Srinagar, Jan 9: Srinagar-based startup ‘Curve Electric’, known for launching the city’s first e-bicycle sharing fleet, was featured on Shark Tank India Season 4.
Founded by Kashmiri entrepreneurs Zubair and Sheikh Yameen, a few years ago, the eco-conscious venture garnered praise from the judges for its innovative approach and tangible impact.
The founders pitched their sustainable e-bike service to a panel of prominent judges, including Anupam Mittal, Vineeta Singh, Aman Gupta, Piyush Bansal and Kunal Bahl.
Their presentation emphasized the effectiveness of their e-bikes in reducing carbon emissions and transforming urban mobility. The judges commended their vision, dedication and perseverance.
Speaking to Excelsior about the experience, co-founder Sheikh Yameen described it as a significant learning opportunity.
“The episode aired on Wednesday, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. All the sharks appreciated the work we’ve done and the impact we’ve made in a place like Kashmir,” he shared.
Jammu and Kashmir tourism
During their pitch, the duo showcased Curve Electric’s journey, highlighting its measurable impact: over 55,000 rides completed, 720,000 kilometers covered, and 145 metric tonnes of carbon emissions saved.
It is to be noted here that from the startup’s launch of e-bikes in Srinagar to its growing influence, Excelsior has extensively reported on its progress.
Reflecting on their time at Shark Tank India, Yameen emphasized the importance of validation: “Presenting our work on a national platform and receiving constructive feedback from the sharks was invaluable. Their suggestions will help us refine our approach.”
Founded with the goal of providing eco-friendly commuting solutions, ‘Curve Electric’ merges modern technology with sustainability.
The startup plans to expand operations to other mountain towns, such as Shimla and Mussoorie, where eco-sensitivity is critical. They also aim to bring their e-bike services to 1,400 college campuses across India.
A key highlight of ‘Curve Electric’, which was also noted by the judges, is its customer-friendly approach.
The founders explained how their e-bikes are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and eliminate the need for app downloads or security deposits, impressing the panel.
Piyush Bansal praised their focus on customer convenience, calling it a “customer-obsessed approach.”
Vineeta Singh emphasized the importance of local support for the startup’s expansion plans-a sentiment Yameen acknowledged, noting that the company has avoided losses and recently secured an investment round valuing it at Rs 8.5 crore.
While the sharks ultimately opted not to invest, their feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
Piyush bid the founders farewell with a heartfelt remark: “It’s like looking in a mirror. You are saying everything I would have said 10 years ago. The detailed customer-focused obsession you have is something I haven’t seen on Shark Tank in four years.”
Although Zubair and Yameen left without a deal, they gained invaluable insights and encouragement.
Reflecting on the journey, Yameen said, “Shark Tank India gave us an incredible platform to share our dream of revolutionizing urban mobility.”
“Coming from Srinagar, this journey represents not just Curve Electric but also the untapped potential of Kashmiri youth. We’re excited about the road ahead,” he added.