Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Founder and CEO, Kinetic Green
My Journey
I have been part of the Indian automotive industry for quite some time, a sector that has traditionally been male-dominated not just in India but globally. When I joined the industry in 1996, the absence of women in core manufacturing and R&D roles was evident even basic infrastructure, like women’s restrooms in factory areas, was missing.
Over the years, however, there has been a significant shift in the industry’s approach to gender diversity and inclusion. The auto sector, especially manufacturing, has gradually recognised the importance of equitable employment, diversity, and governance. Companies have started to view gender parity not just as a corporate responsibility but as a strategy for better decision-making, talent acquisition, and business growth. However, a lot more needs to be done, particularly in integrating women into core automotive engineering, R&D, and shop-floor roles.
My Achievements
One of the biggest opportunities for change has come with the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Unlike traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs rely more on electronics, software, and simplified assembly processes, making them an ideal avenue for bringing more women into the industry. In our company, Kinetic Green, we have made significant strides in this regard moving from 0 percent women in manufacturing roles to 40 percent women on the EV shop floor, with a goal to reach 50 percent within the next 12 months. We have also introduced an ambitious initiative called ‘The World in a Room’, aimed at achieving 50 percent women representation across various roles, including senior management. Additionally, I am actively engaged in FICCI’s National Green Mobility Committee, where we work towards industry-wide skilling initiatives for women in EV manufacturing ensuring that women are trained and integrated into the evolving automotive ecosystem.
My Inspiration
I was drawn to the automotive industry because of my deep-rooted passion for business and innovation, as well as my family’s strong legacy in mobility. Growing up in an environment where engineering and mobility solutions were at the core of discussions, I developed a keen interest in the sector from an early age. When I returned to India in 1996 after completing my education and corporate stint in the U.S., I saw a tremendous opportunity to contribute to the industry, particularly in areas of design, manufacturing, and innovation.
The decision to join the family business was also driven by my belief in the transformative power of mobility and how it enables people, businesses, and economies to grow. Over the years, as I navigated this largely male-dominated industry, I became increasingly aware of the need for diversity and inclusion, particularly in manufacturing and R&D roles. This realization further fueled my commitment to not just being a part of the industry but also driving meaningful change within it.
Today, with the rapid shift toward electric mobility, I see an even greater opportunity to redefine the sector and make it more inclusive. The EV revolution is not just about sustainability, it is also a chance to reshape workforce dynamics, introduce more women into core engineering and manufacturing roles, and build a future-ready ecosystem. My journey in this industry has been about breaking barriers, embracing innovation, and working toward a vision where India leads the way in green, sustainable, and inclusive mobility.
Challenges as a Woman Leader & How I Overcame Them
As a woman leader in the traditionally male-dominated manufacturing and automotive sectors, I have encountered several challenges, including the lack of infrastructure and representation for women in core areas such as R&D and shop floors. Overcoming these challenges required a conscious effort to drive change, advocate for gender diversity, and create opportunities for women in the industry. Over the years, there has been growing awareness of a need for a transformative shift for higher women participation in the automotive sector and in the manufacturing sector in general. This is also necessitated by India’s global growth ambitions, where manufacturing is required and projected to grow 16 times over the next few years. This will clearly not be possible unless there is a higher participation of women in the workforce, to contribute to the talent required to enable this growth.
A major turning point has been the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), which have shifted the focus from mechanical processes to electronics and software, making it easier to integrate women into key roles. Our group company specializing in electronic components and EV power electronics, Kinetic Communications Limited, already boasts of 100 percent women on the shop floor while another group company making EV motors, Kinetic Electric Motors Limited, has close to 80 percent women on the shop floor. At Kinetic Green, we now have 30 percent women on our assembly lines and we have taken a target to grow this to 50 percent by 2025, with an aim to have 100 percent women-staffed E-Luna assembly line. This transformation has been achieved through skilling initiatives, diversity programs, and an industry-wide push to create more inclusive workspaces. While progress is evident, much more needs to be done to ensure gender neutrality in manufacturing. I believe that bringing more women into this sector is not just about equality, but a necessity for India’s growth, as a diverse workforce leads to better decision-making and enhanced productivity.
