Interview with Pragya Goyal, CEO & Co-Founder of Vegh Automobiles, an e-vehicle start-up

An exclusive interview with Pragya Goyal, CEO & Co-Founder of Vegh Automobiles, e-vehicle manufacturer

In the dynamic realm of sustainable transportation, Ms. Pragya Goyal stands as a visionary leader, spearheading the charge towards a greener future. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Vegh Automobiles, a pioneering e-vehicle start-up, she has not only demonstrated a profound commitment to environmental stewardship but has also harnessed innovation to reshape the landscape of the automotive industry.

Ms. Goyal’s journey is one marked by resilience, ingenuity, and a relentless pursuit of a cleaner, more efficient mode of transportation. Today, we have the privilege of delving into her insights, experiences, and the transformative vision that propels Vegh Automobiles into the forefront of the electric mobility revolution.

Can you share the inspiration behind founding Vegh Automobiles, and what motivated you to enter the electric vehicle (EV) industry?

Pragya Goyal: The genesis of Vegh Automobiles can be traced back to a crucial insight gained during my earlier experiences. While leading a team in the design and construction of an All-Terrain Vehicle, it became apparent that two-wheelers constituted a staggering 90% of the Indian automobile segment.

This insight, together with the glaring gender gap I saw in production lines and boardrooms, strengthened my resolve to build something of my own. The solution was Vegh Automobiles, which combined my love of automobiles with a unique opportunity to close gaps in the market and contribute to the rapidly growing EV sector.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of e-vehicles, what unique value does Vegh Automobiles bring to the market, and how do you differentiate your products from others in the industry?

Pragya Goyal: Our unique value proposition lies in our commitment to inclusivity and bridging market divides. Recognising the segmented E2W market, Vegh focuses on delivering high-quality electric scooters tailored for both personal and last-mile delivery needs.

What sets us apart is our emphasis on establishing a robust aftersales network, particularly addressing the challenges in the commercial segment. We don’t just provide vehicles; we offer a comprehensive solution, ensuring that our products are not only innovative but also backed by a solid support system that can collectively elevate the overall customer experience.

As the Co-Founder and CEO, what challenges have you encountered in establishing and growing Vegh Automobiles, and how have you overcome them?

Pragya Goyal: The journey of establishing and growing Vegh has been riddled with challenges, as is typical in any emerging industry. One of the significant hurdles was the scarcity of qualified power electronics engineers crucial for EV development.

To tackle this, we have been initiating internship programs on regular basis to train a pool of engineers with understanding of the complexities of EV development. Collaborating with suppliers and gaining distributor trust posed additional challenges, but our dedication to refining products and nurturing strong dealer relations has been a critical aspect.

The constant feedback loop with dealers and a program focusing on retention and profitability have also played a crucial role in overcoming challenges and improving both product quality and relationships.

Sustainability is a key aspect of the electric vehicle movement. How does Vegh Automobiles prioritize environmental considerations in both product development and business operations?

Pragya Goyal: Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. In product development, our R&D team works hand-in-hand with suppliers to ensure our E2Ws meet the highest sustainability standards. But it’s not just about the products – we actively participate in government schemes and policies promoting EV adoption.

Our goal is to not only build environmentally friendly scooters but also contribute to the broader movement towards sustainable and green mobility. It’s about walking the talk in every aspect of our business operations.

Can you highlight any innovative features or technologies that set Vegh’s e-vehicles apart, contributing to the company’s success in the competitive EV market?

Pragya Goyal: Innovation is the name of the game! While I can’t spill all the beans on our ongoing projects, I can tell you this- we’re working on a product that addresses both delivery and passenger mobility needs.

Also, there are plans to develop commercial E3Ws for the L5 category, which will be about a couple of years ahead of what is in the market. Our focus is always on staying ahead of the curve with cutting-edge features that redefine urban mobility.

As a woman leader in the tech-driven automotive industry, have you faced any unique challenges, and what advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs looking to enter similar fields?

Pragya Goyal: Being the only woman in a group of 29 during a groundbreaking project was an eye-opener. The challenges were real, but so were the opportunities for growth as they fuelled my determination to make a difference. My advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs is simple – embrace challenges as stepping stones, not obstacles.

Your unique perspective is a strength, not a limitation. Take every opportunity to learn and grow, and remember, the automotive industry, like any other, benefits from diverse voices. Your voice matters, so let it be heard. Be resilient, be passionate, and let your vision drive you forward.

In the illuminating conversation with Ms. Pragya Goyal, it becomes abundantly clear that Vegh Automobiles is not merely a company but a manifestation of a bold, sustainable future. Ms. Goyal’s leadership has not only navigated the challenges of the burgeoning e-vehicle market but has actively shaped its trajectory.

As the CEO and Co-Founder, she exemplifies the fusion of passion and pragmatism required to drive change. The journey of Vegh Automobiles is one that echoes beyond boardrooms and workshops—it resonates with a global call for environmental responsibility and a commitment to innovation.

Ms. Pragya Goyal, with her unwavering dedication, has firmly positioned Vegh Automobiles at the intersection of innovation and sustainability, leaving an indelible mark on the future of mobility.

Read more Success stories of Indian entrepreneurs, Women Entrepreneurs & startups stories at SugerMint. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn