New Delhi: Nehal Gupta’s journey from studying at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business to starting AMU Leasing Pvt. Ltd. (AMU) is an inspiring story of vision and action. At Kelley, she learned about business management, finance, and strategic planning, which prepared her for her entrepreneurial venture. Her research led her to recognize the electric vehicle (EV) industry in India as a promising area for growth due to its cost savings, environmental benefits, and positive impact on the economy.
Gupta noticed that many people and small businesses were struggling to find financial solutions to buy EVs. Traditional financing options were often not available or hard to access. To address this problem, she founded AMU Leasing Pvt. Ltd. to provide financial services specifically for the EV market, helping both individual consumers and businesses.
Why Enter the NBFC Sector?
Gupta was motivated to enter the Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) sector because she wanted to fill important gaps in financial services, especially for those who were underserved. Her business studies gave her the skills to spot growth opportunities, and she saw that the EV industry had great potential but lacked accessible financing. By starting an NBFC focused on EVs, Gupta aimed to make it easier for people to buy electric vehicles and support sustainable development.
Supporting Underserved Sectors
AMU’s mission to support sectors that lack access to formal credit comes from Gupta’s understanding of financial barriers. Many small businesses and individuals found it hard to get traditional loans for EVs. AMU’s goal is to help these people by offering specialized financial products like loans for EV purchases, battery services, and retrofitting. Initiatives like SEWA (Self Employed Women’s Association) and EV Replay, which deals in second-hand e-rickshaws, show AMU’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainability.
Reaching the One Million EV Target
To meet the ambitious target of financing or leasing over one million EVs by 2030, AMU is taking several key steps. These include offering a range of financial products, partnering with major EV manufacturers, expanding their reach across India, and supporting social initiatives to make EVs more affordable. Advanced technology and a growing team also play a crucial role in achieving this goal.
Contributing to India’s Green Energy Goals
AMU supports India’s Green Energy goals by making it easier for people to adopt EVs through accessible financing. The company’s efforts help reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner air. By aiming to finance or lease over one million EVs by 2030, AMU is contributing to India’s environmental and energy efficiency targets.
Key Factors in AMU’s Success
AMU’s success under Gupta’s leadership can be attributed to several factors: a clear vision, innovative financial products, strong partnerships, expanding market presence, and a focus on social impact. The company also stays true to its core values of honesty, fairness, and sustainability, ensuring that growth aligns with these principles.
Overcoming Challenges
AMU faced several challenges in becoming a leader in EV financing, including entering a competitive market, building customer trust, and making financing accessible. Gupta addressed these challenges by forming strategic partnerships, maintaining transparency, offering inclusive financial products, and navigating regulatory requirements effectively.
Shaping EV Financing Policy
As a director of the Electric Mobility Financiers Association of India (EMFAI), Gupta plays a key role in shaping the future of EV financing in India. She works with policymakers to advocate for supportive regulations, promote industry standards, improve financial inclusion, encourage innovation, and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
Introducing New Technologies
AMU is also working on new technologies to support India’s renewable energy goals. Plans include developing financial products for solar-powered EV charging stations, integrating green asset financing, and using advanced technologies like blockchain and AI to improve their services.
Nehal Gupta’s journey from Kelley School of Business to revolutionizing EV financing in India showcases her dedication and strategic vision. Through AMU Leasing Pvt. Ltd., she is making a significant impact on the electric vehicle market, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for India.
