Indian roads are fraught with challenges such as heavy traffic, unsafe driving, and poor infrastructure that leads to frequent accidents, causing injuries, deaths, and financial damage. Traditional safety methods have not been able to fully solve these problems, necessitating the need for a new tech-based approach. Between 2009 and 2019, road accidents were one of the main reasons for deaths and disabilities in India, ranking 13th in the world. To prevent these accidents, it’s crucial to improve roads, make vehicles safer, and invest in better technology.
Recognizing this challenge, Sapience Automata, a Bengaluru-based startup has leveraged AI and autonomous driving technology to develop plug-and-play solutions that could improve driver safety while minimizing the risks associated with driving on Indian roads. To support that vision, Sapience Automata has secured INR 1.75 CR in a Seed Round led by Inflection Point Ventures (IPV).
Vikram Ramasubramanian, Partner, Inflection Point Ventures shared, “Most of us know someone whose family member or close one has experienced a major road accident. It is an unfortunate reality that can’t be helped, given our dependence on different modes of transportation and driver’s circumstances. Sapience, with their AI-powered tech, reduces such unavoidable reality. IPV will always focus on supporting startups that offer innovative solutions to significant problems, and Sapience’s approach is one we’ll continue to endorse.”
Founded in 2021, Sapience Automata aims to make cutting-edge safety solutions that are accessible to all drivers. With a focus on developing Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology, the company aims to leverage AI to minimize risks associated with driving to save lives and reduce road accidents.
One of Sapience Automata’s strengths is its technology team and its products that offer custom-made solutions. This helps in ensuring maximum effectiveness and safety for drivers, setting itself apart from competitors in the market. The funding will be used by Sapience Automata to improve sales, build partnerships in the automotive industry, continue developing their advanced driver assistance ADAS technology, and secure patents internationally.
Operating primarily from Bangalore, Sapience currently focuses on commercial fleets, laying the foundation for future expansion and scalability in the Indian B2C market. Sapience Automata has hit key milestones with the launch of its Driver Camera, pioneering tailor-made ADAS technology for Indian roads, and reaching the final prototype stage for its ADAS camera. Their achievements, coupled with receiving the SISFS grant, demonstrate their dedication to innovating in automotive safety.
Satyajit Neogi, CEO & CTO, Sapience Automata, says, “India reports 1.5 lakh deaths and 5 lakh critical injuries every year from road accidents and its growing. We are committed to reduce road accidents in India by 90% by 2030. We started by building plug n play cutting-edge ADAS technology custom made for Indian conditions, to prevent road accidents due to human errors such as distraction and drowsiness.”
Sapience Automata: Improve Road Safety in India
Founded in 2021 by Satyajit Neogi, Sapience Automata’s focus is on leveraging advanced technology to improve safety on Indian roads. Their driver assistance technology is designed to be easy to install and use, offering drivers real-time assistance to prevent accidents. With a focus on innovation and safety, Sapience Automata is aims to make a positive impact on road safety in India.
The startup is led by co-founder Unmesh Dabhade and founding team member Adarsh SK. Alongside them are key founding members Punith Kumar KH, Abhik Roy, and Sree Tilak, who form the core functional business group.
Dr Satyajit Neogi: The Brain Behind Sapience Automata
Dr Satyajit Neogi is the Founder, Chief Executive, and Technology Officer at Sapience Automata. He earned his Doctorate in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Nanyang Technological University Singapore. With over five years of experience as a Research Fellow and PhD Student, Satyajit’s expertise lies in machine learning, computer vision, and robotics. Prior to founding Sapience Automata, he worked as an Associate Technical Analyst at Oracle India.
Satyajit’s academic achievements also include a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering from Jadavpur University. He is dedicated to bringing affordable and effective road safety solutions to every vehicle, aiming for a 100% reduction in accidents. After completing his PhD in Autonomous Driving Technology and AI at NTU Singapore in 2020, he returned to India with a mission to make roads safer.
Join The Story Watch’s initiative to create a vibrant community for the startup ecosystem.