At a recent Delhi tech roundtable, MATTER introduced its AI-Defined Vehicle (AI.DV) concept, illustrating how centralised intelligence will replace traditional hardware-focused EV development. This software-driven vision was showcased through the MATTER AERA, India’s first geared electric motorcycle, paving the way for the startup’s expansion into smarter, continuously evolving two-wheelers.
As the Indian automotive sector accelerates its transition toward electrification, Ahmedabad-based mobility startup MATTER has highlighted the important shift from mechanically engineered machines to intelligent, software-driven platforms.
Founder and Group CEO of MATTER, Mohal Lalbhai, presented this innovative approach at a closed-door leadership roundtable in the national capital, themed “Managing Digital Transformation in the Evolving Tech Era. The discussion took place between the company’s leadership and several founders, chief technology officers, and senior automotive executives of the industry to chart the future of software-led vehicle development.
The Core of the Vision: Ai-Defined Vehicles (AI.DV)
Mohal Lalbhai argues that the next big shift in the industry is about software instead of traditional hardware. At the core of this vision is MATTER’s proprietary concept, called AI-Defined Vehicles (AI.DV), which puts a central computer at the heart of the bike, tying together sensors, software, and mechanical parts in one smart system.
According to Lalbhai, embedding intelligence at the computing layer unlocks some big advantages. Firstly, this allows continuous over-the-air updates, ensuring the vehicles are updated remotely over time. Additionally, this also significantly reduces hardware complexity, allowing manufacturers to unlock new, data-led revenue streams long after the initial purchase.
MATTER AERA: Putting the Philosophy in Practice
The practical application of this philosophy was demonstrated through MATTER’s flagship product, AERA. The MATTER AERA holds the distinction of being India’s first geared electric motorcycle. Lalbhai noted that the MATTER AERA was developed using a first-principles engineering approach, ensuring that robust hardware forms a stable foundation before layering advanced software capabilities. Moreover, the company builds everything in-house, from motors and transmissions to battery systems and connected tech. This vertically integrated strategy drew significant interest from the attending industry experts.
Future Roadmap for MATTER
This roundtable presentation aligns closely with MATTER’s broader strategic roadmap, recently unveiled during its Technology Day 3.0 event earlier this year. The company has already committed to an aggressive expansion strategy, leveraging its AI.DV architecture to launch five new electric two-wheelers, including four motorcycles and one scooter, over the next three to four years. Furthermore, MATTER is advancing sustainable manufacturing by developing next-generation rare-earth-free electric motors, signalling a shift toward supply chain resilience and environmental consciousness.
Looking forward, MATTER believes digital tools and data will transform how vehicles work, with bikes that learn your riding style, adjust on the fly, and flag maintenance issues before they become problems. In short, owning an EV is set to get a lot smarter.
