Hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) offer a potent one-two punch of environmental and economic benefits, slashing emissions, saving you money on gas, and even pepping up your driving experience with instant torque and regenerative braking. Plus, they help clean our air and make our cities less noisy, making them good for everyone, not just drivers. In our pollution-ridden world, electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids emerge as a boon. AR4 Tech excels in providing high-quality OEM/ ODM solutions for electric and solar-powered vehicles, along with their components. With a core emphasis on transforming conventional gas-powered 2-wheelers and cars, the company is dedicated to developing hybrid systems and complete EV conversion kits. Sivasankari TP, the Founder and Managing Director of AR4 Tech, has been a consistent presence since its establishment, contributing groundbreaking innovations and actively promoting environmentally friendly initiatives in her surroundings.

In a personal interview, Sivasankari opened up about her experiences, providing insights into the internal workings of the organization and expressing her perspectives on future contributions.

Illuminate us on your educational history and the previous industry expertise you bring to the forefront.

My educational background doesn't directly align with the sector I currently lead. I graduated in computer science engineering, followed by a post-graduation in information technology. Despite this, my entrepreneurial venture is rooted in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. As I entered the corporate manufacturing world, I gradually immersed myself in the intricacies of production. I took on various roles, learning from the ground up—understanding quality requirements, aligning with suppliers, and delving into efficient planning processes. To enhance my knowledge, I pursued additional courses in corporate manufacturing. With hands-on experience, I ventured into retrofitting EVs, building a skilled team recruited locally. I firmly believe in the power of attitude over predefined skills, and my experience demonstrates that a willing heart can lead an engineering graduate with a computer science background to successfully run a company in a diverse field.

What motivated you to create AR4 Tech? Share the core concept driving the establishment of the venture and highlight its primary areas of expertise.

This pertains to the acronym 'AR4' wherein 'A' signifies Automotive, and 'R4' represents the processes of Repair, Refurbish, Repurpose, and Recycle for various electric vehicles. The initial step involves assessing the feasibility of retrofitting, aiming to extend the vehicle's lifespan and offer it a renewed purpose. If retrofitting isn't viable, the vehicle undergoes recycling, involving metal reclamation for materials like MS, aluminium, and copper, which can be repurposed. AR4 Tech aims to provide an affordable and convenient solution, contributing to sustainability and making a positive social impact on society.

In your perspective, what are the primary challenges you face in your present position? How do you navigate and address these obstacles to ensure smooth progress?

Navigating this new industry is rife with challenges, such as obtaining approvals for two and four-wheeler conversions, addressing government standardization, and dealing with substantial approval costs ranging from 12 to 60 lakhs per model. We actively engage with regulatory bodies for smoother processes. The second challenge involves GST impacts, with new EVs enjoying a 5 percent rate compared to retrofitted vehicles facing 12 percent emphasizing the need for standardized approaches. The third challenge pertains to subsidies, necessitating incentives for retrofitted EVs to drive wider adoption. Overcoming these involves building a capable team, securing infrastructure, and managing the supply chain effectively. Retrofitting complexities, including stringent quality standards and regulatory constraints, add intricacies. Despite this, our team has successfully converted 16 two-wheeler models and retrofitted LCVs, even repurposing EVs into versatile forms like buggies or golf carts, offering a sustainable perspective in the industry.

Share a noteworthy milestone from your professional journey that stands out the most.

Throughout my professional journey, I began as an academician and joined with EMFi, focusing on powertrain development and manufacturing. We achieved significant success, starting with 2 employees and slowly enhanced to more than 100 employees reaching a turnover of INR 23 crores under my leadership. This experience was crucial, boosting my confidence to venture into the EV market with my second company. In the EV sector, we secured approvals for a range of vehicles, emphasizing our commitment to accessibility. Notably, our company obtained approvals for dual powered vehicle, allowing vehicles to operate in both fuel and battery modes. This innovative approach, distinct from hybrid vehicles, provides users with the flexibility to choose their preferred mode, addressing concerns about charging infrastructure.

What is your outlook on the future growth and development of businesses led by women in Tamil Nadu? Could you share your entrepreneurial experience in TN?

While challenges exist, let's shift our focus to the positive aspects, especially the numerous schemes and benefits available for entrepreneurs. I'm considering taking advantage of an MSME benefit to establish a battery pack manufacturing plant. We'll be pioneers in using these Sodium ion battery cells. The government, supportive of first-generation entrepreneurs, has provided incentives for this venture. As someone who embarked on entrepreneurship, my advice is to explore opportunities and seek support. Patience is key, but knocking on the right doors will eventually yield the help you need.

Sivasankari T P, Founder & Managing Director, AR4 Tech

Sivasankari TP is an accomplished Operations and Human Resources Manager with a background in various industries, including Electric Vehicle and component manufacturing. She possesses expertise in Customer Service, People Management, Recruitment, Training, Executive Operations Management, Production setup, Supply Chain Management, and Team Building.