Sivasankari TP, a woman entrepreneur from Tamil Nadu, is transforming the electric vehicle (EV) landscape in India. Her startup, AR4 Tech, offers a quick and affordable solution to convert petrol two-wheelers into electric vehicles in under two hours. By making EV technology accessible, she aims to reduce costs and promote sustainable mobility.
Overcoming Challenges to Lead an EV Revolution
Hailing from Thakkolam, a small village in Tamil Nadu where women’s education was often discouraged, Sivasankari pursued higher studies with the support of her father. After completing her MTech in information technology, she explored various entrepreneurial ventures before stepping into the EV sector. Her journey took her to Coimbatore, where she gained experience as an operations manager at EMF Innovations, a motor manufacturing company for electric two-wheelers.
Determined to make EV conversions more affordable, she launched AR4 Tech. With expertise in business operations rather than technical aspects, she built a strong team and secured funding from her mentor, Professor CC Hong, to turn her vision into reality.
Affordable and Efficient EV Conversions
AR4 Tech specializes in converting conventional two-wheelers into electric vehicles using a streamlined, plug-and-play system. The retrofitting process, priced at ₹39,900, takes less than two hours and does not require modifications such as welding or drilling. The company has secured approvals for popular models like the Honda Activa and TVS Zest, making the transition to EVs easier, especially for women riders.
Unlike many EV companies focused on urban areas, AR4 Tech targets Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities. With localized production and no reliance on imports, the company ensures cost-effective solutions. Their current conversions offer a range of 50 km per charge, a speed of 40 km/h, and warranties on motors and batteries.
Ensuring Safety in Battery Technology
Safety remains a priority for AR4 Tech, especially in the choice of battery technology. While earlier EVs used lead-acid batteries, newer models rely on lithium-based chemistries. However, Sivasankari warns that some lithium variants, like Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC), pose a fire risk due to India’s high temperatures. To mitigate this, AR4 Tech exclusively uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) and sodium-ion batteries, which are more stable and reduce explosion risks.
Expanding EV Adoption Through Training and Innovation
Recognizing the importance of skill development in the evolving EV sector, AR4 Tech provides training programs for mechanics and technicians. Over 200 people have already benefited from these initiatives, with women making up 25% of the workforce. The company also offers short-term courses and diplomas certified by industry organizations.
Looking ahead, AR4 Tech aims to expand its operations beyond two-wheelers. The company is working on converting commercial vehicles like tractors, buses, and trucks to electric power. Additionally, Sivasankari plans to set up a research and training center to explore battery manufacturing, hydrogen technology, and even drone applications.
With an expected revenue jump from ₹1.67 crore last year to ₹4 crore this year, AR4 Tech is driving India toward a cleaner and more sustainable future, making electric mobility accessible to a larger population.
