Okinawa Autotech, a prominent electric vehicle manufacturer in India, has gained significant recognition in the realm of sustainable mobility. At the forefront of this enterprise is Dr. Rupali Sharma, who holds the position of Chairperson. With a background in medicine, Rupali Sharma has transitioned into the business of electric vehicles, driven by a vision to mitigate carbon emissions and promote clean energy in India. Her leadership has been instrumental in establishing Okinawa Autotech as a pioneering entity in the electric two-wheeler industry. This article explores the multifaceted contributions and achievements of Rupali Sharma.
Rupali Sharma was originally a doctor by profession before transitioning into the electric vehicle industry. Her medical background provided her with a unique perspective on the importance of sustainability and environmental health, which she carried into her business pursuits. This prior career played a pivotal role in shaping her commitment to creating eco-friendly transportation solutions. Her journey from medicine to manufacturing electric scooters marks an intersection of healthcare and sustainability, reflecting her broad vision for impacting societal wellness.
Okinawa Autotech was co-founded by Rupali Sharma and her husband, Jeetender Sharma, in 2015. The company was born out of a desire to provide high-speed, reliable electric vehicles tailored specifically for the Indian market. The founding vision emphasized not only technological innovation and performance but also accessibility and affordability for the average consumer. This initiative was one of the pioneering efforts in India’s electric vehicle industry, helping to lay the groundwork for future advancements in this sector.
As the Chairperson of Okinawa Autotech, Rupali Sharma has been a driving force behind the company's strategic initiatives and growth. She oversees the operations and management, guiding the firm's direction towards sustainable innovations. Her leadership has steered the company through significant milestones, ensuring that Okinawa remains competitive in the fast-evolving market of electric vehicles. Rupali Sharma's role transcends traditional corporate responsibilities, as she actively participates in promoting the environmental and social impacts of electric mobility.
Under Rupali Sharma’s guidance, Okinawa Autotech has accomplished numerous milestones. Notably, it became the first Indian electric vehicle company to conquer Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world. This feat not only demonstrated the durability and efficiency of Okinawa scooters but also marked a milestone in electric vehicle capability. The company also secured the Fame II subsidy from the Government of India, which highlighted its commitment to fostering sustainable transport solutions.
Building an electric vehicle company in a predominantly petrol-centric market posed several challenges. Rupali Sharma faced hurdles related to consumer perceptions and infrastructure limitations. Convincing the Indian market to adopt electric vehicles required both innovative marketing strategies and alliances with various stakeholders. Sharma's approach included emphasizing the long-term economic benefits and the environmental advantages of electric scooters, addressing concerns about battery life and charging infrastructure.
Rupali Sharma has been instrumental in forming partnerships that bolster Okinawa Autotech’s position in the market. The company’s collaboration with ReadyAssist to provide 24/7 roadside assistance exemplifies its commitment to customer service and reliability. Such partnerships are crucial for enhancing the brand’s reputation and ensuring consumer confidence in transitioning from traditional vehicles to electric ones.
Under the leadership of Rupali Sharma, Okinawa Autotech has significantly expanded its market presence. As of 2025, the company has established a robust dealership network of over 350 dealers across India. Additionally, the company has broadened its footprint internationally, with a presence in 17 countries worldwide. This expansion reflects Sharma's strategic vision to not only secure domestic growth but also tap into emerging global markets.
Rupali Sharma's efforts with Okinawa Autotech are grounded in creating a measurable environmental impact. By producing electric scooters, the company actively contributes to reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Sharma’s goal aligns with global movements towards carbon neutrality, and she continues to advocate for policies and practices that support sustainable innovation in transport.
Rupali Sharma has also been involved in community initiatives, aligning Okinawa Autotech's corporate social responsibility with its business goals. Her work emphasizes empowering individuals through sustainable mobility, thus contributing to broader social welfare. Okinawa’s initiatives often include educational campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles and sustainable practices.
Looking forward, Rupali Sharma aims to lead Okinawa Autotech towards further innovations in electric mobility, with an emphasis on research and development. Her vision includes crossing new technological frontiers and making high-quality electric vehicles available to an even wider audience. As the global and Indian markets lean more towards sustainable solutions, her leadership is expected to continue playing a crucial role in steering these developments.
Dr. Rupali Sharma’s journey from medicine to the electric vehicle industry underscores a profound commitment to environmental and societal well-being. As Chairperson of Okinawa Autotech, she has championed the cause of sustainable transportation, achieving groundbreaking milestones and fostering widespread awareness about the benefits of electric mobility. Her leadership continues to inspire innovations that drive the company forward, ensuring that her vision for a sustainable future becomes a tangible reality.