Latest news with #Exelmoto
Entrepreneur
27-06-2025
- Automotive
- Entrepreneur
Celebrity Capital Meets EV Disruption: Suniel Shetty, KL Rahul, Ahan Shetty and Akshai Varde Join Forces to Launch Exelmoto
Exelmoto opens pre-orders from June 28 with a token booking fee of INR 499 for the first 999 units. You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. In a landmark collaboration blending star power, entrepreneurial spirit, and a bold commitment to clean mobility, actor-entrepreneur Suniel Shetty, cricketer KL Rahul, and youth icon Ahan Shetty have teamed up with renowned automotive designer and entrepreneur Akshai Varde to launch Exelmoto—India's next-generation electric mobility brand. The company today announced the opening of pre-orders for its debut line of Ebikes, starting June 28, at a token price of just INR 499 for the first 999 units. Exelmoto's entry redefines what electric commuting can look like for India's urban and semi-urban markets. Unlike conventional e-scooters, Exelmoto's Ebikes—E1X Sky and E2R Rosso—offer a hybrid of motorcycle-inspired aesthetics and pedal-assist technology, making them not only a greener alternative but also a cooler, more versatile ride. With no requirement for registration or licensing, and an introductory price under INR 42,000, these India-built Ebikes aim to disrupt the growing EV segment with accessibility, performance, and style. Akshai Varde, Founder and CEO of Exelmoto, said, "We built Exelmoto to bridge the gap between aspiration and accessibility. It's for the student, the professional, the delivery rider, and the environmentally conscious commuter. With our patented design, premium components, and focus on 'Made in India' excellence, we're not just selling a ride—we're setting a new benchmark for urban mobility." The backing of three of India's most influential celebrities has given Exelmoto an unmatched blend of credibility and cultural relevance. The collaboration grew out of a longstanding creative partnership between Akshai and the Shetty family. Suniel Shetty, remarked, "I've watched Akshai create magic with metal for years. When he shared his vision for clean, stylish mobility, I knew we had to be part of it. What excites me even more is that this is the first time I'm working alongside Ahan and KL on something so meaningful. Exelmoto is proudly Indian—designed, built, and dreamt here. It's our way of investing in a cleaner future." KL Rahul, added, "I believe in products that deliver—on purpose, performance, and style. Exelmoto is exactly that. We're offering India something reliable, exciting, and future-ready. It's not just about getting from point A to B—it's about how you feel when you ride." For Ahan Shetty, the brand represents a voice for his generation. "Exelmoto is bold, smart, and conscious—just like us. It's about leading with purpose, setting trends, and being fearless. I ride Exelmoto because it speaks to who we are and where we're headed." Exelmoto's Ebikes are more than just electric cycles—they're game-changers in urban mobility. Featuring patented motorcycle-inspired frames, rugged fat-tyre styling, and a lightweight design, they suit Indian roads perfectly. With a 40–60 km range, removable battery, and no license or registration needed, they're ideal for all genders and age groups. Roadmap and Future Plans Exelmoto is not stopping at pre-orders. Post-launch, the company plans a full-scale expansion with a nationwide dealership and service network, targeting both tier I and tier II cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Bengaluru, Jaipur, Kochi, Chennai, and Lucknow. Riders can expect a seamless blend of digital-first engagement, on-ground test rides, and community-driven brand experiences. With its mix of innovation, star power, and sustainability, Exelmoto is poised to transform how India thinks about daily commuting. Whether you're a student, a professional, or just someone who wants to ride smart and clean, Exelmoto offers a compelling reason to switch gears.
