EMotorad, a leading electric bicycle manufacturer, is gearing up to expand its export operations significantly to the United States. Unlike traditional automotive imports, the current 25% tariff does not impact e-bikes, allowing EMotorad to navigate the market more freely. According to Kunal Gupta, co-founder and CEO of EMotorad, the company operates under a different HSN code, categorizing its products alongside electronics and cycles, which exempts them from these automotive tariffs.
Strategic Partnerships and Market Confidence
Gupta emphasized the ongoing collaboration with some of the most recognized brands in the US, which are eager to partner with EMotorad for developing innovative e-cycles. “The engagement from these major players, who are typically well-versed in economic policies, solidifies our confidence in the robustness of our long-term partnerships,” he remarked.
Boosting Production Capacity
With the recently launched gigafactory in Pune now fully operational, EMotorad is ramping up its production capabilities to cater to the growing demand in both the US and European markets. Currently, China leads the $50 billion e-bike market, but with increased tariffs on Chinese electric cycles in both regions, Indian manufacturers like EMotorad are poised to capture a more significant share.
Gupta highlighted that their gigafactory is the largest in South Asia and meets all necessary certifications for exports to the US and Europe. “Our goal is to establish ourselves as the primary alternative to Chinese suppliers. The US market is crucial for our growth, and buyers are increasingly seeking suppliers from countries like India,” he stated.
Competitive Advantage in a Shifting Market
China holds a dominant position in e-bike manufacturing, with exports valued at $20 billion. However, with Europe implementing anti-dumping duties and the US raising tariffs to 45%, EMotorad sees a clear competitive edge. Gupta pointed out, “This situation provides us with a substantial advantage, offering a cost differential of about 20-25% compared to Chinese products. We are more cost-effective for buyers.”
Future Growth Projections
Even a slight penetration into this market could lead to remarkable growth for EMotorad. “We anticipate growing more than fivefold in the next three years,” Gupta noted. The company plans to export complete bike powertrains, which include essential components like batteries, motors, chargers, and displays—making up about 60% of an e-bike’s total cost. EMotorad’s primary target markets include the US, Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UAE.
Founded by Rajib Gangopadhyay, Sumedh Battewar, Aditya Oza, and Gupta, EMotorad has carved a niche in the premium cycle segment, with products priced above Rs 12,000. Currently, the company sells around 150,000 units, exporting about 60% of its production. Gupta projects a 100% growth in revenue this year, aiming to surpass Rs 100 crore, and the company is nearing profitability. The new factory is set to produce 500,000 units annually, positioning EMotorad for a prosperous future in the electric bicycle market.