Ex-Mahindra design head Ramkripa Ananthan creates micro EV concept

The design veteran has set up her own studio, Krux Studio and created a small EV prototype that uses upcycled materials and is targeted at last-mile connectivity. Hormazd Sorabjee speaks to her about the concept vehicle, Two2 targetted primarily for the last mile connectivity.

- Hormazd Sorabjee

As the former Head of Design at Mahindra & Mahindra, Ramkripa Ananthan is known to have led the team that designed the Mahindra XUV500, XUV300, Marazzo, Thar and XUV700. She also contributed in designing the Bolero and Scorpio. After leaving Mahindra last year, Ananthan branched out to set up her own design studio, Krux Studio and she's now created a concept electric vehicle, Two2.

Tell us something about the concept car that you have created.

Today's customers seek sustainable options. Manufacturers want to be environmentally and socially responsible and refurbishers have access to millions of end-of-life vehicles (ELVS). The concept, which we have created at Krux Studio,is an exciting solution which connects these three stakeholders.

The concept is an electric, micro, mobility vehicle, and has a very small footprint. We have made a working prototype to showcase the firstand last-mile mobility experience of this concept. And being really small and light, it can have more range even with a smaller battery.

What is very interesting is that 20 percent of the vehicle is made of upcycled parts - parts which have been recycled and used differently. I have used (and upcycled) door assemblies, plastic housings, wheel housings, the front bumper, the steering wheel, headlamps and taillamps - basically anything that is plastic and will become part of a landfill. The prototype is completely enclosed because I am usingan existing door. The only thing is that I used a surrogate (chassis), so it's slightly bigger than what I planned. I started work on the concept in December after I left Mahindra, and because I'm on my own, I could do it very quickly.

Who is the target audience for your vehicle concept?