Gurgaon-based startup awarded $120,000 for innovative hydrogen retro-fitment kit

AHODS technologies won ‘Uber Sustainovate’ challenge, the competition, in partnership with Startup India and Nasscom AI.

Uber announced Thursday the winner of its Startup Challenge, ‘Uber Sustainovate’, which sought innovative solutions to accelerate the adoption of sustainable mobility in India. AHODS Technologies, based in Gurgaon, was awarded the grand prize of $120,000 (~ ₹ 1 crore) for its on-demand hydrogen retro-fitment kit, designed to contribute to India’s sustainability objectives. The $120,000 winner’s check was presented to AHODS Technologies by MB Patil, Minister of Industries, Government of Karnataka.

Speaking at the occasion Minister MB Patil said “Uber Sustinovate is not just an event; it is a medium of hope and a testament to the possibilities that lie ahead in our journey toward a greener future. The challenge laid out today—to find the most innovative solutions that steer us towards zero tailpipe emissions—is critical. It mirrors our own aspirations within Karnataka and, by extension, India, to cultivate a landscape where sustainable mobility is not just an option but a way of life”.

The competition, in partnership with Startup India and Nasscom AI, was designed to award startups that produced the best workable ideas that would help accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility in the country. The top 3 companies will receive mentorship from Uber India’s tech leadership on best practices, innovation, and scaling.

Commenting on the startup challenge, Manikandan Thangarathnam, Senior Director of Engineering, and Head of the Bangalore Tech Center, Uber said, “We saw a whole host of bright and futuristic ideas from over 140 startups from all parts of the country. It’s extremely encouraging to see Indian startups lead innovation globally in terms of sustainable mobility, and we’re glad to be able to support them in their endeavour. This goes with our vision and mission to have net-zero emissions by 2040 globally.”

Pune-based Govidyouth Mobility Pvt Ltd secured second place with its innovative EV range extender, while Gurgaon-based Metz Energy Pvt Ltd’s e-trike (tricycle) featuring a dedicated loading bay was ranked third for its contribution to sustainable mobility. Uber Sustainovate attracted applications from over 140 startups across the country, subjecting them to three rigorous jury rounds where founders tackled questions pertaining to their vision, profitability, practicality, and the uniqueness of their solutions, among others.

As the foremost ridesharing company, Uber is dedicated to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 and has consistently collaborated with governments, partners, think tanks and other stakeholders to address global sustainability challenges. Uber Sustainovate was conceived to foster an ecosystem where startups are incentivised to develop sustainable solutions, providing a platform for visionary startups eager to translate their ambitions into action.

Uber has undertaken several initiatives over the years to move towards net-zero emissions, including placing India’s largest-ever EV order with Tata Motors for 25,000 Xpres-T compact sedans to be delivered by 2025. Additionally, Uber has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with EV financing and charging infrastructure companies.