Bengaluru-based startup introduces 'Exponent Oto' to convert CNG and LPG autorickshaws into electric vehicles with rapid-charging capability.
07 Nov 2025 | 2836 Views | By Shristi Ohri
Exponent Energy has entered the vehicle retrofit market with the launch of 'Exponent Oto', a technology that converts internal combustion engine three-wheelers into electric vehicles capable of charging fully in 15 minutes.
The Bengaluru-based energy-tech company announced on November 7, 2025, that the technology will initially target passenger three-wheelers ...
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Exponent Energy has entered the vehicle retrofit market with the launch of 'Exponent Oto', a technology that converts internal combustion engine three-wheelers into electric vehicles capable of charging fully in 15 minutes.
The Bengaluru-based energy-tech company announced on November 7, 2025, that the technology will initially target passenger three-wheelers currently operating on CNG and LPG platforms. The conversion process takes 24 hours and comes with a warranty of five years or 3,000 charging cycles.
Retrofitted vehicles deliver acceleration from 0-30 km/h in under 4.5 seconds and offer a real-world range of 140-150 kilometers per charge. The vehicles can charge from 0-100% in 15 minutes at Exponent's existing e^pump charging stations.
The company is offering the retrofit with zero downpayment, flexible EMI plans, and an assured buyback after three years. According to Exponent, drivers can save up to ₹5,000 monthly, as combined charging costs and EMI payments are lower than current fuel and maintenance expenses for CNG or LPG vehicles.
"We already cater to new vehicle buyers with a bunch of great products from partners using our 15-minute charging tech. But vehicles on the ground are almost 25-30 times the number of new vehicle sales," said Arun Vinayak, CEO and Co-founder of Exponent Energy. "We want everyone to be able to get the Exponent EV experience as fast as possible, which is why retrofitting becomes a great option."
The retrofit process involves removing all IC-engine components including the engine block, gearbox, exhaust system, fuel tanks, and wiring harnesses. These are replaced with Exponent's retrofit kit containing the Piccolo battery pack, CX1 e^port rapid-charging interface, motor, motor controller, and drivetrain.
Retrofitted vehicles feature IP67-rated water resistance, hill-start assist, and IoT-enabled connectivity for GPS tracking, diagnostics, and real-time service alerts. They operate without clutch or gearshifts.
Ayush Bhargava, Head of Business at Exponent Energy, stated that the solution allows drivers to transition to EVs at half the cost of alternative options. "Speeding up that transition is extremely important if we as a country want to meet our EV penetration targets by 2030," he said.
Founded in 2020 by former Ather chief product officer Arun Vinayak, Exponent Energy has deployed over 2,100 EVs powered by its technology across India, with more than 150 charging stations. The company operates in Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Ahmedabad.
Exponent has raised $44.6 million in funding from investors including Lightspeed, Eight Roads Ventures, YourNest VC, 3one4 Capital, AdvantEdge VC, and the family office of Dr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman and CEO of Hero MotoCorp.