Rakesh Gaonkar (Sarla Aviation)
Overview
Rakesh Gaonkar is a prominent figure in the aviation industry, currently serving as the Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Sarla Aviation, a startup focused on developing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Based in Bengaluru, India, Gaonkar has played a significant role in steering Sarla Aviation towards pioneering advancements in sustainable urban air mobility. Prior to co-founding Sarla Aviation, he held key positions at renowned companies like Lilium and BMW, contributing his expertise in product design and engineering.
Sarla Aviation, co-founded by Gaonkar in 2024, aims to revolutionize mass mobility in India by offering affordable, efficient air transportation solutions through innovative flying taxis. The company’s flagship product, the eVTOL named Shunya, has attracted significant attention for its potential to transform congested urban landscapes with eco-friendly travel options.
Recent Developments
- January 2025: Sarla Aviation secured $10 million in Series A1 funding, led by Accel with participation from prominent investors including Nikhil Kamath and Binny Bansal. The funding is designated for scaling operations, expanding the research and development center, and enhancing the team to advance the eVTOL prototype, Shunya.
- December 2024: Shunya's design and potential were highlighted at various industry expos, demonstrating its pivotal role in the future of urban mobility.
- November 2024: Sarla Aviation partnered with Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport, marking a significant collaboration to introduce flying taxi services aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in major Indian cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi.
- January 2024: Official incorporation of Sarla Aviation, co-founded by Adrian Schmidt, Rakesh Gaonkar, and Shivam Chauhan, to focus on air mobility solutions for India's increasingly congested urban areas.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rakesh Gaonkar |
| Born | Not Publicly Available |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Co-Founder and CTO of Sarla Aviation |
| Known For | Innovations in eVTOL technology |
| Net Worth | Not Publicly Available |
| Education | Master's in Product Design, Coventry University; Bachelor's in Production Engineering, Shivaji University |
Early Life and Education
Rakesh Gaonkar's early life details are not extensively documented. He pursued higher education in engineering, which laid the foundation for his future career in design and aviation technology. He completed his Bachelor's degree in Production Engineering from Shivaji University, and went on to earn a Master's degree in Product Design from Coventry University, sharpening his skills in mechanical design and innovation.
His educational journey not only equipped him with technical expertise but also fostered a sense of innovation, crucial for his later achievements in the aerospace sector. Gaonkar's academic background played a significant role in his professional success, where he seamlessly blended mechanical engineering principles with cutting-edge aviation design.
Career and Notable Achievements
Rakesh Gaonkar has amassed a wealth of experience in various high-tech and automotive sectors before venturing into aviation with Sarla Aviation.
- Dreiwelt (2021-2024): Co-directed the company, focusing on engineering innovations.
- Lilium (2018-2023): Led teams in loft design and development for eVTOL aircraft, significantly contributing to their market readiness.
- BMW and Audi: Engaged in advanced design projects, including the renowned BMW 4 Series, building a reputation for excellence in automotive design.
Gaonkar's stint at Lilium was particularly crucial, as it involved significant contributions to the development of electric aircraft, setting the stage for his current role at Sarla Aviation where he is shaping the future of air mobility in India.
Current Work and Impact
As the Co-Founder and CTO of Sarla Aviation, Gaonkar is instrumental in developing the company’s flagship eVTOL, Shunya. His work focuses on creating scalable, efficient air mobility solutions that are not only environmentally sustainable but also economically viable for Indian markets.
The impact of Sarla Aviation is significant, with potential implications for urban transport systems. By focusing on short-range flying taxis that cater to congested routes, the company aims to ease ground traffic and reduce travel time, marking a transformative shift in urban commuting.
Conclusion
Rakesh Gaonkar’s contributions to the field of aviation and his role at Sarla Aviation stand as a testament to his commitment to innovation and sustainable transport solutions. As Sarla Aviation strives to launch its commercial air taxi services by 2028, Gaonkar’s vision and leadership are critical in navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead.
His work aligns with India’s growing technological prowess and ambitions in sustainable development, making him a pivotal figure in shaping the future of transportation. Beyond Sarla Aviation, Gaonkar's ongoing efforts in promoting sustainable and efficient urban mobility solutions position him as a key innovator in the rapidly evolving aerospace landscape.