Future of Sustainable Mobility & Women’s Role
The future of sustainable mobility and energy is rapidly evolving, driven by the urgent need for eco-friendly solutions, smart technologies, and efficient energy management. The integration of AI, IoT, and big data is optimising energy consumption, enhancing vehicle performance, and improving user experience. Governments worldwide are accelerating the transition by expanding charging infrastructure, offering incentives for EV adoption, and enforcing stringent emission norms. The future of transportation is undeniably electric, and at Kinetic Green, we are at the forefront of this transformation. Our mission is to provide green mobility to the masses, making electric vehicles accessible and affordable for all. Women play a pivotal role in this green revolution. At Kinetic Green, we have implemented several initiatives to empower women within our organization and the broader community. Our ‘World in A Room’ initiative at our Supa plant in Pune showcases our dedication to diversity through community engagement, plant-level initiatives, and leadership development. Programs like SheRise and SkillHer empower women with internships and specialized training, fostering their growth in the EV industry. Notably, we have established a 100 percent women-led assembly line for our E-Luna vehicle, exemplifying our commitment to gender equality and innovation in manufacturing.
The emergence of electric vehicles is a game-changer, not just for sustainability but for inclusivity in the workforce. The EV revolution inherently demands new skills and innovative thinking, creating unprecedented opportunities for women in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. As EVs redefine mobility, they also redefine who drives the industry forward, and I firmly believe women will be at the forefront of this revolution.
In conclusion, the future of sustainable mobility and energy is bright, and women are integral to this transformation. At Kinetic Green, we are proud to lead this change, fostering an inclusive environment where innovation thrives, and sustainable solutions become a reality for all.
Advice to Young Women in Sustainability & E-Mobility
My advice to young women aspiring to enter sustainability, e-mobility, storage, and renewable energy is to embrace continuous learning and seize every opportunity to innovate. Here are a few thoughts from my personal journey:
- Invest in your knowledge and skills
The renewable energy and e-mobility sectors are evolving rapidly. I urge women to pursue both formal education and hands-on experiences. Stay updated with the latest technologies and industry trends, because a solid technical foundation is key to driving sustainable change.
- Seek mentorship and build a support network
Surround yourself with mentors and peers who can guide you. In our industry, collaboration and knowledge-sharing are crucial. I have seen firsthand how mentorship can accelerate personal and professional growth. Don’t hesitate to reach out to established professionals as they can offer insights and open doors to new opportunities.
- Be bold and innovative
Innovation is at the heart of sustainable solutions. At Kinetic Green, we believe in challenging the status quo. I encourage people to think creatively, experiment with new ideas, and never be afraid of failure. Every setback is a learning opportunity that will ultimately make you stronger and more resilient.
- Embrace new opportunities
Women can have a pivotal role in transforming the future of energy and mobility. And there are new opportunities in these new upcoming sectors that you can grab. Electric vehicles will shake up the industry, with more electrical and electronic parts, with more software-led innovation and with an easier ‘asset-light’ manufacturing eco-system. The electric vehicle sector also will create demand for new talent with these new skills and I think women must grab this opportunity to lead the way in this EV transition. They can take up operating and leadership roles in the EV sector and I anticipate that the percentage of women in the auto industry can rise dramatically with this. At Kinetic Green, initiatives like our 100 percent women-led assembly line for the E-Luna vehicle exemplify our commitment to female empowerment.
- Stay passionate and work hard
Your passion is what will drive you forward. Don’t expect to be treated differently and work as hard as your counterparts and colleagues, if you want to progress as fast! There is no shortcut to hardwork and dedication.
For me, every day is a chance to drive change towards a greener future. By empowering yourself with knowledge, seeking guidance, embracing innovation, and taking on leadership roles, you can not only advance your own career but also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.