The Wire
27-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Wire
Celebrity Capital Meets EV Disruption: Suniel Shetty, KL Rahul, Ahan Shetty & Akshai Varde Join Forces to Launch Exelmoto
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 26: The electric mobility revolution in India just got aspirational---and a whole lot faster, cleaner, and cooler. Founded by designer and Automative Entrepreneur, Akshai Varde, Exelmoto is backed by a strategic all-star founding team comprising actor-entrepreneur-mentor Suniel Shetty, cricket sensation KL Rahul, and youth icon Ahan Shetty---bringing together a rare mix of credibility, cool, and cross-generational influence. A rare founder-investor coalition blends star power with startup thinking to scale electric commuting across India's urban and semi-urban heartlands. Exelmoto today announced the start of its pre-order window from June 28 for a limited batch of 999 Ebikes, each available for booking at a token amount of Rs 499 on . These are not traditional electric scooters---they are Ebikes, categorised as electric cycles equipped with pedal assist systems that allow riders to stay active while significantly reducing their carbon footprint, delivering one of the lowest costs per kilometre in the electric mobility segment. What sets them apart is their patented design---a unique blend of motorcycle-inspired styling with the agility and convenience of a cycle. Built using premium components and offering unmatched fit-and-finish, Exelmoto's Ebikes are proudly manufactured in India and are not just high on functionality---they're certified head-turners built for riders who want performance, style, and sustainability in one powerful ride. CELEBRITY-LED TRUST & COOL FACTOR: "Ride the Future" is not just a statement, it's Exelmoto's tagline---capturing the brand's vision to redefine how India rides. Suniel Shetty's association with Akshai goes back to when Akshai first designed a custom bike for Ahan's debut film Tadap and later redesigned some of Suniel's personal motorcycles that he still drives today. Over the years, Suniel witnessed firsthand Akshai's meticulous craftsmanship, innovative design philosophy, and unwavering commitment to excellence. This deep personal trust and understanding of Akshai's exceptional capabilities, combined with his two decades of industry experience and clear vision for sustainable mobility, led Suniel and his family to invest in Exelmoto. Speaking about Exelmoto, Suniel Shetty, entrepreneur and mentor, said, "I've watched Akshai create magic with metal and design over the years. When he shared his dream of clean, stylish mobility for India, I knew we had to be part of it. For the first time, I'm working with my sons, Ahan and KL Rahul, on a project, and it feels right that it's something focused on a cleaner future. Exelmoto represents more than just transportation; it's about reshaping how India moves forward. We believe caring for our environment should be effortless, stylish, and genuinely accessible to everyone. This is proudly made in India, designed for India, and it's something we're genuinely proud to be part of." KL Rahul, known for his focus on performance and discipline, added, "I believe in performance---on the field and on the road. And, I believe in products that blend purpose with performance. Exelmoto ticks all the Exelmoto, we're giving India a reliable, stylish, and affordable ride built for our kind of hustle. This initiative aligns with what many Indians are looking for---smart, clean, and future-ready ways to move." Ahan Shetty, addressing younger consumers, said, "This is for my generation---bold, smart, and conscious of the planet. We're proud to be part of a brand that doesn't just follow trends but sets them---both in how it looks and what it stands for. I ride Exelmoto because it reflects who we are---innovative, fearless, and future-focused." Speaking about the company's vision, Akshai Varde, Founder and CEO of Exelmoto, said, "We designed Exelmoto to be a bridge between aspiration and accessibility. This isn't just an EV. It's a movement. Our goal is to make green commuting aspirational, affordable, and proudly Indian. With over two decades of experience in premium motorcycle design and manufacturing, I wanted to create an Ebike that delivers the thrill of a motorcycle, the freedom of a cycle, and the convenience of a mobile device. The result is a patented, precision-built product that's as beautiful to look at as it is powerful to ride. Engineered for India, backed by Indian icons, Suniel, KL Rahul & Ahan, and built to serve both cities and small towns---Exelmoto is how the future moves." WHAT MAKES EXELMOTO A CATEGORY BREAKER: Exelmoto's debut includes two unisex Ebikes---E1X Sky and E2R Rosso---designed with patented motorcycle-inspired frames, blending the build quality of a bike with the ease and accessibility of a cycle. Unlike standard e-scooters, these Ebikes feature pedal assist, allowing riders to stay fit while significantly reducing their carbon footprint. They offer the lowest cost per kilometer among electric two-wheelers in their category. Key highlights include: • Rugged fat-tyre styling with premium finish and street appeal • Removable, easy-charge lithium battery (home/office compatible)• 40--60 km range per charge • No registration or license required • Lightweight frame tailored to Indian road conditions • Designed for students, professionals, delivery