This post is a part of the Early Stage Climate Startup series from Climafix 2024
Highlight
- Hydrogen retrofit kit that converts existing gasoline and CI engines to run on hydrogen fuel, with zero carbon emissions.
1. Value Proposition
- Zero Emissions with Minimal Modifications: The retrofit technology requires minimal changes, reducing conversion costs and ensuring that the engine’s original features are maintained.
- Fuel Flexibility: The kit is compatible with multiple fuels, including LPG, CNG, and hydrogen, without the need for extensive engine overhauls.
2. Pain Points
- Lack of Accessibility: Hydrogen-based technologies are often designed for new engines, neglecting existing infrastructure. These retrofit kits provide an immediate, accessible solution by modifying current IC engines.
- Cost of Replacing Existing Systems & Prolonged Transition Period: Transitioning millions of gasoline-powered engines, with minimal changes contributes to reduced cost and transition times.
3. Climate Impact
- As 78% of vehicles in India are IC engines, with 28% of these being CI engines and gasoline-powered generators that pollute heavily, but with VSRI’s retrofit technology, these engines can be converted to hydrogen.
4. Current & Future Target Segments
- Current Target Segments: Automobile, and power generation sectors, they are also piloting retrofit kits for auto rickshaws, taxis, and commercial vehicles.
- Future Target Segments: Commercial fleets, heavy-duty vehicles, and industrial power generators.
5. USPs
- VSRI is among the first to offer a retrofit solution tailored for these engines. The retrofit technology allows engines to maintain their original functionalities.
- The elimination of key components like ECMs and injector rails simplifies the conversion process, making installation quicker.
6. Team Profile
- Srikanth Vaddi (Founder & CEO): With a deep understanding of energy systems and a strong commitment to green solutions, Srikanth leads VSRI’s mission to drive the green transition.
- Ramadasu Vaddi (Co-founder & Director) and Dr. Peera Kutagolla (Director): Both bring significant expertise in engineering and energy solutions, ensuring that the company’s technologies are both innovative and practical.
- Vishnuvardhana Rao Mathi (Director): His experience in strategic operations and partnerships is critical to VSRI’s business development and market expansion efforts.
7. Startup Headquarters
- India: Tirupati