Bengaluru-based energy-tech startup Exponent Energy has rolled out a pioneering retrofit kit that can convert CNG and LPG-running auto-rickshaws into fully electric vehicles in just 24 hours. The announcement, made Nov. 7, marks an ambitious attempt to ramp up India’s transition to electric mobility by tackling the existing fleet rather than waiting for whole new vehicles to be made.
The system, called “Exponent Oto,” replaces key traditional components — including the engine, gearbox, fuel tank and exhaust system — with an integrated electric powertrain. This includes Exponent’s proprietary battery pack, electric motor, controller and a fast-charging interface. Fully charged via the startup’s rapid-charging network, the converted vehicles can reach full power in as little as 15 minutes.
Exponent says the retrofitted three-wheelers deliver a driving range of approximately 140–150 km per charge, can accelerate from 0 to 30 km/h in under 4.5 seconds, and come with a warranty covering five years or 3,000 cycles. The company emphasises that their solution is built for reliability in commercial usage.
The 24-hour turnaround is designed to minimise downtime for auto-rickshaw drivers, a major benefit in the high-usage environment of Indian cities. To support affordability, the company is offering financing options with zero down payment, flexible EMIs and a guaranteed buy-back after three years. Driver savings are projected at up to ₹5,000 per month compared with running a conventional CNG or LPG vehicle.
With India’s autorickshaw fleet estimated at more than two million vehicles, this retrofit strategy is a potentially major step toward reducing urban transport emissions and fossil-fuel dependence. Exponent highlights that quick, cost-effective conversions may make a meaningful contribution to the nation’s clean-mobility goals.
Speaking about the launch, Arun Vinayak, co-founder and CEO of Exponent Energy, said: “Exponent Oto is designed to make electrification simple, fast and financially viable for drivers. India doesn’t need to wait decades for an EV-only fleet. By retrofitting the existing ICE autos, we can accelerate adoption and make every kilometre greener—starting today.” The company plans to scale operations across multiple Indian cities in partnership with fleet-operators, auto associations and financiers.