riders, and families • Introductory price under ₹42,000 (post-pre-order phase) "Ready Before the World Catches On" -- Campaign Rollout Begins: The pre-booking kickstarted with a spectacular campaign that encapsulates the vision stating 'Ready Before the World Catches On.' Ride the Future! The campaign highlights India's rising need for clean, smart, and stylish transport. Rooted in authenticity and driven by aspiration, The overarching campaign theme, 'Catch Up. Or Better… Pre-Book', showcases how Exelmoto isn't waiting for the world to adapt. It's already riding into the future—with India's most relevant icons leading the way. It taps into the desire for status, speed, and sustainability, while being accessible and cross-generational. EXPANSION & ROADMAP: Beyond the pre-order campaign, Exelmoto will activate a robust, nationwide dealer distribution and service network—designed not just for reach, but for long-term rider confidence. This model reflects the brand's commitment to building a future-ready EV ecosystem where accessibility meets accountability. By integrating seamless delivery with dependable after-sales support, Exelmoto aims to redefine ownership expectations in the electric mobility space and set new benchmarks for trust and service in the Ebike category. POST-ORDER ROADMAP: Following the pre-order campaign, Exelmoto will activate a nationwide dealer distribution and service network—designed not just for reach, but for long-term rider confidence. The company's roadmap includes expanding pre-order access, fulfilment, and local activations across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Pune, Bengaluru, Jaipur, Kochi, Chennai, Nagpur, Lucknow Chandigarh, Indore and Hyderabad. Exelmoto will support this rollout with a combination of • Digital-first campaigns • Influencer-led storytelling • On-ground test ride experiences • City-wise community fan engagement PRE-ORDER DETAILS: • Pre-Booking Opens: June 28, 2025 • Pre-Order Fee: Rs 499 only • Units Available: 999 bikes • Booking Link: • Models Available: E1X Sky & E2R Rosso • Features: License-Free | Registration-Free | Fat-Tyre Styling | Made in India ABOUT AKSHAI VARDE & EXELMOTO: With two decades in premium motorcycle design and manufacturing, Akshai Varde brings an award-winning legacy of innovation, engineering, and entrepreneurship to Exelmoto. At the heart of Exelmoto are patented Ebike designs that are as thrilling to ride as they are effortless to charge---as intuitive as a mobile device. Akshai's deep expertise in manufacturing and industry economics drives Exelmoto's vision to evolve into a global micro-mobility brand built in India, for the world. Exelmoto is headquartered in Mumbai. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).
Business Standard
26-06-2025
- Automotive
- Business Standard
Celebrity Capital Meets EV Disruption: Suniel Shetty, KL Rahul, Ahan Shetty & Akshai Varde Join Forces to Launch Exelmoto
PNN Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 26: The electric mobility revolution in India just got aspirational---and a whole lot faster, cleaner, and cooler. Founded by designer and Automative Entrepreneur, Akshai Varde, Exelmoto is backed by a strategic all-star founding team comprising actor-entrepreneur-mentor Suniel Shetty, cricket sensation KL Rahul, and youth icon Ahan Shetty---bringing together a rare mix of credibility, cool, and cross-generational influence. A rare founder-investor coalition blends star power with startup thinking to scale electric commuting across India's urban and semi-urban heartlands. Exelmoto today announced the start of its pre-order window from June 28 for a limited batch of 999 Ebikes, each available for booking at a token amount of Rs 499 on . These are not traditional electric scooters---they are Ebikes, categorised as electric cycles equipped with pedal assist systems that allow riders to stay active while significantly reducing their carbon footprint, delivering one of the lowest costs per kilometre in the electric mobility segment. What sets them apart is their patented design---a unique blend of motorcycle-inspired styling with the agility and convenience of a cycle. Built using premium components and offering unmatched fit-and-finish, Exelmoto's Ebikes are proudly manufactured in India and are not just high on functionality---they're certified head-turners built for riders who want performance, style, and sustainability in one powerful ride. CELEBRITY-LED TRUST & COOL FACTOR: "Ride the Future" is not just a statement, it's Exelmoto's tagline---capturing the brand's vision to redefine how India rides. Suniel Shetty's association with Akshai goes back to when Akshai first designed a custom bike for Ahan's debut film Tadap and later redesigned some of Suniel's personal motorcycles that he still drives today. Over the years, Suniel witnessed firsthand Akshai's meticulous craftsmanship, innovative design philosophy, and unwavering commitment to excellence. This deep personal trust and understanding of Akshai's exceptional capabilities, combined with his two decades of industry experience and clear vision for sustainable mobility, led Suniel and his family to invest in Exelmoto. Speaking about Exelmoto, Suniel Shetty, entrepreneur and mentor, said, "I've watched Akshai create magic with metal and design over the years. When he shared his dream of clean, stylish mobility for India, I knew we had to be part of it. For the first time, I'm