Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has concluded the Hyundai Innovation Challenge 2026, its first startup engagement programme, with 16 startups shortlisted from 980 applications received across the country. The finalists pitched to the leadership teams of HMIL and Hyundai Motor India Engineering Private Limited (HMIE) at a Grand Pitch Day on 29 October 2026, after several rounds of evaluation, mentoring and business reviews. The programme was supported by Hyundai Motor Group’s global open innovation platform ZER01NE.
Launched in April 2026, the challenge covered 15 themes, including electrification, smart mobility, connectivity, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), artificial intelligence and customer experience. HMIL says it will now explore pilot projects, proofs of concept, technology validation and possible business tie-ups with selected startups.
“The future of mobility will be driven by collaboration between established industry leaders and innovative startups,” said Mr. Tarun Garg, MD and CEO, HMIL. “The enthusiastic participation from startups demonstrates the tremendous entrepreneurial talent and technological capability that exists in India.”
The shortlisted startups are Pulse Energy, Novus Hi-tech, CraftifAI, AmpereHour, Enmovil, GoComet, Haulog Technologies, Syook, Unbox Robotics, Motiv AI, AMI Technologies, Dasham Labs, AltMat, Simlioncis, Ravity and EmpFly Services.
