Ola, originally known for its popular ride-hailing service, is now a key player driving India’s clean mobility revolution. Founded in 2010 by Bhavish Aggarwal and Ankit Bhati, Ola started as an app-based platform connecting passengers to taxi drivers in major Indian cities. Over the years, it grew rapidly, challenging established international companies and making transportation affordable and convenient for millions.
Around 2017, with growing concerns about pollution and sustainability, Ola shifted focus toward electric vehicles (EVs). Under the leadership of Bhavish Aggarwal, it boldly entered the EV market, not only making electric scooters but also pioneering battery manufacturing and technology development in India. This transition from ride-hailing to clean mobility represents Ola’s vision to lead India’s journey toward a greener future.
Early Ride-Hailing Success
Ola’s initial goal was to simplify urban transport. Its easy-to-use mobile app, widespread driver network, and affordable pricing helped Ola capture a huge market share in India's cities, rapidly expanding across the country. By 2023, Ola was among India’s top ride-hailing companies, offering cars, auto-rickshaws, and bike taxis.
The Shift to Electric Vehicles
Seeing India’s urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and pollution, Ola launched Ola Electric as a separate company focused on electric two-wheelers. The vision was to make electric mobility affordable and accessible to ordinary Indians.
Ola Electric built the Future Factory, one of the world’s largest electric scooter manufacturing plants located in Tamil Nadu. Its first product, the Ola S1 scooter series, became popular for its modern features, affordability, and environmental benefits.
Battery Manufacturing: A Strategic Move
To reduce India’s dependency on imported lithium-ion batteries, Ola began investing heavily in its own battery manufacturing capabilities. The company developed the 4680 Bharat Cell, India’s first indigenously designed lithium-ion battery cell, named for its size and innovation on Tesla’s 4680 format. These batteries promise longer range, faster charging, and better durability.
Ola also created India’s first rare-earth-free ferrite motor, reducing reliance on expensive imported materials, making electric vehicles more sustainable and affordable.
MoveOS and AI-Driven Technology
Ola introduced MoveOS, its in-house operating system for EVs, powered by AI. This software enables smart vehicle control, predictive maintenance, adaptive driving modes, voice commands, and safety features. It helps Ola vehicles stay efficient and user-friendly.
Government and Industry Partnerships
Ola joined hands with India's Ministry of Heavy Industries under the PLI Advanced Chemistry Cell scheme to boost local EV battery production, reducing costs and encouraging global competitiveness. This partnership supports India’s goal of becoming a leader in clean energy and electric mobility.
Market Position and Sales
As of early 2025, Ola Electric held about a 32% market share in electric two-wheelers in India, with over 350,000 units sold in FY2024. While facing competition from companies like TVS and Bajaj, Ola continues to innovate and expand its product line.
Despite some sales declines due to market competition and customer preferences, Ola remains a key player with aggressive plans to grow new models and EV segments beyond scooters, including electric motorcycles and three-wheelers.
Social and Economic Impact
Ola's transition to EVs is not only about business growth but also about creating jobs and promoting sustainable living. Its factories employ thousands, many women, and focus on “India Inside” — using local materials and technology to boost the Indian economy.
Future Vision
Ola aims to become the Tesla of India by developing a full ecosystem of electric vehicles, batteries, software, and charging infrastructure. Plans include launching over 20 new EV models and scaling battery production rapidly to meet increasing demand and reduce India’s carbon footprint.
Conclusion
Ola’s journey from a ride-hailing app to an electric vehicle leader highlights its commitment to innovation and sustainability. By pushing clean mobility, battery technology, and AI-powered EVs, Ola is driving India's green revolution, making transportation cleaner, cheaper, and smarter for millions.