Pixxel Makes History with NASA Contract - Indian Startup News 226

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00:00 Pixxel Becomes the First Indian Space Startup to Secure a NASA Contract
02:30 Ola to launch electric auto-rickshaw soon?
03:55 Ather Energy’s IPO and motorcycle launch
06:10 Uber relaunches premium Uber Black in India
07:18 Funding News

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Pixxel Becomes the First Indian Space Startup to Secure a NASA Contract

Pixxel has made history as the first Indian space startup to win a NASA contract. They will provide hyperspectral Earth observation data to NASA and the US government, leveraging their cutting-edge imaging technology. With the ability to capture ultra-detailed images across 250+ spectral bands, Pixxel's satellites offer real-time insights across industries like agriculture, climate monitoring, and resource management. NASA will use this data to track Earth's changing conditions. The contract, valued at $476 million, runs until November 2028. Pixxel is also planning to launch six more satellites soon, aiming for a full constellation of 24 satellites by 2025, capable of daily global monitoring. This marks a significant achievement for Indian spacetech!

Ola to launch electric auto-rickshaw soon?

Ola may soon launch its electric auto-rickshaw, tentatively named "Raahi," within the next few months. Although not confirmed, Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal retweeted a post discussing this new vehicle, hinting at the upcoming launch. The electric auto-rickshaw is expected to come in two variants—one for passengers and one for goods, targeting both the commuter and logistics sectors. Entering this market would allow Ola to tap into India's massive electric rickshaw segment, which sold around 580,000 units in 2023. However, Ola will face tough competition from established players like Mahindra, Piaggio, and Bajaj.

Ather Energy’s IPO and motorcycle launch

Ather Energy has filed for an IPO worth ₹4,500 crore. Despite reporting a loss of ₹1,060 crore in FY24, Ather remains optimistic, especially after launching the Ather Rizta—an affordable electric scooter aimed at a wider audience. The company also plans to use part of the IPO proceeds to build a new factory in Maharashtra, where they will manufacture next-gen scooters and electric motorcycles. With the upcoming launch of motorcycles built on the Zenith platform, Ather aims to challenge Ola Electric in the electric two-wheeler market.

Uber relaunches premium Uber Black in India

Uber is bringing back Uber Black in India, starting with Mumbai. This premium service offers high-end cars, top-rated drivers, and features like quiet mode, temperature control, and luggage assistance. Priced 30-40% higher than Uber Premier, Uber Black is aimed at corporate travelers and those seeking a luxurious ride experience. Will Uber succeed in relaunching this premium service? Only time will tell, but the market demand for high-end services could work in their favor.

Funding News

This week, Indian startups raised a total of $197 million. Here are the highlights:

InMobi (Bengaluru): Raised $100 million in debt financing
AppsForBharat (Bengaluru): Raised $18 million in a Series B round
Clean Electric (Pune): Raised $6 million for its proprietary rapid battery charging technology
Dharaksha Ecosolutions (Delhi): Raised $2.95 million for creating biodegradable packaging from crop waste
GameEon Studios (Mumbai): Raised $1 million

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