Latest news with #GuruPunghavan
Time of India
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Turning trash into energy
His father has helmed an aluminum die-casting MSME serving the automobiles and telecommunications sector for 25 years. When Guru took up management, he opted for forward-integration by making aluminium alloys. That's when he noticed the large volume of electronic waste being collected even by a metal recycling company. "This was a niche market which many people did not focus on. So we ventured into refining critical materials from electronic waste," he says. Starting with battery recycling , Boson is focused on building lithium-ion cells for drones, EVs and energy storage applications (ESS). It grinds, separates and purifies critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite and converts them into battery grade chemicals. Having studied mechatronics and conducted projects in electrochemistry in college helped. "We started these research projects in 2019 to develop refining technologies. Initially, we sold cathode and anode materials, then we focussed on battery cells, as each cell maker has unique needs, and there were limited opportunities," he said. The tech is well understood, but it is hard to execute and is also capital intensive, he adds. The startup has developed proprietary technology for refining and processing these materials, which make up around 35% weight of the battery cell. The trading of these materials drew intense scrutiny in the aftermath of recent geopolitical shifts, including China's export controls on battery and refining technologies that took effect in January. Currently India imports more than 80% of its cells and it predominantly comes from China. Boson Cell has built a facility for recovering critical minerals through a process known as black mass generation at Sriperumbudur, with an initial capacity of 0.8 gigawatt hours. "Currently, this serves up to 30% of our inputs, enabling us to focus on the primary business of building cells, but we plan to expand this capacity in the future," Guru Punghavan says. He also worked with South Korean companies to establish manufacturing lines, SoPs and clean rooms for cell manufacturing. Boson Cell has developed two cells for drones with nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry and is in the process of building four more cells and exploring different cell chemistries, including lithium iron phosphate (LFP). "There are discussions around curbs on rare earth material exports from China. While it does not affect us now, it has highlighted the risks in the battery supply chain. Recycling of e-waste and refining capabilities for lithium, cobalt and nickel are in nascent stage in India and it affects our cell production," he says. The company has raised $1.5 million from friends and family and plans to raise more capital for expanding its production capacity, specifically targeting EV cells. The startup has partnered with drone OEMs and is in talks with electric two and three wheeler OEMs for pilot projects. It is also expecting financial support from the Centre under the Fame II programme. Guru Punghavan believes the govt's targeted support for smaller battery cell manufactures could boost the ecosystem. The startup aims to build a one lakh cell a day production line by the next fiscal and it hopes to source 100% of its materials for the cells from inhouse recycling. The startup is betting on providing faster turnaround times and lower minimum order quantities to gain market share.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Turning trash into energy
S tanding beside mountains of metal scrap, Guru Punghavan believes India's energy security needs participation and research in battery technologies by companies of all sizes. He founded Boson Cell, which manufactures lithium-ion battery cells, using a portion of recycled materials. His father has helmed an aluminum die-casting MSME serving the automobiles and telecommunications sector for 25 years. When Guru took up management, he opted for forward-integration by making aluminium alloys. That's when he noticed the large volume of electronic waste being collected even by a metal recycling company. "This was a niche market which many people did not focus on. So we ventured into refining critical materials from electronic waste," he says. Starting with battery recycling, Boson is focused on building lithium-ion cells for drones, EVs and energy storage applications (ESS). It grinds, separates and purifies critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite and converts them into battery grade chemicals. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Why This $30 Non-Invasive Glucose Monitor Is Flying Off the Shelves ZAKDAVI Undo Having studied mechatronics and conducted projects in electrochemistry in college helped. "We started these research projects in 2019 to develop refining technologies. Initially, we sold cathode and anode materials, then we focussed on battery cells, as each cell maker has unique needs, and there were limited opportunities," he said. The tech is well understood, but it is hard to execute and is also capital intensive, he adds. You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai The startup has developed proprietary technology for refining and processing these materials, which make up around 35% weight of the battery cell. The trading of these materials drew intense scrutiny in the aftermath of recent geopolitical shifts, including China's export controls on battery and refining technologies that took effect in January. Currently India imports more than 80% of its cells and it predominantly comes from China. Boson Cell has built a facility for recovering critical minerals through a process known as black mass generation at Sriperumbudur, with an