Anant Badjatya Named CEO of SUN Mobility-IOCL JV, Indofast

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Image Courtesy: SUN Mobility

Indofast Swap Energy Pvt Ltd has announced the appointment of Anant Badjatya as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Badjatya, who previously served as the CEO of SUN Mobility, brings over two decades of leadership experience in the energy and automotive sectors to his new role. His immediate task is to oversee the development of a comprehensive battery-swapping network across India for two- and three-wheeler electric vehicles.

This initiative combines SUN Mobility’s cutting-edge battery-swapping technology with IndianOil’s expansive nationwide infrastructure. The joint venture between SUN Mobility and IOCL, finalized in June 2024, is set to transform the landscape of electric mobility in India. The collaboration leverages IndianOil’s extensive network of over 37,000 fuel stations across the country, offering a robust platform for SUN Mobility’s innovative battery-swapping technology.

By 2030, the goal is to establish one of the country’s most extensive battery-swapping networks, providing an accessible, cost-effective, and efficient solution to the growing demand for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. Anant Badjatya’s appointment as CEO comes at a pivotal time when the Indian government and industry are pushing for widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

His leadership will be instrumental in guiding Indofast Swap Energy through its ambitious expansion plans. The company’s objective is to build a scalable and seamless battery-swapping ecosystem that reduces range anxiety, charging downtime, and the high upfront cost of electric vehicles, thus making EV ownership more attractive for consumers.

The company will focus on utilizing a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model, which allows owners of two- and three-wheelers to swap their depleted batteries for fully charged ones at strategically placed swap stations. This service significantly reduces charging times and provides a more convenient and flexible option for EV users. Additionally, it helps lower the overall cost of ownership, as customers no longer need to purchase expensive batteries outright.

Instead, they can access fully charged batteries on demand, ensuring that their vehicles remain on the road with minimal downtime. In his statement regarding the new role, Badjatya emphasized his commitment to driving innovation in the mobility sector. He highlighted Indofast Swap Energy’s mission to deliver practical and eco-friendly solutions for two- and three-wheeler customers, addressing key challenges such as range limitations and lengthy charging times.

By working closely with SUN Mobility and IOCL, the company aims to build an extensive network that not only supports India’s growing EV market but also aligns with the country’s sustainability objectives. The formation of Indofast Swap Energy aligns with India’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner transportation options.

As the country continues to transition towards a more sustainable future, the role of companies like Indofast Swap Energy becomes increasingly significant in achieving these goals. By leveraging existing infrastructure and deploying innovative technologies, the company is well-positioned to play a key role in advancing India’s electric vehicle ecosystem.

SUN Mobility, established in 2017, is an energy solutions provider focused on enhancing the adoption of electric vehicles by addressing major hurdles such as range anxiety, long charging times, and high upfront costs. With its Battery-as-a-Service model, the company enables EV owners to swap batteries quickly and efficiently at designated swap stations, offering a flexible and cost-effective solution for electric mobility.

SUN Mobility has partnered with leading companies in the energy and automotive sectors, including Indian Oil Corporation, to scale its battery-swapping network across the country. This partnership is a significant step forward in SUN Mobility’s mission to make electric vehicles more accessible to the masses.