Tell us about yourself, your background and your journey to founding E Daddy
Hailing from a modest village in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, my fascination with technology was clear from a young age, though opportunities were scarce. My journey of nearly two decades has been shaped by hard work and determination, overcoming challenges that ultimately led to my success.
After completing my engineering studies, I entered the mobility sector, driven by a passion for sustainable transportation and a commitment to addressing environmental challenges. This dedication paved the way for the founding of E Daddy—a billion-dollar company now at the forefront of the global EV industry.
What makes E Daddy unique in the market?
E Daddy stands out in the market because of our commitment to combining advanced technology with practical solutions tailored to the needs of urban commuters in Dubai. Our electric bikes are designed with unique features, such as a self-diagnostic system and a double-layer cooling system that ensures optimal battery performance, even during the intense heat of Dubai summers.
What truly sets us apart is our focus on innovation without compromising on quality. Our bikes are not just about getting from point A to point B—they are about providing a reliable, sustainable, and efficient mode of transportation that aligns with the UAE’s vision for a greener future. We integrate cutting-edge components and smart technology to create an unparalleled riding experience.
E Daddy’s uniqueness lies in our tailored approach to meeting the environmental and economic needs of our customers and the local market, with technology specifically engineered for high performance, sustainability under Dubai’s high temperatures and demand for speed when it comes to last-mile delivery.
What has been your biggest success since launching E Daddy?
The biggest success since launching E Daddy has been the overwhelmingly positive response from our community and stakeholders, even before our products officially launched. The trust and enthusiasm we’ve received for E Daddy, following the success of M Auto, has been incredibly gratifying. It has been notably easier to introduce E Daddy to the market, thanks to the strong foundation and recognition we built with M Auto.
This initial positive response and the support from our community are significant achievements in themselves. They validate our vision and demonstrate that our approach to sustainable transportation resonates deeply with people. Additionally, the awards and recognition we’ve received have further solidified our credibility and highlighted the confidence people have in our brand. This trust is a testament to our commitment and the impact we aim to make in the electric vehicle industry.
You recently secured a $15 million investment. How did you secure this funding?
Securing the $15 million investment was a pivotal moment for us as a company, and it was achieved through a combination of our compelling business case and our fierce commitment to championing sustainability in the region. We’ve always viewed business not merely as a financial venture but as an opportunity to contribute positively to society and the environment.
Our investors were particularly impressed by our innovative technology, including the self-diagnostic system and advanced battery cooling technology, which effectively addresses the challenges posed by the UAE’s extreme climate. These features are integral to our vision of providing practical and sustainable urban mobility solutions.
Our track record of success in India and Africa was a significant asset in this process. The achievements of M Auto and our initiatives in Africa provided a proven foundation of success and demonstrated our capability to execute and scale effectively. This background, combined with our clear and compelling vision for expansion into the Middle Eastern market, reinforced investor confidence, which made our proposition compelling and credible.
How do you intend to grow the company with this investment?
With this investment, we have outlined a strategic approach to scaling our operations and enhancing our offerings in several key areas:
1. Manufacturing Expansion: A significant portion of the capital will be directed towards expanding our manufacturing capabilities in Dubai. This expansion will help us meet the growing demand for our electric bikes and ensure that we can produce high-quality vehicles efficiently. By increasing our production capacity, we aim to provide a reliable supply to the market and support our growth objectives.
2. Research and Development: Investing in research and development is crucial for us to stay at the forefront of innovation. We will focus on enhancing our product offerings, particularly improving battery life, and vehicle durability, and adapting our technology to withstand the UAE’s harsh climate. Continued R&D efforts will enable us to refine our technology, introduce new features, and maintain our competitive edge in the electric vehicle market.
3. Customer Support: Strengthening our customer support network is a key priority. We are committed to ensuring that our clients experience a seamless journey from the moment they purchase our bikes through to after-sales service. By establishing a robust network of service centres across the UAE, we will provide essential maintenance and support, fostering long-term customer satisfaction and loyalty.
4. Marketing and Outreach: In addition to manufacturing and technology, we will intensify our marketing efforts to build brand awareness and reach a wider audience. Our marketing strategy will include leveraging digital platforms, forming strategic partnerships, and engaging with the community to highlight the benefits of our innovative electric bikes and sustainable urban mobility.
Why is building a sustainable company so important to you?
In a world where sustainability is gaining traction in fashion, food, and lifestyle, transportation remains a crucial, yet often overlooked, component of living sustainably. I’ve always believed that true progress in sustainability must include a focus on how we move through our cities. Micro-mobility, such as electric bikes, plays a vital role in this vision, offering practical solutions to reduce our carbon footprint and improve urban living.