initial capacity of 0.8 gigawatt hours. "Currently, this serves up to 30% of our inputs, enabling us to focus on the primary business of building cells, but we plan to expand this capacity in the future," Guru Punghavan says. He also worked with South Korean companies to establish manufacturing lines, SoPs and clean rooms for cell manufacturing. Boson Cell has developed two cells for drones with nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry and is in the process of building four more cells and exploring different cell chemistries, including lithium iron phosphate (LFP). "There are discussions around curbs on rare earth material exports from China. While it does not affect us now, it has highlighted the risks in the battery supply chain. Recycling of e-waste and refining capabilities for lithium, cobalt and nickel are in nascent stage in India and it affects our cell production," he says. The company has raised $1.5 million from friends and family and plans to raise more capital for expanding its production capacity, specifically targeting EV cells. The startup has partnered with drone OEMs and is in talks with electric two and three wheeler OEMs for pilot projects. It is also expecting financial support from the Centre under the Fame II programme. Guru Punghavan believes the govt's targeted support for smaller battery cell manufactures could boost the ecosystem. The startup aims to build a one lakh cell a day production line by the next fiscal and it hopes to source 100% of its materials for the cells from inhouse recycling. The startup is betting on providing faster turnaround times and lower minimum order quantities to gain market share. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !
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Business Standard
06-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Boson Cell leads India's march towards sustainable energy storage solutions
Boson Cell, which claims to be the first indigenous lithium cell manufacturing company, has officially launched two new variants—high-performance, cost-effective energy cells: 18350 B-30A and 21700 B-50A. This supports the Prime Minister's clarion call towards making India an Atmanirbhar destination for multiple industries, ensuring that the country's journey towards energy self-reliance and sustainable use of renewable energy is no longer a distant reality. Boson Cell is now at the forefront of the country's rapidly evolving lithium ecosystem, which is set to redefine the way India is perceived by the global audience. With India's lithium-ion battery market projected to skyrocket to $9.56 billion by 2030, Boson Cell is expected to become a critical enabler in key industries—especially clean mobility, consumer electronics, renewable energy, and the rapidly expanding drone market. Supported by forward-looking government initiatives such as FAME II, the PLI Scheme, and the Drone Shakti programme, the demand for reliable, affordable, and locally sourced battery technology is at an all-time high. 'Boson is not just another cell manufacturer—it's a symbol of India's technological prowess in powering sustainable solutions to address the requirements of the burgeoning futuristic industry that are banking on renewable energy,' said Guru Punghavan, Chief Executive Officer, Boson Cell. 'We're not only replacing imports but building smarter, cleaner, and more scalable energy solutions that can power the future of every Indian household, enterprise, and innovation. The cells, manufactured in three variants—Economy, Advanced, and Extreme—can aid the multi-dimensional requirements of battery manufacturers as well as individuals with smaller-scale needs. Quality is at the heart of Boson's promise, with each lithium cell undergoing rigorous multi-stage testing to guarantee safety and superior performance. These cells are designed for wide compatibility, powering a diverse range of applications including electric vehicles, drones, solar energy systems, power tools, and more.' Boson Cell's expansion is timed to capitalise on India's drone sector boom, fuelled by applications in agriculture, defence, logistics, and infrastructure. The Indian drone market is expected to reach $13 billion by 2030, creating a surge in demand for lightweight, high-density, and durable lithium storage solutions. With increasing government support for local drone manufacturing and operational adoption across sectors, Boson's high-performance cells are uniquely positioned to become the backbone of this unmanned aerial revolution. Manufactured through a sustainable, eco-conscious process, each cell embodies the company's steadfast commitment to sustainability, safety, and scalability—ensuring products that are both reliable and responsible. Boson offers cells at a lower cost compared to imported alternatives. Alongside affordability, the company provides faster turnaround times, shorter lead times, and lower minimum order quantities (MOQs) for distributors, enhancing operational flexibility and supply chain efficiency. Currently, Boson's products are available across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh, distributed through electronics retailers, supermarkets, and local kirana stores. Online accessibility is ensured via partnerships with Amazon, Flipkart, and Boson's own direct-to-consumer e-commerce platform. Looking ahead, Boson Cell is targeting a pan-India presence through modern trade and organised retail channels by the end of 2025. The company also plans to deepen its engagement in strategic sectors such as drone technology, electric vehicle manufacturing, and clean energy integration. With its cutting-edge technology, commitment to local manufacturing, and industry-focused approach, Boson Cell is not only powering India today—it is shaping the country's energy future.
