become a $266 billion market by 2030.

This sector is no longer confined to a niche market; it has rapidly evolved into a mainstream choice for consumers worldwide. Increasing awareness of the environment has resulted in a substantial shift in consumer choices, with more individuals choosing electric vehicles to minimise their carbon footprint. With more automakers investing in EV technology and infrastructure, there is a greater variety of models and options available, making EVs more accessible to a wider spectrum of customers.

Their appeal is further bolstered by government incentives and regulations encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles, as well as advancements in battery technology. As battery technology continues to advance, electric vehicles now offer impressive ranges, alleviating one of the most significant concerns among potential buyers – range anxiety.

With the global EV market expanding at an unprecedented rate, companies in this sector are experiencing a surge in demand. However, to capitalize on this momentum and maintain a leading position, constant research and development (R&D) efforts are essential. With access to the right minds, high-quality production, and continuously evolving technology, the sector is poised for more growth.

India itself has shown enormous potential to become a hub for the manufacturing of EVs. However, it will require constant R&D to ensure it achieves this position. As the automobile industry becomes more defined by the role of software and technology, India’s Engineering and R&D (ER&D) is set to become the fastest-growing segment in the IT sector. According to a recent study by NASSCOM, the automotive share for the Indian ER&D Market worth USD 36 Billion will grow to a minimum of 30% in the next five years from the current 20%. This surge in ER&D activities is not only essential for ensuring that India remains a competitive player in the global EV market but also for fostering innovation, cost-efficiency, and sustainable transportation solutions. It highlights the pivotal role that India can play in spearheading technological advancements and contributing to a greener, more environmentally responsible future.

This dynamic evolution of technology has spearheaded a revolution, leading to more and more vehicles becoming software-driven. Costs for hardware elements are diminishing steadily. Experts predict that in the next two years, by the year 2025, 40% of a vehicle’s cost will be based on its software. Another appealing element of EV technology is its trackable data element, which aids in obtaining and creating accurate and insightful data for further research. Along with the trackable data element, data analytics hold immense potential for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, catalyzing its growth and evolution. This technology empowers EV Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to gain a deeper understanding of various aspects, including driver profiles, on-road operations categories, insights into driver behaviour, and the performance of their vehicle fleets’ batteries. Over time, the continuous flow of data insights equips EV brands with the ability to develop comprehensive industry and market intelligence. This, in turn, fuels innovation, enabling them to tailor their products to meet the needs and preferences of their customers. The integration of cutting-edge software and data analytics will enable EVs to offer enhanced features, from predictive maintenance to autonomous driving capabilities, further solidifying their appeal in the market.

Highly successful companies like Apple, Tesla, and many others have maintained their winning edge through a relentless commitment to innovation fueled by customer data and feedback. Additionally, these industry leaders have placed a strong emphasis on personalization as a means to reinforce customer confidence in their products and services.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that constant R&D will be the cornerstone of the electric vehicle industry’s success. Innovations in battery technology to enhance range, reduce charging times, and improve longevity are crucial. Charging infrastructure must continue to expand and become more efficient. Vehicle designs will become increasingly aerodynamic and energy-efficient. Additionally, breakthroughs in materials science will make EVs more sustainable and cost-effective. As electric vehicles continue to gain momentum, their potential goes beyond individual transportation. They are set to play a pivotal role in transforming urban mobility, reducing emissions, and reshaping the energy landscape.