working with my sons, Ahan and KL Rahul, on a project, and it feels right that it's something focused on a cleaner future. Exelmoto represents more than just transportation; it's about reshaping how India moves forward. We believe caring for our environment should be effortless, stylish, and genuinely accessible to everyone. This is proudly made in India, designed for India, and it's something we're genuinely proud to be part of." KL Rahul, known for his focus on performance and discipline, added, "I believe in performance---on the field and on the road. And, I believe in products that blend purpose with performance. Exelmoto ticks all the Exelmoto, we're giving India a reliable, stylish, and affordable ride built for our kind of hustle. This initiative aligns with what many Indians are looking for---smart, clean, and future-ready ways to move." Ahan Shetty, addressing younger consumers, said, "This is for my generation---bold, smart, and conscious of the planet. We're proud to be part of a brand that doesn't just follow trends but sets them---both in how it looks and what it stands for. I ride Exelmoto because it reflects who we are---innovative, fearless, and future-focused." Speaking about the company's vision, Akshai Varde, Founder and CEO of Exelmoto, said, "We designed Exelmoto to be a bridge between aspiration and accessibility. This isn't just an EV. It's a movement. Our goal is to make green commuting aspirational, affordable, and proudly Indian. With over two decades of experience in premium motorcycle design and manufacturing, I wanted to create an Ebike that delivers the thrill of a motorcycle, the freedom of a cycle, and the convenience of a mobile device. The result is a patented, precision-built product that's as beautiful to look at as it is powerful to ride. Engineered for India, backed by Indian icons, Suniel, KL Rahul & Ahan, and built to serve both cities and small towns---Exelmoto is how the future moves." WHAT MAKES EXELMOTO A CATEGORY BREAKER: Exelmoto's debut includes two unisex Ebikes---E1X Sky and E2R Rosso---designed with patented motorcycle-inspired frames, blending the build quality of a bike with the ease and accessibility of a cycle. Unlike standard e-scooters, these Ebikes feature pedal assist, allowing riders to stay fit while significantly reducing their carbon footprint. They offer the lowest cost per kilometer among electric two-wheelers in their category. Key highlights include: * Rugged fat-tyre styling with premium finish and street appeal * Removable, easy-charge lithium battery (home/office compatible)• 40--60 km range per charge * No registration or license required * Lightweight frame tailored to Indian road conditions * Designed for students, professionals, delivery riders, and families * Introductory price under ₹42,000 (post-pre-order phase) "Ready Before the World Catches On" -- Campaign Rollout Begins: The pre-booking kickstarted with a spectacular campaign that encapsulates the vision stating "Ready Before the World Catches On." Ride the Future! The campaign highlights India's rising need for clean, smart, and stylish transport. Rooted in authenticity and driven by aspiration, The overarching campaign theme, "Catch Up. Or Better... Pre-Book", showcases how Exelmoto isn't waiting for the world to adapt. It's already riding into the future--with India's most relevant icons leading the way. It taps into the desire for status, speed, and sustainability, while being accessible and cross-generational. EXPANSION & ROADMAP: Beyond the pre-order campaign, Exelmoto will activate a robust, nationwide dealer distribution and service network--designed not just for reach, but for long-term rider confidence. This model reflects the brand's commitment to building a future-ready EV ecosystem where accessibility meets accountability. By integrating seamless delivery with dependable after-sales support, Exelmoto aims to redefine ownership expectations in the electric mobility space and set new benchmarks for trust and service in the Ebike category. POST-ORDER ROADMAP: Following the pre-order campaign, Exelmoto will activate a nationwide dealer distribution and service network--designed not just for reach, but for long-term rider confidence. The company's roadmap includes expanding pre-order access, fulfilment, and local activations across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Pune, Bengaluru, Jaipur, Kochi, Chennai, Nagpur, Lucknow Chandigarh, Indore and Hyderabad. Exelmoto will support this rollout with a combination of • Digital-first campaigns • Influencer-led storytelling • On-ground test ride experiences • City-wise community fan engagement PRE-ORDER DETAILS: * Pre-Booking Opens: June 28, 2025 * Pre-Order Fee: Rs 499 only * Units Available: 999 bikes * Booking Link: * Models Available: E1X Sky & E2R Rosso * Features: License-Free | Registration-Free | Fat-Tyre Styling | Made in India ABOUT AKSHAI VARDE & EXELMOTO: With two decades in premium motorcycle design and manufacturing, Akshai Varde brings an award-winning legacy of innovation, engineering, and entrepreneurship to Exelmoto. At the heart of Exelmoto are patented Ebike designs that are as thrilling to ride as they are effortless to charge---as intuitive as a mobile device. Akshai's deep expertise in manufacturing and industry economics drives Exelmoto's vision to evolve into a global micro-mobility brand built in India, for the world. Exelmoto is headquartered in Mumbai.
