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