AutoNxt Automation is one of the emerging players in India’s electric mobility landscape, focused on developing smart, electric solutions for agriculture and industrial applications. At the center of its offerings is the X45H2 electric tractor, equipped with a 32KW motor and a 35KWh swappable smart battery capable of providing 8 to 10 hours of operation. Designed to endure rugged, high-torque conditions, the tractor also includes features like automated steering, hydraulics, and crop health analysis, positioning it for varied use cases across sectors.
Beyond agriculture, the company is targeting sectors like metal manufacturing, cement, and construction, where its electric tractors are being positioned for applications such as material handling, intra-site logistics, and equipment transport. The focus is on enhancing operational efficiency while reducing carbon emissions in traditionally fuel-intensive industries.
On the energy front, AutoNxt is exploring advanced technologies like solid-state batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and solar-assisted charging. Second-life battery applications for rural electrification and microgrid support are also under development. The company is building rural charging infrastructure through battery swapping stations and renewable-powered chargers.
With localized manufacturing of key components, AutoNxt supports India’s Make-in-India initiative and contributes to the EV goals under the FAME II policy. Its approach to sustainability also includes end-of-life battery recycling and circular economy practices.
Looking ahead, it plans to expand into autonomous farming equipment, electric cargo vehicles, and hybrid energy solutions, while continuing collaborative R&D efforts with academic institutions, startups, and industry players.
In a recent interview, Rashmi interacted Kaustubh Dhonde, Founder and CEO, AutoNxt Automation in which she discussed Electric Mobility, Rural Electrification, Battery Swapping & Recycling, Green Energy Technologies, and Customization & Industrial Applications etc.
1. Expansion into Green Energy Sources & Advanced Battery Technologies
AutoNxt is driving innovation beyond conventional zero-emission mobility by exploring next-gen energy solutions. We are actively investing in:
● Solid-state battery technology for higher energy density and safety.
● Hydrogen fuel cells to expand the range and utility of EVs in commercial and off-grid applications.
● Second-life battery applications for rural electrification and grid stabilization.
In addition, we are researching solar-assisted charging and renewable integration to reduce reliance on traditional infrastructure and promote energy independence.
2. Strategies to Promote EV Adoption in Rural Areas
To accelerate the shift to electric mobility in India’s rural sectors, particularly for agricultural and utility vehicles, AutoNxt is focusing on:
● Financial Incentives: Partnering with government bodies and banks to offer subsidies, low-interest loans, and lease-to-own options.
● Demonstration Campaigns: On-ground demos, training sessions, and performance showcases to highlight the cost efficiency, power, and low maintenance of EVs.
● After-Sales Support: A robust rural service network with mobile maintenance units and local technician training.
3. X45H2 Electric Tractor vs Diesel Alternatives
In diverse agricultural settings, the X45H2 electric tractor consistently outperforms diesel models through:
● Instant High Torque Delivery: Ideal for heavy-duty tasks without the need for high RPM buildup.
● Up to 70% Lower Operational Costs: Dramatic savings on fuel and maintenance.
● Battery Endurance: Capable of 8–10 hours of continuous use per charge, with a lifespan of 3000+ cycles.
4. Charging Infrastructure for Rural & Remote Locations
AutoNxt is creating a decentralized, sustainable charging ecosystem through:
● Battery Swapping Stations: Reducing downtime for EVs with quick-swap capabilities.
● Solar-Powered Chargers: Standalone, renewable charging stations for off-grid regions.
● FPO & Agri-Tech Collaborations: Establishing rural EV charging hubs via farmer producer organizations and tech enablers.
5. Customization for Industrial Applications
AutoNxt’s EVs are built to adapt across sectors such as defense, logistics, airports, and bioenergy through:
● Specialized Attachments: Towing units, armored builds, and biomass carriers.
● AI & IoT Integration: Advanced fleet monitoring, diagnostics, and predictive maintenance.
● High-Endurance Variants: Custom EV models with extended battery capacity for continuous operations.
6. Addressing Upfront Cost & Awareness Barriers
To overcome common EV adoption hurdles, AutoNxt is implementing:
● Rental & Subscription Plans: Lowering the barrier to entry for individuals and cooperatives.
● Collaborations with Agri-Coops & Panchayats: Promoting shared ownership models.
● Buyback Assurances & Extended Warranties: De-risking investment in EV technology.
7. Future Product Line Expansion
AutoNxt’s roadmap goes beyond tractors, envisioning a full spectrum of electric mobility solutions:
● Electric Cargo Vehicles: For intra-village logistics and farm-to-market deliveries.
● Autonomous Farming Equipment: Powered by AI for enhanced precision agriculture.
● Hybrid Energy Solutions: Merging solar and hydrogen for high-efficiency operations in remote and industrial areas.
8. Fostering Innovation through Collaboration
Innovation is at the core of AutoNxt’s DNA:
● Dedicated R&D Partnerships: Collaborating with IITs, research labs, and global think tanks.
● Cross-Functional Innovation Programs: Internal hackathons and product sprints to ideate scalable solutions.
● Startup & Tech Collaborations: Co-creating with AI/ML firms, agri-tech disruptors, and energy solution providers.
9. Role in India’s Electric Mobility Mission
AutoNxt is deeply aligned with India’s FAME II and Make-in-India initiatives by:
●Localized Production: Manufacturing key components like motors, controllers, and battery packs domestically.
● Policy Advocacy: Working with regulatory bodies to expand EV penetration in agriculture and rural mobility.
● Rural Electrification: Supporting sustainable development through clean energy-based transport solutions.
10. Battery Recyclability & Circular Economy Practices
AutoNxt ensures a sustainable battery lifecycle through:
● End-of-Life Battery Management: Partnering with recyclers to recover critical minerals like lithium and cobalt.
● Second-Life Applications: Repurposing used EV batteries for microgrid and home energy storage.
● Eco-Conscious Manufacturing: Emphasizing low-carbon processes, recycled materials, and minimal waste practices.