Revolution on Wheels: Exponent Energy Launches 15-Minute Charging EV Retrofit Kit to Transform CNG & LPG Autos into Electric Rickshaws

Key Highlights

• Exponent Energy launches ‘Exponent Oto’ to convert CNG/LPG autos into 15-minute fast-charging EVs.

• Conversion takes 24 hours with a 5-year or 3,000-cycle warranty.

• Offers 140–150 km range and 0–30 km/h in under 4.5 seconds.

• Zero down payment, flexible EMI, and assured 3-year buyback plan.

• Drivers can save up to ₹5,000 monthly with lower running and maintenance costs.

Exponent Energy, a Bengaluru-based energy-tech startup, has launched a new retrofit solution called ‘Exponent Oto’, designed to convert existing CNG and LPG three-wheelers into electric vehicles (EVs) capable of charging fully in just 15 minutes.

The company announced on November 7, 2025, marking its entry into India’s growing retrofit vehicle market, aimed at making sustainable mobility more affordable and accessible.

Quick Conversion and Long Warranty

The conversion process takes only 24 hours and comes with a five-year warranty or 3,000 charging cycles. The retrofitted autos offer acceleration from 0–30 km/h in under 4.5 seconds and a real-world range of 140–150 km per charge.

These vehicles can recharge from 0 to 100% in 15 minutes using Exponent’s e^pump charging network, already available across several cities.

Affordable Plans for Auto Drivers

Exponent Energy is offering zero down payment options, flexible EMI plans, and an assured buyback after three years.

According to the company, drivers can save up to ₹5,000 per month since the combined costs of charging and EMI are lower than current fuel and maintenance expenses for CNG or LPG vehicles.

Retrofitting Process and Key Features

The retrofit process replaces traditional internal combustion engine components such as:

• Engine block

• Gearbox

• Exhaust system

• Fuel tanks

• Wiring harnesses

These are swapped with Exponent’s retrofit kit, which includes:

• Piccolo battery pack

• CX1 e^port rapid-charging interface

• Motor and motor controller

• Drivetrain components

The converted vehicles are IP67-rated for water resistance, include hill-start assist, and feature IoT-enabled connectivity for GPS tracking, diagnostics, and real-time service alerts. They also operate without clutch or gearshifts, ensuring smoother rides.

Enabling Fast EV Adoption

Arun Vinayak, CEO and Co-founder of Exponent Energy, said, “We already cater to new vehicle buyers with great products using our 15-minute charging tech. But vehicles on the ground are 25–30 times the number of new vehicle sales. We want everyone to experience Exponent’s EV technology quickly, and retrofitting makes that possible.”

Ayush Bhargava, Head of Business at Exponent Energy, added, “Our solution lets drivers switch to EVs at half the cost of other options. Speeding up this transition is essential if India aims to meet its EV penetration targets by 2030.”

Company Background and Expansion

Founded in 2020 by Arun Vinayak, former Chief Product Officer at Ather Energy, Exponent Energy has already deployed over 2,100 EVs powered by its technology and operates more than 150 charging stations across India.

The company currently has a presence in Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Ahmedabad.

Exponent has raised $44.6 million in funding from top 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.

Also Read: FADA Three-Wheeler Retail Sales Report October 2025: 1,29,517 Units Sold Across India

CMV360 Says

With the launch of ‘Exponent Oto’, Exponent Energy aims to accelerate India’s shift toward electric mobility by giving existing auto-rickshaw owners an affordable and fast-charging EV solution. The initiative could play a key role in reducing emissions, cutting operating costs, and helping India achieve its 2030 EV goals.