Delhi, March 14, 2024 – In a landmark move propelling India towards a sustainable future, Uber revealed the victor of its much-anticipated ‘Uber Sustainovate’ challenge, bestowing Gurgaon-based AHODS Technologies with a grand prize of Rs 1 crore (~$120,000). This accolade was in recognition of their groundbreaking hydrogen retro-fitment kit, marking a significant step forward in the nation’s environmental objectives.
The prestigious award was presented by MB Patil, the Honorable Minister of Industries of the Government of Karnataka, underlining the government’s support for innovative sustainable solutions.
MB Patil lauded the initiative, stating, “Uber Sustainovate is a beacon of hope, showcasing the boundless possibilities of a sustainable future. It underscores the urgency of our collective mission towards achieving zero tailpipe emissions, aligning with Karnataka and India’s broader environmental aspirations.”
The challenge, a collaborative effort with Startup India and NASSCOM AI, aimed to spotlight startups crafting practical solutions to accelerate India’s shift to sustainable mobility. Out of over 140 applicants, the top three not only won monetary rewards but also gained mentorship from Uber India’s technology leaders, focusing on innovation and scaling their solutions.
Manikandan Thangarathnam, Senior Director of Engineering at Uber, expressed his enthusiasm about the innovation demonstrated by Indian startups in sustainable mobility, saying, “It’s heartening to see such forward-thinking and globally competitive ideas emerge from India. Supporting these innovations is in line with Uber’s commitment to a zero-emissions future.”
The competition also recognized Pune’s Govidyouth Mobility Pvt Ltd for their innovative EV range extender, and Gurgaon’s Metz Energy Pvt Ltd for their e-trike solution, highlighting the diverse approaches towards green mobility.
Uber’s commitment to a net-zero emissions future is evident in its actions, including placing India’s largest EV order with Tata Motors and engaging with various stakeholders to foster a supportive ecosystem for sustainable mobility solutions.
Uber Sustainovate stands as a testament to the synergy between technology, innovation, and environmental stewardship, driving towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for India and beyond.