Mint
26-06-2025
- Automotive
- Mint
EV startup gets a celebrity boost: Suniel Shetty, KL Rahul, Ahan bet on Exelmoto's pedal-assist electric bikes
Mumbai: Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, cricketer KL Rahul, and actor Ahan Shetty have come together to back a new electric mobility startup, Exelmoto, founded by automotive designer and entrepreneur Akshai Varde. The company is positioning itself as a category-creator in India's two-wheeler EV market, with a focus on pedal-assist electric bikes—styled like motorcycles but priced like premium bicycles. Pre-orders for Exelmoto's first two models—E1X Sky and E2R Rosso—will begin on 28 June, with a limited drop of 999 units available for a token booking fee of ₹ 499. The unisex bikes are priced under ₹ 42,000 and come with a removable lithium battery, 40-60 km range per charge, fat tyres, and no need for registration or a licence. 'This isn't just another EV launch,' said founder Akshai Varde. 'We've built something that feels aspirational, yet fits everyday Indian commutes. A ride that gives you the thrill of a bike, the fitness of a cycle, and the convenience of a mobile device.' Unlike e-scooters, which dominate India's EV landscape, Exelmoto is targeting a hybrid space: pedal-assist e-bikes that aim to blend design, sustainability, and affordability. Common across Europe but still nascent in India, the segment has been largely overlooked by large players. Brands such as Hero Lectro and EMotorad operate in this space but have found limited mainstream adoption. Exelmoto hopes to change that by infusing the segment with celebrity-backed trust, design-first thinking, and sharper storytelling. The company's launch campaign—'Ready before the world catches on'—positions the bikes as an aspirational shift in how India commutes, with a clear nudge to younger, urban and semi-urban consumers. 'This is a proud Indian product that's built for India and backed by people who care about its future,' said Suniel Shetty. 'We're not just investors—we're believers in the vision.' KL Rahul added, 'Exelmoto blends purpose with performance. It's the kind of product that speaks to India's new generation of riders—smart, clean, and reliable.' Ahan Shetty said the bikes are 'not just about mobility but identity—conscious, cool, and ahead of the curve.' What sets Exelmoto apart is its focus on building pedal-assist e-bikes that combine the rugged styling of motorcycles with the accessibility of cycles. The company is launching two unisex models—designed with patented, motorcycle-inspired frames—that are specifically built for Indian road conditions. Exelmoto is targeting a wide user base that includes students, gig economy workers, professionals, and families—riders looking for an affordable yet aspirational alternative to conventional fuel-powered scooters or entry-level electric vehicles. India's electric two-wheeler space is getting increasingly competitive. According to Vahan data, over 900,000 EV two-wheelers were sold in FY24, with Ola Electric, TVS, Bajaj, and Ather dominating volumes. But most of that demand is for e-scooters and low-speed mopeds, not pedal-assist e-bikes. Awareness remains a key challenge for the category. 'Most consumers don't yet understand what a pedal-assist e-bike is,' said a Mumbai-based EV analyst. 'You need to invest in demos, test rides, and content to educate the market.' There's also the issue of distribution and service, which has tripped up several EV startups in the past. Exelmoto plans to roll out a nationwide dealer and after-sales network following the pre-order phase, with a presence in cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Kochi, and Indore. Its go-to-market plan includes digital campaigns, influencer engagement, and on-ground ride events. Then there's the matter of pricing. While ₹ 42,000 undercuts many entry-level e-scooters, pedal-assist bikes are often viewed more like premium cycles in India—still a niche space. 'If Exelmoto can make the product aspirational and useful, and back it with strong after-sales, they could carve out a new sub-segment,' the analyst added. While the celebrity endorsements have brought attention, Exelmoto's real challenge will lie in execution and scale. Distribution, product reliability, and consumer education will make or break the brand. Varde, who previously founded Vardenchi Motorcycles, is confident. 'We're not building a short-term D2C brand. We're building a full-stack EV company that combines design, manufacturing, and customer obsession,' he said. For now, the bet is that India's next generation of riders is ready to look beyond scooters, and see e-bikes not just as transport but as a statement.
