Raptee.HV, a Chennai-based electric motorcycle manufacturer, has received a ₹25 crore investment from the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO). The funding marks the first deployment under the TIDCO Startup Investment Policy 2025, signaling a major step by the Government of Tamil Nadu to directly support high-potential startups in deep-tech and advanced manufacturing.
The approval formalities were completed with the official handover of documents by Industries Minister Dr TRB Rajaa to Raptee.HV’s CEO and Co-Founder, Dinesh Arjun. The move reflects a broader transformation within the state’s industrial strategy, aimed at strengthening the startup financing ecosystem and fostering innovation-driven growth.
This investment represents a strategic shift in TIDCO’s role, evolving from a traditional industrial facilitator into an active investment partner for emerging companies. By backing startups in sectors such as electric mobility, the state aims to position itself as a hub for next-generation technologies and manufacturing excellence.
Dinesh Arjun described the investment as a milestone not only for the company but also for the broader startup ecosystem. He emphasized that direct participation from a state-backed institution provides a strong foundation for scaling globally and building credibility in international markets. He also acknowledged the consistent support from the state leadership, noting that such engagement has been instrumental in enabling innovation-led enterprises to grow.
Industries Minister Dr TRB Rajaa highlighted that the initiative aligns with the state’s vision of transforming Tamil Nadu into a “Product Nation.” Over the past two years, efforts have been made to reimagine TIDCO as a “Venture Catalyst,” capable of nurturing startups and driving investments in emerging sectors. He stated that the goal is to replicate past successes in strategic investments by identifying and supporting promising companies with long-term growth potential.
According to Arun Roy, Secretary of the Department of Industries, the Startup Investment Policy authorizes TIDCO to invest up to ₹25 crore in eligible startups across a range of sunrise sectors. These include electric vehicles, renewable energy, aerospace and defense, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, blockchain, quantum computing, agro-processing, technical textiles, and specialty chemicals. The policy is designed to support companies at various stages, from early innovation to large-scale expansion, ensuring access to sustained capital within the state.
Founded in 2019, Raptee.HV has focused on developing high-performance electric motorcycles using in-house technology. The company has distinguished itself by integrating the CCS2 car-charging standard into its two-wheelers, making them compatible with the growing electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This approach aims to enhance convenience and accelerate adoption of electric mobility solutions.
With a strong emphasis on research and engineering, Raptee.HV has spent several years building its technological capabilities. The company is now preparing to scale production and expand its market presence, supported by the new funding and institutional backing.
The investment underscores Tamil Nadu’s commitment to fostering innovation-led growth and supporting homegrown companies that can compete on a global stage. It also reflects a growing recognition of the importance of deep-tech startups in shaping the future of manufacturing and mobility.