Entrepreneur
04-06-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Boson Cell Unveils Indigenous Lithium Cells for EVs and Drones
These indigenously developed lithium cells boast key advantages over conventional alternatives, including higher energy density, high discharge current, enhanced safety, and 1,000 recharge cycles—nearly three times the lifespan of typical Chinese imports. You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Boson Cell, a homegrown lithium-ion cell manufacturing company, has officially launched two new variants: 18350 B-30A and 21700 B-50A. Engineered for electric vehicles (EVs), drones, and renewable energy systems, the cells mark a pivotal moment in reducing India's dependency on imported battery technology, particularly from China. These indigenously developed lithium cells boast key advantages over conventional alternatives, including higher energy density, high discharge current, enhanced safety, and 1,000 recharge cycles—nearly three times the lifespan of typical Chinese imports. With a low minimum order quantity and no inventory carrying costs, Boson aims to empower both large manufacturers and small-scale innovators with greater supply chain flexibility and cost-efficiency. "Boson is not just another cell manufacturer—it's a symbol of India's technological prowess in powering sustainable solutions to address the requirements of the burgeoning futuristic industry that are looking for banking on renewable energy," said Guru Punghavan, CEO of Boson Cell. "We're not only replacing imports but building smarter, cleaner, and more scalable energy solutions that can power the future of every Indian household, enterprise, and innovation." Founded with a vision to build a cleaner energy future, Boson Cell integrates in-house R&D, proprietary recycling technology, and a scalable manufacturing ecosystem. The company offers lithium cells in three tailored categories—Economy, Advanced, and Extreme—to meet diverse user requirements from industrial clients to individual consumers. Each cell undergoes multi-stage testing to ensure maximum safety and quality. The new product line is strategically timed with India's booming drone sector, expected to reach USD 13 billion by 2030. Boson's lightweight, durable cells are uniquely suited for drone applications in agriculture, logistics, defence, and infrastructure. Currently available across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh via retailers and e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Boson's D2C portal, the company plans to expand pan-India by end-2025, cementing its role as a cornerstone of India's energy and tech ecosystem.
Time of India
04-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Boson cell unveils high-performance lithium-ion cells
Boson Cell , a lithium cell manufacturing company, on Wednesday announced that it has launched two high performance and cost-effective battery variants--18350 B-30A and 21700 B-50A--marking a significant stride in India's push for energy self-reliance The company claims its products outperform Chinese counterparts, offering up to 1000 recharge cycles compared to 350. 'We're not only replacing imports but building smarter, cleaner, and more scalable energy solutions that can power the future of every Indian household, enterprise, and innovation,' said Guru Punghavan, CEO of Boson Cell. 'The cells manufactured in three variants namely Economy, Advanced and Extreme can aid the multi-dimensional requirements of battery manufacturers as well as individuals who have a requirement in a smaller scale', he added. Boson Cell's expansion is strategically timed to capitalise on the Indian drone market, which is experiencing a boom driven by diverse applications across agriculture, defense, logistics, and infrastructure. Industry projections anticipate the Indian drone market to reach a staggering $13 billion by 2030, fueling a substantial demand for lightweight, high-density, and durable lithium battery solutions.
