EcoZen Solutions is walking across multiple sectors with its products like EcoFrost and Ecotron. With a focus on solving real-world problems, EcoZen's journey has been marked by the development of unique technologies such as thermal energy storage and advanced motor controls.
We had a discussion with its Co-founder and CTO, Vivek Pandey, who shared insights into how EcoZen is impacting industries ranging from cooling solutions to electric mobility in India.
EcoFrost has been at the forefront of the company’s efforts in the cooling industry. This cold storage solution utilises an innovative thermal energy storage system, which uses a method of converting water to ice and gradually melting it to maintain a stable temperature. This technology effectively acts as a battery, enabling the use of solar or grid power to operate the system.
Developing this system required deep expertise in power electronics and motor controls, as refrigeration systems are fundamentally driven by motors. EcoZen has built this technology from the ground up, as off-the-shelf solutions were not adequate. This journey led to the creation of other products such as Ecotron, a motor controller capable of managing various types of motors, including Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) and Brushless DC Motors (BLDC).
Venture Into Motor Controls & E-Mobility
The company's venture into motor controls has found applications in agriculture, where EcoZen provides motor controllers and motors to companies like Mahindra and Tata for pumping water on farms. Leveraging its expertise in motor controls, EcoZen is now exploring the electric mobility sector. With approximately 2.5 lakh powertrains already deployed on the ground, the company sees electric mobility as a natural extension of its core competencies.
EcoZen has also developed an e-bike controller, an example of how the company is pushing the envelope in the e-mobility space. This controller incorporates a proprietary algorithm that allows the motor to run without sensors, offering improved performance compared to some existing controllers on the market. This innovation not only reduces costs but also enhances the robustness of electric bikes, demonstrating EcoZen's commitment to adding value through innovation.
Sustainable Magnet-Less Motors
One of EcoZen’s areas of focus is the development of magnet-less motors, which aligns with the company’s mission of enabling climate transition. Traditional motors often rely on magnets made from rare earth materials, which are not only costly but also have a significant environmental impact due to their mining and manufacturing processes. EcoZen is exploring alternatives that could match the performance of magnet-based motors without relying on these materials.
By eliminating the need for magnets, EcoZen aims to create motors that are both cost-effective and more sustainable. This approach also addresses the unpredictability of supply chains for rare earth materials, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although this technology is still in the research and development phase, the potential to transform the motor industry and make electric vehicles (EVs) more environmentally friendly is significant.
Partnerships & Expansion
EcoZen recognises that entering the electric mobility sector requires a learning curve and strategic partnerships. The company has been working with partners like Volektra, which shares a similar vision for sustainable mobility. This collaboration aims to develop magnet-less motors and bring them to market, adding another layer to EcoZen's expertise in motor controls.
EcoZen’s strategy involves leveraging its core competencies in motor controls and thermal energy storage to create value across sectors. While the company is currently testing and developing its e-bike technology, it is also looking at broader applications for its motor control technology, including refrigeration in last-mile mobility solutions.
Future Of E-Mobility
EcoZen is not just focused on e-mobility; it is expanding its technology stack in multiple directions. The company envisions scaling up its thermal energy storage technology for various cooling applications, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. This technology uses materials like copper, aluminium, and plastics, which have a longer lifespan and lower cost compared to lithium-ion batteries.
In terms of motor controls, EcoZen aims to penetrate rural areas by providing sustainable motor control solutions for various applications.
The company's expertise in the Internet of Things (IoT) and analytics also allows it to offer predictive maintenance and health diagnostics for motors, further enhancing the value proposition for its customers.
EcoZen operates several facilities, including manufacturing campuses and corporate offices. The company follows an assembly-line approach similar to that of automotive manufacturers, focusing on assembling rather than hardcore manufacturing processes like cutting and welding. This model allows EcoZen to maintain cost leadership and competitive pricing. While exports currently constitute around 10% of the company’s revenue, this is an area that EcoZen aims to scale in the future.
India's EV Landscape
Vivek Pandey expresses optimism about the EV landscape in India, acknowledging the government's role in promoting electric mobility. While he believes that commercial applications and public transportation are the most viable sectors for EV adoption, he sees a gradual shift in the personal vehicle segment as well. Pandey emphasises the importance of a healthy mix of hybrid and pure electric vehicles to accommodate the country's infrastructure and market growth.