Global Executive Analysis of Start-ups in the EV Ecosystem, 2018

Innovative Business Models, Technology Integration and Hyper Personalisation will be the Key Critical Elements for Success in the EV Start-up Ecosystem

The electric mobility space is rapidly evolving owing to the influential impact of the autonomous, connected, electric and shared mobility (ACES) trend. While automakers are electrifying and integrating next-gen technological features, start-ups in this space are creating a competitive difference by identifying white spaces and catering to niche consumer segments. From ethical, sustainable and modular manufacturing practices to completely innovative business models, start-ups are redefining the mobility sector.

EV passenger car makers are positioning their cars to offer more of an experience than as a product, while light electric vehicles (LEVs) that cater to every demographic segment are solving the urban mobility crisis. Commercial electric vehicle start-ups are adopting an autonomous, long range and utility design for their products. Battery tech, being the most funded EV start-up ecosystem, focuses on sustainable, recyclable solutions with newer battery materials in use. Aftermarket solutions such as retrofitting and recycling are the key focus areas.

The highest numbers of start-ups are concentrated in the charging solutions space wherein creative new business models and innovative products are a trend. A recurring trend throughout the EV ecosystem is product pollution - multiple products in the same space or a product for each challenge in the ecosystem. New start-ups should either offer a competitive difference or look into existing white spaces such as integrated sustainable mobility access solutions. OEMs should either collaborate or partner with service providers and suppliers to create an ecosystem of sustainable products and services through investments or acquire start-ups in the battery tech and charging ecosystem areas to enhance the customer experience.

Research Highlights

This study captures over 270 EV-focused start-ups and offering a wide range of products, services and solutions catering to both the B2C and B2B markets, future trends in EVs and as well discusses the various avenues that are of core focus for a majority of the start-ups in the space. It also analyses the Chinese EV bubble, owing to the highest numbers of EV start-ups in the country and a survival rate of only 1%.

Key Issues Addressed

• What are the trends in the EV start-up ecosystem? What are the key focus areas of these start-ups?
• Who are investing in the start-ups and how much has been invested in each EV segment?
• What are the major start-up avenues in focus and what are the critical components that make up these elements?
• What are the critical success factors or KPIs that need to be measured for each of the segments?
• What are the top 35 start-ups with innovative products or services or business design?