Saurabh Markandeya (Dreamfly Innovations): 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Dr. Saurabh Markandeya is an eminent figure in the field of battery technology, particularly known for co-founding Dreamfly Innovations alongside Kajal Shah. Founded in 2022, Dreamfly Innovations is a Bengaluru-based startup that specializes in developing high-performance batteries primarily for drones and aviation sectors. The startup focuses on creating batteries that are not only efficient but also align with sustainability goals. These developments have marked Saurabh Markandeya and Dreamfly Innovations as noteworthy players in the energy solutions market.

1. Educational Background

Dr. Saurabh Markandeya holds a Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc), completed in 2019. Before this, he earned his Master of Engineering in the same field from IISc and his Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering from the College of Engineering, Pune. His educational journey provided him the foundational expertise that he leverages in his work on battery technologies.

2. Professional Journey

Before founding Dreamfly Innovations, Saurabh Markandeya had an impressive career trajectory. He served as the Chief Technology Officer and Co-founder at Adarin Engineering Technologies, where he contributed to various innovative engineering solutions. His prior experience also includes significant roles at Tata Motors and Larsen & Toubro, which shaped his insights into large-scale engineering and technology management.

3. Dreamfly Innovations Introduction

Dreamfly Innovations was established to address the increasing demand for advanced, flexible, and robust battery solutions in the aerospace sector. The company develops lithium and graphene batteries that are touted for their thermal efficiency and safety, addressing common industry issues such as high operating temperatures and fire risks. Dreamfly’s products have captured significant interest from industries relying on drone technologies.

4. Innovation in Battery Technology

At Dreamfly, Saurabh Markandeya oversees the development of batteries that incorporate cutting-edge thermal case designs, significantly enhancing their operational safety and efficiency. These batteries are designed to operate in extreme temperatures, ranging from -30°C to 50°C, making them suitable for diverse environmental conditions and a variety of applications such as agriculture, surveillance, and logistics.

5. Recent Achievements and Developments

In February 2025, Dreamfly Innovations successfully raised Rs. 12 crore in seed funding led by Avaana Capital, signaling strong investor confidence in their technological advancements and strategic vision. This investment aims to bolster their research, expand production capacities, and set up a new manufacturing facility.

6. Industry Impact and Collaborations

Dreamfly Innovations has established significant collaborations with major players such as Tata Advanced Systems and Larsen & Toubro. These partnerships are crucial as they assist in scaling production and embedding the company’s technology within industry-leading operations, particularly in aerospace and drone technology.

7. Focus on Sustainability

A core aspect of Dreamfly's mission is to support sustainability within the industries it serves. By enhancing battery life and safety, Dreamfly aims to contribute towards building a low-emission pathway for drone ecosystems, which dovetails with global electrification and climate change mitigation efforts.

8. Challenges and Solutions

While the potential for growth in drone and battery technology is vast, there remain challenges such as technological limitations of existing battery solutions. Dreamfly Innovations addresses these by focusing on non-flammable and efficient graphene cell chemistries, thus extending battery lifespans and enhancing safety standards.

9. Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Dreamfly Innovations plans to further its reach into international markets, aiming to capture a share of the global drone market projected to expand significantly by 2030. The company's continued focus on innovation and its conducive investment environment suggest bright prospects.

10. Impact on the Drone Market

The drone battery industry is poised for substantial growth, with expectations of the global market reaching significant milestones by 2025. Dreamfly Innovations is prepared to capitalize on this with its advanced battery solutions, positioning itself as a key innovator and supplier in the market.

Conclusion

Dr. Saurabh Markandeya, through Dreamfly Innovations, is pioneering advancements in battery technology with a sharp focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The company's trajectory reflects its commitment to tackling critical industry challenges and setting new standards in aerospace applications. With a strong foundation, innovative products, and strategic partnerships, Dreamfly Innovations stands well-poised to drive the future growth of sustainable battery technologies.