Innovation

Kinetic Green, founded in 2011, is transforming the mobility landscape by providing innovative electric vehicles (EVs) that are affordable, sustainable, and accessible. Recognizing the pressing need to reduce air pollution and combat climate change, the company focuses on electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and light mobility solutions that align with various UN Sustainable Development Goals. By offering eco-friendly alternatives to fossil fuel-powered vehicles, Kinetic Green addresses the 25% emissions contribution of the transport sector, especially in India’s urban and rural settings.

The company’s e-Luna is a standout innovation – a versatile electric two-wheeler designed to cater to both personal mobility and livelihood generation. With battery options ranging from swappable to fixed, the e-Luna is affordable and suitable for various demographics, from urban commuters to small business owners in rural areas. Kinetic Green also develops electric three-wheelers, providing last-mile connectivity solutions for urban transport systems and waste management projects. Through initiatives like providing 10,000 e-rickshaws to cycle rickshaw pullers in Uttar Pradesh, the company boosts incomes while reducing environmental impact.

Kinetic Green’s commitment to sustainable innovation extends beyond vehicles to advocacy and ecosystem-building. The company actively works with government bodies, policymakers, and scientific institutions like CSIR and NITI Aayog to advance EV adoption, influence green policies, and develop India-centric technologies. By democratizing green mobility, Kinetic Green empowers individuals, reduces pollution, and drives a global shift toward a healthier, more sustainable world.

Inspiration

Mrs. Sulajja Firodia Motwani, CEO of Kinetic Green, draws her inspiration from a deep-rooted family legacy and a personal sense of purpose. Coming from the renowned Firodia family, pioneers of India’s automotive revolution, her motivation lies in continuing the tradition of innovation while aligning it with sustainability. “When the history of our group is written, the green page will belong to us,” she says passionately, underscoring her commitment to leading the family’s legacy into the green mobility era.

Her inspiration stems from a strong belief that sustainability is not just a responsibility but a mission for future generations. “The planet we are going to leave behind is for the younger generation. They have to take charge of their future and lead the journey toward sustainability,” Mrs. Firodia emphasizes, highlighting the urgency of addressing climate change and pollution.

Mrs. Firodia’s journey with Kinetic Green began with a vision that green mobility would one day transform India and the world. Despite challenges in the early 2010s—such as the lack of policies, supply chains, and awareness—she remained steadfast in her goal. “It was just a vision that we need to work on this. I traveled to America and China to understand the possibilities and was more and more convinced about the future of e-mobility,” she shares.

For Mrs. Firodia, Kinetic Green is not just a business but her ikigai—a Japanese term for purpose and passion. “Every day, I wake up excited to be part of this journey, and every night, I stay awake thinking about what else we can do,” she says. This unwavering drive inspires her leadership and fuels Kinetic Green’s mission to democratize sustainable transportation for a better world.

Overall impact

Kinetic Green’s innovation in electric mobility has had far-reaching impacts, addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges while aligning with global sustainability goals. By providing affordable and accessible electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and light mobility solutions, the company has significantly reduced carbon emissions and improved air quality, particularly in highly polluted cities across India. With transportation contributing 25% of total emissions, Kinetic Green’s vehicles offer a cleaner alternative to fossil fuel-powered options, directly contributing to SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry Innovation) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Short-term effects of this innovation include a noticeable reduction in urban emissions where electric vehicles are deployed and the creation of immediate, cost-effective mobility options for the masses. The company’s work has also delivered socioeconomic benefits, particularly for underserved communities. In Uttar Pradesh, Kinetic Green’s project provided 10,000 e-rickshaws to cycle rickshaw pullers, increasing their daily earnings from ₹200 to ₹1,000. This not only improved their income but also enhanced their quality of life by reducing physical strain and fostering economic independence. Such initiatives demonstrate progress toward SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by creating sustainable livelihoods and promoting equitable opportunities.

Long-term impacts include the democratization of green mobility. Kinetic Green’s flagship product, the e-Luna, and its electric three-wheelers are widely used in urban and rural markets, enabling last-mile connectivity and small-scale entrepreneurship. Evidence of impact lies in the adoption rates, increasing penetration of EVs across India, and recognition through government policies like FAME II, which Kinetic Green helped shape. By investing in technology, ecosystem development, and policy advocacy, Kinetic Green has laid the foundation for a long-term transformation toward sustainable transportation in India and beyond.

Business benefit

Because Kinetic Green embraced sustainable electric mobility and pursued strategic partnerships, the business has experienced substantial growth in revenue, market presence, and brand reputation. A prime example is its joint venture with Tonino Lamborghini, a globally renowned luxury brand, to develop electric golf carts. This collaboration merges Kinetic Green's expertise in green mobility with Lamborghini’s luxury design, allowing the company to tap into the premium mobility market. The JV expands Kinetic Green’s product portfolio, providing access to lucrative markets in golf courses, luxury resorts, and high-end urban transport. This move into the luxury segment not only boosts revenue but also enhances the company’s brand as a global innovator in electric vehicles.

In addition to this luxury venture, Kinetic Green has seen increased revenue and market reach through its affordable electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and specialized vehicles like the e-Luna. These products have allowed the company to tap into rural and semi-urban markets where demand for affordable, green transportation is growing. The company’s ability to leverage government incentives through initiatives like FAME II has strengthened its position in India, while expanding its reach internationally to markets in Southeast Asia and Africa.

These efforts have not only driven financial growth but also created new opportunities for job creation and innovation. Kinetic Green’s partnerships, including local collaborations in battery swapping and manufacturing, have bolstered employment and skills development within the supply chain. The company’s focus on sustainability and innovation has also fostered a positive work culture, leading to high employee retention. This holistic approach—coupled with global partnerships like the Tonino Lamborghini JV—has positioned Kinetic Green for long-term business success, offering a balanced mix of profitability, growth, and positive environmental impact.

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Social and environmental benefit

Kinetic Green’s innovation in electric mobility significantly benefits society and the environment by addressing both pollution and mobility challenges in urban and rural areas. By producing affordable electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and specialized vehicles like the e-Luna, Kinetic Green provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered transportation. This innovation contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions, improving air quality and helping combat climate change in a country where transportation is a major contributor to pollution.

The societal impact is equally profound. By introducing affordable electric vehicles into the market, Kinetic Green improves mobility for a wide range of populations, especially in rural and middle-income urban areas where public transportation is limited. Their vehicles, such as the e-Luna, cater to individuals seeking an affordable mode of transport, whether for personal use or small-scale business needs, thus providing an accessible solution to last-mile connectivity. Furthermore, the company’s efforts have supported job creation in local communities. Through partnerships with small and medium enterprises (SMEs), suppliers, and battery-swapping projects, Kinetic Green is fostering inclusive economic growth and contributing to local economies.

In the long term, Kinetic Green’s innovation supports a circular economy by utilizing sustainable materials and focusing on renewable energy, further contributing to environmental conservation. Through these innovations, Kinetic Green not only addresses urgent mobility needs but also promotes sustainability and economic resilience, benefiting both society and the environment.

One of the most significant insights as a group we gained from this experience was the power of innovation in addressing global challenges. Kinetic Green’s work in developing electric vehicles and reducing pollution showed us how businesses can be catalysts for positive change, both socially and environmentally. 

Interview

Sulajja Firodia Motwani, CEO