Biography of Tarun Mehta: Co-founder & CEO of Ather Energy (EV Vehicles)-Entrepreneur
Biography of Tarun Mehta:
Early Beginnings
Tarun Mehta was born on October 31, 1989, in Ahmedabad,
India, into a Marwari family. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in
technology and innovation. His early education took place at Shree Sahjanand
Higher Secondary School and GLS MK School, where he excelled academically.
After completing his 10th grade, he spent a few months on vacation before
deciding to join a coaching program for the JEE exam, encouraged by a relative.
A Path to IIT Madras
Tarun's dedication paid off when he cleared the IIT entrance
exam and joined the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. At IIT, he
pursued a dual degree in Engineering Design, a program that combines
undergraduate and postgraduate studies. During his time at IIT Madras, Tarun
was deeply involved in product development and entrepreneurship activities,
contributing to various prototypes and co-patents.
Intern at National Institute of Design (NID) Ahmedabad
In mid-2009, Mehta interned at the National Institute of
Design, where he researched Open Innovation and its application in the market.
This internship provided insights into design thinking and innovation
processes.
Intern at Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India
In the summer of 2010, Mehta interned at Mercedes-Benz
Research and Development India, where he worked on weight reduction for a
passenger car diesel engine. This role deepened his understanding of engine
manufacturing and automotive engineering.
Student President at C-TIDES, IIT Madras
From May 2009 to January 2011, Mehta served as Student
President of C-TIDES, the entrepreneurship cell of IIT Madras. C-TIDES works to
foster entrepreneurship and innovation within the IIT Madras community,
reflecting Mehta's early involvement in promoting entrepreneurial ventures.
Intern at BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd)
In early 2011, Mehta completed a six-month internship at
BHEL, where he designed, prototyped, and tested an apparatus for coal ash
testing. This experience provided him with valuable hands-on skills in
engineering and manufacturing.
Deputy Manager at Ashok Leyland
Before founding Ather Energy, Mehta worked as a Deputy
Manager at Ashok Leyland from August 2012 to February 2013. Based in Chennai,
his role involved key responsibilities within the company, contributing to his
expertise in the automotive sector.
The Birth of Ather Energy
In April 2013, Tarun Mehta, along with his batchmate Swapnil
Jain, co-founded Ather Energy. The startup was born out of their shared passion
for innovation and a desire to address the shortcomings of existing electric
vehicles. The name "Ather" means "Pure" in Greek,
reflecting their commitment to clean and efficient technology. As CEO, Mehta
oversees product development, business operations, and growth strategies,
focusing on delivering an exceptional customer experience. He is a strong
advocate for an ecosystem approach to accelerate the adoption of electric
vehicles (EVs), working with various stakeholders to enhance charging
infrastructure and supplier networks.
From Concept to Reality
Initially, Tarun and Swapnil aimed to create clean engines
but shifted their focus to electric vehicles after realizing the potential for
disruption in this sector. Despite facing challenges in securing funding and
support, their determination led them to quit their jobs and seek help from
professors and angel investors to bring their vision to life.
Biography of Tarun Mehta: Co-founder & CEO of Ather Energy (EV Vehicles)/ Success story of Tarun Mehta/Ather vehicles/EV/Life story of Tarun Mehta
Overcoming Financial Hurdles
In early 2013, Tarun and Swapnil were on the brink of
financial collapse. With the help of Dr. V Srinivasan, an angel investor and
co-founder of Aerospike, as well as support from IIT professors, they managed
to develop a detailed specification sheet for their electric vehicle. Their
perseverance paid off when Binny and Sachin Bansal of Flipkart fame provided
crucial funding.
Securing Major Investments
Ather Energy’s journey was marked by significant investments
that fueled its growth. In 2016, Hero MotoCorp invested ₹200 crores in the
company. Later, in 2019, Sachin Bansal invested ₹220 crores during a Series A
funding round. These investments played a crucial role in helping Ather Energy
expand its operations and develop its products.
