Renowned industrialist Anand Mahindra has commended the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) for its remarkable contributions to fostering innovation. He highlighted the pivotal role played by IIT Madras and other ambitious incubators across India in reshaping global perceptions of the country’s innovation capabilities.
Transforming India’s Innovation Landscape
Mahindra emphasised that IIT Madras has emerged as one of the world’s most dynamic and active incubators, challenging the outdated notion that India lacks genuine innovators. He noted the significant impact of India’s burgeoning startup ecosystem on the country’s reputation as a hub of innovation.
The Rise of the ePlane Company
In a recent post, Mahindra showcased India’s first electric flying taxi, developed by the ePlane Company, currently incubated at IIT Madras. He hailed the company’s pioneering efforts in transforming India’s transportation sector and emphasised the importance of ambitious aspirations in driving innovation forward.
Milestones in Aviation Innovation
The ePlane Company, a Chennai-based deep tech startup, achieved a significant milestone last year when it became the first Indian electric aircraft company to secure approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The company’s flagship product, the ePlane e200, is a two-seater aircraft designed for urban environments, boasting a travel range of 200 km and the ability to make multiple stops on a single charge.
Revolutionising Urban Mobility
The ePlane e200 utilises electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology, offering unparalleled efficiency and convenience for urban commuters. Founded in 2019 by Professor Satyanaryanan Chakravarthy, the company recently conducted successful tests of its prototype aircraft, the ePlane e50, further cementing its position as a leader in aviation innovation.
With the support of institutions like IIT Madras and a thriving ecosystem of incubators, India’s startup landscape continues to push the boundaries of innovation. The achievements of companies like the ePlane Company underscore India’s potential to lead the way in transformative technologies and revolutionise industries on a global scale.
