In the bustling landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), few stories resonate with the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurial zest as vividly as Vivek Shettigar’s journey to co-founding Virtus Motors. As the CTO of Virtus Motors, Shettigar’s narrative is not just about technological triumphs but also about the relentless pursuit of sustainable mobility solutions. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the facets of Shettigar’s life, tracing his steps from an eager student of automotive engineering to a visionary leader in the EV industry.
The Educational Foundation
Vivek’s academic journey began at Brunel University, London, where he pursued a Master’s in Automotive & Motorsports Engineering. This period was crucial, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. His time at Brunel wasn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it was about challenging conventions and dreaming big.
Post-graduation, with 3-4 years of industry experience in design and development within the automotive sector, Vivek was poised for something greater. The seeds for Virtus Motors were sown during these formative years, driven by his passion for efficient design and manufacturing processes, particularly in the realm of two-wheelers.
Before Virtus Motors became a reality, Vivek’s career was marked by significant milestones that shaped his path. His projects on developing pedal-powered vehicles for last-mile delivery were not just engineering feats but a testament to his vision for low-carbon, affordable transportation solutions. These experiences underscored the importance of sustainability and efficiency in mobility solutions, principles that would later become the cornerstone of Virtus Motors.
Leading Virtus Motors to New Horizons
As the CTO and Co-founder of Virtus Motors, Vivek’s role is as dynamic as the industry he is a part of. From spearheading technology strategy and product development to championing innovation in design and ensuring regulatory compliance, his leadership has been instrumental in steering the company through the evolving landscapes of the electric vehicle industry. His hands-on experience in prototyping, testing electric vehicle components, and a keen understanding of market trends have fueled Virtus Motors’ growth and innovation.
Vivek’s skills in technical writing and reverse engineering have played pivotal roles in Virtus Motors’ successes. Through effective technical communication and leveraging insights from reverse engineering, Virtus Motors has excelled in product development, quality assurance, and customer satisfaction. These skills have not only facilitated problem-solving and innovation but have also ensured that the company remains competitive in the fast-paced EV market.
A Vision for Global Mobility
Virtus Motors’ ambition extends beyond the Indian market, aiming to position itself as a global leader in electric mobility. With a focus on design excellence, performance innovation, and safety leadership, Virtus Motors is on a quest to redefine electric two-wheelers for global consumers. Vivek’s leadership is crucial in navigating this journey, as he focuses on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability to drive the company’s expansion and product diversification.
Vivek’s leadership style embodies innovation, creativity, and a forward-looking vision. By fostering a culture that values risk-taking, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration, he ensures that Virtus Motors stays at the forefront of emerging technologies.
The Personal Touch
Behind the technological advancements and strategic decisions is Vivek’s personal story of support, balance, and passion. Hailing from Mumbai, his family, particularly his mother, a retired teacher, has been a source of unwavering support and inspiration.
Vivek credits his family’s emotional, financial, and professional support as fundamental to his journey. Despite the demands of his role, he has mastered the art of work-life balance, integrating effective time management, clear communication, and self-care into his routine.
Recognitions and Aspirations
Vivek Shettigar’s journey with Virtus Motors has been marked by notable recognitions and awards that underscore his and the company’s contributions to the electric vehicle industry. Here is a detailed list of the awards and recognitions they have received:
- Individual Patent for a Multi-Person-Powered Cargo/Passenger Carrier Vehicle
- Work on GT2014 – 27119: Vivek contributed to the study on “Materials Selection for Variable Geometry Turbine Nozzle for Gasoline Engine Application,” which was presented at the ASME Turbo Expo 2014 in Dusseldorf, Germany.
- “Star Electric Cycle of the Year 2023” Award: Presented by Franchise India, this award recognizes Virtus Motors’ excellence in the electric cycle category, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and quality in electric mobility
- Nominated by Times Edex South Asia’s 40Under40
- “Start-Up of the Year 2017” Award: Awarded by Bizz Up Start-Up Awards
The Creative Mind Behind the Innovator
Vivek finds solace and inspiration in the art of hand sketching and concept generation. This hobby is more than a pastime; it’s a conduit for his creativity, allowing him to translate abstract ideas into tangible visual representations. The act of bringing thoughts to life on paper not only fuels his imagination but also enhances his problem-solving skills.
He is particularly drawn to literature that deepens his understanding of automotive engineering and race car dynamics. “Race Car Vehicle Dynamics” by William F. Millikens stands out as a book that has had a lasting impact on him.
A Call to Future Innovators
Vivek’s advice to aspiring professionals in the EV industry is a blend of encouragement and practical guidance. Emphasizing the importance of a solid foundation in EV technology, continuous learning, and industry engagement, he advocates for a proactive and passionate approach to making a mark in this dynamic sector.
Vivek Shettigar‘s journey with Virtus Motors is a narrative of innovation, sustainability, and leadership. His story is not just about the success of Virtus Motors but about the potential of electric mobility to transform our world.