My journey towards sustainability began in a small village in Madurai, where I saw first-hand the impact of environmental degradation. Traditional vehicles caused not only severe pollution but also health issues for those who operated them. This early exposure shaped my belief that meaningful change must address both environmental and social challenges.
When I entered the automobile industry, my aim was to create a positive impact. We started with initiatives to support auto drivers, addressing their low earnings and health issues caused by pollution. Despite these efforts, I realized that a more fundamental shift was needed to truly make a difference.
The move to electric vehicles was a natural evolution of our commitment to sustainability. From our humble beginnings with a small team, we aspired to revolutionise transportation by offering cleaner, more efficient alternatives. The creation of the largest fleet of women auto drivers in India was a testament to our dedication to both social and environmental change.
Our successes in Africa further reinforced our confidence in the sustainable transportation sector. The warm reception and support we’ve received has been incredibly gratifying. For me, business is not just about generating profit—it’s about creating a positive, lasting impact on the world.
With E Daddy, we are focused on delivering electric bikes that contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment, while enhancing urban mobility. The encouragement from our community and partners validates our efforts and motivates us to continue pushing boundaries. Every step towards sustainability is a step towards a better future, and it’s this vision that drives our mission each day.
What does a day in your life look like?
My day starts early with prayer and a review of my checklist to evaluate ongoing processes and reports. I stay closely involved in E Daddy’s daily operations, spending significant time with my team to brainstorm new ideas and address challenges.
Afternoons are usually dedicated to meetings with partners, investors, and stakeholders to ensure our strategic goals are on track. I also focus on research and development, collaborating with our engineers to enhance our products.
In the evenings, I make time to unwind. Although I’m often away from my family, I connect with them virtually and enjoy watching sports, scrolling reels or YouTube videos. I also take a moment for myself to sit down, take a deep breath, and rejuvenate before preparing for the next day. #Even though I follow this routine most days, travel and other commitments sometimes alter my schedule. I prioritise learning something new every day and embrace the challenge of unlearning old habits to stay fresh and adaptable. This approach helps me return stronger and more focused, making each day fulfilling as we progress toward my vision.
What are three pieces of advice for entrepreneurs who are dreaming of building their first business?
Embrace Persistence: Starting a business is a long-term commitment filled with challenges and setbacks. Understand that success doesn’t come overnight. Stay resilient, adapt to obstacles, and remain focused on your vision. Your ability to persevere through tough times will be one of the most crucial factors in achieving your goals.
Prioritise Innovation: In a rapidly changing market, continuous innovation is essential. Seek out opportunities to refine your ideas, improve your products or services, and stay ahead of industry trends. By fostering a culture of creativity and adaptability, you’ll position your business to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Cultivate a Strong Team: Surround yourself with a team that shares your passion and commitment. Choose individuals who bring diverse skills and perspectives, and who are dedicated to bringing your vision to life. A supportive, talented team will be instrumental in overcoming challenges and driving your business forward.
What are your growth plans for the next 5 years and beyond?
In the next five years, E Daddy is poised to make significant strides in expanding its footprint both within the UAE and across the broader Middle East region. Our growth strategy includes the following key components:
Market Expansion: We plan to scale our operations, extending our presence throughout the UAE and into new markets. By establishing a strong foothold in various countries, we aim to broaden our impact and reach more customers with our innovative electric vehicles.
Product Diversification: We will introduce a range of new electric vehicle models tailored to diverse needs, including those of delivery services and long-distance commuters. This expansion will enhance our product lineup and cater to a wider audience.
Infrastructure Development: To support our growing customer base, we will set up charging and swapping stations at regular intervals, approximately every 1 km. This infrastructure will ensure convenient and accessible charging options for our users, reinforcing our commitment to reliable urban mobility.
Ongoing Innovation: Continued investment in research and development will be pivotal. We will focus on advancing battery technologies and integrating smart features to further enhance the riding experience, keeping us at the cutting edge of the industry.
Employment and Equity: We are dedicated to creating job opportunities and fostering an inclusive work environment. Our goal is to empower individuals of all genders, contributing to equity and diversity in the workplace.
Sustainability and Climate Impact: Our vision includes making a significant impact on climate change and green logistics. We aim to earn the highest carbon credits and align our operations with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that our efforts contribute positively to global sustainability.
Our long-term ambition is to position E Daddy as a global leader in urban mobility, recognised for our unwavering commitment to sustainability, technological innovation, and creating a lasting positive impact on the environment and society.
How can readers find out more about yourself and E Daddy UAE?