Revolutionizing Electric Mobility
Under Tarun’s leadership, Ather Energy developed India’s
first smart electric scooter, the Ather 450, followed by the Ather 450X. These
scooters have revolutionized the two-wheeler market in India by offering
advanced features and efficient performance. Ather’s commitment to innovation
has established the company as a leader in the electric vehicle sector.
Leadership and Strategy
As CEO of Ather Energy, Tarun Mehta plays a crucial role in
driving the company’s strategic direction. He is deeply involved in the vehicle
development process and represents Ather in various industry forums, including
the Technical Advisory Group for Electric Mobility and the Champions of Change
program organized by Niti Aayog.
Recognition and Achievements
Tarun Mehta’s work with Ather Energy has garnered
significant recognition. He and Swapnil Jain were listed on Forbes' 30 Under 30
list in 2018 and the Fortune 40 Under 40 list in 2017 and 2019. These accolades
highlight their innovative contributions to the electric vehicle industry and
their impact on the market.
Personal Life and Interests
Tarun Mehta married Swarna Srimal Mehta on December 10,
2017, in Ahmedabad. He enjoys long drives, with his favorite routes being NICE
Road in Bengaluru and SP Ring Road in Ahmedabad. Tarun is also an avid reader,
with a particular fondness for books like "The Silmarillion" and the
"Harry Potter" series.
A Passion for Innovation
Tarun's journey with Ather Energy is driven by his passion
for electric vehicles and technological innovation. His decision to leave a
stable job at Ashok Leyland in 2012 to focus on battery technology and electric
vehicles reflects his commitment to addressing key challenges in the industry.
A Thriving Company
Today, Ather Energy is a prominent name in the electric vehicle
market in India. The company has expanded its reach to over 30 cities across
the country, offering its innovative scooters to a growing customer base. Ather
Energy’s success is a testament to Tarun and Swapnil’s vision and dedication.
Impact and Vision
Tarun Mehta's impact on the electric vehicle industry is
profound. By addressing critical issues and pushing the boundaries of
technology, he has set a new standard for electric mobility in India. His
vision for Ather Energy continues to drive the company forward, with plans for
further innovation and expansion.
Family and Background
Tarun Mehta’s family includes his father, Sanjay Mehta, and
his mother, Sangeeta Mehta. His upbringing and educational background laid the
foundation for his successful career in technology and entrepreneurship. His
family’s support has been instrumental in his journey with Ather Energy.
Looking Ahead
As Ather Energy continues to grow, Tarun Mehta remains
focused on advancing electric vehicle technology and expanding the company’s
impact. His leadership and innovative spirit will likely play a key role in
shaping the future of mobility in India and beyond.
Conclusion
Tarun Mehta’s journey from a young student at IIT Madras to
the CEO of Ather Energy is an inspiring story of perseverance and innovation.
His dedication to improving electric vehicle technology has transformed the
industry and positioned Ather Energy as a leader in the field. With ongoing
advancements and a clear vision for the future, Tarun and his team are set to
make even greater strides in the world of electric mobility.
Timeline for Tarun Mehta’s story
October 31, 1989: Born in Ahmedabad, India.
2007-2012: Pursued a dual degree in Engineering Design at
IIT Madras.
Mid-2009: Interned at the National Institute of Design,
researching Open Innovation.
Summer 2010: Interned at Mercedes-Benz Research and
Development India, focusing on engine weight reduction.
May 2009 - January 2011: Served as Student President of
C-TIDES, IIT Madras.
Early 2011: Completed a six-month internship at BHEL,
designing and prototyping coal ash testing apparatus.
August 2012 - February 2013: Worked as Deputy Manager at
Ashok Leyland.
April 2013: Co-founded Ather Energy with Swapnil Jain.
Early 2013: Faced financial difficulties but secured crucial
support from Dr. V Srinivasan and the Bansals.
2016: Hero MotoCorp invested ₹200 crores in Ather Energy.
2019: Sachin Bansal invested ₹220 crores during Series A
funding.
2018: Listed on Forbes' 30 Under 30 list.
2017 & 2019: Listed on Fortune 40 Under 40 list.
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