KPIT unveils India’s inaugural Sodium-Ion Battery Technology as alternative
- ByStartupStory | December 13, 2023
KPIT Technologies introduced India’s first sodium-ion battery technology, marking a significant breakthrough in the country. Co-founder and chairman Ravi Pandit stated, “Developed over eight years by our in-house researchers, this technology will undergo external testing, generating revenues within a year.” He added, “While core licensing fees start in a year, some revenues will come from the testing phase.”
Pandit highlighted that despite this innovation, the company’s primary revenue source remains providing software solutions to the automotive industry. Explaining the shift in hiring practices, he mentioned, “We hired electrochemists, a departure from our norm of employing software engineers.” The focus on sodium stemmed from its widespread availability and additional benefits, including shorter charging times for vehicles, making it cost-effective for drivers.
Emphasizing the economic advantage, Pandit noted, “The battery’s cost will be up to 30% lower than current alternatives.” KPIT is in discussions with existing auto industry clients and other sectors interested in energy storage applications.
Pandit underscored the safety aspect of their sodium-ion technology compared to lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries. He outlined the testing phases, stating, “After internal tests, the technology will undergo external vehicle tests for about 6-9 months before full commercialization.”
Highlighting India’s pioneering role, Pandit mentioned, “KPIT is the first in India and among only four globally with proven sodium-ion battery storage technology.” He refrained from disclosing the R&D investment.
He expressed confidence in reducing reliance on imported batteries and forming partnerships with local firms. Pandit mentioned potential government incentives, saying, “Battery manufacturing might qualify for production-linked incentives, and there’s a proposal for up to 40% subsidy on alternate chemistry capacities.”
Looking ahead, Pandit highlighted plans for global outreach, focusing on export markets, particularly Europe and East Asia, as prime opportunities for marketing the technology.
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